College Basketball Odds, Pick for Princeton vs Rutgers

Traditionally, it's tough for Ivy League teams — or any mid-major team for that matter — to walk into Big Ten territory and win, especially one with a mostly new-look roster trying to find its groove against an experienced Rutgers team.

It was only March when the world became familiar with Princeton's strong basketball program. And that strong program will look to pick up another victory to once again open the eyes of America.

So, dive in below for Princeton vs. Rutgers odds and a prediction, including a college basketball betting guide.

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So, how can Princeton continue the positive momentum generated from its NCAA tournament success? It starts and ends with rebounding the ball.

Shockingly, Princeton out-rebounded Arizona and Missouri, led by Caden Pierce's 24 total boards in the two NCAA tournament wins. The 6-foot-7 forward is super athletic and fearless when attacking the glass, regardless of who's standing in his way.

Despite his intimidating presence, 6-foot-11 Cliff Omoruyi won't deter Pierce from rebounding. And that's Princeton's path to winning — or covering — here: limit the Scarlet Knights to one shot and capitalize on the other end.

More small nuggets on Pierce:

• He's from a very athletic family, like his older brothers.
• Justin played at North Carolina/William & Mary.
• Alec catches passes for the Indianapolis Colts.

It's safe to say that Pierce comes from terrific athletic bloodlines.

Additionally, the youngest Pierce sibling had the lowest usage rate among Princeton's NCAA tournament starters, which will change this season in a more offensive-focused role. He starred as a glue guy, but he can develop into much more.

If he can shoot it consistently, Princeton's offense adds more firepower.

Another thing to watch in the post-Tosan Evbuomwan world is how Princeton's offense operates. It will likely pivot to guards handling the ball most of the time instead of Tosan initiating the offense.

The loss of Keeshawn Kellman also means Princeton lacks a traditional post-up big.

Enter Xaivian Lee, a sophomore guard from Canada, who's quick burst and scoring prowess makes him an instant candidate to carry the Tigers' offense.

Coach Mitch Henderson will rely on Blake Peters, Zach Martini and Deven Austin to get perimeter shots off without hesitation. Peters had several big moments in the Big Dance, including 19 points in the Missouri game.

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The Scarlet Knights missed the NCAA tournament last season, mainly due to inconsistency on the offensive end.

That's still an area of concern this season, though I expect freshman wing Gavin Griffiths to settle in and become the number-one scoring option. It's a lot to expect him to shoulder that load instantly, but he has the ability over time.

So, where will Rutgers look to score against Princeton? It starts with the big man in the middle, Omoruyi. The senior big is unbelievably athletic, has a wingspan ranging well over 7-foot-4 and can hit an occasional mid-range shot, if he's given enough space.

Princeton lacks the size to slow down Omoruyi, who might be the best Big Ten big man outside of Purdue's Zach Edey.

Rutgers fell off the rails once versatile wing Mawot Mag suffered a torn ACL in February. Luckily, Mag is back and ready to continue his strong impact on both ends of the floor. He'll help Rutgers' defense become one of the sport's best.

As I stated in the Princeton section, the Tigers have a pair of breakout candidates. Well, Rutgers has one, too.

Sophomore guard Derek Simpson ended the season scoring 12+ points in four straight games. Simpson must develop into a reliable perimeter scorer for the breakout to actually happen, though, as shooting 21% from deep won't do the job.

After losing many essential pieces, it'll take time for Princeton to round into full form. That's perfect for Rutgers, which has plenty of size to combat the overall skill of the Tigers.

I expect the Scarlet Knights to dominate the glass, slow the game down and allow their athleticism and length to force contested 2-point shots instead of open perimeter jumpers.

Also, Rutgers has noted offensive issues of its own. That'll also take some time to address. So, in an early-season game with two questionable offenses, we have a perfect formula for an under.

Pick: Under 137.5 (Play to 134)