USC Trojans (5-4) vs. Auburn Tigers (7-2)
USC vs. Auburn 12/17/23 – Neville Arena will host an electrifying NCAA Men’s Basketball game between the USC Trojans and Auburn Tigers this Sunday, as their opponents aim for victory. Fans anticipating this anticipated matchup can look to best NCAAB free picks to gauge where odds may lie during such high-stakes competition.
The Trojans, with an overall record of 5-4 this season, have displayed both resilience and vulnerability this season. Their performance has been marked by an effective offense averaging 78.9 points per game while their defense often leaves them exposed, allowing an average of 72.7 points per game against their opposition – suggesting they might struggle against teams with strong offensive lines.
On the other side, Auburn Tigers boasting a 7-2 record have been more consistent. Their offensive prowess can be measured with their average of 82.3 points scored per game; additionally, their defense has proven more robust than that of Trojans as it conceded only 66.2 points on average per game; these credentials make Auburn an irresistible opponent in this matchup.
USC vs. Auburn 12/17/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 17, 2023, at 1:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Neville Arena |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Boogie Ellis (Guard) vs. Johni Broome (Forward)
Boogie Ellis has cemented himself as USC’s go-to option, logging heavy minutes while leading the team in scoring. The senior guard is averaging 21.4 points per game while shooting efficiently from all over the floor. With his quickness and shot-creating ability, Ellis can single-handedly keep the Trojans in games. His high-volume, high-efficiency offense will be critical if USC plans to hang around against Auburn’s stout defense.
Johni Broome has made an immediate impact in his first season suiting up for Auburn after transferring from Morehead State. The bouncy forward leads the Tigers with 15.1 points and 8.6 boards per game, using his athleticism to make plays at the rim on both ends. Broome has shown the ability to take over games for stretches when he is fully engaged. He could be poised for a big outing against a USC team that lacks interior physicality outside of Joshua Morgan.
Broome’s effectiveness on the glass and as a rim protector could stymie USC’s ability to get easy buckets in transition. Meanwhile, Ellis will likely need another efficiently high-scoring outing for the Trojans to counter Auburn’s projected advantages inside. This individual matchup of guard vs. forward could determine which team comes out on top in what projects to be a fiercely competitive clash between Power 5 conference foes.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With betting odds yet to be determined, insights or recommendations are currently speculative. However, considering the team’s performances and key player matchups, odds are likely to favor the Auburn Tigers, given their stronger overall record and defensive capabilities.
USC Trojans Betting Trends
USC is 4-5 against the spread this season and trends over more often than not. In fact, seven of the Trojans’ nine games have gone over the total. This implies that taking USC with the points while playing over 152.5 could be a strong parlay. Additionally, the Trojans are 4-4 ATS and 5-3 straight up when scoring over 66 points, Auburn’s points allowed average.
Auburn Tigers Betting Trends
Auburn is 5-4 against the spread this year and has gone under in six of nine games. The Tigers are 5-3 ATS when playing as 4+ point favorites as well, meaning they often play closely in lined games. Backing Auburn to win while staying under 152.5 seems wise based on these trends.
USC Trojans vs. Auburn Tigers 12/17/23 Betting Picks
In considering both teams’ strengths, weaknesses, and betting trends, the Auburn Tigers emerge as the more balanced and consistent team. Their ability to score high while maintaining a stringent defense gives them an edge over the Trojans.
For those seeking premium tips today, the smart bet would likely lean towards Auburn, especially considering their strong performance as favorites and USC’s less consistent ATS record. In terms of prop bets or over/under, Auburn’s defensive record suggests a game that might not hit a high over, especially if they can contain USC’s offense.
Free Pick and Prediction: Auburn Tigers 78, USC Trojans 70