Illinois Fighting Illini vs
Rutgers Scarlet KnightsPredictions & Preview

Fighting Illini Favored to Dominate Rutgers in Big Ten Matchup at Jersey Mike's Arena

In this Big Ten matchup, the #23 Fighting Illini will take on the Rutgers Scarlet Knights at Jersey Mike's Arena on Wednesday night. Illinois is favored to win, opening at -8 with the current line at -8.5. Stay tuned for our prediction on which team will emerge victorious.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Fighting Illini -400 | Scarlet Knights +300
• Spread: Fighting Illini -8.5 (-110) | Scarlet Knights +8.5 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 157.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Illinois will win straight-up is 80%.

Illinois vs Rutgers Stats

Illinois Fighting Illini

The Fighting Illini recently won against Ohio State, breaking a streak of inconsistent performances in Big Ten conference play. Their elite defense has been a standout factor, allowing an average of 70.4 points per game and holding opponents to low shooting percentages. Their offense is also strong, averaging 85.3 points per game and maintaining high shooting percentages. Overall, the Fighting Illini are ranked 13th in KenPom's ratings and 12th in NET rankings. They have a power ranking of 200, ranking 7th in offense and 130th in defense. The team has a solid record of 15-7 this season.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights Analysis

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights have struggled in recent games with a 3-6 record since the start of the new year. They will be looking to gain momentum behind their top scorer, Ace Bailey, who averages 20.2 points per game. Offensively, the team averages 76.0 points per game and shoots 44.4% from the floor, 33.2% from three-point range, and 69.3% from the free throw line. On defense, they allow 74.6 points per game and have improved in holding opponents under 75 points in their last few matchups. Rutgers will need to shore up their defense, as they allow opponents to shoot 44.9% from the field and 34.1% from beyond the arc. The team is currently ranked 71st in KenPom's rating and will face Illinois next, where key players Dylan Harper and Emmanuel Ogbole are dealing with injuries.

Illinois Basketball Continues Dominance Over Rutgers, Favorited to Cover Spread on the Road

The University of Illinois basketball team has outperformed Rutgers in their last three encounters, covering the spread in each matchup as well as in five of their past six meetings. Illinois has shown a superior level of performance, particularly in conference competitions. Despite playing on the road, they are expected to maintain their dominance in rebounding and free throw shooting. The team's offensive consistency and potency in away games, coupled with their strong defensive capabilities, further solidify their position as the favorite in this matchup. It is recommended to place a bet on the visiting Fighting Illini to cover the spread in this upcoming game against Rutgers.

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