Big Ten rivals clash at Jersey Mike’s Arena in Thursday night’s Purdue vs. Rutgers matchup at 6:00 p.m. ET. With the Boilermakers laying 1.5 and the total sitting at 149.5 points, what’s the smart play tonight in New Jersey?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Purdue Boilermakers (-2) at Rutgers Scarlet Knights (+2); o/u 149
6:00 p.m. ET, Thursday, January 9, 2025
Jersey Mike’s Arena, Piscataway, NJ
TV: FS1
Purdue vs. Rutgers Public Betting: Bettors Taking Buckeyes
Our CBB Public Betting Information page indicates that 55% of public bettors are currently backing Ohio State when it comes to the spread. This information is subject to change throughout the day, however, so be sure to check the link so you’re receiving the most up-to-date public betting data.
Smith stuffs stat sheet vs. Northwestern
Braden Smith notched 22 points (8-16 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 3-3 FT), six rebounds, seven assists and two steals across 35 minutes during Sunday’s 79-61 victory over Northwestern. Smith closed with 22 points, six rebounds, seven assists and two steals as the Boilermakers cruised to a win over the Wildcats on Sunday. The 6-foot junior continues to dominate in his third season with Purdue, averaging 15.4 points, 4.8 rebounds, 8.6 assists and 2.1 steals across 15 starts. Smith and the Boilermakers will look to pick up another conference win on the road against Rutgers on Thursday night.
Acuff sets multiple season highs vs. Wisconsin
Tyson Acuff closed Monday’s 75-63 loss to Wisconsin with 17 points (6-15 FG, 3-8 3Pt, 2-2 FT), two rebounds and two assists in 30 minutes. Wisconsin isn’t typically the team to be setting season highs against, but Acuff did just that with his scoring, minutes and attempted field goals. Much of that can be attributed to the usage of Dylan Harper, who saw significantly limited run due to an illness that had forced him to sit out the previous game as well. Acuff, a two-time transfer, should remain a role player moving forward at his first Power 5 school.
Purdue vs. Rutgers CBB Prediction:
Take the over. In the last 10 meetings between these two teams, the over cashed seven times. In Purdue’s last 10 games, the over is 6-4 and hit in three out of the Boilermakers’ last four games. They’ve scored at least 79 points in three straight games. On the other side, the over is 5-4-1 in the Scarlet Knights’ last 10 games. Rutgers has allowed at least 75 points in three out of their last four contests.
Purdue vs. Rutgers College Hoops Prediction: OVER 149