USC Recap

The USC Trojans come into this game looking to bounce back from a 69-66 loss at the hands of Minnesota last time out to sit at 14-11 on the year. After this game, USC will head on the road to take on Rutgers.

Trojans Can’t Find Their Footing

Desmond Claude leads USC in scoring and assists with 16 PPG and 4.4 APG along with 3.7 RPG while Chibuzo Agbo has 12.1 PPG with 4.6 RPG. Wesley Yates III has 12.8 PPG while Saint Thomas has 10 PPG with a team-high 6.1 RPG to lead the Trojans on the glass so far this season. Josh Cohen also has 7 PPG with 2.5 RPG while Rashaun Agee has 6.8 PPG with 3.5 RPG as well on the year. As a team, USC is averaging 76.6 PPG on 48.3% shooting from the field, 36.3% from three and 73.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• USC has won six of its last seven games following a home loss.

Maryland Recap

The Maryland Terrapins come into this game looking to add on to their 101-75 win over Iowa last time out to sit at 20-6 on the year. After this game, Maryland will welcome Michigan State to town.

Terrapins Win 3^rd In A Row

Derik Queen leads the Terps in scoring with 16 PPG along with 8.8 RPG while Ja’Kobi Gillespie has 14.7 PPG with a team-high 4.8 APG to lead the Terrapins in the assist department. Rodney Rice has 13.4 PPG and Selton Miguel has 12 PPG, while Julian Reese has 13.8 PPG with a team-high 9.2 RPG to lead the Terrapins on the glass and to cap off the group of double-digit scorers for Maryland so far this season. As a team, Maryland is averaging 83.5 PPG on 48.8% shooting from the field, 37.4% from three and 74.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Maryland Terrapins will win

• Maryland has won each of its last 13 games at XFINITY Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• USC has lost six of its last seven night games against AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Twelve of Maryland’s last 13 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents at XFINITY Center have produced a total of 148 or fewer points.
• Twenty of USC’s last 25 night games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 151 or fewer points.

Maryland vs USC Prediction

I’m on the over in this game. This Maryland offense has come alive in a lot of their recent performances, and just cracked the century mark against Iowa. Does that say more about the Iowa defense or about Maryland’s offense? Maybe it’s both, but this is going to be a good chance to see. On the other side, USC has a respectable lineup that’s been able to hang offensively in recent games despite not being the most consistent at winning games, putting up 70+ in 8 of their last 10 games overall. I think this is going to be a bit of a track meet, so give me the over.

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USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans are 14-10 (6-7) this year after they defeated Penn State by a score of 92-67 in their last game. USC led 40-31 at halftime and added 52 points in the second half to pull away in the win. The Trojans shot 67.3% from the field, 75% on three pointers, and 82.4% on free throws in the game. Chibuzo Agbo led USC with 21 points and two rebounds, while Desmond Claude added 16 points and eight assists in the win. 

Prior to that game, the Trojans lost to Purdue by a score of 90-72 and Northwestern by a score of 77-75. USC has lost four of their last seven games and they are currently 10th in the Big Ten standings with a 6-7 record. USC has scored 77.0 points per game and they have allowed 73.1 points against per game, while also averaging 31.7 rebounds and 15.7 assists per game this season. Desmond Claude is averaging 16.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, while Wesley Yates III is averaging 12.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game this year. USC is shooting 48.4% from the field, 72.8% on free throws, and 35.6% on three pointers this season. 

Minnesota Golden Gophers Betting Preview

The Minnesota Golden Gophers are 12-12 (4-9) this season after they lost to Illinois by a score of 95-74 in their last game. Minnesota trailed 46-35 at halftime and allowed 49 points in the second half in the loss. The Golden Gophers shot 40.9% from the field, 40% on three pointers, and 85.7% on free throws in the game. Lu’Cye Patterson led Minnesota with 24 points and four assists, while Femi Odukale added 22 points and five assists in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Golden Gophers defeated Penn State by a score of 69-61, but did lose to Washington by a score of 71-68 before that. Minnesota has lost three of their last four games and they are currently near the bottom of the Big Ten standings with a 4-9 record. Minnesota has scored 69.0 points per game and they have allowed 69.8 points against per game, while also averaging 33.5 rebounds and 15.8 assists per game this season. Dawson Garcia is averaging 19.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, while Lu’Cye Patterson is averaging 11.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game this year. Minnesota is shooting 44.8% from the field, 65.2% on free throws, and 32.9% on three pointers this season. 

Why USC will beat Minnesota

• USC has won nine of its last 10 games at Galen Center when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• Minnesota has lost 21 of its last 27 day games against the Big Ten Conference.
• Minnesota has lost the first half in each of its last four games against the Big Ten Conference.

USC vs Minnesota Prediction

Minnesota comes into this matchup struggling over the last two weeks and they will be on the road for this game. The Golden Gophers have lost three of their last four games and they are shooting 44.8% from the field this year. Minnesota did win their last road game against Penn State, but they are just 2-4 on the road in conference play. USC is trying to get their second straight win and they are 2-0 in their last two home games against Penn State and Michigan State. The Trojans are shooting 48.4% from the field this year and while they do struggle on defense, I don’t think this Minnesota offense is good enough to capitalize on it. Take USC at home. 

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Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Preview

The Penn State Nittany Lions lost to Minnesota and UCLA, and they play Washington, Nebraska, and Minnesota next. The Penn State Nittany Lions are averaging 80.3 points on 47.7 percent shooting and allowing 72.8 points on 44.9 percent shooting. Ace Baldwin Jr. is averaging 13.7 points and 7.3 assists, while Yanic Konan Niederhauser is averaging 12.7 points and 6.2 rebounds. Nick Kern Jr. is the third double-digit scorer and Zach Hicks is grabbing 4.7 rebounds. The Penn State Nittany Lions are shooting 33.9 percent from beyond the arc and 75.1 percent from the free throw line. The Penn State Nittany Lions are allowing 33.6 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 31.3 rebounds per game.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans lost to Northwestern and Purdue, and they play Minnesota, Maryland, and Rutgers next. The USC Trojans are averaging 76.4 points on 47.7 percent shooting and allowing 73.4 points on 44.9 percent shooting. Desmond Claude is averaging 16.2 points and 4.2 assists, while Wesley Yates III is averaging 12.5 points and 1.3 assists. Chibuzo Agbo is the third double-digit scorer and Terrance Williams II is grabbing 4.6 rebounds. The USC Trojans are shooting 34.2 percent from beyond the arc and 72.5 percent from the free throw line. The USC Trojans are allowing 31.2 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29 rebounds per game.

