Kyle Monangai's season opener for Rutgers football: a standout performance goes beyond a remarkable block
Rutgers football player Kyle Monangai's impressive block during the season opener becomes viral sensation on social media.
In the season opener for Rutgers football, quarterback Gavin Wimsatt was unable to witness Kyle Monangai's incredible block, but he could hear the crowd's reaction, indicating that something remarkable had occurred. It wasn't until after the game, in the locker room, that both Wimsatt and Monangai were able to see the impressive block in all its glory.
Monangai's contributions went beyond just that one play. He delivered a strong performance throughout the game, helping Rutgers secure an impressive 24-7 victory over Northwestern. However, despite his overall performance, it was 'The Block' that became the main topic of conversation after the game.
The play took place early in the second quarter. With Rutgers facing a third-and-long situation, Monangai lined up next to Wimsatt, who was in the shotgun formation. Monangai's responsibility was to protect Wimsatt from any blitzes by Northwestern.
What happened next was a powerful and devastating block on linebacker Xander Mueller. It was a block that, with all due respect, completely leveled his opponent.
It's worth noting that Mueller is an exceptional linebacker, considered one of the top players in the Big Ten at his position. In the previous season, he recorded 87 tackles and 2.5 sacks.
Monangai didn't have the opportunity to see the replay of his block on the video board during the game. It wasn't until he was celebrating Rutgers' win in the locker room that he finally got to witness his own highlight.
Despite the large crowd and the noise at SHI Stadium, the impact of Monangai's block reverberated throughout the entire stadium.
Following the game, Monangai's block and Ian Strong's touchdown pass created a buzz on social media. NFL analyst Geoff Schwartz even analyzed the block, further emphasizing its significance.
Monangai started the game and had an impressive performance, rushing for 49 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries. He also made one catch for 20 yards.
Considering that Samuel Brown V and Aaron Young were sidelined due to injuries, Monangai's performance as a junior running back was even more remarkable. It was an opportunity for him to make a statement with his exceptional display on the field.
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