PISCATAWAY, N.J. — It would be easy to chalk up Gavin Wimsatt’s performance on Sunday as one where the Rutgers football quarterback led his team with his arms and his legs. But it was with his head that Wimsatt showed the most growth, putting together a strong effort in a 24-7 win over Northwestern.
Wimsatt ran the offense impeccably, making smart throws and utilizing his athleticism when needed to key a Big Ten win for Rutgers. It was an efficient and clean afternoon for Wimsatt, who threw for 163 yards on 17-of-29 passing for a touchdown.
He also had nine rushing attempts for 33 yards including a six-yard touchdown run in the second quarter. It was the first rushing touchdown of Wimsatt’s college career.
It was a strong, albeit not perfect, showing from Wimsatt in his first game in offensive coordinator Kirk Ciarrocca’s system. Ciarrocca was hired this offseason after spending last year as the offensive coordinator at Minnesota.
“I think the game has slowed down. I think that also comes with experience. You know, that last part of the season last year – tt was rough for us but you know it’s experience,” Wimsatt said after the game on Sunday.
“And I think it helps you understand the game better and it helps slow down the game and I think coach Ciarrocca also with his game plan and how he’s coaching us I think he also helps slow the game down for sure.”
Ball security, however, is the headline to emerge from this performance from Wimsatt. Rutgers didn’t turn the ball over once on offense and Wimsatt made smart throws consistently throughout the game.
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In the first quarter on the game’s opening drive, Wimsatt twice threw away passes when his wide receivers failed to get separation down the field.
“He played a really clean game. I think he played relaxed, confident, because of his preparation. Thought he was very decisive,” Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano said after the game.
“The other thing he did that stood out to me is he let the bad plays die. Saw him throw a few away. Saw him tucking and run. That to me is a sign of maturation.”