Wisconsin Badgers Betting Preview

The Wisconsin Badgers are 20-5 (10-4) this year after they defeated Purdue by a score of 94-84 in their last game. Wisconsin trailed 37-36 at halftime, but they scored 58 points in the second half for the win. The Badgers shot 61.5% from the field, 40% on three-pointers, and 75% on free throws in the game. John Tonje led Wisconsin with 32 points and six rebounds, while Max Klesmit added 17 points and six assists in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Badgers defeated Iowa by a score of 74-63 and Indiana by a score of 76-64. Wisconsin has won four games in a row and they are currently fourth in the Big Ten standings with a 10-4 record. Wisconsin has scored 81.5 points per game and they have allowed 70.5 points per game, while also averaging 35.6 rebounds and 15.0 assists per game this season. John Tonje is averaging 19.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game, while John Blackwell is averaging 15.2 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game this year. Wisconsin is shooting 46.6% from the field, 83.7% on free throws, and 36.6% on three-pointers this season. 

Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

The Illinois Fighting Illini are 17-9 (9-7) this season after they lost to Michigan State by a score of 79-65 in their last game. Illinois led 41-37 at halftime, but they only scored 24 points in the second half and scored exactly zero points in the last eight minutes of the game. The Fighting Illini shot 38.1% from the field, 21.2% on three pointers, and 76.9% on free throws in the game. Morez Johnson Jr. led Illinois with 17 points and five rebounds, while Kasparas Jakucionis also added 17 points and five rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that loss, the Fighting Illini defeated UCLA by a score of 83-78 and Minnesota by a score of 95-74. Illinois has won three of their last five games and they are currently seventh in the Big Ten standings with a 9-7 record. Illinois has scored 84.3 points per game and they have allowed 71.6 points per game, while also averaging 44.3 rebounds and 14.7 assists per game this season. Kasparas Jakucionis is averaging 16.0 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, while Tomislav Ivisic is averaging 12.7 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game this year. Illinois is shooting 44.9% from the field, 75.9% on free throws, and 31.1% on three-pointers this season. 

Why Wisconsin will beat Illinois

• Wisconsin has won 27 of its last 28 games at Kohl Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Illinois has lost four of its last five night games.
• Wisconsin has won the first half in each of its last 10 night games against the Big Ten Conference at Kohl Center.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Wisconsin’s last 22 Tuesday night home games against the Big Ten Conference have produced a total of 155 or fewer points.
• Seven of Illinois’ last eight games at Kohl Center have produced a total of 143 or fewer points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Wisconsin ranks 1st among Division 1 teams for free throw percentage this season (83.7%).
• Wisconsin ranks 5th among Division 1 teams for opponent steals per game this season (4.8).
• Illinois ranks 2nd among Division 1 teams for rebounds per game this season (44.3).
• Illinois ranks 2nd among Division 1 teams for rebound percentage this season (56.9%).

Wisconsin vs Illinois Prediction 

Wisconsin rolls into this matchup on a four-game winning streak and they will be at home for this game. The Badgers just picked up a huge road win against Purdue last time out and they have scored at least 74 points in four straight games. Wisconsin is shooting 46.6% from the field this year and they have been very good at home this season. Illinois completely collapsed against MSU in their last game and this is going to be an extremely tough environment to bounce back in. The Fighting Illini are shooting 44.9% from the field this year and they have scored at least 83 points in three of their last five games. I don’t fully trust this Illinois team and with them being on the road, I like Wisconsin to cover here. 

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Michigan State Recap

The Michigan State Spartans come into this game looking to bounce back from a 71-67 loss at the hands of Indiana in their last game to fall to 19-5 on the year. After this game, Michigan State will head home for a matchup with the Purdue Boilermakers.

Spartans Drop 3 Of Last 4

Jaden Akins leads the Spartans in scoring with 13.4 PPG along with 3.8 RPG while Jase Richardson’s posted 10.3 PPG with 2.7 RPG and 1.9 APG as the only other double-digit scorer for Michigan State so far this year. Frankie Fidler has 7.9 PPG and 3.6 RPG and Jaxon Kohler has 7.5 PPG with 7.8 RPG to lead the Spartans on the glass. Tre Holloman has 8.3 PPG with 3.9 RPG while Coen Carr has 8.1 PPG with 3.4 RPG and Jeremy Fears Jr. has dished out a team-high 6 APG as well on the year. As a team, Michigan State is averaging 79.3 PPG on 46.6% shooting from the field, 28.8% from three and 81% from the foul line this season.

Why the Michigan State Spartans will win

• Michigan State has won 11 of its last 13 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Illinois has lost each of its last three games following a home win.

Illinois Recap

The Illinois Fighting Illini come into this game looking to add on to their 83-78 win over UCLA last time out to improve to 17-8 on the year. After this game, Illinois will head on the road for a game against the Wisconsin Badgers.

Fighting Illini Win Back-To-Back Games

Kasparas Jakucionis leads the Illini in scoring and assists with 16 PPG and 5.2 APG along with 5.6 RPG while Tomislav Ivisic has 13.1 PPG with a team-high 8.5 RPG to lead the Illini in rebounding up to this point in the year. Will Riley has 11.9 PPG with 3.8 RPG and Kylan Boswell has 11.5 PPG with 5.2 RPG and 3.4 APG to cap off the scoring in double figures for Illinois so far this season. Tre White also has 9.3 PPG with 5.3 RPG and Ben Humrichous has 8.6 PPG and 3.9 RPG as well on the year. Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn also has 7.3 PPG as well this season. As a team, Illinois is averaging 85.1 PPG on 45.1% shooting from the field, 31.6% from three and 75.9% from the foul line this season.

Why the Illinois Fighting Illini will win

• Illinois has won 17 of its last 18 night games at State Farm Center following a home win.
• Michigan State has lost four of its last five games at State Farm Center.

Total Points Facts

• Each of the last eight night games between Michigan State and Illinois have produced a total of 153 or fewer points.
• Thirty-two of Michigan State’s last 36 night games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 154 or fewer points.

Illinois vs Michigan State Prediction

I’m on Illinois in this one. Michigan State’s still a solid team, but the problem for Sparty right now is that this is a bad matchup for Michigan State. The Spartans are a mainly 2-point driven offense as they barely shoot threes and are heavily reliant on shots inside the arc. That’s not good against Illinois’ 5^th-best 2-point defense and that’s 5^th-best in the country. Illinois has a solid defense and an offense that can go off on any given opponent and I also think the Illini have the better scoring depth here. Give me Illinois at home here.

