The Rutgers football program entered the early part of the 2026 season seeking answers after suffering back-to-back non-conference losses. This challenging start was exacerbated by poor offensive performances and an undisclosed injury to starting quarterback Dylan Lonergan. He injured himself late in the Week 1 upset against UMass and missed the subsequent loss to Boston College, during which AJ Surace filled in as quarterback.
As the Scarlet Knights prepared to kick off their Big Ten season against the 12th-ranked USC Trojans, speculation about who would lead the offense was rampant. In a timely update just before kickoff, insider Pete Nakos reported on X that Lonergan has been cleared to return from his injury and will start against No. 12 USC, according to sources.
Article Continues BelowNEW: Rutgers QB Dylan Lonergan has been cleared to return from injury and will start today against No. 12 USC, sources tell @On3. https://t.co/Vvb2FpQWpd pic.twitter.com/zMrLTLXGVT
â Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos) September 19, 2026
Lonergan's return brings immediate experience and stability to Greg Schiano's squad as they attempt to secure a significant conference upset. Despite struggling during the rocky start, with both Lonergan and Surace contributing to turnover issues, having Lonergan back on the field provides Rutgers with a crucial focal point. Facing a powerhouse opponent like USC on the road is always a formidable challenge, but Lonergan's return dramatically changes the offensive dynamic as the Scarlet Knights strive to turn their season around in Big Ten play.