The Rutgers Scarlet Knights got off to a red-hot start to the season, going 4-0 out of the gates. Unfortunately, things fell apart in the back half of the season, where they only won three of their final eight games.
After the disappointing close to the season, one coach has decided to leave the program for an opportunity elsewhere.
“Sources: UMass is expected to hire Rutgers defensive coordinator Joe Harasymiak the school’s next head coach. A deal is expected to come together in the near future. He brings strong Northeast ties, including as head coach at Maine,” reported ESPN’s Peter Thamel on Wednesday.
Sources: UMass is expected to hire Rutgers defensive coordinator Joe Harasymiak the school’s next head coach. A deal is expected to come together in the near future. He brings strong Northeast ties, including as head coach at Maine. pic.twitter.com/9V6etIYSYx
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 4, 2024
Fans reacted to the news on social media.
“Big loss for Rutgers, but happy for coach. Umass is a tough job, wish him good luck,” one fan said on Twitter.
“UMass dropped the ball snubbing HC Neal Brown,” another fan added.
“Would’ve preferred an offensive mind but I don’t hate it. This was the type of hire I was looking for, a younger up and coming guy with something to prove. Lets ride,” one fan added.
“Maybe U Washington Def Coord Steve Belichik would like to come back to his alma mater. Schiano gave him a big break letting him be a de facto intern as a 4th string Long Snapper,” one fan added.
“Should have got someone with MAC ties,” someone else wrote.
It’ll be interesting to see who Rutgers brings in to fill the hole Harasymiak’s departure has created.
About Qwame Skinner
Qwame Skinner has loved both writing and sports his entire life. In addition to his sports coverage at Comeback Media, Qwame writes novels, and his debut; The First Casualty, an adult fantasy, is out now.