Can Zach Edey and Co Bounce Back? Purdue Boilermakers vs Rutgers Scarlet Knights – Players To Watch Out For, Head-to-Head and Prediction

The Mackey Arena will witness Purdue in action on Thursday evening. The Boilermakers will take on the Rutgers Scarlet Knights in their next Big Ten Conference game in pursuit of their 24th win overall. After facing a shocking upset in their previous encounter against Ohio State, Zach Edey and Co. will look to get back to winning ways on their home turf.

As for the Scarlet Knights, they wouldn’t want to miss the opportunity to take down this NCAA heavyweight. Who are the players from both sides that can headline tomorrow’s game? Let’s find out!

Showmen of the Night

Rutgers has a fair idea that their opponents will be relying heavily on their towering giant Zach Edey. The senior center has been the standout athlete for the home team displaying exemplary skill on the hardwood. He is currently averaging 23.2 points along with 11.9 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per contest. Moreover, the talented No.55 Lance Jones is in no way any less in making an impact. The 6′ 1″ guard maintains an average of 12.8 points per game and has a field goal percentage of 42. Purdue fans can also expect some fireworks from Braden Smith. He is the top distributor in the team with an assist rate of 7.2 per game.

Meanwhile, the Scarlet Knights appear to be a formidable defensive team. With a team average blocks at 5.5 per game along with 7.4 steals, they are more than capable of handling any offensive onslaught. However, Jeremiah Williams does provide them with adequate offensive representation by getting 13.2 points per contest. Also, Clifford Omoruyi can also trouble Purdue’s defenses. His 25 games have resulted in an average of 11.2 points along with 9 rebounds and 3.3 blocks per game.

Read More: Zach Edey’s No. 1 Purdue Boilermakers Collapse to Nebraska Cornhuskers in an Unexpected Upset

After looking at these individuals, the important thing to compare now is how good their collective efforts are on the court.

What do the numbers say about both teams?

There is no denying that Purdue qualifies to be an offensive powerhouse in the NCAA. Their ability to score 84.4 points per game paces them at the 10th position in the league. In addition to this, a 41.2 rebound rate ranks them 8th while an impressive 18.2 assists per game are the 7th best figures. Meanwhile, Rutgers is scoring way below Purdue and can only manage 66.9 points per game. They rank 77th as they’re currently grabbing 38.4 rebounds per game.

While the fans will be expecting a one-sided fixture, head coach Matt Painter will not mistake to take the visitors lightly. Regardless of the favorable home conditions, the Boilermakers will have to bring their A-game. On the other hand, the Scarlet Knights will be aware of Purdue’s previous result and will try to cause an upset.

Can Purdue overcome their defeat in this game? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section.