Led by Joe Harasymiak, Rutgers is a top-10 defense (282.4 yards allowed per game). The unit is also sixth nationally in passing defense (159.9), 20th in scoring defense (17.9) and 33rd in rushing defense (122.6). In year two as defensive coordinator, the Scarlet Knights have permitted 114.1 fewer yards of total offense per game than in 2021, 75.0 fewer passing yards and 38.9 fewer rushing yards. In 2023, RU has allowed 16 or fewer points in five games and single digits in three games. This includes four scoreless halves, including two in Big Ten play. In addition, the defense has had seven red zone stops, seen 12 different players combine for 18 sacks and 7-of-8 forced fumbles have been recovered. According to PFF, Rutgers is second in the Big Ten and sixth nationally with only 65 missed tackles on the season. Rutgers is bowl eligible for the first time since 2014 and matched the program high with three Big Ten wins so far.
