When it comes to its senior class, Rutgers will be close to full strength for the Rate Bowl — with one notable exception. Star running back Kyle Monangai will not participate in Thursday’s meeting with Kansas State at Chase Field in Phoenix,

SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. – Rutgers football coach Greg Schiano said Tuesday that star running back Kyle Monangai will not play in Thursday’s Rate Bowl against Kansas State. Monangai – along with other players looking to pursue the NFL after this season – had the option to sit out the game to avoid any injury risk that could dent their draft stock.

Rutgers built a 17-point lead in the 2024 Rate Bowl against Kansas State with explosive offense in the first half. That same offense did not move the ball late while the defense did not get stops as the Wildcats stormed back to top Rutgers 44-41 at Chase Field in Phoenix.