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UCLA Bruins Betting Preview

The UCLA Bruins beat Michigan State and Penn State, and they play Indiana, Minnesota, and Ohio State next. The UCLA Bruins are averaging 75.5 points on 46.8 percent shooting and allowing 63.9 points on 42.4 percent shooting. Tyler Bilodeau is averaging 13.8 points and 4.5 rebounds, while Eric Dailey Jr. is averaging 12 points and 4.2 rebounds. Sebastian Mack is dishing 1.7 assists and Kobe Johnson is grabbing 5.9 rebounds. The UCLA Bruins are shooting 34 percent from beyond the arc and 70.7 percent from the free throw line. The UCLA Bruins are allowing 31.5 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29.7 rebounds per game.

Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

The Illinois Fighting Illini lost to Rutgers, beat Minnesota, and they play Michigan State, Wisconsin, and Duke next. The Illinois Fighting Illini are averaging 85.2 points on 45 percent shooting and allowing 71 points on 39.6 percent shooting. Kasparas Jakucionis is averaging 15.6 points and 5.5 rebounds, while Tomislav Ivisic is averaging 13 points and 8.6 rebounds. Will Riley is the third double-digit scorer and Kylan Boswell is grabbing 5.3 rebounds. The Illinois Fighting Illini are shooting 31.3 percent from beyond the arc and 75.4 percent from the free throw line. The Illinois Fighting Illini are allowing 30.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 42 rebounds per game.

Illinois vs UCLA Injury Report

UCLA will continue to be without Christian Horry, Eric Freeney, Devin Williams, and Evan Manjikian. Illinois will be without Ty Rodgers, while Tre White and Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn are questionable.

Illinois vs UCLA Prediction

Illinois is the more talented team, but this line isn’t showing much respect toward UCLA, a team that’s won seven straight games and has three road wins. UCLA is a top-100 offensive field goal percentage team and top-20 in scoring defense. Illinois has been hit or miss recently, which includes losses to Rutgers and Nebraska in the favorite role. UCLA has outright won three of its last five games as an underdog. The UCLA Bruins are balanced enough to steal this game on the road. Either way, I expect a close game and the points should come in handy. Give me UCLA on Tuesday.

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Illinois Can’t Lose This Game

Illinois, at times, looks like a National Championship contender, and in other games, they are losing to the Rutgers Scarlet Knights like in the last game. At halftime against Rutgers in the last game they were down 37-29 and even though they scored 44 points, it wasn’t enough as they fell short. Will Riley had a strong game putting up 20 points, five assists, and three rebounds, while Ben Humrichos also added 114 points and five rebounds. Two games ago, Ohio State scored 79 points against Illinois, but Illinois scored 87 points, which led to the eight-point victory. 

Illinois comes into this game with a 15-8 record overall and they have gone 11-11-1 against the spread. The over has hit in 12 of the games. Away from home this season, straight up they are 3-4. Illinois is averaging 84.7 points while their defense is giving up 70.9 points per game. The offense is ranked 9th in the league while the defense is ranked 157th. If they can get out to a fast start, and kill the Gophers confidence, they have a great shot in this game.

Minnesota Has Been a Problem

Minnesota has been a problem for opposing teams and although they can’t be trusted all the time, this is a team that might be able to compete with any Big Ten team, depending on who they are playing. In the last game, Minnesota went on the road against Penn State, and they were able to win 69-61. At halftime they were down four points, but in the second half they scored 48 points on the way to the win. Minnesota ended up shooting 53.1 percent from the field and 35.7 percent from behind the three point line. 

Minnesota sits with a 12-11 record overall and they have gone 7-14-2 against the spread. Minnesota is averaging 68.8 points per game while their defense is giving up 68.7 points per game. The offense is ranked 304th in the league while the defense is ranked 91st. Dawson Garcia has been the top player for Minnesota averaging 20.1 points while shooting 51 percent from the field. 

Why Minnesota Will Beat Illinois

The home team has won each of Illinois’ last four games.

Illinois has lost each of its last three road games against the Big Ten Conference.

The home team has won the first half in three of Illinois’ last four games.

Total Points Facts

Each of Illinois’ last 10 day games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 154+ points.

Four of Minnesota’s last five day games against the Big Ten Conference have produced a total of 144+ points.

Minnesota vs Illinois Prediction

Illinois has been so inconsistent and at home, Minnesota is going to find success. Dawson Garcia is playing like an NBA player right now and he’s going to have a huge game here. Minnesota, in the last game, secured the 69-61 victory over Penn State, and their defense is going to step up in a major way again here. The lack of scoring by Illinois will let Minnesota get the job done here. Back the Golden Gophers against the spread.

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Illinois Recap

The Illinois Fighting Illini come into this game looking to build on an 87-79 win over Ohio State last time out to improve to 15-7 on the year. Following this game, Illinois will take on Minnesota, UCLA, Michigan State, Wisconsin, and Duke.

Fighting Illini Looking For Consistency

Kasparas Jakucionis leads the Illini in scoring and assists with 15.6 PPG and 5.5 APG along with 5.7 RPG while Tomislav Ivisic has 12.9 PPG with a team-high 8.6 RPG to lead the Illini in rebounding up to this point in the year. Will Riley has 11 PPG with 3.6 RPG and Kylan Boswell has 12.1 PPG with 5.2 RPG and 3.5 APG to cap off the scoring in double figures for Illinois so far this season. Tre White also has 9.7 PPG with 5.5 RPG and Ben Humrichous has 8.3 PPG as well on the year. Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn also has 8 PPG as well this season. As a team, Illinois is averaging 85.3 PPG on 44.4% shooting from the field, 31.1% from three, and 75.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Illinois Fighting Illini will win

• Illinois has won each of its last 10 games when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• Rutgers has lost 10 of its last 11 games against AP-ranked opponents.

Rutgers Recap

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights come into this game looking to bounce back from a 66-63 loss to the Michigan Wolverines last time out to fall to 11-11 this season. After this game, Rutgers will head on the road to take on Maryland.

