John Fanta demands more respect for Rutgers Scarlet Knights: "They just know how to win"

The #23 Rutgers Scarlet Knights are sitting second in the Big Ten with an overall record of 13-5 and a hard win in overtime over the Ohio State Buckeyes. They've won seven of their past eight games after losing back-to-back games against Ohio State and Seton Hall.

NCAA analyst John Fanta was adamant about Rutgers Scarlet Knights deserving more attention on the "Field of 68" podcast, as he spoke about their resilence that could be summarized in six words: "They just know how to win."

Another double-double from lead man Cliff Omoruyi propelled the Rutgers Scarlet Knights over the Buckeyes. But his impact defensively is what has helped this Rutgers team excel over the last few weeks. He has totaled six blocks in the game and has made a case for being the best defender in the Big Ten.

His presence on the glass was much needed, and the Nigerian-born big man has not been as consistent to start the year. However, if he can continue to play like this and score in double figures consistently, this team is different. He is averaging 13 points, 10 rebounds, two blocks, and an assist. Only averaging two fouls a game, he is a patient defender who has found a lot of success with the Scarlet Knights.

Cam Spencer's defense has been a difference

The team's defense on the perimeter is exhausting, they are thirteenth in the country and are third in defensive rating in the NCAA. Cam Spencer is the other leader and the best defensive guard on the team. He finished the overtime victory with 21 points, seven rebounds, six assists, and four steals.

He has not shied away from the big shots. He has shot down Purdue and Northwestern on the road. He has improved in every game this season, averaging 14 points, four assists, three rebounds, and almost three steals. Credit to the coaching staff as they found the sharpshooter at Loyola-Maryland and saw his potential.

Spencer was named Co-Big Ten player of the week with Purdue's Fletcher Loyer. He was 16 in the second half against Ohio State and became the first Scarlet Knight to score 20 or more points in back-to-back Big Ten games since Ron Harper Jr. in 2020.

The game winner came from forward Mawot Mag, the Melbourne-raised shooter hitting a corner three at the end of the shot-clock buzzer.

They could become a better 3-point shooting team. They are ranked 314th in the country in attempts and 261st at three-point percentage. When you play such a great defense, the advantage of having an even more formidable offense can help this team expand its horizons as well. They will be able to get their first five-star recruit in the history of the program in Ace Bailey next season.

A perfect way to end the weekend, the Michigan State Spartans will welcome in the streaking Rutgers Scarlet Knights and have their hands full. The Spartans, led by Tyson Walker, are coming off a narrow loss to Purdue. They will look to avenge that loss with a big win that will halt the Rutgers Scarlet Knights' winning streak.