The 2024 Rate Bowl was a thrilling contest that showcased the offensive firepower and resilience of both Rutgers and Kansas State. Despite an impressive performance from Rutgers, the Scarlet Knights fell short in a 44-41 loss to the Wildcats.
The game featured standout performances from RB Antwan Raymond, QB Athan Kaliakmanis, and a solid defensive showing by DB Robert Longerbeam.
Key Game Highlights
Offensive Prowess from Rutgers
- RB Antwan Raymond: 18 carries for 113 rushing yards and three touchdowns.
- QB Athan Kaliakmanis: 14 completions for 237 yards and one touchdown.
- WR Ian Strong: A game-high 104 receiving yards on five receptions.
- RB Ja’shon Benjamin: Contributed a rushing and receiving touchdown.
Defensive Standouts
- DB Robert Longerbeam: Recorded eight tackles and his fifth career interception.
- LB Tyreem Powell: Equaled Longerbeam’s eight tackles.
- DB Shaquan Loyal: Delivered seven tackles and a sack.
First Quarter: A Balanced Start
Kansas State opened the scoring with a field goal, but Rutgers quickly responded. RB Antwan Raymond’s one-yard touchdown capped a 13-play, 75-yard drive, giving Rutgers a 7-3 lead. Kaliakmanis contributed heavily with 37 passing and 26 rushing yards in the drive.
Second Quarter: Offensive Fireworks
The second quarter saw a flurry of scoring from both teams.
- Kansas State’s Lead: QB Avery Johnson’s two-yard keeper gave KSU a 10-7 advantage.
- Rutgers Responds: Patel tied it at 10 with a 31-yard field goal.
- Momentum Swings:
- Raymond’s 65-yard rush set up Benjamin’s three-yard touchdown, regaining the lead for Rutgers.
- Raymond added another touchdown from 24 yards out, putting Rutgers up 24-17.
Rutgers’ defense made a crucial stop when Robert Longerbeam intercepted Avery Johnson, setting up a 48-yard field goal by Patel to close the half at 27-17.
Third Quarter: Rutgers Extends the Lead
Rutgers opened the second half strong:
- Benjamin’s Heroics: He scored a seven-yard touchdown reception, capping a 10-play, 64-yard drive.
- Kansas State Strikes Back: Two touchdowns narrowed Rutgers’ lead to 34-29, but the Scarlet Knights forced a punt to close the quarter.
Fourth Quarter: A Nail-Biting Finish
The final quarter was a rollercoaster of emotions.
- Raymond’s Hat-Trick: His third touchdown extended Rutgers’ lead to 41-29.
- Kansas State’s Comeback:
- Two consecutive touchdowns, including a pivotal score with 4:15 left, pushed Kansas State ahead, 44-41.
- Final Effort Falls Short: Rutgers’ turnover on downs allowed Kansas State to seal the victory.
Statistical Breakdown
| Category | Rutgers | Kansas State |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 487 | 462 |
| Rushing Yards | 250 | 214 |
| Passing Yards | 237 | 248 |
| Turnovers | 1 | 1 |
| Time of Possession | 32:15 | 27:45 |
| Third Down Efficiency | 6/13 (46%) | 5/12 (42%) |
Players to Watch
Rutgers Standouts
- Antwan Raymond: Dominated the ground game and showcased his versatility.
- Ian Strong: Proved to be a reliable target in the passing game.
- Robert Longerbeam: Continued to lead the defense with crucial plays.
Kansas State Heroes
- Avery Johnson: Led the Wildcats’ offense with poise and mobility.
- Wildcats’ Defense: Stepped up in critical moments to secure the win.
The 2024 Rate Bowl was an unforgettable game that highlighted the strengths and determination of both teams. Despite falling short, Rutgers demonstrated resilience and skill, led by standout performances from Antwan Raymond and Athan Kaliakmanis.
Kansas State’s late-game heroics ultimately sealed the victory, concluding the season with a bittersweet note for Rutgers.
Who were the key players for Rutgers in the Rate Bowl?
Antwan Raymond, Athan Kaliakmanis, and Ian Strong delivered exceptional performances for Rutgers.
What was the final score of the game?
Kansas State defeated Rutgers 44-41 in the 2024 Rate Bowl.
How did the Rutgers defense perform?
The defense made crucial plays, including Robert Longerbeam’s interception and Shaquan Loyal’s sack.