The Penn State wrestling squad commenced its Big Ten campaign with an overwhelming 46-0 triumph against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Rec Hall. This historic win not only marked their fourth shutout of the season, and third in a row, but also extended their remarkable dual meet winning streak to an unprecedented 78 matches, surpassing the previous NCAA record held by D2 St. Cloud. The Nittany Lions showcased a powerful combination of youthful vigor and seasoned expertise, highlighted by three decisive pins and several technical falls. With key athletes like Braeden Davis making a triumphant return at 141 lbs and Josh Barr dominating in his comeback to a Penn State mat, the team's roster appears increasingly robust and ready for the rigorous conference schedule ahead, demonstrating a cohesive and dominant force in collegiate wrestling.
Detailed Match Report: Penn State vs. Rutgers Wrestling Dual
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, the Penn State Nittany Lions delivered a commanding performance against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights in their Big Ten wrestling opener at Rec Hall. The home team secured a resounding 46-0 shutout, extending their unparalleled dual meet winning streak to 78 matches, a new NCAA record.
Match Highlights Across Weight Classes:
- 125 lbs: Luke Lilledahl (Penn State) vs. Ayden Smith (Rutgers)
In the opening bout, #2 ranked Luke Lilledahl of Penn State demonstrated strategic control, securing an 8-3 decision over Rutgers' #29 Ayden Smith. Lilledahl executed an early takedown, maintained consistent pressure, and earned a stall point, dictating the pace throughout the match. - 133 lbs: Marcus Blaze (Penn State) vs. Dylan Shawver (Rutgers)
#5 Marcus Blaze of Penn State delivered a dominant performance, earning a 12-2 major decision against #24 Dylan Shawver, the 2024 Big Ten champion from Rutgers. Blaze's relentless offense led to multiple takedowns and a significant riding time advantage, showcasing his superior technique. - 141 lbs: Braeden Davis (Penn State) vs. Tahir Parkins (Rutgers)
Braeden Davis made a successful season debut, contributing an 18-7 major decision for Penn State against Tahir Parkins of Rutgers. Davis's aggressive approach resulted in numerous takedowns, solidifying his return to the lineup following teammate Aaron Nagao's injury. - 149 lbs: Shayne Van Ness (Penn State) vs. Devon Magro (Rutgers)
#1 Shayne Van Ness of Penn State secured a swift pin against Devon Magro of Rutgers in 4:54. Van Ness controlled the match from the start with powerful takedowns and near-fall points, ultimately culminating in a decisive fall. - 157 lbs: PJ Duke (Penn State) vs. Easton Doster (Rutgers)
#4 PJ Duke of Penn State overwhelmed Easton Doster of Rutgers, achieving a 19-4 technical fall in 3:18. Duke's aggressive and efficient style resulted in multiple takedowns and quick releases, demonstrating his dominance. - 165 lbs: Mitchell Mesenbrink (Penn State) vs. Ryan Ford (Rutgers)
#1 Mitchell Mesenbrink, the reigning NCAA champion, secured another pin for Penn State, defeating Ryan Ford of Rutgers in 2:28. Mesenbrink showcased his top-game prowess, utilizing hammer-lock turns and a cradle to secure the fall. - 174 lbs: Levi Haines (Penn State) vs. Jordan Chapman (Rutgers)
#1 Levi Haines of Penn State continued the pinning spree, dispatching Jordan Chapman of Rutgers in 4:49. Haines systematically controlled the match with takedowns and hammerlocks, culminating in a powerful bow and arrow pin. - 184 lbs: Rocco Welsh (Penn State) vs. Shane Cartagena-Walsh (Rutgers)
#4 Rocco Welsh of Penn State earned a 13-3 major decision over #15 Shane Cartagena-Walsh of Rutgers. Welsh's consistent takedowns and relentless pursuit of points, coupled with stall warnings against his opponent, underscored his control. - 197 lbs: Josh Barr (Penn State) vs. Remy Cotton (Rutgers)
#1 Josh Barr made a stellar return to Rec Hall with an 18-3 technical fall in 7:00 against #18 Remy Cotton of Rutgers. Barr, recovering from a summer injury, showcased his exceptional mat skills, securing multiple takedowns and near-fall points against his former training partner. - 285 lbs: Cole Mirasola (Penn State) vs. Hunter Catka (Rutgers)
#15 Cole Mirasola of Penn State concluded the dual with a hard-fought 4-2 decision over #21 Hunter Catka of Rutgers. Mirasola's agility and technical precision allowed him to neutralize his larger opponent and secure crucial points.
The Penn State team's comprehensive victory underscores their current formidable status in collegiate wrestling, setting a high bar for their upcoming conference matchups, including a significant encounter in Iowa City on Friday, January 16.
This decisive victory by Penn State against Rutgers transcends a mere win; it symbolizes a statement of intent for the wrestling season. As a seasoned observer of collegiate athletics, I find this performance particularly inspiring. The seamless integration of fresh talent, such as Braeden Davis and Josh Barr, with established powerhouses like Mitchell Mesenbrink and Levi Haines, demonstrates the depth and strategic brilliance of the Penn State coaching staff. What truly stands out is not just the individual prowess of these athletes, but their collective synergy and relentless pursuit of excellence, evidenced by the record-breaking dual meet winning streak. This team exemplifies the dedication required to achieve greatness, reminding us that continuous improvement and a unified vision are paramount in high-stakes competition. Their approach of "pushing the pace" and striving to get "better each match" is a valuable lesson for any aspiring athlete or team. This win isn't just about points on a scoreboard; it's about cementing a legacy and inspiring future generations in the sport.