South Florida Bulls (6-0) -3, o/u no line vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (4-2) 7:45 p.m. Eastern, Thursday, October 18, 2007 on ESPN.
by Jerald of Predictem.com
The South Florida Bulls will meet the Rutgers Scarlet Knights in primetime on Thursday night. South Florida has been a surprise National Title contender after coming out as the #2 ranked team in the BCS rankings. Rutgers is trying to build on their success from last year. Rutgers defeated South Florida last season, 22-20.
South Florida is led by Sophomore QB Matt Grothe who has completed 59.1% of his passes for 1,121 yards, 7 touchdowns and 3 interceptions. He is also the leading rusher with 364 yards and 4 touchdowns.
Rutgers is led by Junior QB Mike Teel who has completed 62.5% of his passes for 1,817 yards, 12 touchdowns and 6 interceptions.
South Florida ranks 60th in total offense with an average of 180.5 yards rushing (4.12 yards per rush) and 213.0 yards passing per game. They rank 28th in scoring offense averaging 35.2 points per game. The Scarlet Knights offense ranks 12th in total offense averaging 182.2 yards rushing (4.69 yards per carry) and 307.5 yards passing. Rutgers ranks 18th in scoring offense averaging 37.2 points per game.
The Bulls defense ranks 10th in total defense giving up an average of 106.3 yards rushing (2.86 yards per carry) and 178.0 yards passing per game. They rank 10th in scoring defense giving up an average of 15.7 points per game. Rutgers ranks 13th in total defense giving up 139.2 yards rushing (3.31 yards per carry) and 157.7 yards passing. They rank 15th in scoring defense giving up 17.2 points per game.
The Sagarin PREDICTOR ratings at USAToday.com rank the Bulls 7th at 90.45. Rutgers ranks 15th at 81.17.
South Florida opened up as a 3 point favorite. The line has stayed at South Florida -3. At the time of this writing, the public consensus was backing the Bulls, 75%-25%.
The Predictem Pick: We look for the magical ride of the Bulls to come crashing down as Rutgers wins this game straight up. Take the points.
Rutgers 24 South Florida 21