USC vs Penn State Injury Report

USC will be without Terrance Williams II, while Desmond Claude and Kallai Patton are questionable. Penn State will be without Eli Rice, while Yanic Konan Niederhauser and Puff Johnson are questionable.

USC vs Penn State Prediction

Penn State and USC are both heading in the wrong direction and not teams I’m excited to back. The problem is Penn State has experienced a different level of suck with losses in nine of its last 10 games and just can’t get the offense and defense on the same page. Penn State either barely scores 60 points, like in games against UCLA and Minnesota, or gets blasted defensively in games against Michigan State and Illinois. USC has seen 10 of its 13 wins come at home and has competed harder over the last few weeks. Let’s not ignore USC upsetting Michigan State and Nebraska. I’ll lay the reasonable line with the Trojans on Tuesday night.

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Before we dive into the USC Trojans vs. Purdue Boilermakers game let’s review the rules for Draftkings single game showdown contest.

Draftkings Single Game Showdown Contest Rules

You have $50,000 to utilize on five players from either team. However, one of those players will be designated as your team captain. The captain accumulates 1.5 times the standard fantasy points. Additionally, the captain is 1.5 times the standard cost of the flex position.

The remaining four players in your lineup will receive the standard fantasy points. Having stated that, it is highly important for you to identify the correct player for your captain position if you hope to win a large field DFS GPP (guaranteed prize pool) showdown contest.

If you have additional questions regarding the rules for the single game showdown contest, I recommend that you check out the Draftkings website for more details.

*I recommend that all readers review the starting lineups for both teams prior to setting your DFS lineup for this one game slate.

Here are my Draftkings picks for this evening’s USC Trojans vs. Purdue Boilermakers matchup.

Draftkings NCAA College Basketball Picks

Captain-Braden Smith, Guard, Purdue Boilermakers $12,000

Purdue guard Braden Smith has been a consistent scorer for the Purdue Boilermakers, contributing significantly to the team’s overall success this season. Smith is known for his ability to score and for his contributions on the defensive side of the basketball.

In the 23 games Braden Smith has played for the Purdue Boilermakers in the 2024 NCAA regular season, Smith is averaging a rather impressive 16.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, 8.6 assists and 2.5 steals a game.

Looking closer at the data just presented, in the 23 games that Braden Smith has played for the Purdue Boilermakers this season, Smith has compiled a 45.5% field goal percentage, a 40% three-point percentage, and an 84.8% free throw percentage.

More recently, in the Purdue Boilermakers convincing 91-64 win over the Michigan Wolverines last month, Purdue guard Braden Smith certainly played at a high level. More specifically, Smith tallied 24 points, seven rebounds, ten assists and four steals in the Boilermakers victory over the Michigan Wolverines.

As I noted in the rules section above, selecting the correct player at the captain position for a Draftkings NCAA showdown lineup is absolutely vital if you hope to win a large field GPP (guaranteed prize pool) DFS contest. Keep that in mind as you construct your lineups for this one game Draftkings slate.

In my view, Braden Smith is the most likely player to post the most Draftkings points in today’s NCAA regular season game. Having stated that, I am rolling with Purdue Boilermakers guard Braden Smith at the captain position for this one game Draftkings NCAA Showdown contest.

Flex Plays

Fletcher Loyer, Guard, Purdue Boilermakers $8,800

In addition to Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer has been a standout performer for the Purdue Boilermakers. Let’s review Loyer’s game data from this season to better shed light on my previous statement.

In the 23 games that Fletcher Loyer has played for the Purdue Boilermakers in the 2024 NCAA regular season, Smith is averaging 13.8 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 0.5 blocks a game.

In conclusion, I fully expect Fletcher Loyer to continue his outstanding play in this NCAA regular season game.

Additional flex plays I like to perform well in this game (Draftkings price noted): Saint Thomas, Forward (USC Trojans) $9,800: Gicarri Harris, Guard (Purdue Boilermakers) $2,800.

Read the rest of "Draftkings NCAA Basketball Picks: USC vs. Purdue 2/7/25" at Sports Chat Place

USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans beat Michigan State, lost to Northwestern, and they play Penn State, Minnesota, and Maryland next. The USC Trojans are averaging 76.8 points on 48.1 percent shooting and allowing 72.6 points on 44.8 percent shooting. Desmond Claude is averaging 16.2 points and 4.2 assists, while Chibuzo Agbo is averaging 11.8 points and 1.4 assists. Wesley Yates III is the third double-digit scorer and Saint Thomas is grabbing 6.3 rebounds. The USC Trojans are shooting 35.3 percent from beyond the arc and 73.6 percent from the free throw line. The USC Trojans are allowing 31.7 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29 rebounds per game.

Purdue Boilermakers Betting Preview

The Purdue Boilermakers beat Iowa and Indiana, and they play Michigan, Wisconsin, and Michigan State next. The Purdue Boilermakers are averaging 78.3 points on 49.5 percent shooting and allowing 68.5 points on 43.9 percent shooting. Trey Kaufman-Renn is averaging 18.7 points and 6.3 rebounds, while Braden Smith is averaging 16.4 points and 4.7 rebounds. Fletcher Loyer is the third double-digit scorer and Daniel Jacobson is grabbing 3.5 rebounds. The Purdue Boilermakers are shooting 38.3 percent from beyond the arc and 72.6 percent from the free throw line. The Purdue Boilermakers are allowing 31.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29.8 rebounds per game.

Purdue vs USC Injury Report

Purdue will continue to be without Daniel Jacobsen with a knee injury. USC will be without Terrance Williams II, while Desmond Claude and Kallai Patton are questionable.

Purdue vs USC Prediction

The Purdue Boilermakers have found their form with wins in nine of their last 10 games, and they have the offense to bury teams, especially at home where they’re 11-1 SU. The problem is this line feels disrespectful toward the USC Trojans, a team that can score in their own right and is top-40 in offensive field goal percentage. USC upset Michigan State last week and has a road upset over Illinois as a double-digit underdog. USC also beat Nebraska on the road as an underdog. While it’s not consistent, USC has shown us a few teams that it’s capable of playing with the big boys. Just needs those shots to fall. Give me USC and the boatload of points.

