It will be a clash between two exceptional defenses when the Ohio State Buckeyes (15-8, 5-7 Big 10) challenge the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (17-7, 8-5 Big 10) at Value City Arena. The game gets underway at 7 p.m. ET on Wednesday, February 12, 2020.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Ohio State Buckeyes ATS Odds
In their last game, the Buckeyes fell to the Wisconsin Badgers, 70-57, while the Scarlet Knights beat the Northwestern Wildcats, 77-73.
The Scarlet Knights had an absurd free throw rate of 0.368 (above their season average of 0.192) and had an offensive rebounding percentage of 50.0 (above their season average of 33.3). Ohio State, meanwhile, did a great job of converting from the free throw line (15-16; 93.8 percent). Ohio State rallied around Luther Muhammad, who recorded nine points and five rebounds. Meanwhile, Geo Baker played a pivotal role for Rutgers with 25 points, six rebounds and five assists.
This was a highly contested series last year, as the teams split their two games last season. The Buckeyes won the last game 76-62. The Buckeyes’ turnover percentage was their largest advantage over the Scarlet Knights. Ohio State had a rate of 9.6, while Rutgers posted a mark of 16.1. This is the first time these teams will battle this year.
This matchup pits one of the country’s top offenses against one of its elite defenses as Ohio State currently ranks 59th in offensive efficiency and Rutgers is 16th in defensive efficiency.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs. Ohio State Buckeyes Free Pick
Free College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Rutgers, ATS Winner – Rutgers, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Rutgers ranks 109th in steals per game (6.8) while Ohio State ranks 249th (4.7).
- The Scarlet Knights rank eighth in rebounds per game (41.2) while the Buckeyes rank 79th (37.4).
- Ohio State ranks 73rd in blocks per game (3.8) while Rutgers ranks 138th in blocks allowed per game (3.8).
- The Buckeyes rank 125th in three pointers attempted per game (22.7) while the Scarlet Knights rank 265th (18.0).
- Ohio State ranks 27th in assists allowed per game (10.4) while Rutgers ranks 117th (12.2).
Bettings Trends:
- The Buckeyes’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 1.6, down from 10.0 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Scarlet Knights have scored an average of 67.2 points per game (3.4 below their season average) and allowed an average of 66.6 points per game (5.2 above their season average).
