Minnesota Golden Gophers (12-5) vs. Michigan State Spartans (10-7)
Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Michigan State Spartans 1/18/24 – The NCAA Men’s Basketball scene is set ablaze with an upcoming clash between the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Michigan State Spartans, slated for Thursday. Holding impressive records of 12-5 and 10-7 respectively, both teams are gearing up for a showdown at the Jack Breslin Student Events Center. As part of our NCAAB daily predictions, this game is not just a testament to college basketball’s competitive spirit but also a pivotal point in the season for both teams, with the Gophers currently having a slight edge in overall performance.
Minnesota has made an excellent start to their season so far. Averaging 77.9 points per game with a 48.2% field goal percentage proves their ability to convert plays into points efficiently, and their 3-point field goal percentage stands at 35% with an average of 8.1 3-point field goals made per game. Unfortunately, their free throw percentage (67.6%) may indicate missed opportunities during close games. Defensively they are grabbing 38.1 rebounds per game as well as showing strength with 19.1% assists and 6.9 steals respectively.
The Spartans may trail in overall standings slightly but remain competitive, boasting an average points-per-game average of 77.1 and 47.8 field goal percentage. Their 3-point shot success (with 36.3%) outshines that of the Gophers; additionally their free throw percentage stands at 70.1% with solid 37 rebounds per game average plus impressive assists and steals numbers that show cohesive team play and defensive capability.
Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Michigan State Spartans 1/18/24 Game Info
| When: | Thursday, January 18, 2024, at 6:30 PM ET |
| Where: | Jack Breslin Student Events Center |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Dawson Garcia (Forward) vs. Tyson Walker (Guard)
Dawson Garcia, Minnesota’s forward, is an integral member of their squad. After playing 17 games at an average of 32.1 minutes per game and scoring 17.4 points per contest on average (92.5% free throw accuracy and scoring efficiency respectively), Garcia excels with rebounding and assists numbers that could improve; nonetheless his performance against Spartans defense will be crucial.
Michigan State’s Tyson Walker is an impressive guard who averages 19.9 points per game and boasts a 48.2% field goal percentage and 39.3% 3-point field goal percentage – both numbers being formidable enough. Add to that his well-rounded play style of 2.9 assists and 1.7 steals per game as proof of versatility on the court and Walker is truly one of a kind!
When Garcia and Walker clash, it’s a battle of Minnesota’s offensive prowess against Walker’s all-around gameplay. Garcia’s scoring will be key, but Walker’s ability to contribute in multiple facets can tilt the game in Michigan State’s favor.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds for closely contested games are currently being established, which is common when teams matchup evenly. Due to recent performances and trends, the odds may be tight reflecting this competitive matchup; bettors should watch closely as new odds are announced as both teams’ recent forms are taken into consideration and key player matchups.
Minnesota Golden Gophers Betting Trends
Minnesota’s recent trend is impressive, boasting four wins in its last five games against both the spread and total score, but their road performance against it (2-2) shows some inconsistency away from home. Bettors might lean toward higher scoring outcomes as two out of their last five home games featured over totals; but this trend may not be as strong as expected; overall performance should still be considered when making decisions involving betting decisions on Minnesota.
Michigan State Spartans Betting Trends
Michigan State has outshone expectations lately with their 3-2 record in their last five games and 3-1 mark against the spread, often outperforming expectations. Their recent road games, however, were disappointing 0-4 against the spread despite 3 of 5 over total hits for them and 6 of 12 overall home total hits over all which suggests high scoring matches between these teams. Michigan State shows strength at home which could play an essential role in this matchup against Minnesota.
Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Michigan State Spartans 1/18/24 Betting Picks
According to analysis and betting trends, this game promises to be closely contested. Minnesota may hold the upper hand when it comes to record and scoring efficiency; however Michigan State cannot be discounted due to their home advantage and successful performance against the spread. What will ultimately decide this matchup is how each defense handles their opponent’s offensive threats; particularly with Garcia facing Walker.
In terms of betting picks, the safer bet might be on the point total, considering both teams have shown tendencies towards higher-scoring games. The spread will be more challenging to predict without the specific numbers, but if it’s close, Michigan State’s strong record against the spread at home might make them a tempting choice. As for the Top Multi-handicapper picks, it’s advisable to wait for the final spread and total lines to be released for a more informed decision.