Rutgers-Virginia Tech tips and prediction: Can the Scarlet Knights pull off a historic road win?

The first real test of the 2024 season is upon us for Rutgers.

The Scarlet Knights (2-0) travel to Blacksburg to face Virginia Tech (2-1) in their final – and most challenging – non-league game of the fall.

The matchup is a throwback to the Big East, but Rutgers is hoping for a different outcome: The Scarlet Knights have an overall record of 0-6 at Lane Stadium, losing games by a combined score of 251-111 and an average margin of defeat of 23.3 points, including a 35-14 loss in 2002, the last time Rutgers traveled to the home built by Frank Beamer.

Will head coach Greg Schiano and his team build on last season's comfortable home win against the Hokies with a historic victory?

The cast of “Rutgers Rant” is back to share their predictions for the competition.

Here is the leaderboard after two games:

This is what the NJ Advance Media team thinks about this Saturday’s game (Virginia Tech -3.5):

Steve Politicolumnist

Rutgers rushed for 256 yards on just 34 carries against the Hokies a year ago, allowing the Scarlet Knights to win despite having no passing attack at all. They now have the same elite runner in Kyle Monangai, with a better offensive line and quarterback, while the Hokies' defense allowed just 243 yards on the ground against Old Dominion. Yes, Lane Stadium is a tough venue for an away team, but let's not think about it too much.

CHOOSE: Rutgers 28, Virginia Tech 20.

Patrick LanniLocal reporter

Virginia Tech may have some schematic issues on defense that could cause some trouble for Rutgers' offense, but the Scarlet Knights still have the best player on the field in running back Kyle Monangai. After crushing Virginia Tech last year, Monangai will record his third straight game with at least 150 yards as the Scarlet Knights pull away in a physical, tough affair. Despite lopsided scores in their first two wins, Rutgers' defense has been underwhelming. This is their chance to get it right against a good quarterback and passing game.

CHOOSE: Rutgers 24, Virginia Tech 17

Brian FonsecaLocal reporter

This was billed as a clash of CFP underdogs in the preseason, when Virginia Tech and Rutgers were the darlings of the sport. The hype around the Hokies went downhill in the first month of the season, while the Scarlet Knights lived up to expectations (for the most part) through two games. That trend will continue for both teams in Blacksburg, where Rutgers will pick up where it left off last season with a 35-17 loss to Virginia Tech in Piscataway. The Scarlet Knights are coming off their first-ever win at Lane Stadium in impressive fashion.

CHOOSE: Rutgers 27, Virginia Tech 14.