Penn State Faces Struggles as Rutgers Aims to Build on Early Season Success
Penn State vs. Rutgers Prediction: Nittany Lions Look to End Slump at Home
On MLK Day, the Penn State Nittany Lions (12-6) will face off against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (10-8) in a pivotal Big Ten matchup at the Bryce Jordan Center. The Nittany Lions will look to exact revenge after losing 80-76 to Rutgers in their previous meeting in December. This game, scheduled for a 6:30 p.m. EST tip-off, is crucial for both teams as they attempt to find their rhythm within the competitive Big Ten conference.
Penn State Struggling to Find Form
Penn State enters Monday’s game reeling from a four-game losing streak in Big Ten play. The Nittany Lions, currently ranked 49th in KenPom’s ratings, have struggled to maintain momentum, especially against conference rivals. They have averaged 82.3 points allowed in their Big Ten matchups, exposing their defensive vulnerabilities. Despite ranking 49th overall, their recent play suggests they are not currently on pace for an NCAA Tournament bid.
Penn State relies heavily on its offense to keep games competitive. Averaging 84.4 points per game, they are one of the more explosive teams in the conference. The Nittany Lions convert 48.8% of their shots from the field, with 34.0% accuracy from beyond the arc, and shoot a solid 75.6% from the free-throw line. Despite their offensive firepower, the Nittany Lions have struggled to control games defensively, allowing 71.7 points per game on the season and 82.3 points in Big Ten play.
Defensively, Penn State has been particularly porous. They have allowed more than 75 points in five consecutive games, including 80+ in each of their last three. This defensive lapse is a significant concern for head coach Micah Shrewsberry as they enter Monday’s game against Rutgers. The Nittany Lions will need to tighten up their defense if they are to have a chance against a gritty Rutgers team that has consistently battled tough conference opponents.
Rutgers Looking to Build on Early Success
Rutgers heads into this contest with momentum, having secured an 80-76 victory over Penn State earlier this season. The Scarlet Knights, though also struggling in Big Ten play, remain a formidable opponent. With a 3-4 conference record, they have the potential to disrupt the Nittany Lions’ aspirations on their home court.
Rutgers’ defense is their strong suit, ranking 27th in defensive efficiency in KenPom. They have shown the ability to lock down opponents in critical moments, making it difficult for teams to sustain scoring runs. In their win over Penn State earlier this season, Rutgers’ defense was a key factor, limiting the Nittany Lions’ offensive production and forcing crucial turnovers.
Offensively, Rutgers has been more inconsistent. They average 68.8 points per game but have the potential to exploit a Penn State defense that has allowed high-scoring affairs. The Scarlet Knights’ balanced attack features key players such as Cam Spencer, who provides scoring and playmaking ability, and Cliff Omoruyi, a physical presence in the paint who can dominate inside.
Conclusion
With both teams struggling in the Big Ten, this matchup could go either way. Penn State’s high-powered offense will clash with Rutgers’ strong defense, and whichever team can find the balance between offense and defense will likely come out on top. For Penn State, ending their four-game losing streak is crucial if they want to stay in the hunt for an NCAA Tournament berth. Meanwhile, Rutgers will look to build on their earlier win over the Nittany Lions and maintain momentum as the conference season progresses.
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