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Northwestern Wildcats Betting Preview

The Northwestern Wildcats are 12-10 (3-8) this year after they lost to Wisconsin by a score of 75-69 in their last game. Northwestern led 31-25 at halftime, but they were outscored 50-38 in the second half in the loss. The Wildcats shot 42.4% from the field, 39.3% on three-pointers, and 88.9% on free throws in the game. Jalen Leach led Northwestern with 23 points and seven rebounds, while Nick Martinelli added 15 points and seven rebounds in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Wildcats lost to Rutgers by a score of 79-72 and Illinois by a score of 83-74. Northwestern has lost four of their last five games and they are currently near the bottom of the Big Ten standings with a 3-8 record. Northwestern has scored 73.9 points per game and they have allowed 69.6 points per game, while also averaging 34.1 rebounds and 14.8 assists per game this season. Nick Martinelli is averaging 19.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, while Jalen Leach is averaging 14.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game this year. Northwestern is shooting 44.2% from the field, 72.8% on free throws, and 33.5% on three-pointers this season. 

USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans are 13-8 (5-5) this season after they defeated Michigan State by a score of 70-64 in their last game. USC led 35-32 at halftime and held MSU to just 32 points in the second half in the win. The Trojans shot 42.1% from the field, 31.8% on three-pointers, and 78.9% on free throws in the game. Desmond Claude led USC with 19 points and six rebounds, while Wesley Yates III added 15 points and five rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Trojans lost to UCLA by a score of 82-76 but did beat Nebraska by a score of 78-73 before that. USC has won four of their last six games and they are currently eighth in the Big Ten standings with a 5-5 record. USC has scored 76.7 points per game and they have allowed 72.4 points per game, while also averaging 32.1 rebounds and 15.7 assists per game this season. Desmond Claude is averaging 16.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, while Chibuzo Agbo is averaging 11.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game this year. USC is shooting 47.9% from the field, 73.9% on free throws, and 34.7% on three-pointers this season. 

Why USC will beat Northwestern

• Northwestern has lost four of its last five games.
• USC has won three of its last four road games.
• Northwestern has lost the first half in five of its last six night games against the Big Ten Conference.

Northwestern vs USC Prediction 

USC comes into this matchup after picking up a great win over Michigan State in their last game, but they will be on the road for this game. The Trojans are shooting 47.9% from the field this year and while their defensive numbers have not been good, they did hold MSU to just 64 points last time out. Northwestern has lost three games in a row and they have allowed 75, 79, and 83 points in those three games. The Wildcats will be without their second-leading scorer for the rest of the season, which is a huge loss for a team that can have some trouble scoring. USC is 2-0 in their last two road games and I like them to get the cover in this game as well. 

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Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

Michigan State has been one of the more consistent teams in the country so far this season. The Spartans have recorded just a pair of losses, with the latest one coming all the way back in late November. Michigan State opened on a 5-2 run with wins over Monmouth, Niagara, Bowling Green, Samford and Colorado amid losses to Kansas and Memphis in that time. Since then it’s been a string of 13 straight victories for Michigan State. In succession those have come versus North Carolina, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oakland, Florida Atlantic, Western Michigan, Ohio State, Washington, Northwestern, Penn State, Illinois, Rutgers and Minnesota. The result so far has been a nice 18-2 overall record though 20 games for the Wolverines.

In their latest outing on Tuesday versus Minnesota, the Spartans came out of the break with a 36-16 advantage. Michigan State kept it up in the second half with a 37-35 advantage and took the eventual victory 73-51 in blowout fashion. Leading the team in scoring with 12 points, two boards and three assists was Tre Holloman. Jaden Akins added 10 points with three rebounds and two assists with one steal, while Xavier Booker added 10 points and three rebounds off the bench. Carson Cooper chipped in 11 rebounds off the bench as well.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

Over on the Trojans’ side, they’ve been something of a mixed bag so far this year amid a tricky Big Ten schedule. USC is still winning most of their games, though. The Trojans opened on a 5-1 stretch with a lone loss to California amid wins over Chattanooga, Idaho State, Texas Arlington, San Jose State and Grambling. USC would lose their next three to Saint Mary’s, New Mexico and Oregon, but then recovered with successive wins over Washington, Montana State, Cal State Northridge and Southern in the next four. Since then it’s been a shaky 3-4 run for the Trojans. The wins have come over Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska. Otherwise it’s been losses to Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and UCLA in that time, giving USC a 12-8 overall record through the first 20 games of the 2024-25 campaign.

Matched up against UCLA on Monday, the Trojans went into the break with a 42-37 deficit. USC didn’t end up getting any closer in a 40-39 second half and took the loss 82-76 in the end. Leading the team in scoring during the losing effort was Rashaun Agee, who came off the bench to contribute 21 points with five rebounds and one steal. Tops among the starters was Wesley Yates with 19 points, one rebound and one assist in 39 minutes. Saint Thomas added 13 points with eight boards and six assists in the defeat as well.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• USC has won five of its last six games following a home loss.

Why the Michigan State Spartans will win

• Michigan State has won each of its last 13 games.
• USC has lost each of its last four day games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents.
• Michigan State has won the first half in each of its last 11 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Each of USC’s last seven games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 151+ points.
• Eleven of Michigan State’s last 13 day games against non-AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 146 or fewer points.

USC vs Michigan State Prediction

I’m going to stay with Michigan State in this one. The Spartans didn’t have much issue with an average Minnesota squad in their last outing, posting 44.6 percent shooting from the field, a 40-22 rebounding advantage and 12 points off 12 Gophers turnovers. Michigan State had 20 team assists and shot a decent 8-of-25 (32 percent) from long range. During this lengthy 13-game win streak, the Spartans have scored 69 or more points in each outing, and 73 or more points in 12 of them.

As for USC, they shot well versus UCLA in their latest loss (49.1 percent) but also got outmuscled on the boards 29-25 and had a rough 11-of-19 (57.9 percent) rate from the line. USC has scored well themselves lately with 69 or more points in 11 straight outings. The Trojans are giving up a lot on the other side to good offenses though, and I don’t think they’ll keep Michigan State at bay here.

