PISCATAWAY, N.J. – RB Kyle Monangai was one of the standouts for Rutgers football in its 24-7 victory over Northwestern to open the 2023 campaign. The veteran tailback tallied 69 total yads of offense against the Wildcats, which included a 15-yard touchdown run to help the Scarlet Knights secure their first Big Ten Conference win of the season.

But it was what he did without the ball that caught the nation's attention during the national broadcast on CBS over Labor Day weekend.

Driving in enemy territory early in the second quarter, Monangai picked up a blitz from Northwestern linebacker Xander Mueller, leveling the Wildcat to allow Wimsatt to complete a 12-yard pass to WR Isaiah Washington for a first down. Three plays later, Wimsatt capped the 16-play scoring drive with a six-yard rushing touchdown to put Rutgers up 14-0.

For Monangai, throwing the highlight block was just part of his job.

"There was a blitzing linebacker and I had to step up and make the play," Monangai said. "He's a bigger guy. I think I just won the law of physics right there: low-man wins."

🥞 🥞 @kylemonangai | @GetUpESPN pic.twitter.com/OoAS07g5bJ

— Rutgers Football (@RFootball) September 4, 2023

Keeping Wimsatt safe in passing situations is just one of several responsibilities for the Roseland, New Jersey, native, who also sees time on special teams.

"I think that Kyle just played like the veteran leader that he is," said head coach Greg Schiano after Sunday's win. "He played tough. He ran well. He protected well. He was on the punt block team. I mean, he did a lot [Sunday], and he did a lot well."

Now in his fourth collegiate season, Monangai has been a standout since his arrival "On the Banks" in 2020. The two-time Academic All-Big Ten selection has appeared in 29 career games and has contributed more than 700 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground.

His experience has helped him to be a mentor to the rest of the running backs room, which includes standout rushers Ja'shon Benjamin, Samuel Brown V, Al-Shadee Salaam and Aaron Young. Benjamin enjoyed a breakout game in his first collegiate appearance this past weekend, while Brown V, Salaam and Young have all scored during their careers.

As the eldest of the group, Monangai believes it is his responsibility to lead by example.

"There is a lot of talent in that room," Monangai said. "I just try and help talk them through ways we can all try and get better as a group."

The running back room is not the only group that has recognized Monangai's leadership. Last week, Monangai was one of six Scarlet Knights voted a team captain. It is an honor he does not take for granted.

"It was a great feeling," Monangai said. "As one of the older guys on the team, I have taken a leadership role and I have been able to show the younger guys the right way to do things. Knowing my teammates look to me as a leader is something I am grateful for."

While it is easy to look back on all the success Monangai has experienced since he stepped foot on campus, the focus right now is on Temple. Rutgers hosts the Owls on Saturday under the lights at SHI Stadium. The out-of-conference matchup has been tabbed the Blackout Game, as RU will don its black uniforms and helmets.

No matter the environment, Monangai will be ready to contribute in any way he can when his number is called.

"It is our first night game of the season," Monangai said. "It is going to be a great atmosphere here. We're excited to see all the fans in the stands for this night game. We are excited for the opportunity."

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