A podcast dedicated to covering Rutgers Athletics with a focus on football and men's basketball. Hosted by Aaron Breitman, a fan since the mid-80's and a class of 2000 graduate of Rutgers College. Aaron has covered Rutgers sports extensively over the last nine plus years, previously as managing editor of On The Banks and co-founder of The Scarlet Faithful website. Episodes include analysis, game previews, postgame rapid reactions, recruiting, Rutgers related guests and more.
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Aaron Breitman Podcasts
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Rapid reaction to Rutgers' 81-65 loss to No. 1 Purdue
17:26
17:26
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17:26The Scarlet Knights got some positive performances but overall did not play well enough to ever seriously challenge the Boilermakers. A lack of tenacity on the boards and defense, too many mid-range shots once again, inability to finish at the rim and a rotation in flux all contributed to the defeat. #rutgersbasketball…
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Rutgers AD Keli Zinn needs to move forward with Schiano & Pikiell to better future of both programs
22:05
22:05
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22:05With fan frustration at a high level with both Greg Schiano and Steve Pikiell, new Rutgers AD Keli Zinn has only one realistic choice in the present. Despite some fans calling for both coaches to be fired, the most realistic plan is to generate as much NIL and resources possible to put both coaches in the best position possible to succeed in 2026. …
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Rapid reaction to a season ending stomach punch 40-36 loss to Penn State
20:36
20:36
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20:36The Scarlet Knights had the ball with a lead midway through the fourth quarter but for the third time this season, they lost the game in Big Ten play. Another brutal defeat as Rutgers finishes 5-7 overall and misses a third straight bowl game. Heartbreak and frustration are episode highlights.#rutgersfootball…
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Rapid Reaction to Rutgers' 80-65 win over UNLV
17:28
17:28
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17:28After staring 0-3 in Vegas in the face trailing by 6 at the break, Rutgers played the best it has all season with a dominant second halve against UNLV. It was a balanced performance with many contributors. I discuss the rotation and where it can evolve from here. RU attacked the glass, got to the line and converted, played together and with toughne…
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Can Rutgers earn statement victory against Penn State?
35:03
35:03
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35:03David Anderson and I preview the season ending showdown between Rutgers and Penn State. We discuss what the Scarlet Knights need to do to finally take down the Nittany Lions, the concerns with the PSU run game, what we hope the offensive game plan will be, the significance of what this win would represent as well as our favorite Thanksgiving pies a…
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Big picture takeaways on Rutgers basketball following losses to No. 17 Tennessee & Notre Dame
20:00
20:00
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20:00Topics include the offensive struggles from mid-range and why the strategy is flawed, the hope that Rutgers can build off its second half scrappiness against the Irish, Steve Pikiell's comment that sent the wrong message and why focusing on whether he's getting the most out of th team he has is the most important thing moving forward.#rutgersbasket…
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Rapid reaction to Rutgers' rock bottom 67-54 home loss to CCSU
20:43
20:43
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20:43There have been plenty of signs of concern before and during this season so far but it all came to a head in arguably the most embarrassing loss of the Steve Pikiell era. Rutgers was outhustled, exhibited no leadership or toughness in a performance that breeds zero hope for the rest of the season. My full analysis and big picture thoughts of why it…
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Rapid reaction to Rutgers overcoming double digit deficit to beat American 80-71
15:00
15:00
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15:00The Scarlet Knights struggled to contain the Eagles from behind the arc and looked lost on offense at times. However, Dylan Grant starred once again and RU was able to improve to 4-0. That being said, there are several takeaways from the start of the season that have me concerned as the road is about to get much harder.#rutgersbasketball…
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Rutgers pulls away from Lehigh with 84-72 victory
10:51
10:51
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10:51Dylan Grant shined in a big way with 28 points on 9-15 from the floor and 9-10 from the line while big man Emmanuel Ogbole registered a double double. The Scarlet Knights dominated inside but it was a one possession game with under 8 minutes to go. We discuss the positives in the win and concerns overall with this team.#rutgersbasketball…
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Rapid reaction to Rutgers' 72-60 win over Maine
10:40
10:40
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10:40Both teams shot well from three as RU forced 18 turnovers and dominated the glass in a game that wasn't as close as the final score. Denis Badalau had a big first half, Dylan Grant posted a double double and Darren Buchanan played solidly once again.#rutgersbasketball
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Rutgers gets off the mat once again in 35-20 win over Maryland
13:28
13:28
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13:28Greg Schiano proves he is a master motivator in leading the Scarlet Knights to a must win over the Terps on Saturday. Complimentary football was the key as Antwan Raymond had a career day, the offense scored four touchdowns in the red zone and the defense made key stops in the second half. RU is now 5-5 overall and bowl hopes remain alive. The floo…
