Howard Bison (6-6 Last Season) vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights (7-6 Last Season)
Howard Bison vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights August 29 2024 – The Howard Bison and the Rutgers Scarlet Knights are scheduled to meet on Thursday as the new NCAAF season starts. Both teams have ambitions of starting their seasons with a win, the Bison aiming to erase last year’s lack of consistency while Scarlet Knights trying to improve on their near .500 record. This is one of those college football clashes that carries with it great tradition and excitement, making it an interesting moment for bettors and fans who can be able to read NCAAF free picks.
Howard Bison vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights August 29 2024 Game Info
| When: | Thursday, August 29, 2024 at 6:00 PM ET |
| Where: | SHI Stadium |
| TV: | BTN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Howard Bison vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Howard | TBD | +36.5 (-110) | 49.5 over (-110) |
| Rutgers | TBD | -36.5 (-110) | 49.5 under (-110) |
The hefty 36.5-point spread indicates a strong expectation of Rutgers dominating the game, aligning with their favorable home performance trends. Bettors might find value in considering the total points for the game, as both teams have histories of high-scoring games.
Quinton Williams QB vs. Ajani Sheppard QB
Quinton Williams, Howard’s experienced quarterback, returns after throwing for 2,264 yards last year at a 59.1% completion rate. For Howard thus, his experience under center could be vital especially against Rutgers’ defense. However, this weak point in him having been sacked 19 times throughout the prior campaign might prove to be an important flaw against a strong Rutgers defensive line.
Ajani Sheppard shows promise with perfect completion percentage over just two attempts albeit from the small data of last season. This points out how effective it is and also highlights its potential efficiency and decision-making skills as evidenced by zero turnovers or interceptions. His performance will however be key in relation to the size of games played as he plays against a Howard defense that has more desire to get better than it did in their previous season.
On the field, expect the game to turn on their clash between Williams and Sheppard. For Williams to be more calm under stress, he has to use his experience while avoiding mistakes in handling the ball. On the other hand, Sheppard might benefit from a better supporting cast at Rutgers and playing in a home game. Consequently, this direct confrontation would add some intrigue into the match by determining its character (offensive rhythm) together with who wins it.
Charging Through the Line: Howard’s Offensive Strategy
Howard’s offense also features Eden James at running back, who had a solid average of 5.6 yards per carry last season, and Kasey Hawthorne, a wide receiver who averaged 14.1 yards per reception. Their ability to break out for big plays will be crucial for Howard to keep the game within reach and possibly cover the spread.
Knight Moves: Rutgers’ Tactical Offensive Play
On the other side, Rutgers’ Kyle Monangai brings proven ability as a running back, with over 1,200 yards last season and a knack for finding the end zone. Coupled with Christian Dremel at wide receiver, the Scarlet Knights have the tools to exploit Howard’s defensive weaknesses, especially in home conditions where they’ve historically scored high.
Howard Bison Betting Trends
Howard are 8-3 ATS in their last 11 games.
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Howard’s last 7 games.
Howard are 0-8 SU in their last 8 games.
Bison are 0-5 SU in their last 5 games against Rutgers.
Howard are 0-5 SU in their last 5 games on the road.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights Betting Trends
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Rutgers’ last 7 games.
Rutgers are 1-4 SU in their last 5 games.
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Rutgers’ last 5 games at home.
Rutgers are 5-0 SU in their last 5 games when playing at home against Howard.
Rutgers are 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games played in August.
Howard Bison vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights Betting Previews
From historical data recorded over time and current odds, it seems that Rutgers is in winning position. Nevertheless, the huge spread makes direct betting on the outcome to be precautionary. Instead, we think this could be a better bet taking into account Howard’s ability to exceed expectations as well as Rutgers’ scoring trends thereby making the over on total points to be more attractive. This is consistent with both teams having high-scoring habits especially on opening season games and home matches for Rutgers.
It may make sense to consider Best Online Betting Platforms because they can give some extra insights on this game as well as different odds or promotions that might exist. Based on the data, game totals rather than a side in this spread may be the way to go when picking bets.
Score Prediction: Rutgers 38, Howard 17.
