The Rutgers Scarlet Knights opened their 2026 season with a stunning 37-21 loss to the UMass Minutemen, a result that marks the worst defeat of Greg Schiano's second tenure as head coach. UMass entered the game having not secured a victory since October 26, 2024, and was a significant underdog, with some sportsbooks listing Rutgers as 29.5-point favorites.
UMass orchestrated a 30-point scoring run against the Rutgers defense in the first half. Quarterback Dylan Lonergan connected with wide receiver KJ Duff for a touchdown that brought the score to 30-14 with just over seven minutes remaining in the contest. UMass responded with another touchdown, ultimately securing the 37-21 victory.
Under Schiano, who returned as head coach before the 2020 season, Rutgers has typically fared well against non-conference opponents outside of bowl games. The team had not lost to such an opponent since falling to Boston College in 2019. In previous seasons, Rutgers had secured wins against teams like Ohio, Miami (Ohio), Norfolk State, Howard, Akron, Virginia Tech, and Temple.
Schiano has been credited with reviving energy around the Rutgers football program, including notable performances such as nearly defeating Jim Harbaugh's Michigan team in November 2020, winning the 2023 Pinstripe Bowl against Miami (FL), and defeating Washington at home in 2024. However, Thursday night's loss to UMass has been described as a halt to any momentum the team may have gathered.
The Scarlet Knights' next game is on the road against Boston College. The team will look to rebound from this significant upset and begin to correct their season.
