Western Michigan Broncos (2-5) vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish (3-4)
Western Michigan Broncos vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish 12/5/23 – The Western Michigan Broncos take on the Notre Dame Fighting Irish on Tuesday night in an NCAAB matchup between programs headed in different directions. The struggling Broncos have dropped five of their last six contests. However, Western Michigan has fared surprisingly well against the spread, covering four of those matchups. Meanwhile, the once-proud Fighting Irish are below .500 over a month into the season. But Notre Dame returns home where they typically play inspired basketball. This NCAAB daily free predictions piece will provide a complete breakdown of the game.
The Broncos’ issues stem from inefficient offense, scoring only 64.6 points per contest. However, Western Michigan crashes the boards well and generates steals, ranking top 75 nationally in both categories. Against inferior competition, the Broncos have shown they can put up points. Seth Hubbard leads the team with 15.7 per game, shooting efficiently from both inside the arc and from deep.
On offense, the Fighting Irish are only moderately better at 61.9 points per game. Struggles inside the perimeter drag down Notre Dame’s percentages. However, they excel at drawing fouls, hitting 72.3% of their free throws. Markus Burton sets the pace with 14.9 points and 3.6 assists per night. While turnover prone, the crafty senior dictates games effectively when he protects the basketball. Defensively, the Irish block nearly 3 shots a game, disrupting driving lanes.
Western Michigan Broncos vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish 12/5/23 Fighting Irish
| When: | Tuesday, December 5, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Purcell Pavilion at the Joyce Center |
| TV: | ESP+ |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Seth Hubbard (Guard) vs. Markus Burton (Guard)
Hubbard is averaging 15.7 points per game for the Broncos this season. The junior guard is scoring efficiently with a 41.7% field goal percentage and 37.5% from three. Hubbard has reached double-digit points in every game so far, demonstrating consistency. His quickness and perimeter scoring ability could trouble Notre Dame. However, at just 6’0” Hubbard could struggle defensively matching up with the 6’4” Burton.
On the other side, Burton leads the Fighting Irish offense with 14.9 points per game. The senior hits shots from all over the court and also distributes the ball well, averaging 3.6 assists. Burton’s size gives him an edge over Hubbard on drives to the basket. While not a lockdown defender, his length also helps force turnovers. Burton’s versatile offensive game could exploit Western Michigan, especially if Hubbard encounters foul trouble.
The Hubbard vs. Burton matchup pits two talented guards against each other. Both are capable scorers who can single-handedly take over games. While Hubbard boasts better quickness and outside shooting, Burton’s size and playmaking make him a difficult cover. Expect Hubbard and Burton to trade big shot for big shot. Ultimately, Burton getting the better of this matchup likely means a Notre Dame victory.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: Notre Dame Fighting Irish -650, Total Odds: 128.5
The current betting odds favor Notre Dame, reflecting their slightly better record and home advantage. However, the point spread suggests a closer contest, which is consistent with both teams’ recent performances.
Western Michigan Broncos Betting Trends
The Broncos are just 2-8 against the spread in their last 10 December games perennial underdogs this time of year. However, as 10-point dogs Western Michigan has value to keep this game relatively close. The Broncos have gone under in 5 of their last 6 overall as well. Expect a gritty defensive battle limiting scoring opportunities for both squads.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish Betting Trends
The Fighting Irish have struggled mightily down the stretch, covering just once in their previous 15 contests. Notre Dame also sports a losing ATS record at home this season at 5-11. Still, the Irish typically dominate MAC schools with an 8-1 straight up (SU) record in recent meetings. Given the Broncos’ road woes, Notre Dame continues that dominance but fails to cover the sizeable spread.
Western Michigan Broncos vs. Notre Dame Fighting Irish 12/5/23 Betting Picks
Considering the statistical analysis and betting trends, Notre Dame seems to have a slight edge, primarily due to their home court advantage and stronger defensive play. However, Western Michigan’s recent ATS record and Hubbard’s offensive capabilities make them a competitive underdog.
For those looking into top-rated sports picks, Notre Dame might be the safer bet, especially considering the spread and their defensive record. However, the potential for an upset shouldn’t be discounted, given Western Michigan’s unpredictability and Notre Dame’s inconsistencies.
Free Pick and Prediction: Notre Dame Fighting Irish 66, Western Michigan Broncos 58