We’re back to delve into our College Basketball odds series with a prediction and analysis for the Wagner-Rutgers matchup. Here’s how you can watch Wagner-Rutgers.
Steve Pikiell has made significant strides at Rutgers, reviving the program to reach the NCAA Tournament for the first time in three decades. Yet, last season was disappointing, impacted by injuries and an inconsistent roster, leading the Scarlet Knights to finish under .500. They aim to move past this in the upcoming season, with the resources available for a turnaround. Kevin Sweeney from Sports Illustrated shared insights on Rutgers’ 2024-2025 prospects: “Rutgers (No. 32) will be the center of attention for NBA scouts in college basketball this season, with two potential top-three picks in Ace Bailey and Dylan Harper on the roster. Many scouts believe Bailey has the best chance of anyone to unseat Flagg and go No. 1 overall in the NBA draft.”
A team ranked within the top 35 is unmistakably positioned as a potential NCAA Tournament at-large candidate. With two players exhibiting top-three NBA draft potential, it’s challenging to envision such a team missing out on the NCAAs, assuming that the supporting players can adequately assist the stars. It’s rare for Rutgers to have such promising talent, but the combination of Bailey and Harper provides Pikiell with exceptional ingredients. Given that the program has only won one NCAA Tournament game since 1983 and hasn’t reached the Sweet 16 since the 1970s, there’s optimism that Rutgers can elevate its standing this March. Their journey begins against Wagner on the season’s first Wednesday.
College Basketball Odds: Wagner-Rutgers Odds
Wagner: +19.5 (-102)
Moneyline: +1600
Rutgers: -19.5 (-120)
Moneyline: -4500
Over: 129.5 (-115)
Under: 129.5 (-105)
How to Watch Wagner vs Rutgers
Time: 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT
TV: Big Ten Network
Why Wagner Will Cover The Spread/Win
While Rutgers is loaded with talent on paper, it may take some time for that talent to shine through fully. Bailey and Harper are standout players, but the supporting cast must contribute sufficiently to allow the team to operate effectively. Rutgers is likely to improve as the season progresses; however, in their opening game, they might show some rough edges. This could provide Wagner with an opportunity to stay competitive and cover the spread.
Why Rutgers Will Cover The Spread/Win
Rutgers boasts a solid roster, particularly with two players who possess the potential to turn into elite talents. While it’s premature to label them as exceptional just yet, it’s reasonable to expect that against a less athletic and physically formidable Wagner team, these two high-caliber players could quickly showcase their skills and make a substantial impact on the game. The potential for Rutgers to dominate justifies the 19.5-point spread, and they could easily win by margins of 27 to 30 points.
Final Wagner-Rutgers Prediction & Pick
If Rutgers’ top players perform even close to their anticipated NBA draft potential, Bailey and Harper are likely to fill the stat sheet. The presence of two talented players instead of just one complicates defensive strategies for Wagner. Although Wagner may manage to cover one player, neutralizing both will be challenging, making a strong case to back Rutgers in this matchup.
Final Wagner-Rutgers Prediction & Pick: Rutgers -19.5
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