Rutgers football: 2019 success hinges on one word – Control
By Ed Stein
Its a week and a half away from Rutgers football opening day. There isn’t much optimism for the 2019 season, but Chris Ash’s team can improve their chances by taking advantage of one word, control.
The Rutgers football season begins in ten days when Boston College comes to SHI Stadium for the opener. Even though its the first game, Rutgers needs to play this one like its the playoffs. They must set a tone for what will be a challenging year.
There is one word that will define the Scarlet Knights season, control. It’s imperative for the team to maintain control in a few key areas. First, Rutgers has to control the line of scrimmage. Next, they have to control the ball on offense, which in turn will help them control the clock. Finally, there will be plenty of outside influences throughout the next few months, Rutgers will need to learn to control what they do and not worry about what’s out of their control.
Control the ball/ Control the clock
The best example of controlling the ball to control the clock was Super Bowl XXV when the New York Giants stymied the high flying Buffalo Bills offense by keeping possession of the ball for 40:33 limiting the number of opportunities the league’s top offense had to score. It’s the same philosophy Rutgers has to employ in 2019.
Pound the ball. Three-and-a-half yards per carry and three carries is over 10 yards and a first down. The program has produced good running backs in the past. Give the rock to Raheem Blackshear, Isaih Pacheco, etc. and let them do their thing. It’s the best way to keep games close.