A defensive battle should be expected when the No. 22 Illinois Fighting Illini (16-7, 8-4 Big 10) and the Michigan State Spartans (16-8, 8-5 Big 10) clash at State Farm Center. The game can be seen on ESPN at 9 p.m. ET on Tuesday, February 11, 2020. Michigan State Opens as 1 favorites on the road at Pointsbet Catfish Bend Iowa Sportsbook.

Michigan State Spartans at Illinois Fighting Illini Free Prediction

In the Spartans’ last game, they were topped by the Michigan Wolverines, 77-68. Michigan’s 37.0 offensive rebounding percentage was their largest advantage over Michigan State, who had a mark of 28.3. The Wolverines’ mark was above their season average of 25.6, while the Spartans’ was below their season average of 33.7. Xavier Tillman played well for Michigan State, putting up 17 points and 12 rebounds.

The Fighting Illini lost to the No. 9 Maryland Terrapins in their last outing, 75-66. Maryland’s effective field goal percentage was their largest advantage over Illinois. The Terrapins had a rate of 0.554 (above their season average of 0.479), while the Fighting Illini posted a mark of 0.426 (below their season average of 0.503). With 16 points on 5-for-17 shooting, Ayo Dosunmu led Illinois in scoring.

The battle on the backboards could prove decisive, pitting strength against strength. The Spartans rank 38th in offensive rebounding percentage (33.4 percent), while Illinois ranks 55th in defensive rebounding percentage (75.1 percent).

This will be the second game of the season between these two squads. Tillman put up 19 points, seven rebounds and six assists in the first game, in which the Spartans beat the Fighting Illini 76-56. Michigan State did a fantastic job of converting from the free throw line (17-24; 70.8 percent). Illinois, meanwhile, had a better turnover percentage (8.9 vs. 12.4).

Michigan State Spartans at Illinois Fighting Illini Free Pick

Free Basketball Tip:   ATS Winner – Michigan State, O/U – Under