Can Rutgers Rise to the Top? Urban Meyer Thinks So!

The Rutgers Renaissance: Urban Meyer's Bold Prediction

Following Indiana's breathtaking ascent to the top of college football, Urban Meyer, the celebrated coach known for leading Florida and Ohio State to national championships, cast his gaze towards Rutgers. Meyer believes the Scarlet Knights could be poised to shake off their recent struggles and rise to prominence in the sport.

"Give me three programs that could be the next Indiana, meaning teams that are used to losing... and can somehow rise from the ashes to become national champions," Meyer said during a recent episode of his podcast, "3 and Out," co-hosted with Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram II and Rob Stone.

This claim comes on the heels of Indiana's historic achievement, having just secured their first national championship. The game was thrilling and showcased the depth of talent and strategy in college football, igniting hope for other programs.

Rutgers: A Program with a Rich History

Rutgers finished the 2025 season with a troubling 5-7 record, placing them third on college football's all-time losses list. But don't let these numbers fool you. The Scarlet Knights have had success in the past. Back in 2006, they surged to a 9-0 start and reached the top of the AP poll. They are hungry for a revival that could mirror Indiana's journey.

• 2006: 9-0 start in the season
• Ranked No. 7 in the AP Top 25
• Finished the season ranked No. 12 after winning the Texas Bowl

With Greg Schiano at the helm—mastermind of the Buckeyes' defense under Meyer—Rutgers has the leadership required for a sustainable resurgence. Meyer, emphasizing his bond with Schiano, believes that the Scarlet Knights are primed for a turnaround.

What it Takes to Become a Contender

Meyer isn't just spinning dreams; he's providing a lens for what makes a program capable of transformation. Based on his experiences, he identifies several critical factors:

1. Coaching Leadership: As evidenced by Schiano's past successes, having a strong coach at the helm can dramatically alter a program's trajectory.
2. Recruitment of Talent: It begins with effective recruiting practices to bring in homegrown talent and recognized athletes who can add depth.
3. Culture Shift: Creating a winning mentality that permeates through the locker room can be the difference between perennial underperformance and elite contention.

“I'll say Rutgers because Greg Schiano—who I'm biased; he's a great friend and a great football coach—had him in the top five in the country at one point in 2006,” Meyer asserted.

The Path Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges

The road to the top won't be smooth. Rutgers still grapples with the scars of a losing legacy while facing tough opponents that have established their dominance over the years. As the Scarlet Knights prepare to square off against Indiana in 2026, this matchup could serve as a litmus test for both programs.

With their shared history of defeats—Indiana leading the list of all-time losses—both teams could redefine their narratives in a compelling clash. Meyer's endorsement of Rutgers amplifies the stakes; as eyes focus on them, the time to deliver results is now.

Looking to the Future

As we dive into the depths of college football, it's about more than just wins and losses; it's about the stories that unfold. Each game is a new chapter, and it's up to everyone involved to write an inspiring one. The journey of Rutgers could very well be the next 'Cinderella story' of our time, providing a narrative filled with hope and determination.

In this high-stakes environment, can the Scarlet Knights answer Meyer's call? Only time will tell, but as we gear for the 2026 season, the anticipation builds. Are you ready for what's next?

Read more about Urban Meyer's predictions for Rutgers and their chances at becoming college football's next elite program.