Bodog Beat

It’s a tale of two seasons. (Wikimedia Images)

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights started the year with five straight FBS losses, then went on a 5-0 tear (4-1 ATS) to sit at 6-5 SU and 6-4 ATS on the season. A victory Thursday night over the slumping Louisville Cardinals (5-6 SU, 4-6 ATS) would lock down a bowl invitation for Rutgers. The Cards, 0-4 SU and ATS in November, also need a win to get into the postseason.

ESPN has this Big East battle at 7:30 p.m. Eastern; we’ll have live betting on tap for our customers. Rutgers is a 10.5-point home chalk (-105) and a very popular pick among the betting public. Coach Mike Teel has successfully made the transition from last year’s run-based approach with Ray Rice to a strong passing attack. Louisville’s offense is No. 58 in the nation at 5.4 yards per play, half-a-yard less than the Knights.