A low-scoring game should be expected when the Wisconsin Badgers (12-9, 5-5 Big 10) and the No. 14 Michigan State Spartans (16-5, 8-2 Big 10) square off at Kohl Center. The game begins at 1 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 1, 2020.
Michigan State Spartans vs. Wisconsin Badgers Free Prediction
In the Spartans’ last contest, they thoroughly outplayed the Northwestern Wildcats, 79-50. The Spartans had an extraordinary offensive rebounding percentage of 41.7 (above their season average of 34.4), while the Wildcats had a turnover percentage of 20.4 (above their season average of 14.6). Michigan State received a boost from Xavier Tillman, who put up 12 points and eight rebounds.
The Badgers fell to the No. 18 Iowa Hawkeyes in their last game, 68-62. One of Iowa’s biggest advantages was getting to the charity stripe. They had 32 free throw attempts, while Wisconsin had just 11. With 16 points on 5-for-10 shooting, D’Mitrik Trice was Wisconsin’s high scorer.
This will be the second game of the season between these two teams. Nate Reuvers led both teams with 19 points in the first game, in which the Badgers lost 67-55. Michigan State had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (30.3 vs. 22.5). Wisconsin, meanwhile, had a better turnover percentage (12.4 vs. 16.1).
Wisconsin could put on a ball-control clinic in this battle. Wisconsin ranks 26th in the NCAA at avoiding errors (turnover percentage of 16.5 percent), while Michigan State forces the 23rd-fewest turnovers (16.6 percent).
Michigan State vs. Wisconsin Free Pick
College Basketball Prediction: ATS Winner – Michigan State, O/U – Under
Betting Trends
Michigan State ranks fourth in rebounds per game (42.0) while Wisconsin ranks 219th (33.6).
The Spartans rank second in assists per game (18.8) while the Badgers rank 209th (12.0).
Wisconsin ranks 27th in three pointers allowed per game (18.3) while Michigan State ranks 151st (22.1).
The Spartans rank 19th in blocks per game (5.4) while the Badgers rank 76th (3.8).
Wisconsin ranks 22nd in steals allowed per game (5.0) while Michigan State ranks 68th (5.8).
The Spartans’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 5.2, down from 14.6 for the season.
During their last five games, the Badgers have scored an average of 61.2 points per game (5.1 below their season average) and allowed an average of 65.4 points per game (4.0 above their season average).