Scarlet Knights Lose 3 Of Last 4

Ace Bailey leads the Scarlet Knights in scoring and rebounding with 20.2 PPG and 7.8 RPG while Dylan Harper has 18.6 PPG with 4.8 RPG and a team-high 4.1 APG to lead the Scarlet Knights in assists as the only other double-digit scorer for Rutgers up to this point in the year. Jeremiah Williams also has 6.5 PPG and Lathan Sommerville has 7.2 PPG with 4.2 RPG. Jordan Derkack also added 7.3 PPG, 3.6 RPG, and 2.1 APG as well on the year. As a team, Rutgers is averaging 76 PPG on 44.4% shooting from the field, 33.2% from three, and 69.3% from the foul line this season.

Why the Rutgers Scarlet Knights will win

• Rutgers has won 25 of its last 27 games at Jersey Mike’s Arena when playing with a rest advantage.
• Illinois has lost three of its last four games at Jersey Mike’s Arena.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Rutgers’ last 13 night games against AP-ranked opponents at Jersey Mike’s Arena have produced a total of 145 or fewer points.
• Each of Illinois’ last five games against non-AP-ranked opponents at Jersey Mike’s Arena have produced a total of 137 or fewer points.

Rutgers vs Illinois Prediction

I’m leaning towards Rutgers and the points here. Rutgers can be a tough team at the Jersey Mike’s Arena, and Illinois has shown signs of vulnerability in some of their recent games. I also think that the Illini were slightly lucky to pull away from Ohio State the way that they did as Ohio State was leading with less than 8 minutes to go before Illinois flipped the switch. I think that Rutgers may end up being a two-man show with Harper and Bailey, but this Rutgers team has been able to keep themselves in a lot of games that maybe you wouldn’t expect them to be able to keep close. I’ll take a shot on Rutgers with the points in this one.

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Ohio State Recap

The Ohio State Buckeyes come into this game looking to add on to their 83-64 win over Penn State last time out to improve to 13-8 on the year. After this game, Ohio State will head home for a game against Maryland.

Buckeyes Win Third Straight

Bruce Thornton leads the Buckeyes in scoring with 17 PPG and in assists with 4.1 APG while John Mobley Jr. has 12.6 PPG. Micah Parrish has 11.6 PPG with 4.6 RPG while Devin Royal has 13.9 PPG with a team-high 7.4 RPG to lead Ohio State on the glass and to finish off the group of double-digit scorers for Ohio State up to this point in the year. Meechie Johnson Jr.’s added 9.1 PPG with 2.5 RPG and 2.7 APG and Aaron Bradshaw’s chipped in 7.1 PPG and 2.9 RPG this season. As a team, Ohio State is averaging 80 PPG on 48.2% shooting from the field, 37.3% from three, and 73.4% from the foul line this season.

Why the Ohio State Buckeyes will win

• Ohio State has won each of its last seven day games against the Big Ten Conference.
• Illinois has lost three of its last four games.

Illinois Recap

The Illinois Fighting Illini come into this game looking to bounce back from an 80-74 loss to Nebraska last time out to sit at 14-7 on the year. After this game, Illinois will head on the road to take on Rutgers.

Fighting Illini Lose 3 Of Last 4

Kasparas Jakucionis leads the Illini in scoring and assists with 16 PPG and 5.4 APG along with 5.8 RPG while Tomislav Ivisic has 13 PPG with a team-high 8.5 RPG to lead the Illini in rebounding up to this point in the year, but looks to still be missing time because of mono. Will Riley has 10.4 PPG with 3.6 RPG and Kylan Boswell has 12 PPG with 5.4 RPG and 3.7 APG. Tre White also has 10.2 PPG with 5 RPG to cap off the scoring in double figures for Illinois so far this season and Ben Humrichous has 8.5 PPG as well on the year. Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn also has 8 PPG as well this season. As a team, Illinois is averaging 85.2 PPG on 44.1% shooting from the field, 31.4% from three, and 75.3% from the foul line this season.

Why the Illinois Fighting Illini will win

• Illinois has won 10 of its last 11 day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Ohio State has lost six of its last eight day games against AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Ohio State’s last 11 games against AP-ranked opponents has produced a total of 152 or fewer points.
• Eight of Illinois’ last nine day games against the Big Ten Conference have produced a total of 157+ points.

Illinois vs Ohio State Prediction

I’m on Ohio State and the points here. I have to say I’m pretty impressed with what Ohio State’s been bringing to the table as of late from a cover perspective, and home court in the Big Ten has not been as strong of an angle in recent weeks. I just feel like this is a 4-point game, something in the ballpark of 79-75 so I’ll take my chances on Ohio State and the points in this one while sprinkling a little bit on Ohio State ML.

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Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

The Illinois Fighting Illini lost to Maryland, beat Northwestern, and they play Ohio State, Rutgers, and Minnesota next. The Illinois Fighting Illini are averaging 85.8 points on 44.5 percent shooting and allowing 69.5 points on 39.7 percent shooting. Kasparas Jakucionis is averaging 15.9 points and 5.4 rebounds, while Tomislav Ivisic is averaging 13 points and 8.5 rebounds. Kylan Boswell is the third double-digit scorer and Tre White is grabbing 5.4 rebounds. The Illinois Fighting Illini are shooting 31.9 percent from beyond the arc and 75.6 percent from the free throw line. The Illinois Fighting Illini are allowing 8.5 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 42 rebounds per game.

Nebraska Cornhuskers Betting Preview

The Nebraska Cornhuskers lost to USC and Wisconsin, and they play Oregon, Washington, and Ohio State next. The Nebraska Cornhuskers are averaging 75.4 points on 45.8 percent shooting and allowing 71 points on 41.7 percent shooting. Brice Williams is averaging 18.2 points and 3.7 rebounds, while Juwan Gary is averaging 12.2 points and 4.7 rebounds. Connor Essegian is the third double-digit scorer and Rollie Worster is grabbing 4.1 rebounds. The Nebraska Cornhuskers are shooting 33.2 percent from beyond the arc and 74.4 percent from the free throw line. The Nebraska Cornhuskers are allowing 34.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.6 rebounds per game.

Nebraska vs Illinois Injury Report

Justin Boris is questionable for Nebraska due to an undisclosed issue. Illinois will be without Ty Rodgers, while Tomislav Ivisic is questionable with an illness.

Nebraska vs Illinois Prediction

The Nebraska Cornhuskers haven’t won a game since January 4, and they’re getting blasted defensively during this losing streak. Nebraska has allowed 78 or more points in five of its last six games. Not ideal with Illinois coming to town, an offense that’s top-10 in scoring. Illinois scored 98 points against Nebraska when these teams clashed last March. Illinois has won nine straight games against Nebraska. Illinois hasn’t lost to Nebraska since December 2018. If Nebraska doesn’t fix its defense, this game should be a bloodbath and the line is more than reasonable. I’ll lay the points with Illinois.

