Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs Minnesota Golden Gophers
Saturday, February 21, 2026
Final Score Rutgers 61 - Minnesota 80
Spread: W
Total:
Matchup Analysis
This NCAAB matchup features Rutgers Scarlet Knights (11-15 (9-6)) traveling to take on Minnesota Golden Gophers (12-14 (10-4)) at Williams Arena, Minneapolis, MN. The Minnesota hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the Rutgers by 7.5 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup.
Minnesota averages 70.6 points per game, but they face a Rutgers defense that holds opponents to 75.5 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. The Rutgers offense puts up 70.6 PPG and faces a Minnesota defense allowing 68.0 PPG. The visitors have the offensive firepower to stay in this one.
Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Minnesota will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model projects Minnesota to win by approximately 8.0 points. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Minnesota winning by 22 to losing by 6.
Our model aligns closely with the market on this one, suggesting the oddsmakers have priced this game efficiently. Look for small edges in the total and moneyline markets to capitalize on any remaining value.
Team Comparison
RUTG Rutgers
Stat
MINN Minnesota
11-15 (9-6)
Record
12-14 (10-4)
Last 10
70.6
PPG
70.6
75.5
Opp PPG
68.0
Current Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| RUTG Rutgers Scarlet Knights | +320 ↑ | +8.5 | O 136.5 |
| MINN Minnesota Golden Gophers | -410 ↓ | -8.5 | U 136.5 |
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 21, 10:42 PM
Opening line: -8.5 / O/U 134.5
Model Projection
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| RUTG Rutgers Scarlet Knights | +238 | +8 | O 141.2 |
| MINN Minnesota Golden Gophers | -238 | -8 | U 141.2 |
Source: Model Updated: Feb 21, 5:08 PM
Our Picks
Spread
W
Minnesota (opened at -8.5)
55% Confidence
Total
Pass
Model: 141.2 | Edge below threshold
Recent Trends
Minnesota has struggled this season at 12-14 (10-4). The wins have been hard to come by, and the team is looking for answers on both ends of the floor. Home court advantage will be critical for any chance at pulling off an upset.
It's been a difficult season for Rutgers at 11-15 (9-6). Traveling to face Minnesota presents a significant challenge, though every game is a chance to build for the future.
When these teams meet, the home team typically has the edge given the crowd advantage and familiarity factor. The team that controls tempo and limits turnovers will likely dictate the outcome of this matchup.
Matchup Edges
Minnesota
Advantages
- Home court advantage and crowd support
- Elite defense allowing just 68.0 PPG
- Familiarity with home venue and routines
Disadvantages
- Sub-.500 record at 12-14 (10-4) raises concerns
- Potential for inconsistency in key moments
Rutgers
Advantages
- Nothing to lose as the visiting team
- Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure
Disadvantages
- Playing on the road without home crowd support
- Struggling with a 11-15 (9-6) record this season