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Rutgers faces must win against Maryland to keep bowl hopes alive
22:58
22:58
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22:58David Anderson and I discuss a pivotal matchup on Saturday (2:30pm ET; FS1) between the Scarlet Knights and Terps. The speed of Maryland could be a major problem but can RA win the battle in the red zone on both ends? A full game preview is here.#rutgersfootball
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Rutgers rolls Rider 81-53 as small backcourt shines
11:06
11:06
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11:06Tariq Francis and Jamichael Davis opened the season with efficient offensive performances while Dylan Grant was solid inside as Rutgers defeated the Broncs. The Scarlet Knights shot well from three and held Rider to just 28% shooting. However, a poor shooting night overall and no offensive output inside raises concerns as to whether Rutgers is buil…
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As Steve Pikiell's 10th season at Rutgers begins, a lot must go right to exceed low expectations
31:44
31:44
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31:44A full 2025-2026 season preview includes thoughts on Steve Pikiell's defensive attitude after three disappointing campaigns in a row, the many questions that exist for this team, the biggest key being Harun Zrno, the low expectations and many things that must go right to have a winning season, the importance of generating positive momentum and bein…
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After Rutgers' 35-13 loss to Illinois, it's fair to wonder if Greg Schiano can get momentum back
16:16
16:16
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16:16The Scarlet Knights continue to make the same mistakes and allow big play after big play. The defensive coaching staff has failed miserably and it's on Schiano to fix it. The offense has regressed as well. With a chance to get momentum back against Maryland this week, if Rutgers can't it's fair to wonder if Schiano will be able to bounce back this …
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Previewing a major opportunity for Rutgers at Illinois
30:43
30:43
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30:43David Anderson and I preview a critical road game against the Illini that can reshape the outlook of this season. We recap some key takeaways from the win at Purdue, keys to victory against Illinois as well as matchups to watch for.#rutgersfootball
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Rutgers survives Purdue 27-24 giving a little hope to another November surge
14:28
14:28
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14:28The Scarlet Knights overcame a 10-0 first half deficit to pull out a much needed first Big Ten victory on the road at Purdue. The passing game thrived, the defense got the big turnover late and Jai Patel sang his redemption song. However, there were plenty of struggles against a team that has lost 14 straight games in conference play. Is a repeat o…
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Previewing a must win scenario for Rutgers at Purdue
27:25
27:25
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27:25David Anderson joins to recap the blowout loss to Oregon and preview the critical matchup at Purdue on Saturday. Keys to victory, how RU should game plan and concerns for this matchup and more.#rutgersfootball
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Can Rutgers Football fix the issues that have led to 0-3 start in Big Ten play?
1:05:24
1:05:24
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1:05:24David Anderson and I run through the problems on offense and defense, discuss potential solutions, lament on the coaching staff's approach and debate whether this season can be salvaged or if a full disaster is in progress. If you wanted to hear two middle aged long time fans rant about the state of Rutgers football for over an hour, you've come to…
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Rutgers falls apart once again in 38-19 loss at Washington
15:57
15:57
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15:57The Scarlet Knights blow a double digit lead as the offense scored just 13 points on 8 trips inside the 30 yard line of Washington while the defense allowed five straight scoring drives. A painful loss that greatly reduces the bowl chances for RU.#rutgersfootball
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Rutgers looks to swing momentum on road at Washington
34:14
34:14
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34:14The Scarlet Knights have a major opportunity on Friday night (9 pm ET on FS1) against the Huskies. David Anderson and I discuss keys to victory, matchups to watch for, the need for a spark and the frustrations of the season so far following two losses after leading mid-way fourth quarter.#rutgersfootball…
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Rutgers squanders 14 point lead in 31-28 loss8 at Minnesota
16:46
16:46
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16:46The Scarlet Knights let a golden opportunity slip through after jumping all over the Gophers at the start of the game. Two missed field goals and a big kickoff allowed, continued defensive struggles and a lack of second half execution by the offense let to the disappointing defeat.#rutgersfootball
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Rutgers squanders strong start in frustrating 38-28 loss to Iowa
12:38
12:38
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12:38The offense scored three straight touchdowns to start the game and then scored just once more the final 42:07 of the game. Special teams miscues were the main reason for falling short while the defense couldn't get key stops when they needed them most. A very frustrating night for the Scarlet Knights.#rutgersfootball…
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Rutgers-Iowa Game Preview: Opportunity Knocks Against Hawkeyes
31:48
31:48
