Betonline Sportsbook - Fastest Payouts! #1 Rated Must Have Sportsbook! Click Here
Ohio University Bobcats travel to face the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. Rutgers enters as a -10.5 favorite, with a 6:00 PM EST kickoff on August 28. Here’s a detailed betting preview, breaking down team performance, coaching changes, roster dynamics, and why Ohio U is a compelling underdog.
Team Performance in 2024
Ohio University Bobcats (11-3, MAC Champions):
The Bobcats were a force in 2024, capturing the MAC Championship and the Cure Bowl. Their offense averaged 29.3 points per game, driven by a balanced attack, while their defense was elite, allowing just 18.1 points per game. Ohio’s back-to-back 11-win seasons, a program first, highlight their consistency despite significant roster turnover entering 2024. The Bobcats proved adept at reloading through the transfer portal, a critical factor for 2025.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights (7-6):
Rutgers continued its upward trajectory under Greg Schiano, finishing 7-6 with a Rate Bowl appearance (lost to Kansas State). The Scarlet Knights’ offense averaged 28.9 points per game, showcasing balance, but their defense allowed 25.4 points per game, indicating room for improvement. With two straight bowl appearances, Rutgers is building momentum but faces defensive questions after losing key starters.
Coaching and Roster Changes
Ohio University:
The Bobcats usher in a new era with Brian Smith as head coach, promoted after serving as interim coach during the 2024 Cure Bowl. Smith inherits a program in strong shape following Tim Albin’s departure to Charlotte. Ohio returns 4 offensive and 5 defensive starters, including quarterback Parker Navarro and 7 of their top 9 pass catchers, preserving continuity in the passing game.
While the defense lost key pieces, Ohio’s 2024 success after heavy transfer portal losses suggests they’ve again recruited well to replenish talent.
Rutgers:
Greg Schiano, in his 15th season with Rutgers (including his 2nd stint), provides stability and experience. The Scarlet Knights return 8 offensive starters, a major strength, but only 2 on defense after losing key personnel and defensive coordinator Joe Harasymiak to UMass. Replacements have been added, but the defense’s effectiveness hinges on transfer portal additions gelling quickly.
Key Factors and Model Prediction
Our predictive model, based on the final seven games of 2024, projects a close contest, with Rutgers edging Ohio 24-21, but of course, this doesn’t account for all of the new faces.
But it’s worth noting that Ohio U is well within striking distance of covering the +10.5 spread. Key factors include:
-
Ohio’s Transfer Portal Prowess: Ohio’s ability to rebuild after losing most of their 2023 roster to the portal was remarkable, leading to an 11-3 season. Early indications suggest they’ve again secured defensive talent to offset 2024 departures, keeping their unit competitive.
-
Ohio’s Offensive Continuity: With Navarro at quarterback and 7 of 9 top pass catchers returning, the Bobcats’ passing game should challenge Rutgers’ depleted secondary.
-
Rutgers’ Defensive Uncertainty: Returning just 2 defensive starters, Rutgers’ defense may struggle early as new pieces integrate. While their offense should remain potent, defensive lapses could keep this game close.
-
Ohio’s Underdog Value: The Bobcats’ back-to-back 11-win seasons and 2024 defensive dominance (18.1 PPG allowed) make them a live underdog, especially with a +10.5 cushion.
Betting Recommendation: Ohio U +10.5
Ohio University is a strong play as a +10.5 underdog. Their proven ability to reload through the transfer portal, offensive continuity with Navarro and key receivers, and a history of exceeding expectations under pressure make them a dangerous opponent.
Rutgers’ offensive strength is offset by defensive uncertainties, and our model’s 24-21 prediction underscores the likelihood of a tight game. The generous spread gives Ohio ample room to cover, making them a live dog with upset potential.
Pick: Ohio U +10.5
Betonline Sportsbook - Fastest Payouts! #1 Rated Must Have Sportsbook! Click Here