On Saturday, October 12, 2024, two Big Ten teams with contrasting football styles will square off in an intriguing matchup between the Wisconsin Badgers and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. The game, scheduled for a 12 p.m. ET kickoff, promises to be a contest of strength and strategy as both teams vie for a pivotal conference victory.
Wisconsin, known for its traditional power running game and hard-hitting defense, is looking to assert itself in the Big Ten race. Under head coach Luke Fickell, the Badgers have made significant strides in adapting their offense while maintaining the physical, ball-control identity that has long defined the program. Meanwhile, Greg Schiano’s Rutgers team continues to rebuild and prove itself as a legitimate force in the conference. Rutgers has improved significantly in recent years and is hungry for a signature win over one of the Big Ten’s traditional powers.
This matchup is not only important in terms of the Big Ten standings but could also serve as a litmus test for both programs. For Wisconsin, a win would solidify their place as a contender in the Big Ten West, while Rutgers is aiming to continue its upward trajectory and claim a notable victory on the road.
In this comprehensive preview, we’ll explore everything from how to watch the game live on TV and streaming platforms to detailed team breakdowns, key players to watch, betting odds, and predictions for this exciting college football showdown.
How to Watch Wisconsin vs. Rutgers: TV & Streaming Information
TV Broadcast
The Wisconsin vs. Rutgers game will be nationally televised, giving fans across the country the chance to watch these two Big Ten programs battle it out. Here’s how to catch the game live on television:
- Big Ten Network (BTN): The game will be broadcast on the Big Ten Network (BTN), the official network of the Big Ten Conference. The BTN provides comprehensive coverage of Big Ten football games with expert analysis, commentary, and insights. Fans tuning in can expect high-quality production and in-depth coverage of the game.
Streaming Options
If you prefer to stream the game online, there are several popular streaming services that provide live access to BTN. Here are the best streaming options to watch Wisconsin vs. Rutgers live:
- FuboTV: FuboTV is a top streaming platform for sports enthusiasts. It offers access to the Big Ten Network, along with other major sports networks. FuboTV also provides a free trial for new subscribers, making it a convenient option for those who want to watch the game without a long-term commitment.
- Hulu + Live TV: Hulu + Live TV offers live streaming access to BTN, along with a variety of other sports and entertainment channels. Hulu’s platform also includes its on-demand library, giving you access to tons of content in addition to live sports.
- Sling TV: Sling TV offers BTN as part of its sports package in select markets. It’s a more affordable streaming option, but make sure that BTN is available in your region before signing up.
- YouTube TV: YouTube TV includes BTN in its channel lineup and offers unlimited DVR storage, so you can record the game and watch it later if needed.
Mobile Streaming
For fans on the go, mobile streaming is available via a few different apps and services. Here’s how you can watch Wisconsin vs. Rutgers on your smartphone or tablet:
- BTN+ App: The Big Ten Network+ app allows you to stream the game live on your mobile device. You can log in using your cable or streaming provider credentials for access.
- FuboTV App: The FuboTV app is available for mobile streaming, giving you live access to the game wherever you are. With the app’s user-friendly interface, you won’t miss a moment of the action.
- Hulu + Live TV App: Hulu’s mobile app also offers live streaming, making it easy to watch the game on any connected device.
Wisconsin Badgers Team Preview
Overview
The Wisconsin Badgers have long been a staple of Big Ten football, known for their powerful rushing attack, strong offensive line play, and ferocious defense. Under new head coach Luke Fickell, the Badgers have undergone some adjustments in their offensive philosophy, but the core principles of Wisconsin football remain the same: ball control, physicality, and disciplined play.
As the Badgers look to build on their strong start to the 2024 season, they enter this matchup against Rutgers with confidence. Wisconsin’s physicality at the line of scrimmage, particularly in the running game, will be key as they look to wear down a Rutgers defense that has shown improvement but will have its hands full against Wisconsin’s formidable offensive front.
Offense
The heart of Wisconsin’s offense has always been its ground game, and 2024 is no different. The Badgers boast one of the best rushing attacks in the country, powered by running back Braelon Allen, who is among the elite running backs in college football. Allen combines power, vision, and breakaway speed to punish defenses, and he has been a workhorse for Wisconsin all season.
The offensive line, traditionally a strength for Wisconsin, is once again a dominant unit. Led by standout tackle Jack Nelson, the Badgers’ offensive line excels in both run blocking and pass protection, providing the foundation for the team’s offensive success.
At quarterback, Tanner Mordecai, a transfer from SMU, brings experience and a steady hand to the offense. Mordecai is capable of making big throws when needed, and his decision-making has been critical in keeping the offense on track. While Wisconsin’s passing game isn’t the focal point of their attack, Mordecai’s ability to hit timely passes to receivers like Chimere Dike adds another dimension to the Badgers’ offense.
Defense
Defensively, Wisconsin remains one of the toughest teams in the Big Ten. The Badgers’ defense, led by coordinator Mike Tressel, emphasizes stopping the run, pressuring the quarterback, and forcing turnovers. Wisconsin’s front seven is stout, with Maema Njongmeta and Jordan Turner leading a linebacker corps that excels at shutting down opposing rushing attacks.
On the defensive line, James Thompson Jr. is a disruptive force who has the ability to generate pressure and stuff the run. Wisconsin’s defense prides itself on physical play, and they’ll be looking to dominate the line of scrimmage against a Rutgers team that prefers to play a ball-control style of football.
