Indiana Hoosiers (6-1) vs. Michigan Wolverines (4-4)
Indiana Hoosiers vs. Michigan Wolverines 12/5/23 – The Indiana Hoosiers (6-1) take on the Michigan Wolverines (4-4) tonight in a Big Ten showdown. As the Hoosiers and Wolverines prepare to clash, followers of today’s free NCAAB tips are keenly analyzing this game for its potential outcomes and betting implications.
The Indiana Hoosiers have continued their solid play from last season, ranking top-20 nationally in field goal percentage, rebounding, and blocks. However, they’ve struggled on the road and against conference foes historically. Kel’el Ware has been a revelation, averaging nearly 18 points and 10 rebounds while shooting efficiently inside. His production will be key against a lengthy Michigan frontcourt.
Meanwhile, the Michigan Wolverines have underwhelmed despite lofty preseason expectations. Their defense has declined substantially from last year while the offense lacks consistency, especially from deep. Point guard Dug McDaniel has been one of few bright spots, leading the team in scoring and assists. His quickness poses problems, but turnovers have been an issue when facing pressure.
Indiana Hoosiers vs. Michigan Wolverines 12/5/23 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Crisler Center |
| TV: | PEAC |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Kel’el Ware (Center) vs. Dug McDaniel (Guard)
Kel’el Ware has made a massive impact as a freshman, utilizing his 7’2” frame and 7’5” wingspan to dominate the paint. He’s shooting an extremely efficient 64.4% on two-point attempts while tallying 1.6 blocks per game. Rebounding is also a strong suit, evidenced by five double-doubles already. Foul trouble has been his main issue thus far. However, his offensive skills and defensive presence pose an imposing challenge for Michigan’s bigs.
Dug McDaniel has built on a strong freshman season to lead Michigan in the backcourt. His 20.3 points per game come on solid 50/41/77 shooting splits. Playmaking ability is also a plus, creating looks for others by collapsing the defense. On the other end, he leads the team in steals using quick hands and instincts. Still, passing woes and streaky three-point shooting are concerning. He’ll have his hands full against Indiana’s array of lengthy, athletic wings.
The battle between these talented underclassmen could swing tonight’s outcome. Ware is a tough cover for McDaniel or any Wolverine guard, while Michigan lacks a defender to contain Ware one-on-one. Foul trouble or passivity from either player would significantly hinder their team’s prospects.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: Michigan Wolverines -300, Total Odds: 148.5
The betting odds lean towards Michigan as favorites, likely influenced by their home-court advantage and offensive capabilities. The point spread of -4.5 for Michigan suggests a competitive game is expected.
Indiana Hoosiers Betting Trends
Indiana is 16-5 straight up in its last 21 games overall, reflecting a marked turnaround under coach Mike Woodson. This season, all six wins finished well below tonight’s lofty total. Their three-point shooting and free throw rates are also significantly worse on the road. Furthermore, the Hoosiers are just 3-8 straight up on their last 11 trips to Ann Arbor, failing to cover at a 62% clip. Though they’ve played better conference opposition tough, historical struggles as underdogs against Michigan suggest betting caution.
Michigan Wolverines Betting Trends
This year’s Wolverines have sorely lacked last season’s strengths, rating 234th in defensive efficiency after finishing 14th in 2021-22. They’re also minus in overall rebounding margin and allowing above 36% from deep. These significant declines have resulted in a 4-4 start, with only one cover as favorites. Against Indiana specifically, home dominance has evaporated lately. Michigan is 1-5 ATS in the last six season meetings in Ann Arbor. With underwhelming metrics driving a lukewarm point spread, the trends signal an opportunity to buy low on Indiana’s upset odds.
Indiana Hoosiers vs. Michigan Wolverines 12/5/23 Betting Picks
Considering the analysis and trends, this matchup presents a tight contest. Michigan’s home advantage and offensive firepower make them a strong candidate. However, Indiana’s overall season performance and Ware’s impact cannot be overlooked.
For those utilizing handicapping services, while Michigan seems the favorite, the potential for Indiana to cover the spread or even pull off an upset should be considered, especially given their strong SU record this season.
Free Pick and Prediction: Michigan Wolverines 76, Indiana Hoosiers 71