Rutgers Football: Kyle Monangai Will Sit Out the Rate Bowl, but His Influence Remains Strong
Rutgers football’s star running back, Kyle Monangai, will not play in the upcoming Rate Bowl against Kansas State, but his impact on the team remains undeniable. Coach Greg Schiano confirmed this decision, noting that Monangai, who is eyeing a future in the NFL, opted to sit out to avoid injury risk that could affect his draft prospects. This is a common choice for players with professional ambitions, yet Monangai’s presence will still be felt during the game. Despite not suiting up, he continues to support his teammates, helping coach, and attending every team meeting. Schiano praised his commitment, stating, “If you didn’t know it, you’d think he was playing. That’s just the way that he’s prepared.”
Monangai’s decision marks the end of a remarkable Rutgers career. A product of Don Bosco Prep, Monangai was once an underrecruited player who grew into one of the nation’s best running backs. Over the course of the season, he rushed for 1,279 yards and 13 touchdowns, showcasing his impressive consistency with a 5.0 yards-per-carry average. Monangai is only the third player in Rutgers history to rush for over 3,000 career yards, joining legends like Ray Rice and Terrell Willis. Additionally, he never fumbled in 669 career carries and 38 receptions, a testament to his reliability and skill.
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With Monangai sidelined, the focus shifts to the remaining running backs, Antwan Raymond and Ja’Shon Benjamin, who will have key roles in the Rate Bowl. Raymond, a true freshman, has shown promise this season with 344 yards and five touchdowns on 82 carries. Meanwhile, Benjamin, who has rushed for 67 yards on 12 carries, will step up to fill the void left by Monangai. Both players had notable performances earlier in the season when Monangai missed the game against Minnesota. Schiano expressed confidence in their abilities, noting their strong preparation and solid performances when given the opportunity.
Monangai’s leadership extends beyond his performance on the field. Despite battling injuries throughout the season, he played through pain and produced at an elite level. Schiano acknowledged the toughness Monangai displayed, mentioning how he wanted to play in every game but was sometimes held back to protect him from further injury. His influence on the running back room, along with Coach Damiere Shaw’s development of the group, has been crucial to the team’s success.
As Rutgers heads into the Rate Bowl, it’s clear that Monangai’s legacy will remain a key part of the program’s foundation. Even without him on the field, his preparation, leadership, and dedication will continue to inspire his teammates as they take on Kansas State in what promises to be a thrilling game. His absence may be felt, but his imprint on the team’s culture and success will last far beyond the final whistle.
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