PISCATAWAY, N.J. — Max Melton made a statement in Sunday’s season opener for Rutgers football, the junior defensive back, showing why he is one of the top defensive backs in the nation. His performance was key in Rutgers emerging with an important win to start the season.
It wasn’t a must-win game for Rutgers, but if they are hoping to be bowl-eligible, then it was a borderline must-win. This is the kind of game Rutgers has struggled to win in the past (having lost to Northwestern most recently in 2021) let alone close out.
But according to Melton, who played at an elite level on Sunday, this win not only sets the tone but shows that Rutgers has now taken a step forward.
“I think it was just letting people know that we’re not the we’re not the regular Rutgers,” Melton said following Sunday’s game.
“You got us all for the past however many years like eight years, whatever it was.
“We’re about our business this year, we’re going to go out and get the job done. Like we’re gonna we’re up for the task. We’re gonna do everything it takes to get that task done and completed. So that’s what you guys saw today.”
Melton provided blanket coverage in Sunday’s 24-7 win, registering two tackles and adding an interception and a pass defended. It was the kind of performance that reaffirmed why Melton is considered an NFL draft prospect.
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There is a very real chance that Melton is an All-Big Ten selection this year. He has the ability and length to be a true shutdown cornerback. But it is his instincts and reading of the game that is fluid and effortless.
The win has significance because it gives Rutgers a win in Big Ten play. The Scarlet Knights had one win in conference play last year.
“It was great – you know, we got kind of got a weird schedule this year. So we go Big Ten, not Big Ten…whatever it is. And that it’s a good start to the season gives the fan base -it gives everybody hope,” Melton said.
“Like we got it this year like we are what we say we are this year, we’re gonna CHOP every moment and going to take it one game at a time. So now we’re moving on to Temple so we just focus on them now.”
Melton was also showing off some bling following Sunday’s win, an iced out ‘Mad Max’ gold neck chain.
“I got it around my birthday,” Melton said.
“I got this and my car around my birthday.”
Not a bad birthday.