The Wisconsin Badgers (12-7, 5-3 Big 10) and the Purdue Boilermakers (10-9, 3-5 Big 10), who both like to play patient, will face off at Mackey Arena. The game is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. ET on Friday, January 24, 2020.
Wisconsin Badgers vs. Purdue Boilermakers ATS Prediction
The Badgers come in on a high note after defeating the Nebraska Cornhuskers in their last contest, 82-68. Wisconsin’s 28.6 offensive rebounding percentage was their largest strength over Nebraska, who had a mark of 21.1. The Badgers’ mark was above their season average of 25.7. D’Mitrik Trice had a solid performance for Wisconsin, contributing 11 points, 10 rebounds and seven assists.
In the Boilermakers’ previous game, they lost to the No. 21 Illinois Fighting Illini, 79-62. Illinois’ 55.0 offensive rebounding percentage was their largest strength over Purdue, who had a rate of 27.8. The Fighting Illini’s mark was above their season average of 37.7, while the Boilermakers’ was below their season average of 35.2. Purdue’s Nojel Eastern had a solid game, leading the team in scoring with 14 points on 7-for-15 shooting.
Half-court execution will be of utmost importance when a pair of the country’s slowest-paced teams face off. Purdue ranks 332nd in possessions per game (65.7) and Wisconsin is 345th (63.7).
After the Boilermakers won the lone game against the Badgers last season, 84-80, this will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams. The Boilermakers had a much better turnover percentage (9.2 vs. 20.9) and had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (41.5 vs. 26.7).
Wisconsin Badgers vs. Purdue Boilermakers Odds Pick
Pick: ATS Winner – Wisconsin, O/U – Under
Betting Trends
Wisconsin ranks 29th in three pointers allowed per game (18.2) while Purdue ranks 141st (21.8).
The Badgers rank 30th in blocks allowed per game (2.6) while the Boilermakers rank 122nd (3.8).
Wisconsin ranks 44th in assists allowed per game (10.7) while Purdue ranks 124th (12.6).
The Badgers rank 46th in rebounds allowed per game (32.5) while the Boilermakers rank 88th (33.8).
Wisconsin and Purdue average 5.0 steals allowed per game, which ranks 21st in the NCAA.
The Badgers’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 2.4, down from 6.7 for the season.
During their last five games, the Boilermakers have scored an average of 59.6 points per game (8.0 below their season average) and allowed an average of 65.0 points per game (4.5 above their season average).
