UCLA (11-5) at Rutgers (8-8)
- When: Jan 13 2025, 6:30 PM
- Where: Jersey Mike’s Arena, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Where to watch: Fox Sports 1
Betting Preview and Predictions: UCLA vs. Rutgers
Both UCLA and Rutgers aim to snap losing streaks when they meet for a Big Ten clash Monday night in Piscataway, NJ. The Bruins continue their East Coast road trip, hoping to end their defensive struggles, while the Scarlet Knights look to salvage a tough homestand.
Rutgers’ Offensive Woes
The Scarlet Knights (8-8, 1-4 Big Ten) enter this matchup having dropped three straight games, including home losses to Wisconsin and Purdue. Their offensive efficiency has plummeted, particularly with leading scorer Dylan Harper battling illness. Harper, who averages 20.1 points per game, missed the Indiana game, went scoreless against Wisconsin, and was held to just six points on 2-for-9 shooting versus Purdue.
In their last two games, Rutgers managed only 63 and 50 points—their lowest scoring performances of the season. They’ve struggled to make big plays late, a problem that coach Steve Pikiell highlighted.
“We’ve been tough at times and shown effort,” Pikiell said. “But we aren’t finishing. We have to figure out how to make those key plays down the stretch.”
UCLA’s Defensive Breakdown
The Bruins (11-5, 2-3 Big Ten) were once dominant defensively, holding opponents to the fewest points per game in the nation earlier this season. They even contained Gonzaga’s explosive offense in a 65-62 victory on Dec. 28. However, that win was UCLA’s last, as they’ve since suffered three straight losses: at Nebraska (66-58), at home against Michigan (94-75), and at Maryland (79-61). The blowouts against Michigan and Maryland were UCLA’s worst defensive performances of the season, raising concerns for bettors backing the Bruins as favorites.
The ongoing wildfires in Los Angeles have added an emotional toll, with head coach Mick Cronin revealing how close his home was to being evacuated. Despite these external factors, Cronin remains focused.
“We’re in a tough stretch, and we’ve got to dig in,” Cronin said. “This is why you prepare and practice hard—it’s not supposed to be easy.”
Key Matchup Factors and Betting Predictions
Dylan Harper’s Status:
If Harper isn’t at full strength, Rutgers may struggle to keep up offensively, especially if their role players can’t step up in his absence. The under (138.5) could be appealing if Harper’s limited minutes persist.
UCLA’s Offense vs. Rutgers’ Defense:
The Bruins, despite their defensive struggles, are averaging 75.0 points per game—ranking near the bottom of the conference but still capable of putting up points. Tyler Bilodeau leads the charge with 14.9 PPG and is coming off an 18-point game against Maryland. Expect Bilodeau to hit his points prop if Rutgers can’t contain him in isolation.
Rutgers’ Underdog Potential:
Rutgers has the defensive tools to keep things close, especially at home. If Harper plays near his usual form, the Scarlet Knights have a shot at covering the spread (+2.5) or even pulling off an upset.
Best Bets:
Spread: Rutgers +2.5 (if Harper plays significant minutes)
Total: Lean under 138.5 points due to both teams’ recent offensive struggles.
Player Prop: Tyler Bilodeau Over 16.5 points—he’s been consistent even during UCLA’s losses.
Expect a gritty, low-scoring affair where defensive adjustments will be crucial. Rutgers’ home-court energy could make this a tight contest, but UCLA’s defensive reputation and hunger for a bounce-back performance make them tough to bet against outright.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
