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Rutgers football news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Rutgers opens 2026 football season hosting UMass on Sep 3 at 6:00 PM.
The game marks UMass coach Joe Harasymiak's return to Rutgers, where he was defensive.
Background
Rutgers football begins its 2026 season with a home game against UMass on Thursday, September 3, at 6:00 PM. The Scarlet Knights are looking to improve on last season and return to a bowl game, with key playmakers like KJ Duff and Antwan Raymond returning. UMass coach Joe Harasymiak previously served as Rutgers' defensive coordinator, adding a storyline to the matchup.
How it unfolded
- Aug 21, 2026Rutgers announced that Duff Jr. and Raymond were named to the 2027 Senior Bowl Top 300.
- Aug 25, 2026Rutgers announced 'The Blackout is Back' for the Oct. 3 game vs. Indiana.
- Aug 30, 2026UMass announced the season opener at Rutgers on Thursday, Sep 3.
- Sep 1, 2026NJ.com published game-by-game predictions for Rutgers' 2026 season, discussing postseason hopes.
- Sep 3, 2026Rutgers hosts UMass in the season opener at SHI Stadium, with kickoff at 6:00 PM.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- Rutgers Athletics promotes the game as the start of the 2026 season, with next up a road game at Boston College on Sept. 11.
- Analysts
- NJ.com analysts predict Rutgers needs to win early games like this one to have any hope of a winning season and bowl eligibility.