Michigan State Spartans (9-5) vs. Northwestern Wildcats (10-3)
Michigan State Spartans vs. Northwestern Wildcats 1/7/24 – As the NCAA Men’s Basketball season continues to heat up, a riveting matchup is on the horizon with the Michigan State Spartans facing off against the Northwestern Wildcats. This game, slated for Sunday not only brings together two formidable teams but also offers a fantastic opportunity for enthusiasts and bettors alike, looking for top free NCAAB predictions.
The Spartans, sitting at 9-5, have shown both brilliance and inconsistency throughout this season. Their offense, averaging an impressive 78.3 points per game on offense with 48.4% shooting from the field and 35.1% success from beyond the arc success rates respectively is testament to their scoring capabilities; similarly their defense has been solid, averaging 7.6 steals and 4.8 blocks per game while only committing 16.4 fouls per game; which they must reduce significantly going forward.
Northwestern Wildcats have been an unexpected treat this season. Averaging 72.4 points per game – slightly fewer than Michigan State but still impressive – their shooting accuracy averages 46% from the field and an outstanding 36.7% from 3-point range; defensively they match Michigan State in steals per game (7.6) but fall behind when it comes to blocks per game (3.4); their discipline improves slightly by only committing 16.8 fouls per game.
Michigan State Spartans vs. Northwestern Wildcats 1/7/24 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 7, 2024, at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Welsh-Ryan Arena |
| TV: | BTN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Tyson Walker (Guard) vs. Boo Buie (Guard)
Tyson Walker has taken his game to another level in his second year at Michigan State after transferring from Northeastern. He ranks ninth in the Big Ten in scoring while providing tenacious perimeter defense, averaging 2 steals per game. Walker excels at getting to the free throw line and converting, shooting over 71% on the year. For the Spartans to pull off the road win, Walker must continue his efficient scoring while containing Northwestern’s top offensive threat in Boo Buie.
Boo Buie is one of the most improved players in the Big Ten. The senior point guard leads Northwestern in scoring and assists, serving as the catalyst for an offense that is 2nd in the conference in 3-point percentage. Buie has scored in double figures in every game except one this year. In Northwestern’s last home game, however, Buie shot just 3-of-12 with 4 turnovers against Penn State. He will need a bounce-back performance running the offense and creating open looks against Michigan State’s staunch defense.
This matchup pits one of the best all-around guards in the conference in Walker versus a crafty veteran playmaker in Buie. Both point guards are capable of taking over a game, either through scoring or facilitating. Whichever guard is able to control the flow of play and limit mistakes should give their team the upper hand.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds and point spread for this game are yet to be determined. However, considering the teams’ recent performances and trends, bettors should keep a close eye on the final odds to make informed decisions.
Michigan State Spartans Betting Trends
Michigan State has been reliable for bettors away from home this season, covering in 5 of their last 7 road contests. The under has also hit in 9 of Michigan State’s last 13 games away from home. Given that this projects as a grinder between two sound defensive teams, taking Michigan State +4.5 and the under 132 is recommended.
Northwestern Wildcats Betting Trends
Northwestern has been strong at Welsh-Ryan Arena this season, winning 6 of 8 home games outright. The over has hit in 10 of Northwestern’s last 18 home contests as well. However, the under is 5-1 when Northwestern faces teams that allow 64 or fewer points per game like Michigan State. With the Wildcats coming off their worst offensive showing at home this year, the trends point towards Michigan State and the under.
Michigan State Spartans vs. Northwestern Wildcats 1/7/24 Betting Picks
Considering the stats and trends, this game appears to be a close call. Michigan State’s offensive firepower is countered by Northwestern’s consistency and slightly better defensive record. The key could lie in the individual brilliance of Tyson Walker and Boo Buie, whose performances could sway the game.
For those looking for handicapper predictions today, it’s advisable to consider the in-game matchups and recent trends closely. The Spartans’ ability to score heavily against the Wildcats’ more balanced approach makes for an intriguing contest.
Free Pick and Prediction: Michigan State Spartans 75, Northwestern Wildcats 72