Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Michigan Wolverines Odds Pick & Preview 12/06/19

December 6th, 2019 By: Mike McDermott

The Iowa Hawkeyes (6-2) head to Michigan to take on the No. 4 Wolverines (7-1) in a matchup that pits outstanding offense against superb defense. The game is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. ET on Friday, December 6, 2019.

Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Michigan Wolverines Betting Prediction

The Hawkeyes come in on a high note after topping the Syracuse Orange in their last outing, 68-54. The Hawkeyes forced 16 turnovers and held the Orange to an effective field goal percentage of 0.423 (below their season average of 0.512). Iowa received a boost from Luka Garza, who was the top scorer from either team with 23 points on 9-for-15 shooting.

In the Wolverines’ last game, they lost to the No. 1 Louisville Cardinals, 58-43. Louisville’s effective field goal percentage was their biggest advantage over Michigan. The Cardinals had a rate of 0.400 (below their season average of 0.594), while the Wolverines posted a mark of 0.284 (below their season average of 0.614). With 18 points on 6-for-18 shooting, Jon Teske led Michigan in scoring.

These two teams split two games last season. The Wolverines won the most recent game 74-53. The Wolverines’ turnover percentage was their largest strength over the Hawkeyes. Michigan had a rate of 9.4, while Iowa posted a mark of 14.1.

The high-octane offense of Michigan will go head-to-head against the mid-tier defense of Iowa. Since last season, the Wolverines rank 87th in offensive efficiency, while the Hawkeyes are 245th in defensive efficiency. The Wolverines should have the edge on that end of the court. Also, the Hawkeyes have been among the nation’s best at getting to the line, ranking third in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.306). The Wolverines, however, rank 13th in opponents’ FTA rate (0.154).