Syracuse still the selection in latest sports betting lines over Rutgers

A perusal of sports betting lines indicate the Syracuse Orange should be the point’s favorite against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights as preparation time for the two Big East teams dwindles in anticipation of their Saturday afternoon contest in the Carrier Dome in Syracuse.

Rutgers (13-12, 4-9 Big East) at #20 Syracuse (21-6, 8-6 Big East)

Date/Time: Saturday, February 19, 2011, 4:00 PM EST

[Off topic: by the way, do you want to get a 55% bonus on your first deposit here at BetOnline? Find out more exciting details HERE.]

Venue: The Carrier Dome in Syracuse, NY.

Broadcast: ESPN3

Money Line: OFF

Spread: OFF

Over/Under: OFF

The Syracuse Orange have been one of the most decorated programs in the rough-and-tumble Big East Conference in the league’s 30-plus year history. To watch Jim Boeheim’s team get off to an 18-0 start that included solid wins against Michigan State, Notre Dame, and Cincinnati, many began thinking this club could join the 2003 squad as Boeheim’s second national title winner.

Then the bottom seemed to drop out for the Orange, as they have struggled in league play. With just a 3-6 record in their last nine games, and only three more contests before the Big East Tournament, there is a sense of urgency for the Syracuse squad.

Syracuse has seen a recent mini resurgence with three wins in their last five contests, and they seem at the very least a safe bet to be selected for the NCAA Betting Tournament, especially with an RPI in the low 20’s entering the weekend.

The Orange has four players averaging double digits in points per contest, led by Montreal native Kris Joseph and his 14.8 points per game.

Still, when considering the sports betting lines for this game, it’s important to understand that Syracuse may be a lock at home, but not at home against the spread. The Orange may have a 16-3 mark in games played in their northwestern New York campus home, but are just 7-10 in home games against the spread.

The Scarlet Knights have had seven days off after an emotional roller coast ride in the previous two contests played over three nights in New Jersey. They grabbed an improbable upset victory over tenth ranked Villanova 77-76, thanks to the famous ‘four point play’ scored by leading scorer Jonathan Mitchell. Two days later though, they were knocked off at home by in state rival Seton Hall 69-64.

So when considering the sports betting lines, you might be tempted to select the more desperate Rutgers squad, knowing that they need to win out to ensure a shot at playing in the Big East Tournament. However, it’s hard to pick against the Orange in the Carrier Dome, so will back the Orangemen in this bout.

Check out the latest basketball game lines in the sportsbook, click here!