Rutgers at Louisville

This has been a very disappointing season for Louisville. What was thought to be National Champion contender has fallen far below expectations. Rutgers is probably right where they should be, although expectations off of last year's success may dilute what they have done so far. Ray Rice is amongst the best backs in the country and Rutgers will be trying to run a lot to keep the potent Louisville offense off the field. There is another reason however, and that is QB Teel. Teel left the game vs Pittsburgh early because of a nagging thumb injury, only to return late. His backup Jabu Lovelace has been unable to move the team all year. He is just 7-23 and 69 yards. If Teel is ineffective, or takes a hit on his nagging thumb, Rutgers will be in big trouble. Louisville's offense produced 40.7 ppg over the first six games and many thought this offense would be unstoppable. The problem is the Big East is loaded with good pass defense teams, and it has really shown, as Louisville has produced just 22.3 ppg vs W. Virginia (16th ranked pass defense), Uconn (14th), S. Florida (42nd) and Pitt (6th). Rutgers brings in the #2 ranked pass defense, and we don't see Louisville putting up more than 30 here. Rutgers, with an ailing Mike Teel, will not have as easy going as you might think. We like the UNDER here, as the public sees this Louisville offense exploding. We see a different picture.