Rutgers (14-14) at Michigan (21-6)
- When: Feb 27 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Crisler Center, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Where to watch: Peacock
Game Preview
Michigan Favored by 10.0, Total Set at 153.5
The 15th-ranked Michigan Wolverines return home on Thursday night, aiming to build momentum in their pursuit of a Big Ten regular-season title. After grinding out an ugly 49-46 road win over Nebraska, the Wolverines (21-6, 13-3 Big Ten) now shift focus to Rutgers, a team that has been showing signs of life with back-to-back wins.
With Michigan favored by 10 points at home and the total set at 153.5, the Wolverines look to bounce back offensively after a poor shooting performance, while Rutgers hopes to carry over its recent offensive surge into a tough road environment.
Michigan Wolverines: Looking to Regain Offensive Rhythm at Home
Michigan struggled mightily on offense against Nebraska, shooting just 29.5 percent from the field and 18.5 percent from deep, yet still found a way to grind out a three-point win.
Head coach Dusty May credited his team’s ability to adapt, emphasizing the importance of winning the big possessions in a defensive battle.
“It was two teams almost mirroring each other where we were both determined not to let the other team’s best players beat them,” May said. “And I think we both accomplished that. We found a way to win the big possessions. We made just enough big shots and came out on top.”
Despite the offensive struggles, Michigan has averaged 79.7 points per game this season, showcasing an ability to push the pace and score efficiently in transition.
Danny Wolf led the team with 16 points, 14 rebounds, and four blocks in their last meeting with Rutgers.
Roddy Gayle Jr. remains a key contributor, providing steady scoring and defensive versatility.
The Wolverines are 14-2 at home this season and have covered the spread in six of their last eight home games.
Michigan has three straight home games before a high-stakes road showdown with Michigan State to close the season. Protecting home court will be crucial in securing the Big Ten title, making Thursday’s game a must-win situation.
Key Betting Trends for Michigan:
Wolverines are 6-2 ATS in their last eight home games.
Michigan has won 14 of its last 16 home games outright.
The total has gone UNDER in four of Michigan’s last six games.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights: Can They Keep Their Hot Streak Going?
Rutgers has struggled for most of the season, but their recent offensive explosion has turned heads. The Scarlet Knights (14-14, 7-10 Big Ten) have won two straight games, including an impressive 95-85 win over USC where they set a program record for most points in a regulation Big Ten game.
Head coach Steve Pikiell praised his team’s energy, acknowledging their recent improvements on both ends of the floor.
“We played with great energy. These guys are getting better, and so we just keep plugging away one game at a time,” Pikiell said. “Now we’re on the road in Michigan, one of the best teams in the league that we are playing for the second time.”
The biggest reason for Rutgers’ offensive resurgence? Dylan Harper.
Harper has been dominant, dropping 34 points against Washington and following it up with 25 points, nine assists, and six steals vs. USC.
Rutgers is 5-2 ATS in its last seven games as a double-digit underdog.
The Scarlet Knights have struggled on the road, posting just a 3-7 record away from home.
Rutgers did not have Harper available in their first meeting against Michigan on Feb. 1, where they lost 66-63 at home. With Harper now in the lineup, Rutgers should be more competitive this time around.
Key Betting Trends for Rutgers:
Scarlet Knights are 5-2 ATS in their last seven as a double-digit underdog.
Rutgers is just 3-7 on the road this season.
The OVER has hit in five of Rutgers’ last six games.
Game Prediction & Best Bets
While Michigan’s offense was abysmal against Nebraska, they return home where they’ve been dominant all season. The Wolverines should find their scoring rhythm again, but Rutgers’ recent offensive surge behind Dylan Harper makes them a live underdog.
Expect Michigan to win outright, but Rutgers could keep this game closer than expected.
Best Bets:
Rutgers +10.0 – Michigan should win, but Harper’s presence makes Rutgers a strong play to cover.
Over 153.5 – Rutgers has been putting up big numbers recently, and Michigan will look to bounce back offensively at home.
Final Score Prediction: Michigan 82, Rutgers 75
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
