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Rutgers beats Florida International 23-15

Sep 20, 2009 - 12:53 AM By TOM CANAVAN AP Sports Writer

PISCATAWAY, N.J.(AP) -- Ryan D'Imperio scored on a 38-yard interception return in the fourth quarter to cap a magnificent effort by Rutgers' defense and the Scarlet Knights defeated Florida International 23-15 on Saturday.

Rutgers (2-1) limited Florida International (0-2) to 99 yards in the first three quarters, forced three turnovers and sacked quarterback Paul McCall five times before giving up a two meaningless touchdowns in the final 6:51.

San San Te kicked field goals of 39, 29 and 27 yards, Joe Martinek ran for 121 yards and backup quarterback Dom Natale capped a 94-yard drive with a 2-yard run as the Scarlet Knights posted their second straight win with freshman Tom Savage at quarterback.

Savage struggled against an aggressive Golden Panthers' defense and spent the final 12 minutes on the bench after being dinged when he was sacked for the fourth time. He was 11 of 28 for 185 yards and no interceptions.