Rutgers vs. Purdue Betting Preview & Picks: Upset in the Making?

Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs Purdue Boilermakers Bet

January 9, 2025 | Jersey Mike’s Arena

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights (8-7) host the Purdue Boilermakers (11-4) in a Big Ten clash with massive implications. For Rutgers, this is a must-win game to keep their NCAA Tournament hopes alive. With a fully engaged home crowd and a healthier roster, they may have what it takes to upset Purdue. Let’s dive into why Rutgers is worth backing as a slight underdog.

Game Details

• Matchup: Rutgers Scarlet Knights (8-7, 5-10 ATS) vs. Purdue Boilermakers (11-4, 7-8 ATS)
• Date/Time: January 9, 2025, 6:00 PM ET
• Venue: Jersey Mike’s Arena, Piscataway, NJ
• TV: Fox Sports 1

Betting Odds

• Point Spread: Rutgers +2.5 (-110) / Purdue -2.5 (-110)
• Money Line: Rutgers +110 / Purdue -135
• Over/Under Total: 147.5

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Why Rutgers Can Cover – and Win

1. Must-Win Situation

After falling to Wisconsin 75-63 in their last game, Rutgers faces a critical three-game homestand against ranked opponents. Their NCAA Tournament hopes likely hinge on winning two of these three games, starting with Purdue. Expect an inspired effort from a team that knows the stakes.

2. Home-Court Advantage

Jersey Mike’s Arena is one of the toughest venues in college basketball. Rutgers is 7-2 at home this season, and the crowd is expected to bring playoff-level energy. Even in their loss to Wisconsin, the Scarlet Knights rallied late, spurred on by the fans.

3. Dylan Harper’s Recovery

Star freshman Dylan Harper struggled against Wisconsin, clearly limited by the flu. He played just 15 minutes and failed to score. With additional recovery time, Harper is expected to be closer to full strength, which could significantly boost Rutgers’ offensive efficiency and ball movement.

4. Supporting Cast Improvements

Rutgers showed signs of life even with Harper limited. Tyson Acuff scored 17 points off the bench, and freshman Dylan Grant provided hustle and energy, contributing 8 points and 3 offensive rebounds in limited minutes. If Harper isn’t 100%, these role players will need to step up again.

5. Purdue’s Road Struggles

Purdue is just 1-2 on the road this season and has struggled to maintain their usual efficiency away from home. While they have a strong defense, they’ve been vulnerable in hostile environments, especially in tight games.

Head-to-Head History

Here’s how the last six meetings between these teams have played out:

Average Total Points Scored: ~141.7

Rutgers has been competitive at home in recent years, and their last home game against Purdue was a convincing 68-60 win on January 28, 2024. This history reinforces the idea that Rutgers can compete, especially with a strong home crowd behind them.

Final Betting Pick

This is a season-defining game for Rutgers, and they have the tools to pull off the upset. With Dylan Harper likely closer to full health and a crowd ready to lift the Scarlet Knights, I’m backing Rutgers to cover and even win outright.

Final Score Prediction: Rutgers 70, Purdue 67

Pick: Rutgers +2.5 (or Moneyline at +110)

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