Rutgers improved to 2-0 on Saturday with a win over Temple and will now have a chance to win its first three games by hosting Virginia Tech this weekend.

The Scarlet Knights turned in a strong defensive performance and a big fourth quarter to take control against the Owls. It was a 36-7 final, hitting the under and covering the spread once again.

This is a battle between two former Big East foes. Rutgers has not had an advantage in this battle but the tides could be turning. The Scarlet Knights are currently a 6.5-point favorite, according to Fanduel, and the total is 39.5.

Below, check out some of the trends surrounding this game and the smart way togo when looking for a bet.

POINT TOTAL

These teams have played four games combined and three of them have gone under. Both Rutgers and Virginia Tech have not been lighting up the scoreboard but that might change here.

The Scarlet Knights were a bit stagnant against Temple before scoring 23 points in the fourth quarter. Many of which were set up by turnovers created by the defense. Gavin Wimsatt has looked comfortable in Kirk Ciarrocca’s offense, which is beneficial for Rutgers moving forward.

For Virginia Tech, it has struggled to find a consistent rushing attack. Against Purdue. the Hokies were held to just 17 points and 12 yards rushing.

The total is set extremely low in this matchup. Typically, that bodes well for the under. Let’s not forget that we do not know more than the oddsmakers. In this one, it is difficult to predict. If you are looking to take something in the total, it is hard to feel confident either way. This seems like a spot to stay away.

SPREAD

Rutgers is not a touchdown favorite in each of its first three games. This seems like an anomaly, especially against teams like Northwestern and Virginia Tech, but here we are. The Scarlet Knights will look to take advantage of programs that are a bit down at the moment.

With that being said, seven points still seems like a lot.

Rutgers has the chance to win this game by double-digits, especially on its home field, but it still seems like a lot to rely on. When looking at the matchup, there is plenty to like regarding Rutgers.

The Scarlet Knights have dominated on defense over the first two weeks. They have allowed just 14 points combined and holding opponents under 40 rushing yards per game. The Hokies have struggled to run the ball and it will be difficult to get it going against a talented front for Rutgers.

Even with all of that, Rutgers as a seven-point favorite in this one seems like a risk. This is not to say that it won’t hit but proceed with caution.

BONUS: FIRST HALF

The bonus section is here because it seems hard to trust both the total or spread in this one. So, what should you do? Take a look at first half lines.

Once again, the total is low, set at 20.5. As for the spread, Rutgers is a three-point favorite. This is an interesting line because the Scarlet Knights can jump on the Hokies early and carry a lead into halftime.

Jai Patel was named Big Ten Special Teams Player of the Week after going 3-for-3 on his field goal attempts against Temple. This includes a 51-yard field goal, which was the seventh-longest in program history. He can be an asset in terms of this number.

If you do not feel comfortable taking the game, dabble on the first half times to get some value.