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Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

The Illinois Fighting Illini are 13-6 (5-4) this year after they lost to Maryland by a score of 91-70 in their last game. Illinois trailed 38-35 at halftime and they allowed 53 points in the second half in the loss. The Fighting Illini shot 37.7% from the field, 21.4% on three-pointers, and 75% on free throws in the game. Kasparas Jakucionis led Illinois with 21 points and seven rebounds, while Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn added 15 points and four rebounds in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Fighting Illini lost to Michigan State by a score of 80-78 but did beat Indiana by a score of 94-69 before that. Illinois has lost three of their last four games and they are currently in a logjam of 5-4 teams in the Big Ten standings. Illinois has scored 85.9 points per game and they have allowed 69.2 points per game, while also averaging 44.7 rebounds and 15.2 assists per game this season. Kasparas Jakucionis is averaging 16.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, while Tomislav Ivisic is averaging 13.0 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game this year. Illinois is shooting 44.5% from the field, 76.1% on free throws, and 32.1% on three-pointers this season. 

Northwestern Wildcats Betting Preview

The Northwestern Wildcats are 12-7 (3-5) this season after they defeated Indiana by a score of 79-70 in their last game. Northwestern trailed 31-25 at halftime, but they scored 54 points in the second half for the win. The Wildcats shot 48.3% from the field, 48.1% on three-pointers, and 58.8% on free throws in the game. Ty Berry led Northwestern with 23 points and seven rebounds, while Brooks Barnhizer added 21 points and eight rebounds in the win. 

Prior to that game, the Wildcats lost to Michigan by a score of 80-76 but did beat Maryland by a score of 76-74 before that. Northwestern has lost four of their last six games and they are currently in the middle of the Big Ten standings. Northwestern has scored 74.2 points per game and they have allowed 68.2 points per game, while also averaging 34.8 rebounds and 14.6 assists per game this season. Nick Martinelli is averaging 19.9 points per game, 5.4 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, while Brooks Barnhizer is averaging 18.5 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 4.3 assists per game this year. Northwestern is shooting 44.4% from the field, 72.1% on free throws, and 32.7% on three-pointers this season. Northwestern will face Rutgers and Wisconsin following this one. 

Why Illinois will beat Northwestern

• Illinois has won each of its last 10 games at State Farm Center when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• Northwestern has lost each of its last eight games at State Farm Center.
• Illinois has won the first half in each of its last nine day games at State Farm Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Illinois vs Northwestern Prediction 

Illinois limps into this matchup after losing three of their last four games, but they will be at home for this game. The Fighting Illini are shooting 44.5% from the field this year and they are scoring nearly 86 points per game, but they have allowed at least 80 points in three of their last four games. Northwestern did beat Illinois by a score of 70-66 earlier in the year, but they are 0-4 on the road in conference play. The Wildcats are shooting 44.4% from the field and they are not as high-scoring as Illinois is. I know the Fighting Illini are struggling right now, but I do think they bounce back with a strong offensive effort. Take Illinois at home. 

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Maryland Terrapins Betting Preview

The Terrapins are doing quite well this season—all things considered—despite a .500 run over their last half-dozen outings. They’ve still only lost consecutive games once so far. Maryland opened the year on an 11-2 run with losses to Marquette and Purdue. Otherwise, it was wins over Manhattan, Mount St. Mary’s, Florida A&M, Canisius, Villanova, Bucknell, Alcorn State, and Ohio State. After three straight wins over St. Francis PA, Syracuse, and Maryland Eastern Shore, the Terrapins lost to Washington and Oregon in consecutive outings. Since then it’s been a 3-1 run though, as Maryland has only fallen to Northwestern in that quartet. Otherwise, the wins were over UCLA, Minnesota, and Nebraska, giving the Terrapins a respectable 14-5 overall record through the first 19 games of the season.

In the Nebraska matchup on Sunday, the Terrapins entered the second half with a 37-35 edge. The Terrapins kept it rolling from there on a 32-31 stretch and ended up winning 69-66 in the end. Tops in scoring was Ja’Kobi Gillespie with 22 points, five assists and four steals. Rodney Rice added 15 points with two rebounds and two assists, while Selton Miguel put up 13 points, three assists, and one rebound in 30 minutes of work on the floor.

Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

Over on the Illinois side, they’ve had quite a strong season so far in a difficult conference themselves—despite a couple of 1-2 stretches it’s been pretty smooth sailing this year. Illinois went 7-3 in their first 10 games with losses to Alabama, Northwestern, and Tennessee. The Illini otherwise beat Eastern Illinois, SIU Edwardsville, Oakland, MD Eastern Shore, Little Rock, Arkansas, and Wisconsin in that time. Following a winning streak over Missouri, Chicago State, Oregon, Washington, and Penn State, Illinois hit another one of those 1-2 stretches with a lone win over Indiana. The losses bookending it were versus USC and Michigan State, resulting in a 13-5 record in Illinois’ first 18 games this year.

Matched up against the Spartans in a road game Sunday, Illinois was all tied up 36-36 going into the second half. The Illini were outscored 44-42 the rest of the way, however, resulting in a tough loss of 80-78. Will Riley was the leading team scorer, coming off the bench to contribute 19 points with six boards and two assists in 26 minutes of action. Tomislav Ivisic added 13 points with four rebounds and five assists, while Kylan Boswell had 13 points with four assists, nine rebounds, and five turnovers. Morez Johnson chipped in 11 points and six boards as well.

Why the Illinois Fighting Illini will win

• Illinois has won each of its last 20 night games at State Farm Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Maryland has lost each of its last five road night games against the Big Ten Conference.
• Illinois has won the first half in each of its last 15 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Why the Maryland Terrapins will win

• Maryland has won five of its last six games at State Farm Center.
• Maryland has won the first half in each of its last four games against AP-ranked opponents.

Illinois vs Maryland Prediction

I’m going to take a stab at Maryland. This should be a fun matchup overall though, and you could certainly argue it the other way. The Terrapins put away a scrappy Nebraska team thanks to 44.8 percent shooting in their last outing, but there were some statistical blemishes involved. Maryland was out-rebounded 36-32, missed five of 12 free throws (58.3 percent), and had 12 turnovers for 14 Cornhuskers points. Still, Maryland continued a solid stretch of scoring; they’ve hit a nice 69 or more points in every game so far this year.

