Iowa Hawkeyes (5-3) vs. Iowa State Cyclones (6-2)
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Iowa State Cyclones 12/7/23 – The Iowa Hawkeyes (5-3) take on the Iowa State Cyclones (6-2) in an in-state rivalry clash on Thursday night. Both teams have had up-and-down starts to the season, but will be hungry to earn bragging rights in this Big 12-Big Ten showdown. Free NCAAB parlay picks are riding on this one being a close and entertaining matchup.
The Hawkeyes have flashed their potential at times, with impressive wins over Seton Hall and Clemson. However, inconsistency has plagued them, like in their recent 73-61 loss to Duke. Iowa boasts one of the most efficient offenses in the country behind forward Kris Murray, but their mediocre defense could prove costly.
Meanwhile, the Cyclones notched early wins over Villanova and North Carolina, showcasing their grit and defensive intensity. But they’ve also suffered a few head-scratching defeats, including a stunning overtime loss to UMKC in their last game. Point guard Tamin Lipsey pilots a skilled offense, yet turning the ball over less must be a focus.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Iowa State Cyclones 12/7/23 Game Info
| When: | Thursday, December 7, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | James H. Hilton Coliseum |
| TV: | ESPU |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Kris Murray (Forward) Iowa vs. Tamin Lipsey (Guard)
Ben Krikke has been a revelation in his first season suiting up for the Hawkeyes, leading the team with 18.4 points per game on ultra-efficient 60.4% shooting from the field. The dynamic forward has scored 20+ points in over half of Iowa’s games, thriving at attacking the rim and running the floor in transition. Krikke has also chipped in 4.9 rebounds and 1.3 steals per contest, while limiting turnovers and unnecessary fouls. His blend of offensive skill and defensive discipline make the junior college transfer an essential piece to Iowa’s success. For the Hawkeyes to seize a marquee win over their in-state rivals, Krikke must exploit his athleticism and size advantage against Iowa State’s big men.
Lipsey has ignited Iowa State as a first-year floor general, ranking top-10 nationally in assists per game with 6.3. His court vision, passing creativity, and aggression putting pressure on defenses has supercharged an already efficient offense. Lipsey has also contributed 15.1 points per game and can heat up from three-point range when given space. If he can limit turnovers while sustaining crisp ball movement, Lipsey gives Iowa State a great shot at competing for the Big 12 crown.
This showdown between Krikke’s inside scoring moxie and Lipsey’s distribution mastery may swing the outcome. Krikke should bully Iowa State down low, but Lipsey’s savvy playmaking could pick the Hawkeyes apart if their defense lapses. Both rising stars have massive roles to fill for their teams to secure in-state bragging rights.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be released but are expected to be closely contested. The point spread and total odds will be key factors for bettors, given the offensive strengths of both teams.
Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Trends
Iowa’s trends reveal a powerful offense, but one that has run hot and cold. They’ve reached the game total over in a whopping 22 of their past 34 contests, including hitting their team total over in 21 of those. Yet away from home, their first-half scoring has often stalled. Iowa’s defense has sprung too many leaks as well recently, allowing the game total over in 12 of 34 outings.
Iowa State Cyclones Betting Trends
Iowa State has been remarkably strong on home hardwood under coach T.J Otzelberger. They’ve bested the first-half moneyline in 14 of their last 17 games at Hilton Coliseum, while also topping their team total over 11 times. But their first-half defense has occasionally wavered, going under 10 times there. The Cyclones’ team total has still gone over in 11 of 17 in Ames.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Iowa State Cyclones Betting Picks
Based on the statistical analysis and betting trends, the Cyclones, with their home-court advantage and strong early-game performances, seem to have a slight edge. However, the Hawkeyes’ high-scoring potential and ability to disrupt opponents’ rhythms should not be overlooked.
For the best multi-handicapper picks, bettors should consider the key player matchup and each team’s specific strengths. Prop bets on individual performances, especially Krikke and Lipsey, and the over/under bets might offer value, given the teams’ scoring patterns.
Free Pick and Prediction: Iowa State Cyclones 85, Iowa Hawkeyes 82