The 2018 Rutgers Scarlet Knights football schedule set the stage for a season of rebuilding and growth under new leadership. This plan outlines every conference and non-conference opponent, key dates, and the expectations that shaped the year for fans and players alike.
From the opening kickoff to the final game, the schedule influenced practice focus, fan engagement, and the broader narrative around the program. Below is a detailed look at how that season unfolded week by week.
| Week | Date | Opponent | Site | Outcome | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | September 1 | vs. NC State | Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans, LA | L 13–41 | |
| 2 | September 8 | at UConn | Rentschler Field, East Hartford, CT | W 38–20 | |
| 3 | September 15 | No. 11 Houston | High Point Solutions Stadium, Piscataway, NJ | L 24–45 | |
| 4 | September 22 | at Buffalo | University at Buffalo Stadium, Amherst, NY | L 28–41 | |
| 5 | September 29 | UMass | High Point Solutions Stadium, Piscataway, NJ | W 30–24 | |
| 6 | October 6 | at Temple | Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia, PA | L 20–27 OT | |
| 7 | October 13 | at Maryland | Capital One Field, College Park, MD | L 10–38 | |
| 8 | October 20 | South Florida | High Point Solutions Stadium, Piscataway, NJ | L 17–20 | |
| 9 | October 27 | at No. 19 Iowa | Kinnick Stadium, Iowa City, IA | L 10–42 | |
| 10 | November 3 | No. 23 Maryland | High Point Solutions Stadium, Piscataway, NJ | L 13–30 | L 13–30 |
| 11 | November 10 | at No. 2 Ohio State | Ohio Stadium, Columbus, OH | L 0–62 | |
| 12 | November 17 | UConn | High Point Solutions Stadium, Piscataway, NJ | W 28–10 |
Season Opening Challenges
Early Road Tests Set the Tone
The season began with a high-profile trip to the New Orleans Superdome against NC State, where Rutgers faced a steep learning curve against Power Five pace. The harsh environment and early deficit highlighted the gap between programs but provided valuable snapshots of the roster’s resilience under pressure.
Following the tough opener, the team returned home to regroup and deliver a convincing road win at UConn. That victory energized the fanbase and proved the squad could compete in New England rivalry settings without major distractions or controversy.
Key Midseason Matchups
Power Five Strength and Big Ten Exposure
Week 3 brought a marquee non-conference test against No. 11 Houston on home turf. Despite a spirited effort, the Knights struggled to contain a dynamic spread offense, signaling the level of speed and talent needed to compete at the highest tier.
The road trip to Buffalo in Week 4 continued the gauntlet, where Rutgers fell just short of a competitive finish. Close losses to ranked programs and conference opponents underscored the importance of execution in tight moments.
Late Season Developments
Closing Games and Fan Impact
November delivered two meaningful home contests, including rivalry action against Maryland and the season finale at Ohio State. Each game carried implications for program momentum, recruiting perception, and long-term identity building under new coaching staff.
The final road test at Ohio State showcased the distance still required on both sides of the ball, but it also offered younger players experience on a national stage. These late-season observations shaped planning for the upcoming years of development.
Rutgers 2018 Schedule Overview
- Non-conference slate included Power Five opponents from the ACC, Big Ten, and American Athletic Conference.
- Big Ten East divisional games tested preparation against elite programs.
- Home games at High Point Solutions Stadium provided a consistent fan base and recruiting backdrop.
- The road to Columbus in week 11 marked one of the most visible national exposures of the season.
- Rivalry wins against UConn and Maryland offered momentum boosts late in the year.
- Injuries and depth challenges influenced rotations and weekly game plans.
- Coaching adjustments midseason reflected a commitment to faster, more versatile play.
FAQ
Reader questions
Where did Rutgers play their opening game in 2018?
Rutgers opened the 2018 season on the road at NC State in the Advocare Classic held at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Which Power Five team did Rutgers beat in 2018?
The Knights recorded their only Power Five victory of the year by defeating UConn at Rentschler Field in East Hartford, Connecticut, during Week 2.
Did Rutgers play Ohio State in 2018?
Yes, Rutgers traveled to Ohio Stadium to face No. 2 Ohio State on November 11, 2018, as part of their Big Ten road schedule.
What was the final game of the 2018 Rutgers football season?
The final game of the season was the away clash against Ohio State on November 11, 2018, which ended with a 62–0 score in favor of the Buckeyes.