Marquette Golden Eagles (2-0) vs. Illinois Fighting Illini (2-0)
Marquette Golden Eagles vs. Illinois Fighting Illini 11/14/23 – As the NCAA Men’s Basketball season takes shape, a captivating matchup between Marquette Golden Eagles (2-0 record) and Illinois Fighting Illini (also unbeaten), promises high-octane action – as well as giving betting enthusiasts plenty of opportunities for NCAAB picks and previews.
Golden Eagles have emerged as an offensive powerhouse. Averaging an impressive 79.3 points per game and boasting an efficient 48.6% field goal percentage, their play is marked by precision and efficiency – demonstrated by 8.9 three-point attempts per game from beyond the arc – as well as outstanding defensive play that includes 9.2 steals per game to indicate proactive pressure-style defense.
Illinois Fighting Illini are not as prolific offensively with an average of 74.3 points per game but offer a balanced approach on the court. Their strength lies in defensive rebounding averaging 26.7 defensive boards per game – something Marquette may struggle with controlling. Furthermore, Illinois holds an edge in blocks per game (5.6), showing their ability to effectively contest shots and alter shots effectively.
Marquette Golden Eagles vs. Illinois Fighting Illini 11/14/23 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | State Farm Center |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Kam Jones (Guard) vs. Terrence Shannon Jr. (Guard)
Kam Jones has been outstanding for Marquette this season, averaging 21.5 points per game on 56% shooting from the field and four assists per game. His impactful playmaking and scoring have combined to make him a multifaceted threat; however, against Big Ten opponents his performance has been less dominant; thus making this matchup all the more intriguing.
Terrence Shannon Jr. has become an invaluable player for Illinois, contributing 15.5 points per game and posting lower shooting percentages (45.5% from two and 38.5% from three) than Jones could prove influential; yet Shannon Jr. shines with his defensive tenacity; evidenced by 2.5 steals per game.
When these two guards collide, it’s not just a battle of points; it’s an intricate struggle where each player’s strengths and weaknesses will be put on display. Jones’ offensive prowess against Shannon Jr.’s defensive acumen could potentially determine the flow and outcome of the game.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: Illinois Fighting Illini -125, Total Odds: 146
The betting odds, with Illinois as slight favorites, reflect the anticipated closeness of this contest. The total set at 146 suggests expectations of a high-scoring affair, aligning with both teams’ offensive capabilities. The narrow -1.5 point spread for Illinois indicates that oddsmakers anticipate a tightly contested game, likely to be decided by just a few key plays. Marquette’s +1.5 spread at -110 odds presents them as a competitive underdog, offering value to bettors who believe in their ability to either win outright or keep the game within a single possession.
Marquette Golden Eagles Betting Trends
Marquette’s recent betting trends, especially their 4-2 record against the spread (ATS) in their last 6 games, suggest they’ve been consistently outperforming expectations. Furthermore, their 5-0 straight-up (SU) record in November games underlines their tendency to start seasons strongly. However, their struggle against Big Ten opponents (1-4 SU) could be a cause for concern.
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Trends
Illinois shows a less favorable trend, with a 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games, indicating a struggle to live up to the expectations set by oddsmakers. Their home record (0-5 ATS) is particularly alarming. However, their strong SU record in November games (11-1) and on Tuesdays (5-1 ATS) suggests they find ways to win in specific scenarios.
Marquette Golden Eagles vs. Illinois Fighting Illini 11/14/23 Betting Picks
Considering the stats and trends, this game appears finely balanced. Marquette’s offensive firepower, led by Jones, is set against Illinois’ more balanced team approach and defensive solidity. The key will likely be Marquette’s ability to handle Illinois’ defensive pressure and their own performance against a Big Ten team.
Expert exclusive picks suggest Marquette’s strong start and offensive capabilities make them an enticing pick, especially with the spread. The over/under is tricky given both teams’ offensive strengths, but Marquette’s tendency for high-scoring games could tilt it towards the over.
Free Pick and Prediction: Marquette Golden Eagles 75, Illinois Fighting Illini 72.