Rutgers’ great American nightmare is finally over.

After losing 21 consecutive Big Ten contests, the Scarlet Knights finally found their way to a conference victory as they went on the road and defeated Michigan State 38-27 on Saturday. It’s the school’s first Big Ten victory since 2017 when Rutgers defeated Maryland 31-24 on Nov. 4, 2017.

While Rutgers scoring 51 points in nine Big Ten games in 2019, the 2020 Scarlet Knights found success early and often as they finished with 38 points. This offense is led by coach Greg Schiano, who is back leading the program after serving as the head coach from 2001-11.

After jumping out to a 14-0 lead in the first quarter, Rutgers added two more touchdowns to pull ahead 28-13 at halftime. After Michigan State scored to make it 28-20, Rutgers scored 10 unanswered points to take a commanding lead.

The Spartans did score once late to make it 38-27 but did not convert on an onside kick attempt and dropped their season opener at home. It’s the first time Rutgers has defeated Michigan State since 2004 when Schiano led the Scarlet Knights in his first run as coach.

Besides some surprising offensive numbers came the Scarlet Knights pouncing on a myriad of Spartan mistakes. In coach Mel Tucker’s debut, Michigan State finished with five fumbles, two interceptions and two turnover on downs.

With the win, Rutgers improves to 1-0 on the season and in conference play. This is the first time the Red Knights have held a conference record above .500 since joining the conference in 2014.