Pac-12 Predictions: Week 2 picks against the spread

Sep 5, 2015; Pullman, WA, USA; Washington State Cougars quarterback Luke Falk (4) takes the snap during a game against the Portland State Vikings during the first half at Martin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports

Washington State Cougars At Rutgers Scarlet Knights

Piscataway, New Jersey

The Line: Washington State +5.5

An awful loss to Portland State in week one means that the Cougars are in for another long season. Meanwhile, Rutgers shook off several off the field incidents to pound Norfolk State in their opener, 63-13. Given that, it is hard to understand why Rutgers is only getting five points. Did the odds makers just assume that Washington State won without actually checking? A bigger wonder is whether anyone will actually check in on this game, starting at 11:30AM Saturday on ESPNU.

Keys To The Game:

Rutgers gave up minus-three yards rushing to Norfolk State on 23 carries, but thankfully for the Cougars, they do not put much emphasis on running the ball. Which brings up one of the big reasons why the Cougars lost their openers. A driving rain storm made passing difficult for both teams, but this affected Washington State more than their foes.

Still, the Cougars outgained their opponent 411 yards to just 294, so the loss was not as bad once you dig into the numbers. Look for the Cougars to ramp up their Air Raid offense against a stout Rutgers front seven. On the other side of the ball, the Scarlet Knights ran all over Norfolk State, and given the Cougars dismal run defense in their opener, expect the same this week.

Prediction:

Five points are not nearly enough to take the Cougars in an east coast road game. The match-ups favor Rutgers and while Washington State will be able to move the ball and score some points, this program just has an inability to get over the hump and actually win an important game. Look for a close first half followed by the Scarlet Knights running up the score late. Final tally? Washington State 24, Rutgers 45.

Next: Arizona At Nevada