Despite a 2-6 record, Rutgers has showed no signs of abandoning the present -- four straight wins are needed for bowl eligibility -- in favor of the future. Even the decision to start Gio Rescigno at quarterback was a "right now' move.
But, for Rutgers fans dreaming of better days ahead, here are 12 freshmen and sophomores to watch over the last four games because their development will be key to the future after graduation wipes out Rutgers' experience at wide receiver, offensive line and defensive line.
Following the career-ending neck injury suffered by Greg Jones and Najee Clayton's departure, Maddox-Williams became the first true freshman to start this season.