As the college basketball season hits its midway point, the margin for error is shrinking for teams teetering on the tournament bubble. For Rutgers, a home win against a solid opponent is no longer a luxury, but a necessity. The Scarlet Knights' 9-10 record and 2-6 conference mark have them firmly on the outside looking in, with a dismal 0-7 record in Quad 1 games. Their NET ranking of 151 doesn't exactly inspire confidence, either. A win against Indiana, currently ranked 37 in the NET, would be a much-needed shot in the arm for their tournament resume.
Indiana, on the other hand, is solidly in the tournament field, but a three-game losing streak has them reeling. Their Quad 1 woes are well-documented, with a 0-6 record against the toughest opponents. However, their 4-0 mark in Quad 3 games suggests they can take care of business against lesser opponents. The Hoosiers want to get back on track against a Rutgers team that's struggled to find consistency. According to the CHD Scout prediction, Indiana is favored to win by 11 points, with Rutgers' win probability sitting at a mere 16.2%.
CHD Scout Prediction
Indiana
79
Rutgers
68
everything is lined up for a crucial matchup at Jersey Mike's Arena, with Rutgers desperate to prove they belong in the tournament conversation. While neither team has a player on a significant hot streak, Rutgers must find a way to contain Indiana's offense, which has been clicking despite their recent losses. The Scarlet Knights' Quad 2 home game against Indiana is a golden opportunity to snag a quality win and bolster their tournament hopes.
In the end, I predict Indiana will emerge victorious, 79-68. The Hoosiers' superior talent and Indiana's ability to take care of business against weaker opponents will prove too much for Rutgers to handle. While the Scarlet Knights will undoubtedly give it their all, their lack of quality wins and poor NET ranking will ultimately be their downfall. Unless Rutgers can pull off a stunning upset, their tournament chances will continue to dwindle, making every remaining game a high-stakes affair.