Rutgers Football: Will Scarlet Knights finally escape Big Ten’s cellar in 2019?
By Daniel Smyth
Solid defense could carry Rutgers again
Last year the defense was solid. They finished ranked No. 89 in the FBS in scoring defense which was better than teams like Florida State, Oklahoma State and Oklahoma.
The defense should be solid again despite losing defensive backs Saquan Hampton and Blessuan Austin to the NFL.
Cornerback Avery Young is expected to be one of the leaders in the secondary. As a freshman Young compiled 10 pass breakups and 65 total tackles. Certainly he could have a future at the next level if he continues to develop.
On the defensive line Elorm Lumor and Mike Tverdov will be the primary pass rushers. Both were tied for the team lead in sacks with four, each.
At linebacker Rutgers will have to replace the top two leading tacklers, Trevor Morris and Deonte Roberts. Despite losing talent at linebacker and in the secondary Rutgers has the players to be competitive on this side of the ball.
Young, Lumor and Tverdov are three very solid young players that Chris Ash can rely on to make plays in 2019.