Wake Forest vs. Rutgers Updated Odds and Prediction: TaxSlayer Gator Bowl

After No. 17 Wake Forest was set to take on mighty Texas A&M, the Aggies had to bow out due to several players battling COVID-19. In comes Rutgers, a 5-7 squad that was first up to get the call for the TaxSlayer Gator Bowl in Jacksonville.

While not the matchup the Demon Deacons were initially looking for, will they still get up for a late morning bowl game? Or can Rutgers, after only nine days of preparation, come out and continue the run of success for the Big Ten in bowl games this year?

Let's break down the matchup and get a check of the odds over at WynnBET Sportsbook.

Wake Forest vs. Rutgers Updated Spread, Odds and Over/Under

Note: Rutgers games are not available to bet in the state of New Jersey

Spread: 

• Wake Forest: -17 (-110)
• Rutgers: +17 (-110)

Moneyline: 

• Wake Forest: -800
• Rutgers: +550

Total:

• 62.5 (Over: -110/Under: -110)

Wake Forest vs. Rutgers Prediction and Pick

Initially, I was on Rutgers, as Greg Schiano's team played a daunting schedule in the Big Ten, hanging in several games before the better teams eventually took over (think of their 20-13 loss at Michigan). However, with the late move from Wake Forest -15 to -17, I can't in good conscience stay on that side, even with more perceived value on the Scarlet Knights.

Wake Forest's offense led by head coach Dave Clawson is lethal, ranking fifth-best in college football in points per game with 41.2. While Schiano is known for being a defensive-minded head coach, Rutgers has given up a 50-burger twice this season to Ohio State and Wisconsin; both at home.

While the ACC had a down year, Wake quarterback Sam Hartman was outstanding, particularly with his ability to stretch the field. The sophomore quarterback from Charlotte finished eighth in the country in passing yards (3,924), and tied for 6th in touchdowns with 36.

I think the Scarlet Knights, despite their inconsistencies on offense will still score on Wake Forest who rank 99th in total defense and allow 424 YPG. I KNOW, Wake Forest can score on anybody, so even if Rutgers comes to play, it's going to be an almost impossible task to shut down the Demon Deacon's passing attack.

Rather than side with either team, I'll lean on the over instead, especially with a fast start predicted.

PICK: OVER 62.5