In less than a week, Rutgers basketball went from heartbreak to embarrassment.
Days after suffering a crushing last-second loss to Michigan in Ann Arbor, the Scarlet Knights (14-16, 7-12) were pummeled by Purdue in Mackey Arena in a humiliating 100-71 loss on Tuesday night.
After each game, Steve Pikiell made uncharacteristic decisions.
Following the defeat to the Wolverines, the mild-mannered head coach dropped three f-bombs in a short postgame interview with radio play-by-play announcer Jerry Recco.
On Tuesday, Pikiell did not speak to any member of the media — neither Recco nor NJ Advance Media reporter Kevin Armstrong, who was in West Lafayette. Instead, he sent associate head coach Brandin Knight to explain the disastrous defeat.
It is a clear sign that, as the most disappointing season in program history approaches a merciful end, the Scarlet Knights are unraveling.
The Rutgers Rant is back to discuss the defeats to Purdue and Michigan, the dreadful defense played by the Scarlet Knights on both occasions, and where things go from here entering what is likely to be the final week of the campaign.
We also discuss the outlook for the general manager position for the program, preview the wrestling team’s upcoming Big Ten Championships participation and break down how former Rutgers football players performed at the NFL Combine last week.
And, of course, we answer the questions submitted by our listeners.
Fans can listen to the show by using the player below, heading (and subscribing) to tweeting at the Rutgers Rant., or by subscribing on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher or wherever else podcasts are available. They can also submit questions for future shows by emailing or tweeting at the Rutgers Rant.
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Brian Fonseca may be reached at bfonseca@njadvancemedia.com.
Pat Lanni may be reached at planni@njadvancemedia.com
Steve Politi may be reached at spoliti@njadvancemedia.com.