As for Illinois, they fell to a very good Michigan State team in their last matchup, thanks mostly to 10 turnovers, 20.8 percent (5-of-24) from 3-point range and 63 percent (17-of-27) from the line. That makes 69 or more points surrendered in three straight games for Illinois, who is normally a good enough offensive team to keep opponents at bay despite high totals. If Maryland has a hot shooting night in this one, I think the Terrapins keep pace.

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Illinois Dominated the Last Game

Illinois has been a bit inconsistent the last couple of weeks but they are coming off a big victory in the last game. Illinois scored 94 points against Indiana while the defense gave up 69 points and that was enough for the win. Kylan Boswell had a strong game putting up 22 points, seven rebounds, and two assists. There were three different players that put up at least 17 points. Two games ago against USC, the offense scored 72 points, but the defense gave up 82 points. 

Illinois is averaging 87.3 points per game while their defense is giving up 67.3 points per game. The offense is ranked 5th in the league while the defense is ranked 68 in the league. They are averaging 65.29 field goals attempted per game which is 7th best in the league. Kasparas Jakucionis is averaging 16.7 points while shooting 50 percent from the field. Illinois will meet Maryland and Northwestern after this game. 

Michigan State Just Keeps Winning

Michigan State just keeps winning games and they have a whole lot of confidence heading into this game. In the last game, Michigan State faced off against Penn State and they scored 90 points on the way to the victory. Michigan State shot 47.1 percent from the field but they still only shot 26.1 percent from behind the three-point line. Jaden Akins had a huge game putting up 16 points, six rebounds, and three assists. 

Michigan State is averaging 81.8 points while their defense is giving up 67.1 points per game. The offense is ranked 40th in the league while the defense is ranked 64th. They are averaging 47.79 from the field which is 53rd in the league. Jaden Akins has been the top player for Michigan State, averaging 14.2 points while shooting 45.1 percent from the field and 29.9 percent from behind the three-point line. 

Why Michigan State Will Beat Illinois

• Michigan State has won each of its last 10 games.
• Illinois has lost four of its last five day games against AP-ranked opponents.
• Illinois has lost the first half in three of its last four games against AP-ranked opponents at Jack Breslin Student Events Center.

Michigan State vs Illinois Prediction 

The big question in this game is which Illinois team going to show up. Will it be the Illinois game that won the last game or the team two games ago that lost by 10 points to USC? I expect it to be a little more like that team against USC. Michigan State is averaging 81. 8 points and they are going to have no issue running up the score. Illinois will have no answer and Michigan State will end up covering the spread.

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Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

The Fighting Illini have remained quite the steady team so far this season, and they’ve managed to avoid consecutive losses. Illinois does have a couple of tough defeats, though. Following a 6-1 opening run with a lone loss to Alabama amid wins over Eastern Illinois, SIU Edwardsville, Oakland, MD Eastern Shore, Little Rock, and Arkansas, the Illini hit a 1-2 stretch. The lone win in that time was over Wisconsin, sandwiched between losses to Northwestern and Tennessee. The Illini would rebound with wins over Missouri, Chicago State, Oregon, Washington, and Penn State over the next five games, but then took an upset loss at home versus USC over the weekend to drop the team to 12-4 overall on the season thus far.

In the USC matchup on Saturday, the Illini were looking okay after one half with a 38-35 edge. Illinois wilted in the second however, getting outscored 47-34 the rest of the way during an 82-72 loss. Tops in scoring was Ben Humrichous, who notched 15 points and five rebounds during the losing effort. Tre White put up 11 points with four boards and two assists, while Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn had 11 points with two rebounds off the bench in 31 minutes of work. Kylan Boswell chipped in 10 points with eight rebounds, six assists, and five steals as well.

Indiana Hoosiers Betting Preview

Over on the Indiana side, they’ve looked pretty good overall for most of the year themselves—but similarly, they’ve got a couple of bad losses in the books. The Hoosiers hit an 8-2 run over their first 10 games, losing to Louisville and Gonzaga in late November amid wins over SIU Edwardsville, Eastern Illinois, South Carolina, UNC Greensboro, Providence, Sam Houston, Miami OH, and Minnesota. Following a loss to Nebraska, the Hoosiers took out Chattanooga, Winthrop, Rutgers, Penn State, and USC before another loss to Iowa, which gave Indiana a 13-4 overall record through the first 17 games of the season.

Matched up against Iowa on Saturday, the Hoosiers came out of the break looking up at a 43-33 deficit on the scoreboard. Indiana was blitzed 42-27 in the second half, limping to an 85-60 blowout loss. Leading team scorer Myles Rice notched 12 points with five assists, one rebound, and one steal. Oumar Ballo was the only other player in double-figures, notching a double-double on 10 points, 13 rebounds, and one assist in 24 minutes of work on the floor. Both Bryson Tucker and Kanaan Carlyle posted nine points apiece off the bench.

Why the Indiana Hoosiers will win

• Indiana has won each of its last 13 games at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall.
• Indiana has won the first half in eight of its last nine games at Simon Skjodt Assembly Hall.

Why the Illinois Fighting Illini will win

• Indiana has lost each of its last eight games against AP-ranked opponents.
• Illinois has won 18 of its last 20 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Illinois has won the first half in each of its last 14 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Indiana vs Illinois Prediction

I’m going to stick with Illinois. The Illini could use a good bounce-back effort here, and they’ll need a statistical shot in the arm to get it. In their upset loss to USC over the weekend, Illinois managed to shoot just 37.1 percent from the field and 21.9 percent from 3-point range (7-of-32) while coughing up 15 turnovers for 18 Trojans points. It was one of the Illini’s worst performances of the season—and they did it at home against a team they probably should have handled easily. Still, Illinois has posted 72 or more points in six straight games (a 5-1 run) and should put up a decent total here as well.

As for Indiana, they were quite permissive in their blowout loss to Iowa, giving up 54.2 percent shooting with a 37-31 rebounding deficit and 16 turnovers for 24 Hawkeyes points. The Hoosiers have given up 68 or more points in five straight games, so Illinois should have plenty of room to score here. The Illini need a big win on the road against a rival Hoosiers squad here in order to regain some national respect. I think they’ll get it.

