It seems like yesterday I was reading up on college football over the summer and basically every publication and website had Rutgers listed as a dark horse B1G contender and playoff hopeful. As I read through those glowing predictions, I found it very interesting that very few of them mentioned the QB position.
And here we are, playing Rutgers as they try to navigate their four game losing streak. They really should have lost to Washington too. Some head scratching reffing plus they were dominated statistically in that one. I've paid more attention to Rutgers this year, partially because of all those pre-season predictions of great things, and partially because of the Kaliakmanis transfer.
It hasn't all been AK's fault. The injury bug has hit them hard. But, he hasn't really helped either. He appears to be the same QB he was at MN, perhaps marginally better but still near the bottom of the B1G in any conference QB listing. They don't get a free pass for the injury problems either, as their fan base has been pointing out the lack of developed 2's and 3's behind the injured guys.
Perhaps their bye week will give them enough injury relief to beat the Gophers. Perhaps the revenge factor will drive Kaliakmanis to new levels. I would never guarantee a Gopher victory regardless of opponent. But, that being said I do feel about as confident as I ever am for a road conference game.