Here's what you need to know about Northwestern at Rutgers.
Northwestern is in a post-season spiral after a devastating loss to Michigan State, leading in the first half but collapsing in the second.
There’s no secret that the Wildcats couldn’t finish the game strong, a trend that has plagued the program since the start of this campaign in November. Behind the lapses was a lack of defensive awareness and the ability to target every elite opponent’s main scorers. Additionally, underwhelming rebounding contributed largely to those losses.
Rutgers is also having a tough stretch this season with an 8-8 record (1-4 in conference). Despite surviving an overtime battle with Oregon, the Scarlet Knights faced a reality check from Illinois in an 81-55 loss. This season has been a year of transition for Steve Pikiell's program following the departure of high-profile stars like Dylan Harper and Ace Bailey to the NBA. With ten newcomers on the roster, the team has struggled to find a steady rhythm, especially on the road.
But a few players from the opponent side that the ‘Cats should notice. Guard Tariq Francis, averaging 14.4 points and 2.3 boards, became the team's primary scoring threat and the focal point of the offense; their wing, Dylan Grant, also serves as a secondary scorer who provides versatility. The Scarlet Knights currently rank 4th in the Big Ten in bench points (27.8 PPG), suggesting that depth is one of their strengths.
Per KenPom, Northwestern currently ranks 56th nationally while Rutgers places 160th. The odds on KenPom say Northwestern has a 67% chance to win against Rutgers. The Wildcats look to bounce back from their two-game skid and seek their first Big Ten win.
How to Watch
Northwestern Wildcats (8-7, 0-4 Big Ten) @ Rutgers Scarlet Knights (8-8, 1-4 Big Ten)
Location: Jersey Mike’s Arena | Piscataway, New Jersey
Tipoff: Sunday, Jan. 11, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. CT
TV: Peacock | Announcers: Mike Corey, Tre Demps
Radio: WGN AM 720 | Announcers: Dave Eanet, Billy McKinney
Line: Northwestern -4.5
Over/Under: 144.5
Injury Report
Northwestern:
- Cade Bennerman: Out
Rutgers:
- Dorian Jones: Out
- Dylan Grant: Questionable
Last Game Starters
Northwestern at Michigan State (Jan. 8)
- G Jayden Reid
- G Jordan Clayton
- G Justin Mullins
- F Tre Singleton
- F Nick Martinelli
Rutgers at Illinois (Jan. 8)
- G Harun Zrno
- G Jamichael Davis
- G Kaden Powers
- F Dylan Grant
- C Emmanuel Ogbole