Before the 2024-2025 wrestling season, Rutgers University wrestling coach Scott Goodale went on record as saying he was tired of the status quo. “We’re tired of being 14th in the country,” Goodale said back in October. “That’s been our statement to our program. It’s enough.

Rutgers' dramatic win over Illinois Sunday on criteria was its first win over a top 10 team in more than 6 years.

The Nittany Lions (9-0) scored four technicals, including the 11th this season by top-ranked Mitchell Mesenbrink (165 pounds). Redshirt freshman Josh Barr (197) produced the signature win, scoring seven (!) takedowns in the third period for a 22-6 win. Barr scored six more takedowns in the third than Rutgers (one) did the entire match.

Stay here for updates on the Rutgers University wrestling team's match against No. 1 Penn State at Jersey Mike's Arena after 8 p.m.