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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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Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

The Illinois Fighting Illini are 11-3 (3-1) this year after they defeated Washington by a score of 81-77 in their last game. Illinois led 42-31 at halftime and they were able to get the win, despite allowing 46 points in the second half. The Fighting Illini shot 47% from the field, 19.2% on three-pointers, and 73.7% on free throws in the game. Kasparas Jakucionis led Illinois with 18 points and six assists, while Tre White added 17 points and seven rebounds in the win. 

Prior to that game, the Fighting Illini defeated Oregon by a score of 109-77 and Chicago State by a score of 117-64. Illinois has won four games in a row and opened conference play with a loss to Northwestern and a win over Wisconsin. Illinois has scored 87.6 points per game and they have allowed 67.2 points per game, while also averaging 45.1 rebounds and 15.2 assists per game this season. Kasparas Jakucionis is averaging 16.4 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, while Tomislav Ivisic is averaging 13.8 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game this year. Illinois is shooting 46.1% from the field, 75.1% on free throws, and 34% on three-pointers this season. 

Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Preview

The Penn State Nittany Lions are 12-3 (2-2) this season after they lost to Indiana by a score of 77-71 in their last game. Penn State was tied at 29 at halftime, but they allowed 48 points in the second half in the loss. The Nittany Lions shot 46% from the field, 14.3% on three-pointers, and 58.8% on free throws in the game. Nick Kern Jr. led Penn State with 21 points and three rebounds, while Ace Baldwin Jr. added 12 points and seven assists in the game. 

Prior to that loss, the Nittany Lions defeated Northwestern by a score of 84-80 and Penn by a score of 86-66. Penn State has won four of their last five games and they opened conference play with a win over Purdue and loss to Rutgers. Penn State has scored 86.8 points per game and they have allowed 68.5 points per game, while also averaging 36.5 rebounds and 18.1 assists per game this season. Ace Baldwin Jr. is averaging 14.8 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game, while Yanic Konan Niederhauser is averaging 12.7 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks per game this year. Penn State is shooting 50.1% from the field, 75.3% on free throws, and 34% on three-pointers this season. 

Why Illinois will beat Penn State

• Illinois has won each of its last 19 night games at State Farm Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Illinois has won the first half in each of its last 12 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Illinois vs Penn State Prediction 

Illinois comes into this matchup on a four-game winning streak and they are coming off of two great road wins against Washington and Oregon. The Fighting Illini are shooting 46.1% from the field this year, but they have scored 87.6 points per game on the season. Penn State is shooting over 50% from the field and they are scoring 86.8 points per game this year, but they are coming off of a loss to Indiana. The Nittany Lions did lose to lowly Rutgers on the road and this is not a team that I am eager to back away from home. Take Illinois to have a huge second half to get the cover at home. 

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Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview:

The Illini got off to a 3-0 start this year, rolling past Eastern Illinois, SIU Edwardsville, and Oakland before taking their first loss to Alabama on November 20. Illinois hit another three-game win streak after that over Maryland-Eastern Shore, Little Rock, and Arkansas, but then went 1-2 over the next trio with a lone win over Wisconsin in between losses to Northwestern and Tennessee. Since then Illinois has taken yet another three-game win streak, dispatching Missouri, Chicago State, and Oregon in that trio for a 10-3 overall record this year.

In the Oregon matchup back on Thursday, the Illini came out of halftime looking up at a 45-38 advantage on the scoreboard. Illinois kept the pressure on in the second half, bombing in 64 more points in a decisive win 109-77. Leading the team in the victory with a double-double was Tre White with 20 points, 11 rebounds, four assists, and two blocks. Ben Humrichous added 18 points with two boards and one assist, and Kasparas Jakucionis had 16 points with six rebounds and six assists. Topping the bench players was Jake Davis with 12 points and three boards in 11 minutes. Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn added 11 points and two boards as well.

Washington Huskies Betting Preview

Over on the Washington side, they rolled to a 6-1 overall record this year. The lone loss in that time was versus Nevada. Otherwise, it was victories over UC Davis, Seattle Pacific, UMass Lowell, Alcorn State, Colorado State, and Santa Clara at that time. Consecutive losses came versus UCLA and USC after that, then consecutive wins over Eastern Washington and Washington State. Since their latest loss to Seattle U back on December 23, the Huskies have taken out NJIT and Maryland in consecutive games for a 10-4 record overall this season.

In Thursday’s matchup with Maryland, the Huskies were in trouble with a 33-30 deficit in the locker room. Washington woke up after that, however, surging on a 45-36 run on the way to a comeback victory 75-69 in the end. Topping the team with 20 points and 14 rebounds alongside four assists and three steals for a nice double-double was Great Osobor. Zoom Diallo added 18 points with five boards, six assists, and two steals off the bench, while DJ Davis added 17 points in 24 minutes of work. The next-highest starter was Wilhelm Breidenbach with five points, one rebound, and one steal, though.

Why the Washington Huskies will win

• Washington has won eight of its last 10 games at Alaska Airlines Arena at Hec Edmundson Pavilion.
• Illinois has lost eight of its last nine Sunday day road games against the Big Ten Conference.

Why the Illinois Fighting Illini will win

• Washington has lost each of its last 15 day games against AP-ranked opponents.
• Illinois has won each of its last eight day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Illinois has won the first half in each of its last 11 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Washington vs Illinois Prediction

I’ll lean toward Illinois. The Illini played with confidence and conviction in their blowout win over Oregon during their last appearance, powering out an impressive win. Illinois shot a nice 57.5 percent from the field in that one alongside a scorching 55.2 percent from the field and a 43-31 rebounding advantage. The Ducks didn’t play terribly on offense themselves, but simply couldn’t keep up with the surge. During this three-game win streak, Illinois is scoring great. They’ve got 80 or more in all three games, and a combined 226 points in the last two outings alone. It’s unfair to think Illinois will keep up that torrid pace in this one, but another 80-point outing doesn’t seem too far-fetched to believe.

As for Washington, they had a pretty muted performance from all of their starters outside of Osobor in their latest comeback win. The Huskies got just 11 combined points from the other four players. The good news is that Washington shot 45.6 percent from the field and looked good on the boards (33) in a win. That makes 70 or more points in five straight (a 4-1 run), so we should have a pretty good total here if both teams continue their current trajectories. In the end, however, I like Illinois to stay hot and control this one for a nice cover.

