Rutgers coach Steve Pikiell gives some instructions to Geo Baker (0) during the first half of the team's NCAA college basketball game against Penn State, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020, in State College, Pa. (AP Photo/Gary M. Baranec) Associated Press
NCAAB

Can Rutgers follow-up statement win against Maryland by topping Purdue on the road? Eckel says take the points

Mark Eckel

Rutgers at Purdue (-6), 2 p.m.

After Tuesday’s win over ninth-ranked Maryland, Rutgers is a win Saturday away from a 20-win season, an above .500 record in the Big 10 and all but certain NCAA bid.

For all of that to happen, however, they must win at Purdue.

The Scarlet Knights (19-11, 10-9) have struggled on the road this season. They have dropped six straight Big 10 road games. But if the Knights are legit they can come away with a win, or at least a cover, in Lafayette.

Rutgers is 17-10-2 ATS overall and 11-5-2 as an underdog. It is also an impressive 13-4-1 ATS vs. teams with a winning overall record.

Purdue (16-14, 9-10) will look for revenge for a 70-63 loss at the RAC earlier this season. The Boilermakers snapped a four-game losing streak with consecutive wins over Indiana and 18th-ranked Iowa. In their last six home games they are just 3-3.

The Pick: Rutgers made a statement with its convincing win over Maryland, but a loss here would give some of the cred back. Take the Knights with the points and if you want to get daring take the moneyline.

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