In 2014, Rutgers joined the Big Ten in hopes of greater exposure and revenue potential, but recent reports paint a different story. According to the insights, the Scarlet Knights' athletic department has accumulated a staggering deficit exceeding $516 million over the past 11 years. Record-Breaking Shortfall in 2024-25A recent report by NJ.com, written by Keith Sargeant, revealed that inthe 2024-25 fiscal year Rutgers athletic department recorded a $78 million deficit. Revenues only hit $146.6 million, padded by a record $61.3 million from Big Ten media rights and $10.7 million from bowl revenue sharing. While Big Ten affiliation brings reputation and media payouts, the deficit shows how it all comes with a cost.