Illinois Fighting Illini (17-5) vs. Michigan State Spartans (14-9)
Illinois Fighting Illini and Michigan State Spartans will engage in an exciting men’s NCAA Basketball matchup on Saturday. Both teams boast impressive records with 17-5 and 14-9 records respectively and provide plenty of entertainment for college basketball enthusiasts alike – fans looking for NCAAB picks and predictions will have much to consider as both squads prepare to battle it out on the court!
The Illinois Fighting Illini come into this one with a strong offense, averaging over 82.5 points per game. They are led by guard Terrence Shannon Jr who is scoring 20 points along with 4 rebounds and 2.5 assists per contest. The Illini are shooting the ball well from the field at 46% and are solid from downtown at almost 34%. Their offensive efficiency has led them to score over 70 points in every game this season.
The Michigan State Spartans have a balanced attack with four players averaging double figures in scoring. Guard Tyson Walker leads the way with 19 points to go along with 3 assists and 2 steals. As a team, Michigan State is scoring 74.5 points while shooting 47% from the field and 37% from three-point range. They excel at distributing the basketball and crash the boards well.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Michigan State Spartans Game Info
| When: | Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 2:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Jack Breslin Student Events Center |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Terrence Shannon Jr. (Guard) vs. Tyson Walker (Guard)
Terrence Shannon Jr. has put together an impressive season for the Fighting Illini, averaging 20 points, 4.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. The versatile guard is shooting nearly 47% from the field along with making over 1 three pointer a game at a 35% clip. Shannon’s offensive production has been vital for an Illinois team that scores over 82 points per contest. However, his high usage also leads to 2.3 turnovers per outing.
On the other side, Tyson Walker serves as the catalyst for the Spartans’ offensive attack. The quick guard is scoring 19 points per game on highly efficient 46.5% shooting. Walker also contributes 3 assists and 2 steals each time he takes the floor. His ability to push tempo and create for others makes the Spartans go. However, at just 6-1, 170 pounds, Walker can struggle on the defensive end, especially against bigger guards.
This matchup pits Shannon’s pure scoring ability against Walker’s playmaking and shooting. Shannon has a size advantage he will look to exploit in the post and attacking the rim. But Walker is crafty at using screens to free himself for jumpers. If Shannon gets into foul trouble, it could swing things in Walker’s favor to dictate the action. But if Walker struggles defensively, Shannon could have a field day. This individual battle could go a long way in deciding Saturday’s game.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting odds and spreads for this matchup are yet to be determined, bettors will need to keep a close eye on updates leading up to the game. Given the teams’ performances and trends, insights and recommendations will hinge on how oddsmakers view the matchup’s dynamics.
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Trends
The Fighting Illini have been strong against the spread recently, going 4-1 ATS in their last 5 matchups. This shows they are covering margins with ease. However, in their previous 5 contests, Illinois is just 2-3 ATS which indicates some inconsistency. The Illini have been road warriors against the number, compiling a 6-1 ATS record away from home. The over has hit in 4 of Illinois’ last 5 games as well.
Michigan State Spartans Betting Trends
Michigan State has gone 3-2 straight up and ATS in their last 5 contests coming into Saturday’s battle. This shows they have played tight games with small margins. However, the Spartans have struggled against the number at home, posting a woeful 1-6 ATS record in East Lansing. The under has hit in 4 of MSU’s previous 5 outings with them failing to reach lofty totals set by the oddsmakers. And in their last 6 meetings at home versus Illinois, the Spartans are just 1-5 straight up.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Michigan State Spartans 2/10/24 Betting Picks
Considering the statistical analysis and betting trends, this game presents a compelling matchup with Illinois showing slight superiority in scoring and road game performance. Michigan State’s home advantage and efficiency in field goal percentage make them a formidable opponent, leading to a closely contested game.
Given the trends, the pick leans towards a high-scoring affair, favoring Illinois due to their offensive capabilities and strong road ATS record. However, the dynamics of college basketball can always introduce unexpected variables.
Bettors should consider this matchup closely for potential prop bets and the over/under, keeping an eye out for the best online betting opportunities as the game approaches.
