Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs Central Connecticut Blue Devils Picks and Predictions November 21st 2025

Game Preview Rutgers Scarlet Knights @ Central Connecticut State Blue Devils

Rutgers returns home aiming to maintain an undefeated start as the Rutgers Scarlet Knights host the Central Connecticut State Blue Devils. The matchup carries upset intrigue, particularly after Central Connecticut’s breakthrough victory over Boston College earlier this month. With Rutgers untested against high-major opponents and the Blue Devils gaining traction under coach Patrick Sellers, this contest presents an analytical opportunity for bettors monitoring early-season volatility.

Central Connecticut State enters at 2–2 and continues a steady rise under Sellers, who has elevated the program after inheriting a team with 10 straight losing seasons. The Blue Devils’ win over Boston College marked their first Power Six victory since 1999 and has sharpened the national spotlight on their adaptability and defensive resilience. For bettors evaluating upset potential, comparing relative pace, interior scoring efficiency, and possession trends through the NCAAB odds and scores feed offers a clearer picture of expected game flow.

Rutgers sits at 4–0, but all wins have come at home against mid-major competition, with margins of 12, 12, and nine points in its last three outings. Coach Steve Pikiell emphasizes defensive execution and consistency over 40 minutes, especially as the Scarlet Knights integrate new scoring options around Dylan Grant and Tariq Francis. Broader performance indicators and projections appear across platforms like the NCAAB teams index and the analytical frameworks used in the NCAAB picks section.

This matchup provides value for evaluating both teams’ long-term outlooks. For example, Central Connecticut’s rise mirrors themes covered in the College Basketball Championship odds discussion, while player development arcs reflect components of the John Wooden Award odds and predictions. Bettors applying tactical assessments—such as defensive scheme flexibility and rebounding leverage—often align their analysis with principles outlined in the NBA expert betting guide.

Odds and Key Information

Rutgers is projected as a double-digit home favorite, reflecting its interior size, depth, and defensive ceiling. Totals appear in a mid-range window, influenced by Rutgers’ tendency to control tempo and Central Connecticut’s balanced scoring structure.

Key metrics shaping early lines:

• Rutgers 4–0 at home, winning by an average margin of 11.8 points
• Central Connecticut holding opponents below expectation in half-court defense
• Scarlet Knights reliant on length-driven rim protection
• Blue Devils entering with momentum after an upset win and strong guard play
• Rutgers trending toward mid-70s scoring but inconsistent perimeter accuracy

Such trends are monitored closely via the NCAAB odds and scores board.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights Outlook

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights continue to rely on size, physical defense, and rebounding stability. Dylan Grant leads with 19.3 points and eight rebounds per game, establishing himself as a two-way anchor. Tariq Francis adds 19 points in the recent victory over American, providing secondary scoring burst. Interior presence comes from Emmanuel Ogbole, who averages 6.8 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 1.5 blocks.

Rutgers emphasizes pressure rotations and length-perimeter recovery. Their struggles lie in maintaining energy across full possessions; Pikiell notes frequent lapses, particularly when opponents accelerate tempo. The Scarlet Knights’ offense generates high-percentage looks inside but remains inconsistent from long range. Their scoring variability may be tested against a Central Connecticut squad that thrives on slowing pace and forcing tough half-court decisions.

Injury Report

Rutgers is expected to have its main rotation available.

Central Connecticut State Blue Devils Outlook

The Central Connecticut State Blue Devils enter with confidence after defeating Boston College and nearly upsetting multiple mid-major opponents. Sellers’ group plays with balance, spacing, and positional flexibility. Darin Smith Jr. leads the team with 15.5 points per game and delivered the game-winning basket in the Boston College upset. Melo Sanchez contributes 10 points per game, while Jay Rodgers adds 9.5 points and 5.3 assists, operating as the primary facilitator.

Central Connecticut defends well above typical mid-major expectations, focusing on lane discipline and shot contests. Their ability to slow pace and force longer possessions aligns well with their personnel. Offensively, they rely on spacing, dribble penetration, and timely perimeter shooting, though turnover creation by opposing defenses can disrupt rhythm.

Against Rutgers, the Blue Devils will face a significant size deficit. Their success will come down to defensive structure, targeted closeouts, and execution in late-clock situations.

Injury Report

Central Connecticut is expected to have its normal rotation available.

Key Matchup Table

Category	Advantage
Rim protection	Rutgers
Backcourt creation	Central Connecticut State
Rebounding	Rutgers
Pace control	Central Connecticut State

Betting Trends

• Central Connecticut unders have hit frequently due to defensive balance
• Rutgers has struggled to separate from mid-majors despite stronger talent
• Blue Devils have covered in their only Power Six matchup this season
• Scarlet Knights exhibit strong home-court defensive metrics
• Rutgers perimeter accuracy remains inconsistent
• Central Connecticut thrives in games with lower possessions

Comparative data appears across the NCAAB picks directory and live market updates in the NCAAB odds board.

Predictions

Rutgers’ size and defensive length create structural challenges for Central Connecticut, particularly on the glass. However, the Blue Devils’ disciplined half-court defense and multi-guard scoring allow them to keep matchups competitive. Expect a slower pace than Rutgers has seen in previous games, with scoring opportunities dictated by Rutgers’ ability to control the paint.

Projected Score: Rutgers 73, Central Connecticut State 62
Spread Pick: Central Connecticut State +points
Total Lean: Under

Why You Need Expert Picks

Games involving mid-majors with upset capability require advanced modeling of pace, efficiency, possession length, and defensive matchups. Professional analysts combine these metrics through the Handicappers Leaderboard inside the NCAAB picks section, offering verified insights into edge scenarios, line value, and matchup-driven projections.