A couple of thoughts.
First, if you look at the other major programs playing today, they all had better student turnouts. Rutgers students, on average, live closer to campus than is the case with nearly all of those other schools. The fact that it's the Saturday after Thanksgiving isn't an excuse if it only applies to Rutgers students.
Second, a hearty "lol" that at least one person today (in another thread) continues to blame student turnout on the fact that they're not allowed to drink unimpeded in the Blue lot.
Finally - and I guess I have to be "that guy" - it's "attendance".
Regardless, the reality is what it is - the overall apathy of the Rutgers student body is representative of the entire state's perception of this program (and the school), as well as the inherent cultural attitudes. Rutgers will never be one of those legendary programs that can boast a sold out stadium even when times are bad. If the team is winning consistently, the casual NJ/NY fan base - the most "bandwagon" of bandwagon fans - will show up. Otherwise... Not so much.
The culture of this area is, and always will be, "what have you done for me lately". Any attempt to build a culture of unconditional loyalty will be laughed at. Don't believe me? Just ask Terry Shea.