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UCLA Bruins Betting Preview

The Bruins kicked off the season on quite a strong run across their first 11 outings. UCLA would run into some trouble during a tough stretch in December and early January, but they’ve been able to right the ship since then. The Bruins went a smooth 10-1 in those first 11 games, losing to only New Mexico with wins otherwise versus Rider, Boston U, Lehigh, Idaho State, Cal State Fullerton, Southern Utah, Washington, Oregon, Arizona, and Prairie View. After a loss to North Carolina and a win over Gonzaga, the Bruins hit a four-game losing streak. Those losses were versus Nebraska, Michigan, Maryland, and Rutgers in succession. Since then UCLA has cleaned up their act on a three-game winning streak versus Iowa, Wisconsin, and Washington for a 14-6 overall run through the first 20 outings of the season.

Matched up against Washington on Friday, the Bruins held a 36-32 edge after the first half. UCLA kept the pace from there, notching a 29-28 advantage the rest of the way for a 65-60 victory in the end. Tops in scoring among the starters was Skyy Clark with 12 points, six boards, three assists, and two steals. Aday Mara came off the bench for 12 points as well, posting seven rebounds and five blocks in 30 minutes of work on the court.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

Over on the USC side, they’ve had a couple of rough stretches this season so far. The Trojans also have some solid runs in comparison, however, and they’ve beaten a few very good teams. USC fell to only Cal in their first six outings, beating Chattanooga, Idaho State, Texas Arlington, San Jose State, and Grambling otherwise. After losses to Saint Mary’s, New Mexico, and Oregon, the Trojans took out Washington, Montana State, Cal State Northridge, and Southern in the next four. Since then it’s been a 3-3 stretch for USC. The wins have come courtesy of Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska. The losses otherwise were versus Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin, giving the Trojans a 12-7 overall run through 19 games so far.

In their Wednesday outing versus Nebraska, the Trojans hit a 33-31 deficit in the first half. USC recovered in the second however, making the comeback on a 47-40 run for a 78-73 victory in the end. Leading the team in scoring during the win was Desmond Claude with 21 points, six assists, and three rebounds. Wesley Yates added 17 points with four steals, while Rashaun Agee came off the bench for 14 points, eight rebounds, and a steal in 22 minutes of work.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• USC has won seven of its last eight night games at Galen Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• UCLA has lost five of its last six games at Galen Center.
• USC has won the first half in each of its last nine night games at Galen Center.

Why the UCLA Bruins will win

• UCLA has won nine of its last 11 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• UCLA has won the first half in 10 of its last 11 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

USC vs UCLA Prediction

I’ll lean toward USC in this one. We should have a good matchup here regardless, though. The Trojans hit the road and took out a decent Nebraska team in their last outing thanks to 44.3 percent shooting and 18-of-22 from the line (81.8 percent). The 36-31 rebounding advantage and 16 points off 11 Cornhuskers turnovers really helped out as well. During this current 3-1 stretch, USC has notched 78 or more points in all three wins. The Trojans have also scored a nice 69 or more points in 10 straight games (a 7-3 run).

As for UCLA, they shot a tepid 41.1 percent from the field with a 35-34 rebounding deficit in their last matchup versus Washington. The Bruins took advantage of 14 Huskies turnovers for 15 points though, which helped make the difference in the victory. UCLA has been below 69 points in five of their last eight games though, and they’ve given up 70 or more points in five of the last six. Should be a fun one to watch; I like USC slightly better but it’s a coin flip.

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USC Trojans Betting Preview

The Trojans have been something of a mixed bag so far this year. USC has some nice stretches of play in the books, however, they’ve also got a couple of spotty runs against some tricky competition. The Trojans opened with a 5-1 run featuring a lone loss to California alongside wins over Chattanooga, Idaho State, Texas Arlington, San Jose State, and Grambling. Three straight losses versus Saint Mary’s, New Mexico, and Oregon followed, then four wins over Washington, Montana State, Cal State Northridge, and Southern. Since then it’s been a 2-3 run over the last five games for the Trojans. They’ve got wins over Illinois and Iowa mixed with losses to Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin during that time for an 11-7 overall record so far.

In the Wisconsin game on Saturday, the Trojans came out of halftime with a 42-27 deficit. USC kept the pace going from there on a 42-42 second half but still took a sizable loss 84-69. Leading the charge in the losing effort was Saint Thomas with 19 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two steals. Rashaun Agee added 15 points with four rebounds, two assists, and two steals, while Wesley Yates put up 11 points with three rebounds and two assists.

Nebraska Cornhuskers Betting Preview

Over on the Nebraska side, they got off to a great start this year, with only a couple of blemishes over their first 14 games. Since then, however, the Cornhuskers have hit a losing streak in their last four outings. Nebraska lost to only Saint Mary’s and Michigan State in those first 14 outings, beating UTRGV, Bethune-Cookman, Fairleigh Dickinson, Creighton, South Dakota, North Florida, Indiana, Murray State, Hawaii, Oregon State, Southern and UCLA otherwise in that time. Over the last four games, Nebraska has taken a string of consecutive losses. Those defeats have come in succession versus Iowa, Purdue, Rutgers, and Maryland, giving the Cornhuskers a 12-6 overall record so far this season through 18 games.

Matched up against Maryland on Sunday, the Cornhuskers were within two points at the break. Nebraska didn’t end up getting any closer on a 32-31 second half and fell 69-66 in the end. Leading team scorer Andrew Morgan came off the bench to provide 17 points with five rebounds and a steal in 24 minutes of work. Brice Williams added 14 points with four rebounds, three assists, and three steals in 33 minutes to lead the starters.

Why the Nebraska Cornhuskers will win

• Nebraska has won each of its last 12 games at Pinnacle Bank Arena when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• USC has lost three of its last four games when playing with a rest advantage.
• Nebraska has won the first half in 15 of its last 16 games at Pinnacle Bank Arena against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• Nebraska has lost each of its last four games.
• USC has won four of its last five games following a home loss.
• Nebraska has lost the first half in each of its last three games against the Big Ten Conference.

Nebraska vs USC Prediction

I’ll lean toward Nebraska I suppose. You could make a case either way, though—and both teams could use a good performance here. The Cornhuskers didn’t play horrendously against a talented Maryland team in their last outing—but did make a couple of statistical mistakes. Nebraska missed five of their 11 free throws (54.5 percent) and had 13 turnovers during the tight road loss. The Cornhuskers have given up 69 or more points in each of the last four games (all losses) and 85 or more in three of those. To be fair, however, Nebraska has played some tricky teams in that time.