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Oregon Ducks Betting Preview

The Oregon Ducks are 12-1 (1-1) this year after they defeated Weber State by a score of 89-49 in their last game. Oregon led 40-23 at halftime and added 49 points in the second half for the blowout win. The Ducks shot 55% from the field, 40.9% on three-pointers, and 82.4% on free throws in the game. Jackson Shelstad led Oregon with 16 points and two assists, while Brandon Angel added 14 points and seven rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Ducks defeated Stanford by a score of 76-61 and SFA by a score of 79-61. Oregon has won 12 of their first 13 games this season, with their lone loss coming against UCLA by a score of 73-71. Oregon has scored 79.5 points per game and they have allowed 65.6 points per game, while also averaging 38.5 rebounds and 15.5 assists per game this season. Nate Bittle is averaging 13.2 points, 8.5 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, while Jackson Shelstad is averaging 10.8 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game this year. Oregon is shooting 46.5% from the field, 75% on free throws, and 34.1% on three-pointers this season. Oregon will face Maryland, Ohio State, and Penn State following this one.

Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

The Illinois Fighting Illini are 9-3 (1-1) this season after they defeated Chicago State by a score of 117-64 in their last game. Illinois led 60-24 at halftime and they added 57 points in the second half for the easy win. The Fighting Illini shot 62.1% from the field, 45.5% on three-pointers, and 71.4% on free throws in the game. Tomislav Ivisic led Illinois with 23 points and five assists, while Kylan Boswell added 18 points and 10 assists in the win. 

Prior to that game, the Fighting Illini defeated Missouri by a score of 80-77 but did lose to Tennessee by a score of 66-64 before that. Illinois has won three of their last four games, but they split their first two conference games against Northwestern and Wisconsin. Illinois has scored 86.4 points per game and they have allowed 65.6 points per game, while also averaging 45.4 rebounds and 15.5 assists per game this season. Kasparas Jakucionis is averaging 16.3 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 5.3 assists per game, while Tomislav Ivisic is averaging 14.7 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game this year. Illinois is shooting 44.9% from the field, 75% on free throws, and 33.4% on three-pointers this season. Illinois will take on Washington after this game.

Why Oregon will beat Illinois

• Oregon has won 12 of its last 13 games.
• Illinois has lost seven of its last eight games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents.
• Oregon has won the first half in each of its last four games.

Oregon vs Illinois Prediction 

Oregon comes into this contest looking for their fourth win in a row and they will be at home for this game. The Ducks have played very well to open the season and they have allowed 61 points or fewer in four of their last five games. Illinois has won three of their last four games, but they did struggle in their last road game against Northwestern, where they lost in overtime. The Fighting Illini are scoring over 86 points per game, but they are shooting just 44.9% from the field. These two teams are pretty evenly matched and while I do think Illinois is the slightly better team, I have to give the edge to Oregon at home. Illinois has a long trip for this game and I need to see them play well on the road. Take Oregon here. 

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Chicago State Cougars Betting Preview

The Chicago State Cougars lost to Grand Canyon and Cal State Northridge, and they play Wagner, LIU and Stonehill next. The Chicago State Cougars are averaging 59.6 points on 35 percent shooting and allowing 83 points on 47 percent shooting. Jalen Forrest is averaging 9.1 points and 4.4 rebounds, while Noble Crawford is averaging 8.3 points and 2.2 assists. Gabe Spinelli is dishing 2.2 assists and Troy McKoy Jr. is grabbing 2.9 rebounds. The Chicago State Cougars are shooting 29.1 percent from beyond the arc and 65.1 percent from the free throw line. The Chicago State Cougars are allowing 34 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29.9 rebounds per game.

Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

The Illinois Fighting Illini lost to Tennessee, beat Missouri, and they play Oregon, Washington and Penn State next. The Illinois Fighting Illini are averaging 83.7 points on 43.3 percent shooting and allowing 65.8 points on 37.2 percent shooting. Kasparas Jakucionis is averaging 16.5 points and 5.7 rebounds, while Tomislav Ivisic is averaging 13.9 points and 9.7 rebounds. Will Riley is the third double-digit scorer and Kylan Boswell is grabbing 4.5 rebounds. The Illinois Fighting Illini are shooting 32.3 percent from beyond the arc and 75.4 percent from the free throw line. The Illinois Fighting Illini are allowing 26.2 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 41.8 rebounds per game.

Illinois vs Chicago State Prediction

The Chicago State Cougars aren’t winning games, but they’ve been on the road all season and have covered 5 of their last 7 games. The Illinois Fighting Illini are 0-3-1 ATS in their last four games, and they’ve allowed teams to hang around recently. At some point, all of these road games should pay off for Chicago State. Possible look ahead spot for Illinois as well with Oregon, Washington, and Penn State on deck. Give me all of the points I can get with Chicago State.

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South Carolina Gamecocks Betting Preview

This year the Gamecocks posted a shaky 3-3 start, taking losses to LSU, Ole Miss and Alabama along the way. South Carolina has since won six straight though, dispatching Oklahoma, Texas A&M, Vanderbilt, Missouri, Wofford and Clemson in that time.

Matched up against Clemson on November 30, the Gamecocks were down 14-7 going into the final quarter. South Carolina scored 10 unanswered points from there to take a comeback win 17-14. QB LaNorris Sellers passed for 164 yards and led the rush on 166 yards with two ground scores.

Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Preview

Over on the Illinois side, they won six of their first seven over Eastern Illinois, Kansas, Central Michigan, Nebraska, Purdue and Michigan. The Illini would fall to Oregon and Minnesota before three more wins over Michigan State, Rutgers and Northwestern.

In the regular season finale versus Northwestern on November 30, the Illini held a 14-10 edge in the locker room. Illinois scored another 24 points in the second during a 38-28 win. QB Luke Altmyer threw for 170 yards, one TD and two picks, but Aidan Laughery did most of the scoring on 172 yards and three rush touchdowns.

Illinois vs South Carolina Prediction

I’m going with South Carolina here but I wouldn’t mind seeing a thinner line. It’ll be a fun game regardless, though. The Gamecocks have been very impressive during this six-game win streak; they’ve taken out three ranked teams along the way while holding opponents to 14 or fewer points four times. One of those times was against Clemson in their last outing, as South Carolina powered through three turnovers and a tepid 164 passing yards to get the three-point win.

As for Illinois, they didn’t play great football in their last game against a struggling Northwestern squad. The Illini put up just 14 first downs and 170 passing yards, but did notch four takeaways on defense. Illinois has given up a combined 59 points in their last two outings, but they’ve scored an even 38 themselves in each of the last three. I don’t think the Illini will be able to move the ball so well against that South Carolina defense however, so I like the Gamecocks cover-wise here. Should be a good one to watch, though.

