Big game on Saturday at MSG vs Mich St. Important for the program on many levels.
The obvious is that RU is clustered with about 10 other teams in the conference standings. MSU and RU feel like two that should emerge from that group so this game is going to weigh heavy on final standings and conference tournament byes.
For the program, its important that they handle the different environment well. That the players don't tense up under a different stage. Its not quite like being the visiting team in which you can take that us vs the world mentality. They'll need to generate their own energy.
And that leads me to the last point. This is an important game for the fan base, our perception, our brand value, etc. We need a big showing from Rutgers Nation in NYC. The game is on FOX at a premier slot. We have to make it known that its a "home" game. Make it known that RU and NYC are synonymous.
It should be fun. It can be really special. Lets hope it all comes together on Saturday at noon.
The obvious is that RU is clustered with about 10 other teams in the conference standings. MSU and RU feel like two that should emerge from that group so this game is going to weigh heavy on final standings and conference tournament byes.
For the program, its important that they handle the different environment well. That the players don't tense up under a different stage. Its not quite like being the visiting team in which you can take that us vs the world mentality. They'll need to generate their own energy.
And that leads me to the last point. This is an important game for the fan base, our perception, our brand value, etc. We need a big showing from Rutgers Nation in NYC. The game is on FOX at a premier slot. We have to make it known that its a "home" game. Make it known that RU and NYC are synonymous.
It should be fun. It can be really special. Lets hope it all comes together on Saturday at noon.