Illinois Fighting Illini (11-2) vs. Purdue Boilermakers (13-1)
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Purdue Boilermakers 1/5/24 – In a highly anticipated NCAA Men’s Basketball showdown, the Illinois Fighting Illini, with an impressive 11-2 record, are set to battle the Purdue Boilermakers, who boast an even more remarkable 13-1 record, on Friday. This clash of titans, scheduled for 8:30 PM ET at Mackey Arena, is not just a test of skill but also of strategy and resilience. Airing on FS1, this matchup is a prime target for those seeking the best NCAAB picks and tips, promising a spectacle of top-tier college basketball.
Illinois Fighting Illini have been impressive this season. Averaging 83.9 points per game on 48.3% field goal percentage and an efficient 3-point shooting clip at 34.6%, their 3-pointers also contribute effectively. Defensively Illinois is excellent, averaging 45.2 rebounds per game while also posting 4.2 steals and 4.5 blocks every contest; their 12.4 turnovers indicate some potential weaknesses in ball possession though.
Purdue Boilermakers have been absolutely remarkable this season. Averaging 85.4 points per game with an impressive field goal percentage of 49.6% and 3-point shooting percentage of 38.9% – Purdue has proven themselves as an offensive powerhouse. Rebounding slightly lower than Illinois (41 per game), their assists per game of 18.8 display their outstanding team play, while their defensive stats match up favorably to Illinois making them well-rounded and formidable opponents.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Purdue Boilermakers 1/5/24 Game Info
| When: | Friday, January 5, 2024 at 8:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Mackey Arena |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Marcus Domask (Forward) vs. Zach Edey (Center)
Marcus Domask has been the catalyst for the Illinois offense, averaging 13.2 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.1 assists per game. The veteran forward excels at getting to the rim and finishing through contact. He’s also shooting a blistering 44% from the field. Domask’s court vision helps initiate fast breaks off of defensive rebounds. His perimeter scoring is a bit limited though, as seen by his 21% three-point percentage this year.
On the other side, Zach Edey has been simply dominant in the paint for Purdue, putting up 23.1 points and 10.3 rebounds per outing. He uses his massive frame to carve out space near the basket, shooting a staggering 62% on two-point field goals. Edey also frustrates opponents at the rim with 2.3 blocks per contest. His lack of an outside shot does allow teams to sag off him defensively. But his presence in the post on both ends cannot be minimized.
This matchup will be won in the paint, with both Edey and Domask likely to play starring roles for their respective squads. Edey has a significant size advantage that could overwhelm the Illinois forward. But Domask’s quickness and passing ability gives the Illini counters to Purdue’s interior attack. Whichever big man gets into an offensive rhythm first could dictate the outcome.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds will be key in determining the favorites, with Purdue likely having the edge due to their superior record and stats. However, Illinois’ performance against the spread suggests they could be a strong contender, especially with their ability to cover in recent games.
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Trends
Illinois has been reliable for bettors this season, covering the spread in 5 straight contests. The over has also hit in 4 of the Fighting Illini’s last 5 overall. This implies their games frequently feature a high level of scoring from both sides. On the road, Illinois is 3-0 against the number in their previous 3 away matchups.
Purdue Boilermakers Betting Trends
The Boilermakers have been less consistent from a gambling perspective, going just 3-1 against the spread in their last 4 games. Yet digging deeper shows Purdue’s recent home contests have gone over the total in 5 of their previous 8 outings at Mackey Arena. This suggests oddsmakers may be undervaluing the Boilermakers’ scoring potential in front of their home fans.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Purdue Boilermakers 1/5/24 Betting Picks
This matchup is a clash of two powerhouse teams. Purdue, with Edey’s inside dominance, may have the edge, but Illinois’ ability to cover the spread makes them a viable pick. The game is likely to be high-scoring, so the over on total points could be a smart bet.
In terms of top premium picks, Purdue might be the safer bet for the win, but Illinois could offer great value, especially when considering the spread. Prop bets on individual performances, particularly Edey’s scoring and rebounding, could be lucrative.
Free Pick and Prediction: Purdue Boilermakers 82, Illinois Fighting Illini 77