Maryland Terrapins vs
Illinois Fighting IlliniPredictions & Preview

Illinois Fighting Illini Favored to Win Big Ten Matchup Against Maryland Terrapins

The Maryland Terrapins are set to face off against the Illinois Fighting Illini in a Big Ten matchup. The teams split their meetings last season, with the road team winning each game. Maryland is coming off a home win over Nebraska, while Illinois recently lost to Michigan State on the road. The game is scheduled for 9:00 EST and will be broadcast on FS1. Illinois is currently the betting favorite at -9.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Terrapins +295 | Fighting Illini -378
• Spread: Terrapins +9 (-110) | Fighting Illini -9 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 158 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Illinois will win straight-up is 79%.

Maryland vs Illinois Stats

Maryland Terrapins

The Maryland Terrapins have a 4-4 record in the Big Ten standings, winning three of their last four games, including victories over ranked opponents. Ja'Kobi Gillespie is the team's top outside shooter, averaging 46 made threes on 43.0% shooting. Derik Queen leads the team in scoring with 15.1 PPG and 8.1 RPG as a freshman. Julian Reese is the top rebounder with 8.7 RPG. The Terrapins are ranked 24th in the nation by KenPom and are projected as a 9-seed in the NCAA Tournament. Offensively, they rank 21st in scoring and 26th in field goal percentage. Defensively, they rank 29th in points allowed and 31st in defensive rebounds. The Terrapins average 15.50 offensive assists and 11.28 defensive assists per game. Their defense allows opponents to shoot 41.25% from the field and 31.44% from three-point range.

Illinois Fighting Illini Analysis

The Illinois Fighting Illini are currently ranked 17th in the nation and are in a four-way tie for fourth place in the Big Ten with a league play record of 5-3. Despite recent losses to Michigan State and USC, they have strong wins over Wisconsin and Oregon. They have multiple scoring options including star freshmen Will Riley and Kasparas Jakucionis, as well as sophomore Tomislav Ivisic and junior Kylan Boswell. Their fast-paced style of play has led to high offensive efficiency and defensive efficiency rankings. According to Bracketology, they are projected to be a 4-seed in the NCAA Tournament. In terms of offense, they excel in scoring and shooting percentages, while on defense they are strong in limiting opponent field goal percentages and three-point shooting. Overall, the Fighting Illini have shown a balanced and competitive performance throughout the season.

Illinois' Defensive Prowess and Home Advantage Make Them Favorites Over Maryland

Illinois' defensive prowess and strategic advantage at home make them the favorable choice against Maryland in this matchup. Maryland's reliance on their post players may be challenged by Illinois' formidable front line, particularly the presence of Tomislav Ivisic, a 7'1 center with the ability to disrupt their inside game. Illinois boasts a top-tier defense and will likely force Maryland to adjust their offensive strategy, potentially leading to a less effective performance by the Terrapins. Additionally, Ivisic's outside shooting capabilities pose a threat that may draw Maryland's big men away from the basket, creating opportunities for other Illinois players to score. With a proven track record in the Big Ten, Illinois is poised to emerge victorious in this game. Expect a strong performance from the Illini, making them a confident choice to win and cover the spread.

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