USC Trojans (22-11 Last Season) vs. Kansas State Wildcats (26-10 Last Season)
As the new season begins, NCAA basketball fans and bettors alike are anticipating an explosive matchup between USC Trojans and Kansas State Wildcats at T-Mobile Arena on November 6th. Both teams boast impressive last-season records that has fans excited for what is to come; making this matchup ideal for NCAAB picks and predictions as it promises a mixture of high-octane offense and solid defense with each side looking to assert themselves early in the season.
USC Trojans hope to build upon last season’s respectable 22-11 record and kickoff this campaign with success. They showed impressive team play with an average 72.5 point per game output and 45.5 field goal percentage, as well as being adept from free throw line with 74.5% accuracy rate and consistently in the paint with 35.3 rebounds per game grabbed per game. Yet their assist-to-turnover ratio from last season and less-than-stellar against-the-spread (ATS) record could suggest potential areas of weakness in this season’s start.
Kansas State Wildcats boasted an impressive 26-10 record prior to this matchup and appear to have an edge statistically, particularly when it comes to scoring where they averaged 76.2 points per game and had an impressive 8 steals per game rate which may thwart Trojans’ offensive schemes. Furthermore, they held their own in terms of shooting efficiency with an even higher field goal percentage (46.1% vs 46%).
USC Trojans vs. Kansas State Wildcats Game Info
| When: | Monday, November 6, 2023 at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | T-Mobile Arena |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Boogie Ellis (Guard) vs. Markquis Nowell (Guard)
Boogie Ellis, guard for the Trojans, had an exceptional season averaging 17.7 points per game over all 33 contests and appearing in all 33 matches. Additionally, his contributions extended beyond scoring; with impressive averages in rebounds, assists and steals. Ellis proved an effective dual threat at both free-throw line (80.5%) and beyond the arc (38.6%). Unfortunately his turnover rate of 1.9 per game could prove problematic against teams such as Kansas State that thrive off taking advantage of such mistakes.
Markquis Nowell stands as a key leader for the Wildcats. Although playing more minutes on average than Ellis, Nowell notched similar scoring but stood out with an outstanding 8.3 assists and 2.6 steals per game in 2016. Nowell excelled with orchestrating offense as his free-throw accuracy (88.9%) made an impactful statement against their opposition; however his field goal percentage and higher turnover rate could provide Trojans an opening.
When these two guards face off on the court, their battle for control and momentum will be riveting to watch. Ellis’ scoring ability versus Nowell’s playmaking and defensive prowess should make for a fascinating duel to watch, one which could impact each team dynamic as well as shape the course of the game itself.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: USC Trojans -3 (-110), Total Odds: 225
USC Trojans’ point spread has been set at -3 to signify they enter as favorites and require winning by more than three points to cover it, signaling oddsmakers’ trust in their ability to outclass Kansas State despite previous struggles against Big 12 teams. Total odds have been set at 225 suggesting both teams could likely play fast-paced, offensively driven matches where defense may take a backseat, making for an intriguing proposition for bettors who prefer high scoring affairs.
USC Trojans Betting Trends
Bettors will likely take note of the Trojans’ struggles against the spread (ATS), particularly in recent matches, which will be of particular concern to them. Their record against Big 12 teams looms large over them; however, their strong performance during November games and Monday appearances is an encouraging sign for their fans.
Kansas State Wildcats Betting Trends
Kansas State’s betting trends reveal a more reliable team against both the spread and in straight-up scenarios than their Trojan rivals historically. Their last 10 games saw them go 7-3 against the spread; moreover, 6 of Kansas State’s last 7 total points games went over, giving betting enthusiasts plenty of information for total point market decisions.
USC Trojans vs. Kansas State Wildcats 11/6/23 Betting Picks
Analyzing both teams’ stats and betting trends, this game appears destined to be close. Kansas State’s outstanding ATS performance and consistency on Mondays combined with home court advantage suggest they might emerge as favorites in this matchup; The Trojans struggle against Big 12 competition while November success offers promise of their own.
When it comes to picking a victor in this matchup, the Wildcats’ recent performance and home court advantage make them a top pick, particularly with points. Prop bettors might consider placing wagers on over/under total points due to both teams’ offensive capabilities; additionally, playing on neutral court could result in less defensive action compared to its traditional venue of Kentucky Arena. For those interested in placing bets, top betting sites likely offer several wagering options for this contest.
Free Pick and Prediction: Kansas State Wildcats 75, USC Trojans 70