As for USC, they’re a stellar squad themselves this year when they can put everything together. The Trojans were quite permissive in their latest loss to Wisconsin though, giving up 56.4 percent shooting and posting 16 turnovers for 22 Badgers points. Still, USC has some nice wins in the bag, including their 10-point victory on the road over Illinois earlier this month. I like the Trojans to put up a good fight here, but in the end, I think Nebraska pulls it off. It’ll be a fun matchup to watch though, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see USC shine in this one either.

Read the rest of "Nebraska vs USC Prediction 1/22/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

USC Has Won Two Straight Games

USC has been up and down this season but they have won two straight games. Two games ago against Illinois, USC was able to secure the 82-72 and in the last game against Iowa, they were able to secure the 99-89 victory. At halftime they were up 48-32 and they held on in the second half. USC has shot 64.9 percent from the field and 66.7 percent from behind the three point line. They hit 10 of the 15 shots from deep. Desmond Claude put up 25 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds. 

USC comes into this game with an 11-6 record and they have gone 7-10 against the spread. USC is averaging 77.5 points, while their defense is giving up 71.6 points per game. The offfense is ranked 120th in the league while the defense is ranked 199th. They are averaging 16.35 assists per game which is 52nd in the league. Desmond Claude is averaging 16.4 points while shooting 50.6 percent from the field and 30.8 percent from behind the three point line. 

Why USC Will Beat Wisconsin

USC has won five of its last six day games.

Wisconsin Coming off a Close Win

Wisconsin is coming off a close win against Ohio State in the last game although it wasn’t the most dominant game they still picked up the win. At halftime they were up 37-20 and although they almost blew it late, they still ended up winning by two points. John Tonje had a strong game putting up 17 points and four rebounds. There were three different players that put up at least 14 points. 

Wisconsin currently sits with a 14-3 record overall and they have gone 9-7-1 against the spread. Wisconsin on the season is averaging 82.5 points while their defense is giving up 70.4 points per game. The offense is ranked 35th in the league while the defense is ranked 151st. THey do have a free throw percentage of 85.41 which is the best in all of college basketball. John Tonje has been the top player putting up averaigng 18.2 points while shooting 45.6 percent from the field. 

Why Wisconsin Will Beat USC

Wisconsin has won each of its last six games.

USC has lost the first half in each of its last five day games against AP-ranked opponents.

USC vs Wisconsin Prediction

This total is just a little bit too high. Wisconsin likes to play at a faster pace than years past, and their defense hasn’t been having been as strong overall, but in this game, they are going to step up in a big way here. USC’s offense is going to have no answer and that is going to be the difference as this game is going to be lower scoring. Back the under to end up cashing here with ease. 

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Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Preview

The Hawkeyes have had a pretty steady season so far; they’ve only got one bad stretch of games in the books this year. Iowa would open things up with a string of wins over East Texas A&M, Southern, South Dakota, Washington State, and Rider. The aforementioned bad stretch came next in a 2-3 run with wins over only USC Upstate and Northwestern alongside losses to Utah State, Michigan, and Iowa State. Since then Iowa has been on a pretty solid run. They’re 5-1 in their last six games, losing to only Wisconsin in that time. The wins otherwise have been over New Orleans, Utah, New Hampshire, Nebraska, and Indiana for a 12-4 overall record through the first 16 games so far this season.

In the Indiana matchup back on Saturday, the Hawkeyes didn’t have too many issues. Iowa came out of the break sporting a 10-point lead 43-33, then got even better in the second half on a 42-27 run. The result was a dominant blowout win at home 85-60 against a pretty good Hoosiers team. Iowa’s Payton Sandfort led the team with 23 points with six boards and three assists. Owen Freeman doubled up on 16 points, 12 boards, four blocks and three steals. Brock Harding doubled as well with 10 points, 10 assists, and four rebounds in the victory.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

Over on the USC side, they’ve been a pretty erratic team for most of the season, but they do have some nice wins in the bag so far. The Trojans opened on a 5-1 run with a lone loss to California amid wins over Chattanooga, Idaho State, Texas Arlington, San Jose State, and Grambling. A three-game losing streak versus Saint Mary’s, New Mexico, and Oregon came next, then a string of wins over Washington, Montana State, Cal State Northridge, and Southern. Following losses to Michigan and Indiana, USC took an upset road win over Illinois over the weekend for a 10-6 overall record so far this year.

In the Saturday game versus the Illini, the Trojans came out of the gate swinging. USC stayed with Illinois in the first half, going into the locker room with a three-point deficit. The Trojans hit a 47-34 run the rest of the way and took the win 82-72. Desmond Claude went off for 31 points, three assists, and one rebound in the victory, while Wesley Yates added 15 points, six rebounds, and two assists. Coming off the bench to score 13 points with eight boards, one steal and one block in 30 minutes of work was Rashaun Agee.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• Iowa has lost 13 of its last 15 road night games against the Big Ten Conference.
• USC has won six of its last seven night games at Galen Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• USC has won the first half in each of its last eight night games at Galen Center.

Why the Iowa Hawkeyes will win

• Iowa has won each of its last eight Tuesday games.
• USC has lost four of its last five night games.
• Iowa has won the first half in seven of its last nine night games.

USC vs Iowa Prediction

I’ll stick with Iowa. The Hawkeyes posted an impressive win over a pretty talented Indiana team in their last win, notching a nice 54.2 percent shooting from the field, 11-of-24 (45.8 percent) from outside, and 37 rebounds. It wasn’t perfect though, as Iowa also tallied just 10-of-18 (55.6 percent) from the line with 13 turnovers. Still, the Hawkeyes continue to post some nice points totals this year. They’ve hit 69 or more points in all 16 games so far, and 80 or more points in 10 consecutive outings.

As for USC, we got to see them play to their capabilities during the second half of the upset win over Illinois. The Trojans finally put everything together in that one, posting 52.3 percent shooting and a 37-34 rebounding edge while holding a great Illini squad to just 37.1 percent shooting on the other side. USC was a little careless with the ball (14 turnovers) during a pretty sloppy overall game (29 total turnovers), but it was still their best effort of the season. All of that said, I don’t think USC will maintain that intensity in another tricky matchup against Iowa.

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Illinois Has Confidence

Illinois has all kinds of confidence right now and the offense has been elite heading into this game. Illinois in the last game faced off against Penn State and the offense scored 91 points while the defense gave up only 52 points. There were three different players that put up at least 20 points. Tre White ended the game with 20 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. Two games ago against Washington, they went on the road and were able to secure the 81-77 victory. 

