 Frank Burns was promoted from assistant coach after Bateman's departure, under Burns, the Scarlet Knights enjoyed eight consecutive winning seasons, which included a 9–2 campaign in 1975 and a perfect 11–0 season in 1976, followed by records of 8–3, 9–3, 8–3 and 7–4 seasons in the succeeding years.However consecutive 5–6 campaigns in 1981 and 1982 and a 3–8 record in 1983 resulted in Burns' dismissal as the scarlet knights head coach.In 1976, Rutgers declined an invitation to play an unranked McNeese State University at the inaugural Independence Bowl, feeling snubbed by more prestigious bowls despite its undefeated 11–0 season.