Illinois Fighting Illini vs
Wisconsin BadgersPredictions & Preview

Wisconsin Favored to Prevail in Rematch Against Illinois in Big Ten Showdown on FS1

In this highly anticipated Big Ten rivalry game, the (17-9, 9-7 Big Ten) Illinois team will face off against the (20-5, 10-4 Big Ten) Wisconsin team. Illinois previously defeated Wisconsin at home, but both teams are coming off of different outcomes in their recent games. Illinois suffered a loss to Michigan State, while Wisconsin secured a notable road win against Purdue. The game is set to tip off at 8:30 EST on FS1, with Wisconsin being the favored team with a -3.5 opening line that has remained unchanged. Stay tuned for our prediction on this exciting matchup.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Fighting Illini +140 | Badgers -170
• Spread: Fighting Illini +3.5 (-110) | Badgers -3.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 161.25 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Wisconsin will win straight-up is 63%.

Illinois vs Wisconsin Stats

Illinois Fighting Illini

The Illinois Fighting Illini had a strong start to the season, spending most of their time in the AP Top 25 rankings. However, recent losses to unranked opponents have caused them to fall out of the standings. Despite this, they have won two of their last three games. Freshman Kasparas Jakucionis has been a standout player, leading the team in scoring and putting up impressive stats. The team is currently ranked 20th overall in KenPom rankings and is projected to be a 6-seed in the NCAA Tournament. Offensively, they are ranked 6th in the nation, averaging 85.08 points per game and shooting well from the field and free throw line. Defensively, they have room for improvement, allowing their opponents to score at a higher percentage. Overall, the Fighting Illini are a formidable team with potential for success in the postseason.

Wisconsin Badgers Analysis

The Wisconsin Badgers have been on a winning streak, claiming victories in their last four games including an impressive win over #7 Purdue. Led by standout player John Tonje, the team has shown a strong offensive performance, shooting well from the field and excelling in three-point shooting. With key contributors like John Blackwell and Nolan Winter, the Badgers have also demonstrated a solid defensive effort. Currently ranked 9th overall in KenPom rankings, the team is projected to be a 4-seed in the NCAA Tournament. Their offensive efficiency is ranked 36th in the nation, while their defensive efficiency ranks 43rd. Wisconsin has a 20-5 record and holds a power ranking of 88. In their upcoming matchup with Illinois, Wisconsin has a favorable history, as Illinois has gone 0-3 in their last three meetings against the Badgers.

Wisconsin Badgers Favored to Win and Cover the Spread against Illinois

The Wisconsin Badgers are favored by only three and a half points in this matchup, despite their recent strong performances on the court. Illinois, although rich in talent, has struggled to secure victories in the Big Ten, with surprising losses to teams like Nebraska and Rutgers. Conversely, Wisconsin has been on a winning streak, propelled by the exceptional scoring abilities of their veteran player, John Tonje. With Tonje leading the offense, Wisconsin has been able to secure impressive wins against tough opponents. Additionally, the Badgers' offensive efficiency and depth of scoring options make them a formidable force. In contrast, Illinois' big men will struggle against Wisconsin's tall and skilled players like Winter and Crowl. Ultimately, Wisconsin is expected to dominate at home. Therefore, it is advisable to bet on Wisconsin to win and cover the spread in this game.

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