In the secondary, cornerback Ricardo Hallman and safety Hunter Wohler lead a group that has shown a knack for making big plays. Whether it’s creating turnovers or breaking up key passes, Wisconsin’s secondary will be tested against Rutgers’ improving passing attack.
Key Players to Watch for Wisconsin
- Braelon Allen (RB): Allen is the engine of Wisconsin’s offense. His ability to gain tough yards and break long runs makes him a key player in this matchup.
- Tanner Mordecai (QB): Mordecai’s steady leadership and timely passing will be crucial in keeping Rutgers’ defense off balance.
- Jack Nelson (OL): Nelson anchors the Badgers’ offensive line, providing both pass protection and run-blocking ability.
- Maema Njongmeta (LB): Njongmeta is a force in the middle of Wisconsin’s defense, and his ability to stop the run will be key in shutting down Rutgers’ offense.
- Ricardo Hallman (CB): Hallman’s coverage skills and playmaking ability will be crucial in limiting Rutgers’ passing game.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights Team Preview
Overview
The Rutgers Scarlet Knights have made significant strides under the leadership of Greg Schiano, who is in his second stint as the program’s head coach. Schiano has brought toughness, discipline, and a renewed sense of purpose to Rutgers football, and the team has steadily improved each season. In 2024, Rutgers is no longer an afterthought in the Big Ten, but a team that can challenge its conference rivals.
Rutgers’ success has been built on defense and a ball-control offense. The Scarlet Knights play a physical brand of football, with a focus on limiting mistakes, controlling the clock, and winning the field-position battle. Against a team like Wisconsin, Rutgers will need to be at its best in all three phases of the game.
Offense
Rutgers’ offense is centered around its running game, led by Kyle Monangai, who has emerged as the Scarlet Knights’ most reliable offensive weapon. Monangai runs with power and determination, and he has the ability to break tackles and gain extra yards after contact. Rutgers will lean heavily on him to establish the run and keep Wisconsin’s defense on its heels.
At quarterback, Gavin Wimsatt is still developing as a passer, but he has shown flashes of his potential throughout the season. Wimsatt is a dual-threat quarterback who can make plays with his legs, and his mobility will be crucial in avoiding Wisconsin’s relentless pass rush. While Wimsatt’s passing numbers may not be eye-popping, his ability to extend plays and make key throws will be essential for Rutgers.
Rutgers’ receiving corps, led by JaQuae Jackson, provides Wimsatt with reliable targets in the passing game. Jackson’s ability to make tough catches and gain yards after the catch will be important in keeping the chains moving for Rutgers.
Defense
Defensively, Rutgers has been one of the most improved units in the Big Ten. The Scarlet Knights play with toughness and physicality, and their defense has been the backbone of their success. Rutgers excels at stopping the run, and they’ll need to be at their best to contain Wisconsin’s powerful rushing attack.
Linebacker Tyreem Powell is the heart and soul of Rutgers’ defense. Powell is a tackling machine who is always around the ball, and his ability to diagnose plays and get into the backfield will be key in limiting Wisconsin’s running game. In the secondary, Max Melton is a standout cornerback who will be tasked with shutting down Wisconsin’s receivers.
The defensive line, led by Aaron Lewis, will need to win the battle in the trenches and get pressure on Tanner Mordecai. Rutgers’ ability to generate pressure without blitzing will be crucial in disrupting Wisconsin’s offense and forcing them into third-and-long situations.
Key Players to Watch for Rutgers
- Kyle Monangai (RB): Monangai’s ability to grind out tough yards will be crucial in controlling the tempo of the game and keeping Wisconsin’s defense on the field.
- Gavin Wimsatt (QB): Wimsatt’s dual-threat ability will be key in keeping Rutgers’ offense balanced and unpredictable.
- JaQuae Jackson (WR): Jackson’s playmaking ability will be crucial in moving the chains and creating big plays in the passing game.
- Tyreem Powell (LB): Powell’s leadership and tackling ability will be key in stopping Wisconsin’s rushing attack.
- Max Melton (CB): Melton’s coverage skills will be crucial in limiting Wisconsin’s passing game and creating turnovers.
Odds and Predictions
As of now, the Wisconsin Badgers are favored in this matchup, thanks to their powerful running game and overall talent advantage. However, Rutgers has shown that it can hang with some of the Big Ten’s top teams, and their defense has the potential to make this a close, low-scoring affair. The oddsmakers have set the line at:
- Spread: Wisconsin -14
- Over/Under: 44 points
Prediction
This game will come down to which team can impose its style of play. If Wisconsin can control the line of scrimmage and get its running game going, they will wear down Rutgers over the course of the game. However, if Rutgers’ defense can slow down Braelon Allen and force Wisconsin to rely on Tanner Mordecai’s arm, the Scarlet Knights have a chance to keep the game close.
Ultimately, Wisconsin’s offensive line and running game will be too much for Rutgers to handle. While Rutgers will put up a valiant effort, especially on defense, the Badgers will pull away in the second half.
Final Score Prediction: Wisconsin 27, Rutgers 13
The Wisconsin vs. Rutgers matchup is an important Big Ten showdown that will have significant implications for both teams as they continue through their conference schedules. Wisconsin’s powerful running game and physical defense make them the favorites, but Rutgers has the potential to keep things close with their improved defense and disciplined play.
Fans can catch all the action live on the Big Ten Network, or stream the game on FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, and other streaming platforms. Whether you’re rooting for Wisconsin’s physical dominance or Rutgers’ underdog spirit, this game promises to be an entertaining and hard-fought battle.