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31:48David Anderson and I discuss keys to victory for Rutgers in this massive Big Ten matchup, several concerns with the defense and injuries, the impact this game has on becoming bowl eligible and much more.Rutgers hosts Iowa on Friday, September 19 at 8:00 pm ET on FOX.#rutgersfootball
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Rapid Reaction to Rutgers' 60-10 win over Norfolk State
14:40
14:40
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14:40The Scarlet Knights overwhelmed Michael Vick's team but the defense didn't alleviate the same concerns that showed up in the first two games. The offense was a little off to start but RU lit up the air in the second half. Special Teams was the difference early but multiple injuries are a concern after this game. Rutgers accomplished its' mission of…
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Rutgers Game Preview vs. Norfolk State: Make It a Clean Saturday
25:06
25:06
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25:06David Anderson and I discuss the concerns with the defense, the progress of QB Athan Kaliakmanis and the offense, the need to get reserves developmental time on Saturday while staying healthy ahead of Iowa the following week.#rutgersfootball
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Rapid Reaction to Rutgers' 45-17 win vs. Miami (OH)
18:02
18:02
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18:02The offense dictated the action and played well once again while the defense struggled to limit big plays. It was still a game into the fourth quarter that yielded both positive takeaways and several concerns.#rutgersfootball
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Rutgers Game Preview vs. Miami (OH): Avoid The Trap
31:05
31:05
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31:05David Anderson and I discuss the matchup between the Scarlet Knights and Redhawks this Saturday, September 6 at 3:30 pm at SHI Stadium airing live on Peacock. Topics include the hope that the defense can contain Miami (OH) QB Dequan Finn on the ground, the offensive line can hold up against a defense that played well against Wisconsin, how much pro…
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Thoughts on Rutgers Football entering week 2, Keli Zinn's first month and Olympic Sports Update
22:16
22:16
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22:16The hope is for the Rutgers defense to make major progress in week 2 against Miami (OH), the offense looks to continue to sharpen its arsenal, Keli Zinn makes a positive impression in week 1 and a full rundown of the first few weeks for RU Olympic Sports programs.#rutgersfootball #rutgers
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Rapid Reaction to Rutgers' 34-31 win against Ohio: Outlier or Cause for Concern?
28:59
28:59
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28:59David Anderson and I breakdown the season opener including the encouraging play of the offense and special teams, major concerns coming to light defensively, standout performances, stats and much more.#rutgersfootball
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Rutgers Football 2025 Season Preview Crossover Episode Part II
1:12:11
1:12:11
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1:12:11Part Two of our season preview featuring The Knight Report, Knight Watch and The Scarlet Faithful. Richie O'Leary, Mike Broadbent and Alex Crouthamel from KTR join Larry Krayn of Knight Watch, Scarlet Faithful contributor David Anderson and Aaron Breitman focuses defensive projections and game by game season predictions.#rutgersfootball…
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Rutgers Football 2025 Season Preview Crossover Episode Part I
1:14:59
1:14:59
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1:14:59A special two episode season preview featuring The Knight Report, Knight Watch and The Scarlet Faithful. Richie O'Leary, Mike Broadbent and Alex Crouthamel from KTR join Larry Krayn of Knight Watch, Scarlet Faithful contributor David Anderson and Aaron Breitman for a look back at last season's predictions as well as a full offensive preview. Part 2…
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Rutgers- Ohio Game Preview: MACattack, opening night mindset & season tone setter
20:18
20:18
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20:18David Anderson and I preview the 2025 season opener between Ohio and Rutgers including what to watch for, keys to victory and much more. Thursday, August 28 at 6pm on BTN.#rutgersfootball
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Rutgers Football Season Preview: Strengths & Weaknesses, Floor & Ceiling, Keys to Progress + More
1:23:39
1:23:39
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1:23:39David Anderson and I preview the 2025 Rutgers football season with a lengthy back and forth on what we hope for this team, why being critical signals how far the program has come in Greg Schiano's second tenure, the importance of the Iowa game, the strength of the offensive coaching staff, questions on what this team's identity will be and much mor…
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Preseason Thoughts on Rutgers Football & Keli Zinn's heavy lift to land corporate sponsorship
50:01
50:01
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50:01David Anderson is back as we discuss several training camp topics including the surprise addition of Wydeek Collier, the potential impact of strength coach Spencer Brown and the need for speed, the pink elephant in the offensive room, the many new faces on defense and surviving MACtion. In addition, we close with a discussion on new Rutgers AD Keli…
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The reported hiring of Keli Zinn as AD proves Rutgers is serious about winning
26:59
26:59
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26:59After 11+ months, Rutgers is reportedly replacing disgraced former AD Pat Hobbs with Keli Zinn, LSU's Executive Deputy Director of Athletics and Chief Operating Officer. I discuss why this hire checks many boxes for an athletic department sorely in need of a makeover. President Tate has made his first big move and it brings real optimism for alignm…
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It's official, the Rutgers AD Search is a mess!