Illinois is averaging 87.9 points while their defense is giving up 66.2 points per game. The offense is ranked 6th in the league while the defense is ranked 57th. The offense gets the attention but their defense should be talked about more because they have really stepped up. Three games ago against Oregon the offense scored 100 points nad htey are going to need the offense to run up the score here. The big question for the Fighting Illini is the status of their top player Kasparas Jakucionis who is dealing with a forearm injury. If he can’t go, that is a major loss for this squad. 

Why Illinois Will Beat USC

Illinois has won 26 of its last 27 games at State Farm Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.

USC has lost four of its last five day games against AP-ranked opponents.

USC has lost the first half in six of its last seven day games against AP-ranked opponents.

Big Opportunity for USC

This is a big opportunity for USC, which is trying to pick up as many key wins as it can. The problem for USC is they have also lost a lot of key games. In the last game against Indiana, USC scored 69 points but the defense gave up 82 points and that led to the defeat. At halftime, the game was tied 38-38, but in the second half, it got worse, and the game ended up not being all that close. Two games ago, Michigan, USC scored 74 points, and they ended up losing by 11 points. 

USC on the season is averaging 75.7 poits while their defense is giving up 70.4 points per game. The offfense is ranked 170th in the league while the defense is ranked 153rd. As a team they are shooting 46.9 percent from the field and if they want any chance in this game they are going to need to keep hitting those shots. Getting out to a fast start is also going to be a major key. 

Illinois vs USC Prediction

Illinois is going to put on a show here with the offense and even though this is a big opportunity for a key win, USC just doesn’t have the talent to get it done. Ths Illinois offense is balanced and even though and even if their top player, they are still going to find a whole lot of success. Illinois is going to have no issue running up the score and USC won’t be keeping up. Back Illinois to cover the spread here. 

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Indiana Hoosiers Betting Preview

The Indiana Hoosiers are 12-3 (3-1) this year after they defeated Penn State by a score of 77-71 in their last game. Indiana was tied at 29 at halftime, but they scored 48 points in the second half in the win. The Hoosiers shot 44.8% from the field, 39.1% on three-pointers, and 72.7% on free throws in the game. Oumar Ballo led Indiana with 25 points and 13 rebounds, while Mackenzie Mgbako added 20 points and four rebounds in the win. 

Prior to that victory, the Hoosiers defeated Rutgers by a score of 84-74 and Winthrop by a score of 77-68. Indiana has won four games in a row and they started conference play with a win over Minnesota and a loss to Nebraska. Indiana has scored 78.9 points per game and they have allowed 70.3 points per game, while also averaging 39.1 rebounds and 16.7 assists per game this season. Malik Reneau is averaging 14.1 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, while Mackenzie Mgbako is averaging 14.1 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game this year. Indiana is shooting 47.9% from the field, 72% on free throws, and 32.5% on three-pointers this season. 

USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans are 9-5 (1-2) this season after they lost to Michigan by a score of 85-74 in their last game. USC trailed 42-38 at the half, but they allowed 43 more points in the second half in the loss. The Trojans shot 43.5% from the field, 33.3% on three-pointers, and 63.6% on free throws in the game. Desmond Claude led USC with 19 points and seven rebounds, while Wesley Yates III added 19 points and three rebounds in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Trojans defeated Southern by a score of 82-51 and Cal State Northridge by a score of 90-69. USC has won four of their last five games and started conference play with a win over Washington and a loss to Oregon. USC has scored 76.2 points per game and they have allowed 69.6 points per game, while also averaging 32.1 rebounds and 16.1 assists per game this season. Desmond Claude is averaging 14.9 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 3.9 assists per game, while Chibuzo Agbo is averaging 12.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game this year. USC is shooting 47.4% from the field, 75.4% on free throws, and 34.2% on three-pointers this season. 

Why Indiana will beat USC

• Indiana has won each of its last 12 games at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall.
• USC has lost three of its last four night games.
• Indiana has won the first half in each of its last eight games at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Why USC will beat Indiana

• USC has won each of its last four games following a home loss.
• USC has won the first half in five of its last six games.

Total Points Facts

• Seven of USC’s last eight games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 146 or fewer points.
• Four of Indiana’s last five home games have produced a total of 149 or fewer points.

Indiana vs USC Prediction 

Indiana comes into this matchup looking to continue their strong start in Big Ten play and they are coming off of a nice road win against Penn State. The Hoosiers only have three losses on the season and they are scoring nearly 79 points per game. USC is 1-2 in the Big Ten so far and they are still looking for their first decent win. The Trojans did pick up a road win against a bad Washington team a few games ago, but this will be a much more difficult task. Both teams have very similar numbers on the season and neither plays great defense, so we should see plenty of points here. USC has scored at least 82 points in four of their last five, while Indiana has scored at least 77 in three straight. Take the over here. 

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USC Has Won Four Straight

After a slow start to the season, USC is playing well and they have won four straight games. USC in the last game faced off against Southern and they scored 82 points and they ended up winning by 31 points. USC shot 48 percent from the field and 35.3 percent from behind the three-point line. As a team, they hit 28 of the 35 free throws that were attempted. Chibuzo Agbo put up 18 points, four rebounds, and one assist. There are four different players that put up at least 11 points. 

USC on the season is averaging 76.4 points while their defense is giving up 68.4 points per game. The offense is ranked 159th while the defense is ranked 109th. They are averaging only 55.3 shot attempts per game which is 326th in all of college basketball. USC is dealing with a couple of different injury issues. Harrison Hornery is banged up and is questionable for this game. Kallai Patton is also dealing with an injury and will be missing this one. Desmond Claude is averaging 14.5 points while shooting 52.1 percent from the field and 35 percent from behind the three-point line. 

Big Game for Michigan

Michigan has played well heading into this game, and they have a ton of confidence right now. In the last game against Western Kentucky, Michigan scored 112 points and they ended up cruising to the easy victory. At halftime, they were up 59-31 and they never looked back on the way to the win. Michigan had six different players that put up at least 11 points. Nimari Burnett had a strong game putting up 17 points, five rebounds, and two assists. Vladislav Goldin also put up 17 points, five rebounds, and one assist. 

