The Wisconsin Badgers are set to take on the Rutgers Scarlet Knights on Saturday afternoon at SHI Stadium in Piscataway, N.J. Wisconsin comes into the game with a 3-2 record and is looking to build off a dominant win over Purdue. Meanwhile, Rutgers sits at 4-1 after a tough loss to Nebraska last week. The Badgers have had the upper hand in this matchup historically, winning all five previous meetings, including a 24-13 victory last season.
Wisconsin’s offense has been clicking lately, but injuries to key wide receivers could make it difficult for them to move the ball through the air. On the other side, Rutgers boasts a strong defense and will aim to shut down Wisconsin’s attack to keep the game close.
Can Wisconsin Overcome Injuries?
The Badgers’ wide receiver corps is dealing with injuries, as Will Pauling, Bryson Green, and Tyrell Henry are all questionable for this matchup. Pauling has been one of Wisconsin’s top targets, hauling in 21 receptions for 202 yards and a touchdown. If these players are unable to go, it will put more pressure on quarterback Braedyn Locke, who threw for 359 yards and three touchdowns last week against Purdue.
Wisconsin’s ground game, led by running back Chez Mellusi, will need to step up if the passing attack is limited. The Badgers have relied on a balanced offense this season, but they may have to shift to a more run-heavy approach if their receiving options are depleted.
Defensively, the Badgers have been solid, holding Purdue to just six points last week. They will need another strong defensive effort to contain Rutgers’ ground game and force the Scarlet Knights into passing situations.
Will Rutgers Bounce Back at Home?
Rutgers has had a strong start to the season, thanks to a stout defense and a reliable rushing attack led by Kyle Monangai. Monangai has been a workhorse, averaging 133.4 rushing yards per game, which is second in the Big Ten. However, he was limited to just 78 yards on 19 carries last week against Nebraska.
The Scarlet Knights’ defense has been their backbone, recording four sacks and holding Nebraska to just 55 yards in the second half. They will need to replicate that performance to give their offense a chance against a Wisconsin team that is strong on both sides of the ball.
Rutgers will look to establish their run game early and control the clock. If they can limit turnovers and capitalize on Wisconsin’s potential struggles in the passing game, the Scarlet Knights have a shot to pull off the upset at home.
Prediction: Wisconsin to Win and Cover the Spread
Despite the injuries at wide receiver, Wisconsin has enough depth and talent to get the win. Braedyn Locke has shown he can step up when needed, and the Badgers’ defense is capable of shutting down Rutgers’ one-dimensional offense. Look for Wisconsin to win and cover the spread, with the under on total points being a strong play.
Take Wisconsin to cover the spread and consider the under on 41 total points, as both teams are likely to focus on a run-heavy approach. The Badgers should continue their dominance over Rutgers and secure another Big Ten victory.
