UCLA Bruins (1-5) vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (4-2)
October 19, 2024 12:00 pm EDT
The Line: Rutgers Scarlet Knights -6.5; Over/Under: +40.5
(Get latest betting odds)
In this article, we will formulate a Rutgers vs UCLA Prediction for this College Football Week 8 game on Saturday, October 19th, at SHI Stadium. Let’s take a look at a Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs UCLA Bruins pick.
UCLA Blew It
UCLA really looked like they might pick up their second win of the season against Minnesota in the last game, but they couldn’t make the plays, and they ended up losing by four points. At halftime, UCLA was up 10-0 and the defense really dominated. In the second half though the defense gave up 21 points and that led to the defeat. Ethan Garbers completed 25 of his 36 passes for 293 yards, one touchdown, and three interceptions. The running game just wasn’t a good enough.
UCLA on the season is averaging 14.5 points while their defense is giving up 28.5 points per game. The offense is ranked 132nd while the defense is ranked 95th. In this game, UCLA needs to do a better job of not turning the ball over, and they need to establish more of a running game.
Why UCLA Will Beat Rutgers
- Rutgers has lost 26 of its last 30 games against conference opponents at SHI Stadium.
- UCLA has won five of its last six October road games against non-AP-ranked teams.
- Rutgers has failed to cover the spread in five of its last six October games as a home favorite against non-AP-ranked teams.
- UCLA has covered the spread in five of its last six October games as a road underdog against non-AP-ranked teams.
Rutgers Suddenly Struggling
The Rutgers won their first four games of the season, but since that point they have lost two games and now there are some major concerns about the struggles. In the last game against Wisconsin, Rutgers defense gave up 42 points, which is a problem, but the offense only scored seven points, and that has to be the bigger concern going forward.
Quarterback Athan Kaliakamins looked like he might not be the guy for the job as he completed 12 of his 32 passes for 103 yards, one interception, and zero touchdowns. Rutgers on the season is averaging 25.7 points while their defense is giving up 20.2 points per game. The offense is ranked 87th while the defense is ranked 35tth.
Rutgers vs UCLA Prediction
Rutgers might have a 4-2 record, but I am still not sold on this team. Rutgers clearly doesn’t have their answer at quarterback, and their offense is going to really struggle to get going here. UCLA’s offense might not run up the score here, but their defense is going to be the difference here as they are going to find success. UCLA can win their second game of the year, but we will take the points to be safe. Back UCLA against the spread.
