Indiana St. Sycamores vs
Illinois St. RedbirdsPredictions & Preview

University of Utah Favored to Cover Spread Against University of Houston in Big 12 Matchup

In this Big 12 matchup, the Utah Utes (11-6, 3-3 Big 12) will be facing the Houston Cougars (14-3, 6-0 Big 12) in a game set to tip off at 8:00 EST. Last season, Houston emerged victorious in a neutral site game against Utah by 10 points. Both teams are coming off narrow one-point wins, with Utah defeating BYU in OT and Houston edging out UCF on the road. The current line favors Illinois St. at -7.5. Stay tuned for our prediction on this Utes vs. Cougars matchup.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Sycamores +260 | Redbirds -350
• Spread: Sycamores +7.5 (-110) | Redbirds -7.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 154 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Illinois St. will win straight-up is 78%.

Indiana St. vs Illinois St. Stats

Indiana St. Sycamores

The Utah Utes had a rocky start in the Big 12 conference, losing their first three games but have since bounced back with three consecutive wins. They have been led by standout performances from forward Ezra Ausar and guard Gabe Madsen. Utah is ranked 73rd overall and plays at a relatively fast pace. Despite their recent success, they are not currently projected to make the NCAA Tournament according to Joe Lunardi's Bracketology.

Meanwhile, Indiana St. is ranked 30th in offense and struggles on defense, allowing an average of 80.56 points per game. They have solid shooting percentages and rebounding numbers, but struggle with turnovers on both ends of the court. Their defensive stats are concerning, as they allow high shooting percentages from the field and free-throw line, and struggle to defend the three-pointer.

Illinois St. Redbirds Analysis

The Houston Cougars are currently leading the way in defensive efficiency, which has helped them maintain an undefeated record in the Big 12. J'wan Roberts has been a key player for Houston, dominating the post and providing crucial baskets in close games. L.J. Cryer and Emanuel Sharp are the top scorers for the team, both shooting over 41% from three-point range. Houston is ranked 3rd overall in KenPom's rankings, projected to be a four seed in Bracketology. In contrast, the Illinois St. Redbirds have a power ranking of 123 and have struggled defensively, allowing a high percentage of field goals and free throws. They are ranked #134 for offense, scoring an average of 76.89 points per game. The Redbirds have a strong shooting percentage from the field and three-point range, but struggle with defensive rebounds and turnovers.

University of Utah's Basketball Team Shows Strong Performance, Favored to Cover Spread against University of Houston

The University of Utah's basketball team has demonstrated significant improvement in their performance over the course of their last three games, securing victories in each match while also successfully covering the spread. On the other hand, the University of Houston has struggled to cover the spread in their most recent two games, relying heavily on J'Wan Roberts to lead the team from the interior. Utah possesses strong defensive options to counter Roberts, with Ausar standing at 6'8 and demonstrating impressive form in recent games, complemented by Lovering, a 7'1, 235 pound center, making it challenging for Roberts to score close to the basket. Despite Houston's undefeated record in Big 12 play, their strength of schedule and recent underperformance raise doubts about their status in the upcoming match. Considering Utah's current positive momentum, they are favored to cover the spread in this game. It is suggested to bet on Utah to cover.

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