Rutgers-Howard picks, prediction: Will the Scarlet Knights start 2024 with a comfortable win?

Rutgers football is back.

The Scarlet Knights open their 2024 season on Thursday night against Howard at SHI Stadium. After earning its first bowl victory in nine years last fall, Rutgers will look to take the next step behind a senior-heavy roster that faces a less demanding schedule than usual.

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Can Rutgers get off to a strong start to the season with a comfortable win?

The cast of Rutgers Rant is back to share their commencement predictions.

Here is the leaderboard for the 2023 season:

This is what the NJ Advance Media team thinks about this Thursday's game (Rutgers -35.5):

Steve Politicolumnist

Howard was a respectable 6-6 last season, so this isn't a Wagner-like level to start the season with. Still, as a Big Ten program, Rutgers has a talent and depth advantage that should make this an easy win, even if bettors might get a little excited at the end of the game when the second-team players take the field.

CHOOSE: Rutgers 44, Howard 7.

Patrick LanniLocal reporter

Rutgers hasn't lost an opening game in coach Greg Schiano's second tenure, and that's not likely to change as the Scarlet Knights kick off the start of their coach's fifth season in Piscataway. With several players battling injuries week after week following a “tough” training camp, Rutgers can now showcase its depth and give some new faces playing time in a game Rutgers should have under control by halftime.

CHOOSE: Rutgers 35, Howard 7.

Brian FonsecaLocal reporter

Rutgers could be without several key players according to comments from head coach Greg Schiano on Monday, but that shouldn't make much of a difference. The Scarlet Knights remain the most talented team on the field and, barring another major injury spree throughout the game, should be able to win this game convincingly.

CHOOSE: Rutgers 49, Howard 3.

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You can reach Brian Fonseca at [email protected].

You can reach Patrick Lanni at [email protected].

You can reach Steve Politi at [email protected].