Posted April 26, 2024 | Article by Hayden Lewis | Photo by Esteban Marenco
Penn State defeated Rutgers 15-9 on Friday, April 19, and is looking to continue the winning ways on Saturday against the Scarlet Knights.
Last week’s victory marked Penn State’s second straight victory against Rutgers in the regular season. This week the team is focused on getting the job done in postseason play rather than regular season play.
Things to know about Rutgers
Rutgers has failed to score double-digit goals in a contest since March 16, against the University of Massachusetts Amherst. The Scarlet Knights have fallen short of all but one ranked opponent they’ve played this year, defeating only Michigan – who is now unranked.
Ross Scott is the team’s initiator on offense. Scott took over the first quarter a week ago when these teams played, but was held at bay for most of the game by the Penn State defense.
Rutgers needs to win the Big Ten Tournament if they want to have a chance to compete in the national tournament this year.
Scouting Rutgers
Shane Knobloch is the team’s best midfielder. Knobloch will be drafted in the first round of the Premier Lacrosse League this May and poses a threat to every team that plays Rutgers. Knobloch will receive heavy attention from Penn State all afternoon, but expect him to score a couple of goals.
Cole Brams is the team’s FOGO and has been better than average at the faceoff stripe all season long; winning 53.4% of the draws he’s taken this year. Brams transferred to Rutgers from Utah and has plenty of playoff experience from his time with the Utes.
In net, the Nittany Lions will be tasked with beating Cardin Stoller. Stoller was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Year earlier this week after an outstanding opening campaign between the pipes. After putting 15 past Stoller last week, Penn State should expect a more in-tune Stoller this week.
What Penn State will bring
TJ Malone is fresh off his second consecutive Big Ten Offensive Player of the Year award after another stellar season for coach Tambroni’s team. Malone scored five points last week against Rutgers and will need to have another excellent performance to help his team.
Jack Fracyon won his second consecutive Specialist of the Year Award from the Big Ten after another excellent season between the pipes. Fracyon will need to continue his strong play on the backend to help Penn State stop the mean Rutgers attack.
Both teams need a win on Saturday to keep their playoff hopes alive. Expect a physical, high-paced affair after the opening whistle.
Where to watch
Fans can catch this contest on Saturday at 3 p.m. at Panzer Stadium in University Park, Pennsylvania, or can watch on Big Ten Plus from home.
Hayden Lewis is a second-year majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact him, please email lewis1818hayden@gmail.com.
Penn State CommRadio 