Oregon Ducks vs Rutgers Scarlet Knights Betting Preview
The Oregon Ducks look to bounce back from their first loss of the season as they visit the Rutgers Scarlet Knights on Saturday, October 18, 2025. The matchup at SHI Stadium in Piscataway, New Jersey, kicks off at 6:30 PM ET and will be televised nationally on BTN.
Oregon enters Week 8 ranked No. 8 in the AP Poll and No. 9 in the Coaches Poll with a 5-1 record. Rutgers stands at 3-3 overall, including 3-1 at home, and hopes to earn its first Big Ten victory of the season.
Oregon Looking to Rebound After First Loss
Oregon’s 30-20 defeat at Indiana last week marked its first regular-season loss since 2023. The Ducks’ usually explosive offense was held to just 267 total yards, and quarterback Dante Moore threw two costly interceptions.
Despite the setback, Oregon remains one of the most balanced teams in the nation. The Ducks rank inside the top 10 in scoring with 253 total points this season and sit among the national leaders in rushing yards with 1,282.
Running backs Dierre Hill and Jordon Davison have been central to the offense’s success. Hill averages an impressive 9.2 yards per carry, while Davison has seven rushing touchdowns. Moore continues to lead the passing game with 1,276 yards and 13 touchdowns on the year.
Defensively, Oregon is holding opponents to just 138.7 passing yards per game, the second-best mark in the Big Ten. Their pass rush and disciplined coverage have made them one of the toughest units to move the ball against.
Oregon will rely on that defensive consistency and a more efficient offensive performance to get back on track against Rutgers.
Rutgers Aiming to Shock a Ranked Opponent
Rutgers returns home after a 38-19 loss at Washington. Quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis posted another big outing, throwing for 386 yards, but turnovers and red-zone inefficiency stalled several drives.
The Scarlet Knights’ offense ranks 15th nationally in passing yards with 1,854 and 2nd in first downs with 162, showing their ability to sustain possessions. However, finishing those drives has been a persistent issue.
Running back Antwan Raymond remains the focal point of the offense, ranking fourth in the Big Ten in rushing yards (561) and second in touchdowns (9). His versatility makes him a constant threat both between the tackles and in open space.
Defensively, Rutgers has been inconsistent. While they have shown flashes of strong tackling and physical coverage, they have struggled to contain big plays, giving up an average of 29.2 points per game over their last three contests.
Coach Greg Schiano stressed the importance of discipline and crowd energy, as SHI Stadium is expected to be sold out for this historic first-ever matchup with Oregon.
Line Movement and Odds
Current Odds:
- Oregon -17.5 (-110)
- Rutgers +17.5 (-110)
- Total: 59.5 (Over -114 / Under -107)
Oregon has dominated as a road favorite over the past two seasons, winning nine straight games away from home. Rutgers, meanwhile, has thrived at SHI Stadium against non-conference teams but is winless in Big Ten play this season.
Matchup Breakdown
Oregon Ducks Outlook
Oregon’s offensive identity is built on speed and versatility. Moore will look to reestablish rhythm through quick passes and a heavy dose of Hill and Davison on the ground. Expect coach Dan Lanning to push tempo early to wear down Rutgers’ defense.
The Ducks’ defense should have an advantage in coverage, as their secondary has held opposing quarterbacks to a completion rate below 50 percent. If Oregon can force turnovers, they can quickly turn the game in their favor.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights Outlook
Rutgers’ best path to an upset lies in controlling the clock and limiting explosive plays from Oregon’s offense. Kaliakmanis must avoid turnovers and continue spreading the ball to receivers like KJ Duff, who leads the team with 479 yards and four touchdowns.
Raymond’s ability to run between the tackles will be tested against Oregon’s defensive front. A strong performance from him could keep the Scarlet Knights competitive. Defensively, Rutgers must contain Oregon’s big plays and hold firm in the red zone.
Betting Trends
- Oregon is 9-0 straight up in its last nine road games.
- Oregon is 27-2 straight up as a favorite in its last 29 games.
- Rutgers is 8-0 to the over in its last eight home games.
- Rutgers is 11-2 to the over in its last 13 overall.
- Oregon has gone under in three of its last four games against Big Ten opponents.
Prediction and Best Bets
Oregon’s overall depth and speed should prove too much for Rutgers. Expect the Ducks to reassert themselves offensively after last week’s setback while their defense limits the Scarlet Knights’ production.
Projected Score: Oregon 35, Rutgers 14
Best Bet: Oregon -17.5
Secondary Lean: Under 59.5
For more Big Ten previews and betting analysis, visit ScoresAndStats.com.