During the previous three seasons, Rutgers has lost more than a few non-conference games against smaller programs. Losses to Drexel, William & Mary, Fairleigh Dickinson, St. Peter’s, and St. Francis (Pa) hurt the soul of every Rutgers basketball fan. With a steady diet of less heralded teams on the schedule this season, there has been hope that those days of head scratching losses are over under new head coach Steve Pikiell. This game brought back that sinking feeling that was too close for comfort.
Tonight was the first time all season that Rutgers really struggled against an inferior opponent that they should have been in control of from the opening tip.