UCLA Bruins vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights 1/13/25 – The stage is perfectly set for the alluring NCAA men’s basketball face-off between the UCLA Bruins (11-5) and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (8-8) as the former visits the latter at their home ground. Both teams have experienced their own fair share of highs and lows during the season which adds up to the significance of the game given that conference play is about to commence. The Bruins will have a striving goal to get better after experiencing multiple tough losses and at the same time they will be faced with a Rutgers team fully determined to make a difference.
UCLA Bruins vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights 1/13/25
| When: | Monday, January 13, 2025, at 6:30 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Jersey Mike’s Arena |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bruins | -2.5 (-110 | Over 138 (-110 | -138 |  |
| Scarlet Knights | +2.5 (-110) | Under 138 (-110) | +115 | |
| ||||
https://twitter.com/UCLAMBB/status/1878609949242331346
In terms of winning odds, the Bruins are rejoicing in a slender margin which is a testament to their competitive season, emphasizing their recent form. We can see from the betting line of UCLA -2.5 that it is likely to be a close match. At the beginning of the season, both teams have shown good performances but are in a dip at this point. Considering both teams’ offensive display, the set total is likely to be over 138 as accompanies, considering UCLA’s high goals in away games that seems to be a trend rather than a randomness.
Tyler Bilodeau (Forward) vs. Dylan Harper (Guard)
Tyler Bilodeau‘s proclamations to be the central figure of UCLA are quite true. He averages 14.9 points per game along with 5.1 rebounds. This makes him a dual threat, as he is able to score with great efficiency from any range. But then again, Tyler is not a one-dimensional player. His scoring is complemented by his presence on the boards and the defensive work he can do, which is exactly what is needed when facing a solid home team like Rutgers.
Dylan Harper on the other hand has been consistently amazing for Rutgers scoring over 20 points a game. His playmaking abilities combined with his scoring and rebounding makes him a hassle to defend for any team and he puts plenty of pressure on the Bruins. In fact his form is a good indication of how the rest of the team is, that’s why his matchup against Tyler has to be one of the best.
In-Depth Bruins Analysis: Stumbling Giants
Some of the recent games by UCLA point to a few areas that require attention, especially on the defense. During their most recent matchup against Maryland, they lost 61-79 while a 75-94 loss to Michigan earlier pointed to glaring defense weaknesses. These results have put them behind, calling for an emphatic counter in the next match.
Scarlet Knights’ Home Court Fortress
On the other hand, Rutgers has been staunch at home despite their overall inconsistency. Their latest game at home against Purdue saw them lose 50-68 which means they were struggling in attack as well but their overall ability to keep scoring low at home might help them with a scenario against the free scoring Bruins.
Trends
UCLA Bruins Betting Trends
UCLA are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of UCLA’s last 6 games.
UCLA are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 4 of UCLA’s last 5 games on the road.
UCLA are 1-7 ATS in their last 8 games against an opponent in the Big Ten conference.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights Betting Trends
Rutgers are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games.
Rutgers are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Rutgers’ last 5 games at home.
Rutgers are 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games against an opponent in the Big Ten conference.
Rutgers are 0-6 SU in their last 6 games played in January.
UCLA Bruins vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights Betting Prediction
Based on the performances of both teams and the betting trends, it seems that there is going to be an extremely competitive match up. It is also expected there will be a high score, however the recent form of both the teams’ defenses stands as a crucial factor. But taking into account Idaho’s performances alongside Rutgers, it is hard to discount their playing style. In such bear hugs, every fiber of the body facts and not only the muscles.
In view of the factors, Rutgers is more likely to cover the 3.5-point spread, but due to their shaky consistency, it is hard to advise them unequivocally. Since they have shown improvement in recent form, there is a good chance the total will go over.
Score Prediction: UCLA 72, Rutgers 68
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: January 13, 2025
Last updated: March 31, 2025