Ohio State vs. Rutgers Preview and Prediction

Ohio State hosts Rutgers, looking to keep things rolling with a Big 1o matchup on tap.

This will be the first ever meeting between these teams, as Rutgers joined the Big Ten prior to this season.

Records:

Ohio State: 4-1 (1-0 Big Ten)

Rutgers: 5-1 (1-1 Big Ten)

Last Meeting: No previous matchups

Key Stat: The Buckeyes have outscored their opponents 168-52 during their current three game winning streak.

Ohio State Outlook: The Buckeyes have found their stride offensively, putting up back-to-back 50 point performances. In fact, since their upset loss to Virginia Tech, the Buckeyes have gone 3-0, with an average margin of victory of 38 points.

The resurgence has been aided by J.T. Barrett's solid play. He has thrown for 1,354 yards and 17 touchdowns this season, adding another 276 yards and two scores on the ground.

Rutgers Outlook: At 5-1 the Scarlet Knights have surprised many, and look like possible contenders in the Big Ten.

Their biggest test will come the next two weeks with Ohio State and Nebraska on the schedule.

Quarterback Gary Nova has been strong, throwing for 1,601 yards and 13 touchdowns, including a 404 yard effort against Michigan.

What to watch for: Can the Buckeyes keep their offense rolling? Ohio State has had no problem scoring ever since their loss to Virginia Tech, and will need to continue to do so against an underrated Rutgers offense.

They likely won't need to score 50+ to win this game, but Rutgers can hang around if Ohio State stays in the low 30's.

What they're saying:

Scouting Rutgers: At 5-1, are Scarlet Knights contenders? (Buckeye Banter)

One-loss Buckeyes hoping to get back into title contention (Akron Beach Journal)

Prediction:

Ohio State - 41, Rutgers - 23

This will be a test for Rutgers and a chance to prove they're for real. The Buckeyes probably have too much offensive power for the Scarlet Knights to keep up with.

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