Howard University, the two-time defending MEAC champions, opened their season against Rutgers on Thursday night, falling 44-7 to the Big Ten program. Despite the lopsided score, the Bison showed grit in a matchup that saw them receive a hefty $425,000 payout for facing a Power 5 opponent. Howard’s lone score came courtesy of running back Eden James, who found the end zone on a 2-yard run late in the second quarter. James, the son of NFL Hall of Famer Edgerrin James, provided a bright spot for the Bison offense in an otherwise difficult contest.
Redshirt sophomore Ja’Shawn Scroggins made his first start at quarterback for Howard, displaying both his running and passing abilities. He rushed for 67 yards and threw for 116 yards against a tough Rutgers defense. However, early struggles set the tone for the Bison, particularly when Scroggins’ first possession ended with a costly mistake – a 52-yard interception return for a touchdown by Rutgers’ Eric Rogers.
Howard’s defense battled throughout the game, but they had trouble containing Rutgers’ powerful run game. Kyle Monangai, the reigning Big Ten rushing champion, had a standout performance for Rutgers, rushing for 165 yards and a touchdown on just 19 carries, averaging an impressive 8.7 yards per carry. The Bison defense gave up 329 rushing yards as Rutgers controlled the tempo with their ground attack.
Despite the loss, Howard showed flashes of resilience, highlighted by their final offensive play – a determined 11-yard touchdown run by Antwan Raymond. Unfortunately, there was no extra point attempt, but it was a positive conclusion to the game for the Bison.
Looking ahead, Howard will regroup as they prepare for their home opener against Mercyhurst on September 7. This game offers an opportunity for the Bison to bounce back and showcase the potential from Eden James and others that earned them back-to-back conference titles.