22:46
22:46
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22:46With reports that top choice and Rutgers alum Brian Lafemina turned down the chance to be athletic director, more questions are left unanswered. Is the search back to the drawing board? Is there an internal power struggle? Will the BOG bring President Tate more into the fold after waiting to long to pursue an AD candidate in earnest? What is the se…
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Rutgers Athletics leaderless a month away from transformational year beginning in college sports
26:34
26:34
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26:34It's been 329 days since Pat Hobbs resigned as AD at Rutgers and the search to replace him remains ongoing. With revenue sharing in place and more changes still to come, the Scarlet Knights are falling behind every day they are without a leader. A discussion on the frustrations of where Rutgers isn't right now, looking at other schools who have fil…
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Takeaways on Rutgers Football 2026 Recruiting Class & Roster Building
54:10
54:10
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54:10David Anderson returns as we discuss the current state of the 2026 recruiting class as well as the coaching staff's strategy in roster building for the program.#rutgersfootball
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Rutgers must find alignment with AD hire as past disappointments bring fair concerns for future.
28:57
28:57
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28:57I''m back after a month break to discuss the positives of Rutgers hiring William Tate IV as its new President, the importance of getting the AD hire right, why this past year was so disappointing for fans, why changing perception with a better reality is a must and much more.
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Rutgers basketball completes roster with Euro Wing Denis Badalau
22:04
22:04
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22:04The Scarlet Knights added an intriguing 6'8" international wing Denis Badalau who played in the top Italian pro league and for the Romanian national team. In what is expected to be the last scholarship player taken for next season, some initial thoughts on how the roster was built, strengths and weaknesses, upside as well as concerns for Steve Piki…
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Rutgers Football Fact or Fiction - Spring Edition
42:44
42:44
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42:44David Anderson returns as we discuss our assessment of the Scarlet Knights following spring game in a fact or fiction format. Topics include several key positions, players and the big picture outlook for this program.#rutgersfootball
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Rutgers lands much needed shooter in Euro Wing Harun Zrno
15:49
15:49
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15:49Steve Pikiell landed a much needed three-point shooter in 6'6" Euro Wing Harun Zrno. The former Indiana commit recently visited Villanova and Miami while also being recruited by Wisconsin, Creighton and Virginia. The roster is taking shape with one major spot still to fill. A full discussion on Zrno and the potential rotation that will certainly re…
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Baye Fall commits, AJ Surace shines, Mo Toure transfers, Rutgers still searches for a President & AD
23:38
23:38
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23:38Aaron is back with thoughts on many Rutgers topics:- Basketball landing a big man as well as the current state of the roster plus what is still needed.- The biggest takeaway from the Spring Game was AJ Surace is developing as we all hoped.- Football transfer news in and out with Mo Toure a big loss regardless of health.- Men's lacrosse advances in …
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Five Keys That Rutgers Football Has To Figure Out For Next Season
43:20
43:20
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43:20With Spring practice more than halfway complete, David Anderson returns to discuss with Aaron the five things that the Scarlet Knights need to have answers for in order to have a successful 2025 season. #rutgersfootball
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Addition of Tariq Francis raises questions on what Rutgers men's basketball's offseason plan is
28:37
28:37
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28:37Roster construction is critical for Steve Pikiell to move the program forward next season. While there is logic and reason to adding GW transfer wing Darren Buchanan Jr. earlier this week, building a backcourt with three smaller guards with two who are inefficient offensively raises questions as to what the strategy is this offseason. We cover both…
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The player profile Rutgers should prioritize in the transfer portal
14:52
14:52
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14:52Portal season is here and I give some thoughts on the type of player Rutgers targets this offseason. There are many traits that are more important and track better than the name of the school or conference that players come from.#rutgersbasketball
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Rutgers rebuild begins: Transfer portal opens, revenue share/NIL ceiling & strategy key to offseason
20:32
20:32
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20:32A full breakdown following the departures of Lathan Sommerville, Jeremiah Williams and Jordan Derkack, how much money the program has to work with, the long term concerns for Rutgers, what will Pikiell's strategy be and instability within the university continues.#rutgersbasketball
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A failed season, Steve Pikiell's dilemma and the state of Rutgers basketball
35:04
35:04
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35:04A rambling discussion on the massive disappointment that was the 2024-2025 season, the missteps of Steve Pikiell, NIL, a search for renewed identity, the need for a modern offensive approach and the importance of change as a critical offseason begins.#rutgersbasketball
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Rutgers basketball's season ends in appropriately brutal fashion in double OT loss to USC
17:42
17:42
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17:42The most disappointing season in program history ends with Rutgers coming back from a 13 point deficit before failing to close out a 4 point lead with 36 seconds left in regulation. Poor decisions, a lack of execution and little resistance defensively plagued this team all season and tonight was no exception. The end is here.#rutgersbasketball…
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