Michigan on the season is averaging 84 points while the defense is giving up 66.6 points per game. The offense is ranked 34th in the league while the defense is ranked 75th. They are averaging 59.1 field goal attempts per game which is 195th. They are shooting 51.2 percent from the field which is 5th in the league. Rubin Jones is banged up heading into this game and he’s questionable heading into this game. Vladislav Goldin is averaging 13.9 points while shooting 68.3 percent from the field. Michigan will meet UCLA after this game.

Why Michigan Will Beat USC

• Michigan has won each of its last four games when playing with a rest disadvantage.

USC vs Michigan Prediction 

Give me the road warriors here. USC is playing better as of late, but don’t let that fool you, this Michigan team is better. Michigan is averaging 84 points while their defense is giving up 66.6 points per game. Both of those stats are better than USC and they are going to have no issue getting the job done here. The Wolverines are going to end up running up the score early, and USC is going to have issues keeping up. Back Michigan against the spread. 

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Texas A&M Recap

The Texas A&M Aggies come into this game repping the SEC, finishing the year 8-4 overall. Texas A&M will be looking for their first bowl victory since the 2020 Orange Bowl.

Aggies Looking To Finish On High Note

The Aggies have Cyrus Allen listed in the transfer portal as well as QB Conner Weigman, who lost the starting gig to Marcel Reed part way through the season. The Aggies will also be without defensive front pieces like Nic Scourton, Shemar Stewart and Shemar Turner, who have all opted out of this game, though head coach Mike Elko has stated in press conferences that he doesn’t expect any more opt-outs for A&M in this game.

Why the Texas A&M Aggies will win

• Texas A&M has won each of its last six games against non-AP-ranked teams at neutral venues.
• USC has lost three of its last four games in December.
• Texas A&M has covered the spread in each of its last four December games against non-AP-ranked teams.
• USC has failed to cover the spread in six of its last seven Bowl games.

USC Recap

The USC Trojans come into the bowl game with a record of 6-6 on the year in their debut season in the Big Ten. The Trojans will be out to win back-to-back bowl games for the first time since 2013-14.

Trojans Looking For Silver Lining Amidst Disappointing Season

The portal/opt-out situation is a lot tougher for USC, with starting RT Mason Murphy gone to Auburn, starting WR Kyron Hudson committing to Penn State and WR Duce Robinson going to Florida State. WR Zachariah Branch is also in the portal while starting RB Woody Marks got hurt in the regular season finale and is preparing for the NFL while backup Quinten Joyner is off to Texas Tech. Miller Moss lost the starting QB job to Jayden Maiava and Moss is transferring to Louisville.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• The underdog has won each of USC’s last three Bowl games.
• Texas A&M has lost three of its last four games.
• Texas A&M has failed to cover the spread in each of its last six games as a favorite against non-AP-ranked teams.
• The underdog has covered the spread in six of USC’s last seven Bowl games.

USC vs Texas A&M Prediction

I’m leaning towards the Trojans and the points here. I think Maiava was starting to do a solid job figuring out USC’s offense to close out the year, and Texas A&M losing those defensive pieces up front is big for me. I think this is a field goal game, so getting 3.5 is key for me in this game. Give me the points with USC.

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USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans are 7-4 this year after they defeated Montana State by a score of 89-63 in their last game. USC led 47-21 at the half and they were able to maintain that lead in the second half for the win. The Trojans shot 50.8% from the field, 33.3% on three pointers, and 79.2% on free throws in the game. Desmond Claude led USC with 19 points and six rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Trojans defeated Washington by a score of 85-61, but did lose the three games before that. USC has scored 74.6 points per game and they have allowed 69.9 points against per game, while also averaging 31.8 rebounds and 15.5 assists per game this season. Desmond Claude is averaging 14.1 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, while USC is shooting 47.8% from the field, 74.7% on free throws, and 31.5% on three pointers this year. 

Cal State Northridge Matadors Betting Preview

The Cal State Northridge Matadors are 7-3 this season after they defeated Cal Poly by a score of 102-91 in their last game. Cal State Northridge led 51-34 at the half, but they did allow 57 points in the second half in the win. The Matadors shot 50% from the field, 57.1% on three pointers, and 69% on free throws in the game. PJ Fuller II led Cal State Northridge with 22 points and seven assists in the win. 

Prior to that game, the Matadors lost to UC Riverside by a score of 68-64, but did beat Montana State by a score of 72-69 before that. Cal State Northridge has scored 82.1 points per game and they have allowed 71.4 points against per game, while also averaging 41.5 rebounds and 16.2 assists per game this season. Marcus Adams Jr. is averaging 15.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.1 assists per game, while Cal State Northridge is shooting 47.5% from the field, 70.4% on free throws, and 35.4% on three pointers this year. 

Why USC will beat Cal State Northridge

• USC has won each of its last 16 Wednesday games against non-Conference opponents.
• USC has won the first half in each of its last seven night games at Galen Center.

USC vs Cal State Northridge Prediction 

USC comes into this matchup looking for their third win in a row and they have scored 85 and 89 points in their last two games. The Trojans have been up and down over the last few weeks, but they should get a win here. Cal State Northridge has alternated wins and losses over their last five games, but they have yet to play a power four school. The Matadors are scoring over 81 points per game, but like I said, they haven’t played a very tough schedule. Take USC to pull away in the second half here. 

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USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans are 6-4 this season after they defeated Washington by a score of 85-61 in their last game. USC led 51-25 at halftime and they were able to get the win, despite scoring just 34 points in the second half. The Trojans shot 64% from the field, 43.8% on three-pointers, and 82.4% on free throws in the game. Desmond Claude led USC with 20 points and four assists in the win. 

Prior to that victory, the Trojans lost three games in a row against Oregon, New Mexico, and St. Mary’s. USC has scored 73.2 points per game and they have allowed 70.6 points per game, while also averaging 30.1 rebounds and 15.3 assists per game this season. Desmond Claude is averaging 13.6 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game, while USC is shooting 47.5% from the field, 74.1% on free throws, and 31.4% on three-pointers this year. 

Montana State Bobcats Betting Preview

The Montana State Bobcats are 5-5 this year after they defeated Kansas City by a score of 74-62 in their last game. Montana State led 34-23 at the half and they scored 40 points in the second half for the win. The Bobcats shot 49.1% from the field, 40.7% on three-pointers, and 68.8% on free throws in the game. Max Agbonkpolo led Montana State with 17 points and nine rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Bobcats defeated Omaha by a score of 76-65 but did lose to CS Northridge by a score of 72-69 before that. Montana State has scored 75.9 points per game and they have allowed 67.1 points per game, while also averaging 34.2 rebounds and 15.2 assists per game this season. Brandon Walker is averaging 14.3 points, 4.8 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, while Montana State is shooting 46.5% from the field, 74.4% on free throws, and 37.2% on three-pointers this year. 

