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Rutgers vs Minnesota Week 5 Betting Preview
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights travel to play the Minnesota Golden Gophers on Saturday, Sept. 27 at noon ET (BTN). Rutgers is 3-1, led by QB Athan Kaliakmanis, who once played at Minnesota. The Gophers are 2-1 and boast the nation’s top defense, allowing 177.7 yards per game.
Last season, Rutgers beat Minnesota 26-19 as Kaliakmanis threw three TDs. This year, the Gophers open as home favorites.
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Line Movement and Odds
Minnesota opened –5.5 with the total at 51.5 on the college football odds board. Current line remains –5.5. Moneyline: Minnesota –210, Rutgers +170.
Public leans Minnesota. Sharps prefer the under and Rutgers at +5.
Matchup Breakdown
Rutgers outlook
Kaliakmanis has thrown for 1,150 yards with 7 TDs. WR Ian Strong, tied for the Big Ten lead in catches, had 151 yards against Iowa. Rutgers’ rushing attack averages only 141 yards per game.
Minnesota outlook
The Golden Gophers allow just 41 rushing yards per game, best in the nation. RB Darius Taylor (leg, questionable) may miss time, with Fame Ijeboi stepping in. QB Drake Lindsey is efficient, averaging 8.6 yards per attempt.
Key battle
Rutgers’ passing game against Minnesota’s secondary. If Strong can break free, Rutgers can keep pace. Otherwise, the Gophers’ defense should dominate.
Injuries and Conditions
Rutgers Scarlet Knights (full injury report)
- LB Moses Walker: doubtful
- RB C.J. Campbell: out for season
- Secondary depth thin with multiple season-ending injuries
Minnesota Golden Gophers (full injury report)
- RB Darius Taylor: questionable (leg)
- RB A.J. Turner: questionable
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected score: Minnesota 30, Rutgers 24 (54 total).
- Best bet: Minnesota –5.5
- Secondary lean: Under 51.5
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