The 1976 Rutgers football team is remembered among the best in the program’s history. Posting a perfect 11-0 record under head coach Frank Burns, the Scarlet Knights were captained by Nate Toran and Dan Pfabe.
In an emotional speech after the final victory over Colgate, Burns said to his players that “this season is something you're going to remember for the rest of your lives.” Later he told the media, “These guys are winners. I'm very proud of each and every one of them. When you win 11 games, you learn how to win.”
The defense led the nation in scoring (7.4), rushing (83.9) and total defense (179.2) with 8-of-11 opponents held to single-digit points. Toran was a constant in the backfield with 17 sacks, while Jim Hughes (team-leading 113 tackles) and Bob Davis both recorded five interceptions to help force 32 turnovers overall.
Rutgers outscored opponents by a combined total of 287-81. Mark Lassiter led the way with 10 touchdowns scored (nine rushing, one receiving) on offense, as Glen Kehler rushed for a team-high 764 yards and Bert Kosup threw for 1,098 yards as the starting quarterback.
“No one understands, unless you’re on a team that’s done it, how difficult it is to play an entire season and win them all,” Kosup said.
The team finished No. 17 in the Associated Press final rankings as one of three nationally in 1976 to complete an undefeated season.
