Miami (Ohio) vs Rutgers Picks and Predictions — September 6, 2025
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights look to tighten up defensively when they host the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks on Saturday. Rutgers opened its season with a thrilling 34-31 win over Ohio, powered by a surprisingly explosive passing attack, but defensive lapses nearly cost them. Miami, meanwhile, comes in off a 17-0 loss at Wisconsin, struggling mightily to move the ball.
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Rutgers Can Win If…
The Scarlet Knights’ offense impressed in Week 1, with QB Athan Kaliakmanis completing 18 of 23 passes for 252 yards and two touchdowns. Running backs Antwan Raymond and CJ Campbell Jr. added 158 yards on the ground, keeping the attack balanced.
However, Rutgers surrendered 440 yards, including over 200 both rushing and passing, allowing Ohio to rally from 14 points down. Head coach Greg Schiano made it clear his team needs more discipline:
“We have work to do to improve, right? We’ve got to make fundamental improvements.”
If Rutgers’ defense sharpens up while the offense maintains its efficiency, they should handle Miami at home.
Miami (Ohio) Can Win If…
The RedHawks were shut down by Wisconsin in Week 1, managing just 117 total yards and seven first downs. Veteran QB Dequan Finn, now in his seventh year of eligibility, threw for only 83 yards with two interceptions and rushed for 13 yards.
Head coach Chuck Martin knows his new-look offense needs to gel:
“There is enough talent there, enough pride there and enough character there.”
If Finn settles in and avoids turnovers, Miami has the experience at quarterback to keep the game competitive.
Key College Football Betting Trends
Category | Rutgers Scarlet Knights | Miami (Ohio) RedHawks |
---|---|---|
Record | 1-0 (beat Ohio 34-31) | 0-1 (lost to Wisconsin 17-0) |
QB Outlook | Athan Kaliakmanis: 252 yds, 2 TD | Dequan Finn: 83 yds, 2 INT |
Offensive Notes | Balanced attack, 410 total yds | Just 117 total yds in opener |
Defensive Outlook | Allowed 440 yds to Ohio | Held Wisconsin to 353 yds |
Series History | First meeting | First meeting |
The Lean
Model Projection: Rutgers 27, Miami (Ohio) 13
Pick: Rutgers – Spread
Total Lean: Under 47
Rutgers’ offense looks more dynamic than expected, and at home, they should be able to control this matchup. Miami’s offense remains a major question mark, especially against a Big Ten defense looking to rebound. More college football previews like this can be found at our NCAAF Betting Predictions hub.
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