Ohio State vs Rutgers: Complete Game Preview, Odds, and Predictions

The stage is set for a classic Big Ten showdown as the undefeated Ohio State Buckeyes host the Rutgers Scarlet Knights in what promises to be a compelling matchup between two programs at opposite ends of the conference spectrum. With Ohio State maintaining their perfect record and national championship aspirations, while Rutgers fights for bowl eligibility, this game carries significant implications for both teams' postseason trajectories.

Game Information and Betting Lines

The highly anticipated contest kicks off on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 12 p.m. ET from the iconic Ohio Stadium in Columbus, Ohio. According to FOX Sports, the Buckeyes enter as overwhelming 33.5-point favorites, reflecting their dominant season performance and Rutgers' inconsistent campaign. The over/under for total points scored is set at 55.5, suggesting oddsmakers expect Ohio State's offense to control the game while their defense limits Rutgers' scoring opportunities.

Team Analysis and Key Matchups

Ohio State's Dominant Run

The Buckeyes bring an impressive 10-0 record into this matchup, having demonstrated complete dominance on both sides of the ball. Their defense has been nothing short of spectacular, allowing an FBS-low 7.5 points per game while their offense, led by quarterback Julian Sayin, has consistently overwhelmed opponents. Sayin's remarkable accuracy has positioned him as a legitimate Heisman Trophy contender, making the Buckeyes' aerial attack particularly dangerous.

Rutgers' Bowl Eligibility Quest

The Scarlet Knights enter this contest with a 5-5 record, needing one more victory to secure bowl eligibility. Their recent performance against Maryland showcased their potential, particularly with running back Antwan Raymond's career-best 240-yard rushing effort. However, facing Ohio State's elite run defense presents a formidable challenge that could determine whether Rutgers can keep this game competitive.

Historical Context and Trends

Recent history heavily favors Ohio State in this rivalry. The Buckeyes have won all three of their last meetings against Rutgers, outscoring the Scarlet Knights by a combined 136-39 margin. Ohio State's home dominance is particularly noteworthy, having won an incredible 59 of their past 60 home games against nonconference opponents. This historical advantage, combined with their current 14-game winning streak, creates a daunting environment for any visiting team.

Expert Prediction and Analysis

FOX Sports' Sports AI projects a convincing Ohio State victory with a final score of 42-9. The prediction suggests taking Rutgers with the points (+33.5) and betting the under (55.5), indicating expectations that Ohio State's defense will control the game tempo while the point spread may be too generous given Rutgers' recent offensive improvements.

Betting Insights and Probabilities

The implied probability calculations tell a compelling story about this matchup. Based on the moneyline, Ohio State holds a 99.2% chance of victory, while Rutgers sits at just 3.2%. Against the spread, Ohio State has been more reliable this season, covering eight times compared to Rutgers' five covers. These statistics reinforce the challenging position Rutgers faces in attempting to compete with college football's top-ranked team.

Conclusion

While Rutgers brings renewed confidence from their recent victory and Raymond's breakout performance, Ohio State's combination of elite defense, offensive firepower, and home-field advantage creates a nearly insurmountable challenge. The Buckeyes appear poised to maintain their perfect season and extend their nation-leading win streak, though Rutgers may keep the final margin closer than the substantial point spread suggests. For football enthusiasts and bettors alike, this matchup offers intriguing storylines despite the apparent mismatch on paper.