As the 2025 college football season surges into its decisive November stretch, the Ohio State Buckeyes are preparing for a crucial Big Ten matchup against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights on Saturday, November 22, 2025. With postseason implications hanging in the balance for both programs, this showdown promises to deliver intensity, intrigue, and classic Big Ten drama.

Whether you’re watching from Columbus, New Jersey, or anywhere across the country, here is your complete guide to how to watch the game, along with a full matchup preview, key storylines, and everything fans need to know before kickoff.

Game Details

• Matchup: Ohio State Buckeyes vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights

• Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025

• Kickoff Time: 12:00 PM ET

• Location: SHI Stadium, Piscataway, New Jersey

• TV Channel: Big Ten Network (BTN) – National Broadcast

• Streaming Platforms: BTN+, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV

• Radio: Ohio State Radio Network, Rutgers Radio Network

• Live Game Stats: Available through both schools’ athletics websites

Fans with cable or satellite packages can tune in via BTN, while cord-cutters can stream the game through several major platforms. The BTN app will also provide real-time highlights, sideline updates, and condensed replays.

A High-Stakes November Battle

For Ohio State, every game in November matters. The Buckeyes enter this matchup with their eyes firmly set on postseason positioning—whether that means fighting for the Big Ten Championship Game, a New Year’s Six bowl, or positioning within the expanded College Football Playoff.

Rutgers, meanwhile, continues its climb under its revitalized coaching staff. The Scarlet Knights have adopted a more physical identity, showing the kind of resilience that keeps them competitive, especially at home. A statement win over Ohio State would mark one of the most significant victories in program history.

Both teams know what’s at stake.

Ohio State: Looking to Finish Strong

Offensive Outlook

Ohio State’s offense has been finding rhythm throughout the second half of the season. Despite injuries, personnel shifts, and adapting to emerging playmakers, the Buckeyes remain one of the most explosive teams in the Big Ten.

Key offensive components include:

• Quarterback Play: Ohio State’s quarterback room continues to be a focal point of national conversation. Consistency, decision-making, and explosive-play capability will be essential against Rutgers’ aggressive defensive looks.

• Running Game: With depth at running back and one of the most athletic offensive lines in the conference, the Buckeyes will aim to control tempo through a physical ground attack.

• Receivers: As always, Ohio State’s receiving corps features elite speed and technical precision—an ongoing matchup nightmare for opposing defenses.

Defensive Outlook

Defensively, the Buckeyes remain one of the most disciplined and physical units in the Big Ten. Their front seven excels at collapsing pockets, while the secondary has shown improvement in both coverage and communication.

Key defensive players to watch include:

• Edge Rushers: Ohio State’s pass rush will challenge Rutgers’ offensive line, seeking consistent pressure.

• Linebackers: Smart, athletic, and disciplined—this group plays a pivotal role in limiting Rutgers’ run game.

• Secondary: Facing a Rutgers offense built on methodical gains, Ohio State’s defensive backs must maintain discipline and limit yards after catch.

  

Rutgers: Building Momentum, Seeking Validation

The Scarlet Knights have been steadily rebuilding their identity as a tough, run-first, defensively gritty program. In Piscataway, the energy surrounding this team is different—stronger, bolder, more confident.

Offensive Game Plan

Rutgers’ offense is centered around physicality and possession:

• Quarterback: Efficient, mobile, and capable of extending plays. Rutgers does not depend on deep shots but will occasionally test the Buckeyes’ safeties.

• Running Backs: Expect a heavy workload. Rutgers aims to wear down defense with sustained drives.

• Receivers: A reliable group that focuses on timing, slants, and high-percentage completions.

The key for Rutgers: avoid third-and-long situations at all costs.

Defensive Strategy

Rutgers’ defensive identity has been built on toughness and resilience.

• Defensive Line: Their interior is strong, capable of plugging gaps and disrupting run lanes.

• Linebackers: A talented unit with speed, tasked with containing Ohio State’s playmakers.

• Secondary: The Scarlet Knights must prevent explosive plays—a major challenge against Ohio State’s receivers.

Key Matchups That Will Define the Game

1. Ohio State’s Receivers vs. Rutgers’ Secondary

Rutgers cannot afford blown coverages. The Buckeyes thrive on big plays, and this matchup could swing momentum early.

2. Rutgers’ Rushing Attack vs. Ohio State’s Front Seven

If Rutgers establishes physical control at the line of scrimmage, they can slow the game, limit possessions, and create pressure.

3. Ohio State QB vs. Rutgers Pressure Packages

Rutgers’ defensive scheme is known for blitz variation. How Ohio State handles disguised pressure will be crucial.

4. Special Teams Impact

A field-position game is likely early. Punt returns, kick coverage, and field goal execution may prove critical.

Atmosphere at SHI Stadium

Rutgers fans have historically circled Ohio State’s visit as one of the biggest events of the season. With a noon kickoff and postseason stakes on both sides, SHI Stadium is expected to be full, loud, and intense.

Ohio State will need to quiet the crowd early. Rutgers will try to harness that energy.

Storylines to Watch

• Can Ohio State maintain November momentum?

The Buckeyes are known for closing seasons strong. This matchup will reveal whether they can continue that trend.

• Can Rutgers pull off a program-defining upset?

Beating Ohio State would instantly become one of the biggest wins in Scarlet Knights history.

• Emerging stars on both rosters

With depth tested across the conference, new faces may step into larger roles.

Prediction

Ohio State enters as the clear favorite, but Rutgers has shown the ability to frustrate opponents at home. Expect a physical, competitive game in the first half, with Ohio State’s depth and explosiveness eventually pulling away.

Projected Score:

Ohio State 34, Rutgers 17

A two-score win that reflects effort on both sides — and keeps the Buckeyes firmly in the postseason hunt.