The Scarlet Knights were outgained, 521-299, but proved to be tough in the red zone and even better in critical defensive moments. They were disciplined when Washington was not, and the defense — rightfully so — held on just long enough to seal the 21-18 win.

The Huskies had more yards and first downs, but Rutgers avoided the critical mistakes and made the big plays that UW couldn't come up with.

Rutgers held on to defeat Washington, 21-18, in its Big Ten opener, as the defense made just enough stops to pull off the dramatic win.

Rutgers turned off the lights and turned up the stakes. Looking for the signature win of coach Greg Schiano’s second stint, Rutgers put together what will go down as something special Friday night by outslugging and outlasting last year’s national runner-up in front of the second-largest crowd to ever witness a football game in Piscataway.

The Rutgers Scarlett Knights have a chance to turn some heads and draw some laughs on Friday night. A win over last year’s national championship game loser, Washington, at home in primetime would put Rutgers atop the Big Ten standings.