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Illinois Recap

The Illinois Fighting Illini come into this game looking to bounce back after a 66-64 loss at the hands of Tennessee last time out. After this game, Illinois will head home to take on Chicago State.

Illini Looking For Consistency

Kasparas Jakucionis leads the Illini in scoring and assists with 16.1 PPG and 5.6 APG along with 6.1 RPG while Tomislav Ivisic has 14.2 PPG with a team-high 9.7 RPG to lead the Illini in rebounding up to this point in the year. Will Riley has 13.5 PPG with 4.2 RPG and Kylan Boswell has 10.1 PPG with 4.1 RPG and 3.4 APG to cap off the scoring in double figures for Illinois so far this season. Tre White also has 9.1 PPG with 5 RPG and Ben Humrichous has 8.3 PPG as well on the year. As a team, Illinois is averaging 84 PPG on 43.2% shooting from the field, 32.4% from three and 73.5% from the foul line this season.

Why the Illinois Fighting Illini will win

• Illinois has won 14 of its last 15 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Missouri has lost each of its last four games played at neutral venues.

Missouri Recap

The Missouri Tigers come into this one looking to add on to their 83-72 win over Jacksonville State last time out. After this game, Missouri will head home for a game against Alabama State.

Tigers Win 10 In A Row

Caleb Grill leads the Tigers in scoring with 13.6 PPG along with 2.7 RPG while Tamar Bates has 12.3 PPG of his own this season. Mark Mitchell has 13.5 PPG with 5 RPG while Anthony Robinson II has 11.5 PPG with 4.1 RPG and a team-high 4.2 APG to lead the Tigers in the assist department, rounding out the group of double-digit scorers for Missouri so far this season. Josh Gray also has a team-high 5.3 RPG to lead Missouri on the glass up to this point in the year. As a team, Missouri is averaging 88.7 PPG on 52% shooting from the field, 37.8% from three and 71.4% from the foul line this season.

Why the Missouri Tigers will win

• Missouri has won each of its last 10 games.
• Illinois has lost four of its last five day games against the Southeastern Conference.

Missouri vs Illinois Prediction

I’m on Illinois here. Missouri does have the home win against Kansas, but their 10-game win streak has all come on their home floor. Illinois is a tough team with an elite level defense that should give the Tigers all sorts of issues, and Missouri has played one of the weakest schedules in the country this season. Give me Illinois.

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Tennessee Recap

The Tennessee Volunteers come into this one looking to build on a 75-62 win over Miami last time out. After this game, Tennessee will head home to take on Western Carolina.

Volunteers Looking To Remain Unbeaten

Chaz Lanier leads the Vols in scoring with 19.1 PPG while Igor Milicic Jr. has 12.9 PPG with a team-high 7.3 RPG to lead the Vols on the glass. Zakai Zeigler has 12.1 PPG with 3.2 RPG and a team-high 8 APG to lead the Vols in the assist department up to this point in the year. Jordan Gainey has 10.3 PPG to round out the group of double-digit scorers for Tennessee up to this point in the year. As a team, Tennessee is averaging 82.4 PPG on 52.1% shooting from the field, 37.7% from three and 74.1% from the foul line this season.

Why the Tennessee Volunteers will win

• Tennessee has won each of its last 10 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Illinois Recap

The Illinois Fighting Illini come into this one looking to build on an 86-80 win over Wisconsin last time out. After this game, Illinois will head to a neutral floor to take on Missouri.

Illini Looking For Big Home Win

Kasparas Jakucionis leads the Illini in scoring and assists with 15.4 PPG and 6 APG along with 6.4 RPG while Tomislav Ivisic has 15.3 PPG with a team-high 9.4 RPG to lead the Illini in rebounding up to this point in the year. Will Riley has 13.9 PPG with 4.1 RPG and Kylan Boswell has 10.1 PPG with 3.8 RPG and 3.7 APG to cap off the scoring in double figures for Illinois so far this season. Tre White also has 8.9 PPG with 5.3 RPG and Ben Humrichous has 8.7 PPG as well on the year. As a team, Illinois is averaging 86.2 PPG on 44.4% shooting from the field, 33.6% from three and 71.9% from the foul line this season.

Why the Illinois Fighting Illini will win

• Illinois has won each of its last 10 games against non-Conference opponents at State Farm Center.

Illinois vs Tennessee Prediction

I’m on Tennessee here. I just think that the Vols are going to be the toughest defense that Illinois has faced up to this point in the year, and the Vols have shown no letup this early in the year. Tennessee already went on the road and blew out a really good Louisville team by 22 points last month, and I think they can get the road win here. Give me Tennessee.

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Wisconsin Looks to Bounce Back

Wisconsin has struggled and they have lost two games in a row. In the last game against Marquette, the defense was awful giving up 88 points and that led to the defeat. In the second half, the defense gave up 51 points, and the defense is going to need to be a whole lot better. Max Klesmit had a strong game putting up 22 points, two rebounds, and one assist. There were three different players that put in at least 14 points. Wisconsin on the season is averaging 82 points while their defense is giving up 70.9 points per game. The offense is ranked 60th in the league while the defense is ranked 177th. John Tonje is averaging 21.5 points while shooting 49.1 percent from the field. Wisconsin will play against Butler following this one. 

Can Illinois Bounce Back?

Illinois have played pretty well to start the season, but they really struggled in the last game. Illinois only managed 66 points against Northwestern and they ended up losing by four points. Kasparus Jakucinious did have a strong game putting up 20 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, but it wasn’t enough. Illinois on the season is averaging 86.3 points while their defense is giving up 62.5 points per game. The offense is ranked 17th in the league while the defense is ranked 21st. Tomislav Ivisic is averaging 16.1 points while shooting 55.2 percent from the field and 38.5 percent from deep. Illinois will face Tennessee after this game. 

Why Illinois Will Beat Wisconsin

• Illinois has won each of its last eight games at State Farm Center when playing with a rest advantage.
• Wisconsin has lost four of its last five road night games against Conference opponents.

Illinois vs Wisconsin Prediction

Give me Illinois here. The way Wisconsin played in the last game is a huge concern and they are going to really struggle here. Illinois wasn’t as good in the last game but they are still averaging 86.3 points per game and they are going to have no issue running up the score here. Illinois is going to jump out to a fast start and they will end up cruising here. Back Illinois against the spread here. 

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