The Tennessee Volunteers look to extend their perfect start when they take on the Rutgers Scarlet Knights on Monday in Las Vegas. The Volunteers (5–0) enter with momentum, having dominated a soft early schedule, while Rutgers (4–1) is coming off an upset loss to Central Connecticut State. Before tip-off from Vegas, you can find my Tennessee vs Rutgers prediction right here.
Pick: Rutgers +15.5
Confidence: ★★★★☆
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Tennessee’s hot start has been fueled by high-level ball movement and strong defense. The Vols are averaging 22.4 assists per game, third-best in the country. Their last game was a smooth 89–60 win over Tennessee State. They are led by freshman Nate Ament, who has 18.8 PPG, 8.4 RPG, and 2.2 steals per game over the season so far. Guard Ja’Kobi Gillespie has chipped in 16.6 PPG and 6.0 assists.
Rutgers is grappling with inconsistency coming into this game. Their most recent outing was a disappointing 67–54 loss to Central Connecticut State, where they shot just 36% from the floor and 26% from three. Tariq Francis led the way with 19 points, but overall the team struggled to rebound the basketball against a team from the Northeast Conference. Their leading scorer, Dylan Grant, is averaging 16.6 PPG, and they rely heavily on offensive rebounds (10.8 per game) to generate second-chance looks.
The big question going into this game is how Rutgers will rebounding from their loss to Central Connecticut. Head coach Steve Pikiell had some NBA-level talent last year. But that talent is gone and the group that is there now needs to figure out how to pick up the pieces after being embarrassed on their home floor in their last game.
Score Projection: Tennessee 81 – Rutgers 70
Win Probability: Tennessee 85%, Rutgers 15%
Tennessee should be able to win to start the Players Era Festival in Las Vegas. But I'm taking the points with Rutgers in this contest. The Scarlet Knights should be motivated after being embarrassed in their last game. While I don't expect Pikiell to lead Rutgers to a win here, I do expect them to compete throughout and to avoid being blown out.
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