Rutgers vs. Washington Prediction and Game Preview

1. Washington’s Firepower on Offense
Fisch inherited a Washington offense in rebuilding mode last offseason, so it was no surprise this unit averaged only 23.4 points a game in ‘24. However, Fisch’s has quickly retooled the Huskies’ attack to be one of the best in the conference. Through five games, Washington is fifth in the Big Ten in scoring (39.4 points a game) and sixth in yards per play (6.7).

Quarterback Demond Williams is the driving force behind the production. In his first year as the team’s No. 1 signal-caller, Williams has flashed his dynamic, dual-threat potential with 1,226 passing yards and eight touchdowns and 246 yards and two scores on the ground. The sophomore ranks second in the Big Ten in total offense (294.4).

In addition to Williams, running back Jonah Coleman is third in the conference (94.8 yards a game), and receiver Denzel Boston (25 catches for 346 yards) is one of the best in the Big Ten. 

The trio of Williams, Coleman, and Boston is a tough matchup for a Rutgers’ defense that ranks 17th in the Big Ten in yards per play allowed (6.4) and is No. 127 nationally in success rate. 

2. Don’t Overlook Rutgers’ Offense
Although Rutgers will have its hands full trying to slow down Washington’s offense, the Scarlet Knights are also bringing their share of firepower to Seattle. Behind quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis, Schiano’s offense is averaging 39 points a game and ranks No. 17 nationally in success rate.

Kaliakmanis quietly ranks second among Big Ten signal-callers in passing yards a game (279.8) and has tossed nine scores to just two picks. KJ Duff (30 catches for 420 yards) has been Kaliakmanis’ top target, but Ian Strong (413 yards) and DT Sheffield (20 catches) will see plenty of opportunities against a Washington secondary that allowed each of their last three opponents to complete at least 60 percent of their throws.

Washington’s defense hasn’t faced a gauntlet of rushing attacks, but this unit is holding up (2.93 yards a carry) against the run so far. Rutgers can challenge that group with Antwan Raymond (471 yards) and Ja’shon Benjamin (106 yards). 

3. Which Defense Will Get Timely Stops?
With an over/under near 60 and two offenses averaging over 30 points a game, these two teams will produce plenty of fireworks on the scoreboard. Considering the weapons and quarterback play both teams have displayed so far in ‘25, a couple of timely stops could be the difference in this game. If that holds true, Washington should have an edge.

The Huskies are holding teams to 4.6 yards a snap and No. 56 nationally in success rate. Also, coordinator Ryan Walters’ group isn’t giving up big plays, with just one allowed of 40-plus yards. On the other sideline, Schiano’s defense is clearly a work in progress. Rutgers has been vulnerable on the ground and through the air and has allowed 28 points to back-to-back Big Ten opponents (Iowa and Minnesota). In four games against FBS competition, the Scarlet Knights allowed at least six yards per play in each of those matchups. 

Final Score Prediction: Washington 34, Rutgers 24

Even though Rutgers is coming off a bye week, the East Coast to Seattle trek is not going to be easy. Expect the Scarlet Knights to move the ball behind Kaliakmanis, but Washington can match that firepower (and then some) with Williams and Coleman. The homefield edge, along with the dynamic play of Williams, is the difference on Friday night.

ATS: Rutgers +10.5
Over/Under: Under 59.5