Minnesota Golden Gophers vs
Rutgers Scarlet KnightsPredictions & Preview

Minnesota Golden Gophers Set to Take on Struggling Rutgers Scarlet Knights in Mid-Table Showdown

The Big Ten football season is heating up with a mid-table matchup between the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. Minnesota holds a perfect 3-0 record against Rutgers, with their most recent win being a 31-0 blowout in 2022. Both teams have been performing well recently, with Minnesota sitting at 6-3 and Rutgers at 4-4. The betting line favors Minnesota at -6, with kickoff scheduled for 12:00 ET at SHI Stadium in Piscataway, NJ. Stay tuned for my picks and predictions on the side and total for this exciting game.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Golden Gophers -229 | Scarlet Knights +190
• Spread: Golden Gophers -6 (-110) | Scarlet Knights +6 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 46.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Minnesota will win straight-up is 70%.

Minnesota vs Rutgers Stats

Minnesota Golden Gophers

Coach P.J. Fleck and his Minnesota Golden Gophers have had a successful season thus far, already securing bowl eligibility with a 6-3 record. Despite two close losses, the team has shown great potential with a recent four-game winning streak, including victories over ranked opponents. The team faces tough competition in their final three games. Quarterback Max Brosmer has had a solid season, with key contributions from top receiver Daniel Jackson and leading rusher Darius Taylor. Defensively, first-year coordinator Corey Hetherman has led the team to impressive stats, ranking highly in points and yardage allowed per game. Overall, Minnesota is ranked 67 in offense, 12 in defense, with a power ranking of 40 and a 6-3 record.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights Analysis

Despite a strong start to the season, the Rutgers Scarlet Knights have struggled recently, losing four straight games. With two more wins needed to secure a bowl game, their upcoming matchups against Minnesota, Maryland, Illinois, and Michigan State will be crucial. Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis has been solid, throwing for 1,650 yards and nine touchdowns. Running back Kyle Monangai has been a key contributor, rushing for 931 yards and 10 touchdowns. The defense, led by coordinator Joe Harasymiak, has been a weak spot, allowing 27.3 points and 411.3 yards per game. The Scarlet Knights currently have a power ranking of 105 and rank #88 for offense and #73 for defense. Minnesota has struggled in their recent matchups against Rutgers.

Minnesota Golden Gophers Show Potential for Growth in Match Against Struggling Rutgers

The two teams in question are currently experiencing divergent trajectories, with the Golden Gophers showing potential for growth. Despite their current record, a few key plays could have altered their standing to 8-1, bringing them closer to achieving a "powerhouse" title in my ranking system. The upcoming match against Rutgers presents a favorable opportunity for Minnesota, who will face a struggling defense. In contrast, the Scarlet Knights have suffered on the defensive end during their recent losing streak, allowing an average of 33.3 points per game and conceding at least 35 points in their last three defeats. It is noteworthy that Minnesota boasts the ninth-best turnover margin nationwide, maintaining an average of +1.0 this season, while Rutgers ranks 50th with +0.3. Considering these factors, I prefer Minnesota as the team to watch, taking into account their recent form and ball security.

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