New Jersey Star Ledger
Steve Politi: Here's the problem as I see it with the change to Gio Rescigno at quarterback. Yes, he provided the Scarlet Knights with a spark in leading them to a rare touchdown in the 24-7 loss to Illinois. But will he be able to avoid the mistakes -- turnovers, misreads, killer sacks, etc. -- that Rutgers will need to win a Big Ten road game? Probably not.
Minnesota running back Rodney Smith, meanwhile, had 144 yards and two touchdowns against Maryland. He'll be tough to stop. Minnesota 41, Rutgers 10
Keith Sargeant: If you simply look at common opponents, it gives Rutgers a glimmer of hope. Like Rutgers, Minnesota lost at home to Iowa by an identical 14-7 score earlier this month. But unlike the reeling Scarlet Knights, the Gophers come in rolling, having thumped Maryland, 31-10, on the road.
Minnesota is strong up front, allowing the fourth fewest rushing yards in the Big Ten and the third fewest sacks among conference teams. I expect Rutgers to struggle in this one much like it did against those physically imposing Wisconsin teams the past two years. Wisconsin combined to outscore Rutgers, 85-10, the past two seasons so ... Minnesota 42, Rutgers 5
Ryan Dunleavy: Rutgers has scored a total of 14 points in four Big Ten games, which is a bigger problem than can be solved with just a quarterback change.
For Rutgers to be more dangerous with Gio Rescigno leading the way, more production is needed out out of running backs Robert Martin and Josh Hicks and wide receiver Andre Patton. Hicks hasn't had a carry in three games, while Patton showed signs of life with five catches for 90 yards against Illinois.
The Scarlet Knights crossed midfield on seven drives against Illinois and managed seven total points. Offensive coordinator Drew Mehringer has tried aggressive and conservative, conventional and trickery, but the players need to demonstrate better ball security. Showing more faith in kicker David Bonagura's range isn't a bad idea, either. Minnesota 31, Rutgers 10
Here's a look at the prediction standings:
1. Politi: 7-0
T2. Dunleavy 6-1
T2. Sargeant 6-1