{
  "id": 6176470,
  "title": "Rutgers vs Boston College Preview: Can the Knights Bounce Back After Ugly Season Opener?",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/09/07/rutgers-vs-boston-college-preview-can-the-knights-bounce-back-after",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-09-07T21:38:08.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/rutgers-vs-boston-college-preview-213808122.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "PISCATAWAY, NJ - Rutgers Scarlet Knights must enter the upcoming game against Boston College with a clear mindset, after suffering a disappointing 37-21 defeat to UMass at the beginning of the season. The challenge of bouncing back after such a poor start is amplified when considering the road trip to face another Power Four team, the Boston College Eagles. Although the Eagles are considered one of the weaker Power Four programs, the fact remains that they are still an opponent worthy of respect.\n\nIn their recent 34-21 loss to Cincinnati, Boston College's quarterback Mason McKenzie demonstrated his proficiency, completing 18 of 35 passes for 223 yards, a touchdown, and an interception, resulting in a quarterback rating of 108.7. The Eagles' leading rusher against Cincinnati was McKenzie as well, contributing 78 yards on 20 carries. Evan Dickens was the team's leading runner, with 47 yards and a touchdown on 11 rushing attempts. Johnathan Montague was the Eagles' primary receiver, catching two out of three passes for 55 yards and a touchdown.\n\nThe Eagles' struggles during the game against the Bearcats were evident in their sack totals (4), tackles for loss (8), fumbles (3, including one lost), and three turnovers on downs. For Rutgers, their defense will need to capitalize on these weaknesses to secure a victory. However, their inconsistent pass rush against the Minutemen raises doubts about their ability to handle the task.\n\nA key factor to watch in this matchup is whether the UMass loss signals a new level of performance for the Scarlet Knights throughout the season. If Rutgers can secure a convincing win over Boston College, it might instill a sense of confidence for the remainder of the campaign. Conversely, a loss in this game could foretell a challenging stretch ahead.\n\nAs for roster adjustments, the question remains whether Rutgers will make a change at quarterback, considering Dylan Lonergan's last performance. The game is scheduled for 7 p.m. on September 11 at Alumni Stadium, where the Eagles will host their Red Bandana game to commemorate the 25th anniversary of 9/11. Live coverage will be available on ESPN2.",
  "summary": "Rutgers vs Boston College preview",
  "key_points": [
    "Rutgers Scarlet Knights suffered 37-21 loss to UMass at season start",
    "Boston College Eagles ranked among weaker Power Four programs",
    "Mason McKenzie led Eagles with 223 passing yards and 78 rushing yards"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}