On Sunday, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (7-5) found out they will play the Kansas State Wildcats (8-4) in the Rate Bowl on Thursday, December 26, 2024, at 5:30 pm on ESPN from Chase Field, in Phoenix, Arizona.
This season, Rutgers averaged 27.92 points per game, 176.3 rushing yards per game, 204.92 passing yards per game, 381.2 total yards per game, and 42 touchdowns. They allowed 23.83 points per game, 147.3 rushing yards per game, 234.08 passing yards per game, 381.5 total yards per game, and 38 touchdowns.
Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis has completed 199 of 363 passes (55%) for 2,459 yards, 17 touchdowns, six interceptions, 81 carries for 233 yards, and three touchdowns. Running back Kyle Monangai had 256 carries for 1,279 yards, 13 touchdowns, 14 catches for 75 yards, and one touchdown.
Wide receiver Dymere leads the team in receiving making 57 catches for 731 yards, and four touchdowns, while Ian Strong made 38 catches for 571 yards and five touchdowns. Linebacker Dariel Djabome leads the team with 102 tackles (47 solos, 55 assists), and defensive lineman Jordan Walker leads the team in sacks (4).
Kansas State has averaged 29.75 points per game, 204.5 rushing yards per game, 212.75 passing yards per game, 417.3 total yards per game, and 44 touchdowns. They allowed 21.92 points per game, 114.9 rushing yards per game, 223.67 passing yards per game, 338.6 total yards per game, and 32 touchdowns.
Quarterback Avery Johnson has completed 202 of 342 passes (59.1%) for 2,517 yards, 22 touchdowns, 9 interceptions, 102 carries for 548 yards, and seven touchdowns. Running back D.J. Giddens has 205 carries for 1,343 yards, seven touchdowns, 21 catches for 258 yards, and one touchdown.
Wide receiver Jayce Brown leads the team in receiving making 42 catches for 763 yards, and five touchdowns, while Keagan Johnson has made 29 catches for 359 yards and one touchdown. Linebacker Austin Romaine leads the team with 89 tackles (50 solos, 39 assists), and defensive end Brendan Mott leads the team in sacks (8.5).
