NCAAF Picks: It will be a highly anticipated night of history and new tradition as the Rutgers Scarlet Knights will host their first ever Big Ten Conference home game against one of the most storied college football programs not just in the Big Ten itself but in the nation as the Penn State Nittany Lions will be calling. Penn State is riding high with a 2-0 record and all NCAA sanctions removed as the Nits are now eligible for the Big Ten Championship Game and a bowl berth. The Rutgers Scarlet Knights will host the Penn State Nittany Lions at High Point Solutions Stadium on Saturday night with coverage on Big Ten Network starting at 8 PM ET. BetDSI opened with Penn State as a 3.5 point favorite.
A Scarlet Night?
Rutgers looks improved with a record of 2-0 straight up and 1-1 against the spread with both of their games going over the total. Defense remains a concern however as the Scarlet Knights rank 109th overall nationally. QB Gary Nova has been sharp with a 67% completion rate at 12.1 yards per attempt with a 6/1 TD/INT ratio.
PSU in the Money
Penn State is 2-0 both straight up and against the spread and their defense has been strong with an overall rank of 15th in the nation. QB Christian Hackenberg has a 65% completion rate and averaging 9.3 yards per pass attempt but has a 4/4 TD/INT ratio. First year head coach James Franklin has won over the fan base and the players and his energetic ways make for a positive vibe that has been translated on the field and on the recruiting trail. This is a program that is on the rise.
Matchup and Pick
Rutgers has struggled at home against the spread recently with just two payouts in their last eight home games as just five out of their last 17 home games has gone over the total. Penn State has been slightly profitable away from home with eight payouts in their last 15 road games with just eight out of their last 20 away games going under the total. The weak Rutgers defense is a concern and Penn State is carrying plenty of momentum into this one knowing that they now have something beyond pride to play for. Penn State is the call!
