Rutgers’ quarterback competition is heating up as Aj Surace and Dylan Lonergan vie to take the reins from Athan Kaliakmanis. With spring camp underway, both players are making their case to lead the Scarlet Knights.
Surace, entering his third year with the program, has been seen as the natural successor. Despite Lonergan’s arrival adding some intrigue, Surace remains unfazed, emphasizing the ever-present competition within the team.
“There’s always competition within the room,” Surace shared. “We’re constantly pushing each other to improve. For me, it’s about getting better every day and striving to be the best I can be.”
Surace benefits from his familiarity with Ciarrocca’s complex system, a challenge for newcomers. Yet, he’s not resting on his laurels.
“Every day is a learning opportunity,” Surace noted. “I’m confident but aware there’s always room to grow.”
On the other side, Lonergan brings valuable on-field experience, having started nine games for Boston College last year. Head coach Greg Schiano was straightforward during Lonergan’s recruitment, making it clear that earning the starting spot would require hard work.
“Rutgers impressed me from the start,” Lonergan said. “The facilities, the coaching - it felt right.
I knew competition was part of the deal, but I thrive in that environment. We’re all working together to elevate the team.”
Lonergan is quickly adapting to Ciarrocca’s system, showing promise in his new environment.
Ciarrocca himself weighed in on the ongoing battle, acknowledging both quarterbacks’ progress and the importance of their performance on the practice field.
“They both need experience, and I’m hopeful they’ll be in a strong position by the end of spring,” Ciarrocca explained. “Ultimately, it’s about who performs best. The decision will become clear in time, and Coach Schiano will make the final call, with my input.”
As spring camp progresses, the competition remains fierce, with both Surace and Lonergan pushing to prove they have what it takes to lead Rutgers into the future.