Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs USC Trojans Picks and Predictions for Saturday January 31, 2026

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights travel west to Los Angeles to take on the USC Trojans on Saturday, January 31, 2026, in a Big Ten Conference matchup at the Galen Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET, and the game will be streamed on Peacock. USC enters the contest as a heavy home favorite, laying 13.5 points on the spread, while the total for the game is set at 145.5 points. At the time of this writing, the moneyline odds for this matchup were not released. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more expert college basketball predictions and betting insights.

Scarlet Knights Struggling to Find Offensive Consistency

Rutgers comes into this matchup with a 9-12 overall record and has endured a difficult stretch of conference play, particularly away from home. The Scarlet Knights have struggled to generate consistent offense and have had trouble closing games against quality opponents. Over their last five games, Rutgers has recently lost to Michigan State, Indiana, Iowa, and Wisconsin, with their lone win coming in overtime against Northwestern. That stretch highlights ongoing offensive challenges and defensive fatigue late in games.

From a statistical standpoint, Rutgers averages just 70.1 points per game while allowing 75.1, often forcing them to play from behind. The Scarlet Knights shoot 41% from the field and average 34.7 rebounds per contest, numbers that make it difficult to control tempo or dominate inside. Their assist total sits at just 10.7 per game, reflecting an offense that struggles with ball movement and shot creation.

Defensively, Rutgers shows some resistance around the rim, averaging 3.6 blocks per game, but perimeter defense has been an issue. The Scarlet Knights average 6.3 steals per contest, though those takeaways have not consistently translated into easy scoring opportunities. Against a USC team that thrives on athleticism and interior scoring, Rutgers’ margin for error is extremely small.

Trojans Looking to Take Care of Business at Home

USC enters Saturday’s matchup with a 15-6 overall record and has been competitive throughout Big Ten play, especially on their home floor. The Trojans have relied on balance and athleticism to wear down opponents in Los Angeles. Over their last five games, USC has recently defeated Wisconsin and Maryland, while suffering losses to Iowa, Northwestern, and Purdue. Despite those setbacks, USC remains a strong home team with multiple scoring options.

Offensively, USC averages 81.6 points per game while allowing 75.3, showing a team comfortable playing at a moderate-to-fast pace. The Trojans shoot 47% from the field and average 37.4 rebounds per game, giving them a clear edge on the glass in this matchup. Their assist numbers sit at 15.6 per contest, reflecting an offense that shares the ball and creates high-percentage looks.

Defensively, USC’s interior presence stands out, as the Trojans average 5.6 blocks per game. That rim protection, combined with solid on-ball defense, makes them difficult to score against at home. Against a Rutgers team that struggles offensively, USC’s ability to contest shots and control rebounds should allow them to dictate the flow of the game.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs USC Trojans Pick

Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs USC Trojans Spread Pick

• USC Trojans -13.5

USC has clear advantages in offensive efficiency, rebounding, and overall depth in this matchup. Rutgers has struggled mightily on the road and lacks the scoring consistency needed to keep pace with USC for a full forty minutes. If the Trojans establish control early and dominate the glass, they should be able to pull away and cover the double-digit spread.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights vs USC Trojans Total Pick

• Under 145.5

I’m backing the under in this matchup because Rutgers’ offensive limitations make it difficult for them to contribute consistently to a higher total. USC is capable of scoring, but they are also comfortable slowing the game down once they build a lead. If Rutgers struggles to reach its season average, this total is more likely to stay under.