Wisconsin Primed for a Bounce-Back vs. Rutgers

The Wisconsin Badgers fell flat in a statement game against Michigan earlier this week – and with COVID-19 still a major factor, they know they can ill afford to waste any other opportunities as they visit Rutgers on Friday. The Badgers (10-3 SU, 6-7 ATS) were crushed 77-54 by the Wolverines and now face a Rutgers team (7-4 SU, 5-5-1 ATS) that is 6-2 at home.

Sportsbook Odds Analysis

The Badgers opened in most spots as a two-point favorite but is now -3 pretty much across the board. The total of 135 has held steady, though you'll find the odd 136 out there, as well.

Wisconsin News & Notes

Fourteen minutes. That's how long the Badgers were able to stay competitive against Michigan before the Wolverines put together a soul-crushing 14-0 run to end the half and effectively put the game away. The Badgers were abysmal at both ends of the court, shooting just 30.8 percent from the field while allowing the Wolverines to exceed 50 percent both overall and from deep.

While you can expect the Badgers to tighten things up defensively (they allow just 62.7 points per game on the season), the offensive showing vs. Michigan is a concern. Expect the Badgers to be led by senior guard D'Mitrik Trice, who was the lone bright spot Tuesday with 20 points and is averaging 22 points while shooting nearly 58 percent from long range in three road games.

Rutgers News & Notes

The Scarlet Knights have fallen on hard times, coming in having lost four of their past five after Sportsbook the season with a six-game winning streak (including a narrow win over then-No. 13 Illinois). The offense has been a significant issue during the team's recent cold stretch, with Rutgers having surpassed the 70-point plateau just twice in the past five outings.

The Scarlet Knights will need more from star guard Ron Harper Jr., who has struggled mightily in recent games. The son of former NBA stalwart Ron Harper has averaged just 12.3 points over his past three games and has been particularly dreadful from 3-point territory, making just five of his 16 attempts. He had shot 19-of-34 from beyond the arc over his previous four games.

Betting Pick: Wisconsin -3 (-110)

The loss to Michigan likely served as a much-needed kick for the Badgers, who should be able to mute Rutgers' already struggling offense and come away with a comfortable win.