Indiana Hoosiers vs Rutgers Scarlet Knights Betting Preview
The Indiana Hoosiers look to bounce back from a tough road loss, while the Rutgers Scarlet Knights aim to defend their home floor in this Big Ten clash at Jersey Mike’s Arena.
Line Movement and Odds
Indiana enters as the favorite, but Rutgers’ strong home record makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:
- Indiana Spread: -7.5 (-111)
- Rutgers Spread: +7.5 (-111)
- Indiana MoneyLine: -383
- Rutgers MoneyLine: +293
- Total: 147.5 (-110)
Check the College Basketball Odds page for real-time updates and sharper angles before tip-off.
Matchup Breakdown
Indiana Outlook
The Hoosiers average 81.1 points per game, with Tucker DeVries, Nick Dorn, and Malik Reneau leading the offense. DeVries’ 15 points vs Michigan highlighted his consistency, while Dorn’s 14 points showcased his versatility. Indiana’s efficiency (56.1% effective FG, 41st nationally; 78.5% FT, 30th nationally; 12-7 overall record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to win as favorites (12-3 record in such games) makes them a dangerous opponent.
Rutgers Outlook
The Scarlet Knights average 70.3 points per game, with Darren Buchanan Jr., Tariq Francis, and Emmanuel Ogbole driving production. Buchanan’s 17 points vs Iowa highlighted his consistency, while Ogbole’s double-double showcased his rebounding presence. Rutgers’ efficiency (72.5% FT; 9-3 home record; 9-10 overall record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to defend Jersey Mike’s Arena makes them tough at home.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on pace and free-throw shooting. Indiana thrives on balanced scoring and offensive depth, while Rutgers must rely on Buchanan’s firepower and Francis’ scoring to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.
Injuries / Availability
Indiana: The Hoosiers report no fresh injury concerns heading into Friday’s contest.
Rutgers: The Scarlet Knights are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
Jersey Mike’s Arena has been a reliable venue for Rutgers, where they’ve gone 9-3 this season. Indiana enters with confidence from strong offensive performances, making this a clash of home strength vs road-tested resilience.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Indiana 78, Rutgers 68
- Indiana -7.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive efficiency and balanced scoring suggest they can cover the spread.
- Under 147.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.
Indiana’s depth and shooting rhythm should carry them to victory, while Rutgers’ home-court advantage keeps the game competitive. Expect a moderately high-scoring contest with totals landing just under the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Big Ten games often create unique betting opportunities. Our Best Handicappers spotlight experts who consistently read market trends, while the Leaderboard highlights who’s riding hot streaks. Premium insights in Buy Picks provide deeper reasoning behind each wager. For contests like Indiana vs Rutgers, expert perspectives can help identify sharp angles in spreads and totals.


