Illinois vs Rutgers Picks and Prediction – 2/6/2025

No. 23 Illinois Fighting Illini (15-7, 7-5 Big Ten) heads to Piscataway to take on the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (11-11, 4-7 Big Ten) at Jersey Mike’s Arena. Illinois is coming off an 87-79 win over Ohio State, while Rutgers suffered a close 66-63 loss against Michigan. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Illinois continues to showcase one of the most potent offenses in the Big Ten, averaging 85.3 points per game while shooting 44.4% from the field. Guard Kasparas Jakucionis leads the team with 15.6 points and 5.4 assists per game, helping the offense maintain its efficiency. Tomislav Ivisic dominates the glass, averaging 8.6 rebounds per contest, contributing to Illinois’ strong rebounding presence at 45.5 boards per game. The team’s ability to move the ball has also been key, averaging 14.7 assists per game, keeping opponents scrambling to defend multiple threats.

Defensively, Illinois allows 70.4 points per game, a respectable mark given its high-tempo offensive style. The team forces opponents into difficult shots, but shot-blocking remains a concern with only 4.4 blocks per contest. Morez Johnson Jr. anchors the paint with 1.2 blocks per game, while Kylan Boswell leads the perimeter defense with 1.2 steals per contest. Despite recent defensive struggles in losses to Maryland and Michigan State, Illinois has shown the ability to limit scoring when locked in.

Rutgers relies heavily on Ace Bailey, who leads the team in scoring with 20.2 points per game while adding 7.8 rebounds. The Scarlet Knights average 76.0 points per game but struggle with accuracy, matching Illinois' 44.4% shooting while lacking the same offensive depth. Guard Dylan Harper provides additional playmaking with 4.1 assists per game, but secondary scoring options have been inconsistent. A major concern is rebounding, where Rutgers sits at 36.3 boards per game, a significant disadvantage against Illinois.

Defensively, Rutgers has been inconsistent, allowing 74.6 points per contest. The Scarlet Knights, however, excel in forcing turnovers, averaging 6.9 steals per game, led by Harper's 1.1. Bailey adds a defensive presence with 1.4 blocks per game. Coming off a loss to Michigan, Rutgers must tighten up defensively to counter Illinois' offensive attack.

Illinois has the superior offense and rebounding advantage, which will be crucial against a Rutgers team that struggles on the glass. Expect Jakucionis to control the tempo and create scoring opportunities while Illinois' defense does enough to contain Bailey. Final Score Prediction: Illinois Fighting Illini win 82-73.