Rutgers Scarlet Knights
2000 overall record: 3-8
Conference record: 0-7 (8th)
Returning starters
Offense: 6
Defense: 7
Kickers: 2
2000 statistical leaders (* - returners)
Rushing: Dennis Thomas* (587 yds)
Passing: Mike McMahon (2,157 yds)
Receiving: Errol Johnson (555 yds)
Tackles: Wesley Robertson (83)
Sacks: Robertson (8)
Interceptions: Shahib White (4)
What's new
New Jersey native Greg Schiano takes over the program and a significant rebuilding job, but he is off to a good start with 13 all-state Jersey kids in his first signing class. A new attitude in the program is evident in a much faster practice tempo. Offensively, there is more emphasis on running the football, and the defense has gone back to 4-3 look.
Battling it out
The spring offered no separation in the battle to replace Mike McMahon at quarterback. Chad Schwenk is the only candidate who has played in a game (led the upset of Syracuse in '99), but redshirt freshman Chris Dapolito has good physical tools. Also in the mix is Ted Trump, originally a baseball player who walked on in football. Two highly recruited incoming freshmen could also compete.
Eye catcher: MLB Raheem Orr
He has all the physical tools to excel in the Big East, but Orr was a non-qualifier as a freshman and is anxious to take the field for the first time after two seasons at Rutgers. He dominated on defense throughout spring drills.
Budding star: CB Brandon Haw
Already the fastest player in the Rutgers program, Haw has increased his size and strength and has a chance to become a quality cornerback. He started all 11 games in 2000 and made 40 tackles.
Brad Edwards researches college football for ESPN and is a contributor to ESPN.com throughout the year.
