Anonymous Big Ten coach sees Rutgers' issues as 'a case of the have-nots'

One program inside the Big Ten always seemingly on the doorstep of breaking out is Rutgers. However, the Scarlet Knights have yet to push through and achieve the season Greg Schiano wants. The past two campaigns have resulted in winning records and bowl appearances but both have win totals of seven.

An anonymous coach inside the Big Ten gave his thoughts on Rutgers, admitting there is some stability there. But “a case of the have-nots” might be what is holding them back. Players who are excelling for Rutgers are getting offers to play elsewhere via the NCAA transfer portal, in this coach’s opinion.

“I think they’re a stable program now, but it’s hard to predict they’ll make that next step up because a lot of the key position group needs are being filled by portal guys,” the coach said via Athlon Sports. “There isn’t a culture issue we know of; I think it’s just a case of the have-nots, and guys are getting bigger offers to go other places.”

Schiano saw a good chunk of players leave this offseason, totaling up to 25 after the spring portal window. While many still do not have a final home, three wound up in other power conference programs with aspirations of competing on the national stage. Not the biggest number but three key players can make or break a season.

Luckily, Rutgers did some work of their own in the portal. Double-digit imports are set to suit up for the Scarlet Knights for the 2025 season, hoping to bring the roster to a level worthy a competing. Expectations around Piscataway are going to grow, even if a different Big Ten coach does not believe Rutgers will surmount to anything more than they have the past two years.

“Overall, they’re probably on par with the last few seasons,” they said. “This is a very smart, capable coaching staff. It’s going to take a different approach in personnel for them to build the depth and talent level necessary to win more games in this league.”

Rutgers will begin the year with all three nonconference games, starting with Ohio on Aug. 28 — an early start for the Scarlet Knights. From there, all nine Big Ten games will play out, only four of which will take place at home. A cross-country trip to Washington on a Friday night is one to circle as well, occurring on Oct. 10.