NCAA Tournament March Madness

#102 Rutgers

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Projection: likely out

Rutgers presents a perplexing case this season with a clear split between their defensive acumen and offensive struggles. Their defensive prowess, among the best in the nation, is offset by an offense that often sputters, creating inconsistency in outcomes. Key matchups did provide chances for Rutgers to boost their resume, yet the outcomes were a mixed bag. Beating a high-caliber Indiana team and earning tough road victories at Seton Hall and Maryland were highlights that showcased their potential. However, losses to Illinois, Purdue (twice), and Ohio State reflect their struggles against the upper echelon in a challenging Big Ten. Additionally, concerning were losses against lower-ranked Big Ten opponents and a sub-.500 record that speak volumes. Given these results, it's tough to envision a favorable selection for Rutgers without a deep conference tournament run, which could give the committee pause considering their clear limitations on the offensive end and their inability to consistently top quality opposition.

Date Opponent Ranking Outcome
11/6(N)Princeton54L68-61
11/10Boston Univ299W69-45
11/12Bryant160W66-57
11/15Georgetown219W71-60
11/18Howard263W85-63
11/27St Peter's212W71-40
12/2Illinois8L76-58
12/6@Wake Forest44L76-57
12/9@Seton Hall56W70-63
12/16LIU Brooklyn344W83-61
12/23(N)Mississippi St21L70-60
12/30Stonehill359W59-58
1/3@Ohio St48L76-72
1/6@Iowa58L86-77
1/9Indiana83W66-57
1/14@Michigan St28L73-55
1/17Nebraska25W87-82
1/21@Illinois8L86-63
1/28Purdue2L68-60
1/31Penn St85L61-46
2/3@Michigan132W69-59
2/6@Maryland66W56-53
2/10Wisconsin19W78-56
2/15Northwestern33W63-60
2/18@Minnesota91L81-70
2/22@Purdue2L96-68
2/25Maryland66L63-46
2/29Michigan132W82-52
3/3@Nebraska25L67-56
3/7@Wisconsin19L78-66
3/10Ohio St48L73-51
3/13(N)Maryland66L65-51