Monmouth University football announces 2020 game with Rutgers

The evolution of the Monmouth University football program continued on Thursday with a landmark agreement.

Monmouth University and Rutgers University have agreed to a September 5, 2020 game at High Point Solutions Stadium in Piscataway. It will be the fifth time Monmouth has played a Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) opponent and the program’s first against a Big Ten program.

"This game represents a tremendous opportunity for our football program, but for football in the entire state of New Jersey," said Monmouth Head Coach Kevin Callahan via a press release. "I want to thank Coach Ash for giving Monmouth the opportunity to play at Rutgers. Agreeing to play this game demonstrates Rutgers' commitment to football in New Jersey, and assists the development of our sport on all levels throughout the State. I know our team will be excited to test themselves against a B1G opponent in two years."

The game between the two schools, which are separated by just 34 miles, is another major step forward for the Hawks football program. Monmouth, which joined the Big South Conference as a football-only member in 2014, played for the conference championship last season, finished 9-3 and secured an at-large berth to the NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs.

Monmouth, which is receiving votes in both FCS polls, opens the 2018 season at Eastern Michigan on August 31.