Why Montana State will beat USC

• Montana State has won four of its last five games.
• USC has lost three of its last four games.
• Montana State has won the first half in each of its last six games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

USC vs Montana State Prediction 

USC was able to snap their three-game losing streak with a blowout win against Washington in their last game and they will look to make it two in a row here. The Trojans are shooting over 47% from the field, but they only average 30 rebounds per game. Montana State has won four of their last five games and they have allowed 65 points or fewer in those four wins. USC was able to get the big win in their last game, but I think they are going to have some struggles against this Montana State defense. Take the Bobcats with the points. 

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USC Recap

The USC Trojans come into this game looking to bounce back after a 68-60 loss to Oregon in their last game. After this matchup, USC will return home for a date with Montana State.

Trojans Lose 3^rd Straight

Desmond Claude has 12.9 PPG along with 3.4 RPG and 3.3 APG while Terrance Williams II has 10.6 PPG with 4.6 RPG. Josh Cohen has 11.1 PPG while Chibuzo Agbo’s added 12.1 PPG and 4.3 RPG as well to round out the group of double-digit scorers for USC up to this point in the year. Saint Thomas also has 7.3 PPG with team-highs of 5.6 RPG and 4.6 APG to lead the Trojans in rebounding and assists up to this point in the season. As a team, USC is averaging 71.9 PPG on 45.8% shooting from the field, 30.2% from three, and 73.3% from the foul line this season.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• USC has won each of its last nine games against Washington.
• Washington has lost each of its last five games against the Big Ten Conference.

Washington Recap

The Washington Huskies come into this game looking to bounce back after a 69-58 loss to UCLA last time out. After this game, Washington will head home for a date with Eastern Washington.

Huskies Looking To Get Back On Track

Great Osobor leads the Huskies across the board, averaging a double-double per game with team-highs of 14.5 PPG, 10.1 RPG, 3.9 APG, and 2.9 SPG while Tyler Harris has 14 PPG and 7 RPG so far this season as the only other double-digit scorer for Washington up to this point in the year. Zoom Diallo also has 9.6 PPG as well on the year for Washington. As a team, Washington is averaging 70.9 PPG on 41.9% shooting from the field, 30.2% from three, and 62% from the foul line this season.

Why the Washington Huskies will win

• Washington has won each of its last four games at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion.
• USC has lost each of its last three games.

Washington vs USC Prediction

I’m on USC and the points here. The Trojans haven’t looked great as of late, but I think they’re a better team than what they’ve shown. The Huskies have had their ups and downs as well, but the thing is that Washington’s found themselves in a lot of close games, even when they’re the better team. I think this is going to be another tight affair and I want the points in my back pocket.

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Oregon Ducks Betting Preview

The Ducks’ season has been spotless so far, despite a couple of close calls. Oregon is 8-0 so far, taking out UC Riverside, Montana, Portland, Troy, Oregon State, Texas A&M, San Diego State, and Alabama in succession.

Matched up against Alabama on Saturday, the Ducks went into the locker room with a 39-39 tie. After 44 more points in the second, Oregon came away with an 83-81 win. Keeshawn Barthelemy was the top scorer with 22 bench points and four rebounds.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

Over on the USC side, they went 5-1 over their first six games, taking out Chattanooga, Idaho State, TX-Arlington, San Jose State, and Grambling with a lone loss to California. It’s been losses to Saint Mary’s and New Mexico since then, however.

In the New Mexico game back on Friday, the Trojans were facing a 39-30 deficit by halftime. USC didn’t end up getting any closer in an 83-73 loss. Josh Cohen led the team with 14 points, while both Desmond Claude and Chibuzo Agbo added 13 points each.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• USC has won seven of its last eight home games.
• Oregon has lost four of its last five night games against the Big Ten Conference.
• USC has won the first half in each of its last six night games at Galen Center.

Why the Oregon Ducks will win

• Oregon has won each of its last nine games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• USC has lost three of its last four night games.
• Oregon has won the first half in each of its last five games against USC.

USC vs Oregon Prediction

I’m going to stay with Oregon. The Ducks are fresh off a nice win over Alabama, despite getting out-rebounded 44-39. Oregon scored 17 points from 15 Tide turnovers, which proved to be a major factor in the win. The Ducks have only two games (Alabama and Oregon State) decided by fewer than 10 points this year.

As for USC, they had trouble with a pretty good New Mexico team in their last outing despite shooting 49.1 percent from the field with 32 rebounds. The Lobos’ 17 points off 16 Trojan turnovers didn’t help matters. That said, it was a nice recovery from a dismal 36 points versus Saint Mary’s. Still, I don’t think USC will keep a good enough pace versus the Ducks.

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USC’s Offense Needs to Be Better

USC’s offense was embarrassing against the Saint Mary’s Gaels and they scored only 36 points on the way to the defeat. In the second half the offense only scored 15 points and that is embarrassing. As a team, they shot only 26 percent from the field and zero percent from behind the three-point line. They were 0-12 from deep. Josh Cohen was the only player to score in double figures and he had 12 points. Two games ago against Grambling, they scored 80 points and the offense needs to be better. USC on the season is averaging 73.4 points while their defense is giving up 70.6 points per game. The offense is ranked 239th in the league while the defense is ranked 174th. 

New Mexico Fell Just Short

New Mexico played pretty well on Thursday against Arizona State, but the defense didn’t make enough stops late. They scored 45 points in the second half, but the defense gave up 51 points and that led to the defeat. Guard Donovan Dent did have a strong game for New Mexico, putting up 30 points, seven assists, and one rebound. New Mexico, on the season, is averaging 85 points while the defense is giving up 75 points per game. The offense is ranked 36th in the league while the defense is ranked 268th. In this game, New Mexico has a chance to have a good defensive team, and they are going to need the defense to step up in a big way here. 

New Mexico vs USC Prediction

New Mexico is going to put on a show here. New Mexico is averaging 85 points per game and they are going to put on a show again with the offense. USC’s offense really struggled in the last game, and they are going to have some major issues getting the offense going again. New Mexico is going to pull away early, and it’s going to be New Mexico that is going to cruise here. Back New Mexico against the spread. 

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