Illinois (13-4) at Michigan State (15-2)
- When: Jan 19 2025, 12:00 PM
- Where: Jack Breslin Students Events Center, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Where to watch: CBS
The Michigan State Spartans, favored by 4.0 points with a total set at 156.0, face a surging Illinois team on Sunday in what promises to be a Big Ten showdown with major implications for bettors.
Illinois: Road Warriors with Momentum
The No. 19 Illini (13-4, 5-2 Big Ten) have been on a tear in 2025, shattering records on the road. They annihilated No. 9 Oregon by 32 points and scored 94 in a historic beatdown of Indiana. Illinois is excelling on both ends of the floor, leading the nation in rebound margin (+12.4) and ranking 10th in defensive efficiency. Freshman phenom Kasparas Jakucionis returned to the lineup with a vengeance, leading Illinois to a 60-point first-half explosion against Indiana. He’s the heart of the Illini offense, averaging 16.7 points, 5.4 assists, and shooting 41.6% from deep.
Michigan State: Consistency and Depth
No. 12 Michigan State (15-2, 6-0 Big Ten) is riding a 10-game winning streak and boasts one of the nation’s deepest rosters. Coach Tom Izzo’s Spartans are a top-15 team in both defensive and offensive efficiency, with a balanced attack led by Jaden Akins (14.2 ppg). The Spartans’ depth, featuring 10 players averaging over 14 minutes, gives them flexibility and unpredictability. Michigan State thrives at home, where their crowd provides an additional edge.
Key Matchups
Rebounding Battle: Illinois leads the nation in rebound margin, but Michigan State ranks eighth. Controlling the boards will be critical.
Jakucionis vs. Spartan Defense: The Illini freshman point guard is a game-changer, but Michigan State’s defensive depth will challenge him at every turn.
Home Court Factor: Michigan State’s crowd could disrupt Illinois, especially if the Spartans dictate the pace early.
Betting Trends and Predictions
ATS Trends: Michigan State has covered in seven of their last 10 games. Illinois, however, has been an excellent road team, cashing in big with recent wins over ranked opponents.
Total Prediction: Both teams can score efficiently, but their strong defensive metrics could lean the game under the total of 156.0.
Pick: Michigan State’s depth and home-court advantage should give them the edge. Take the Spartans to cover the 4.0-point spread, but consider the under for a total play.
Projected score: Michigan State 77, Illinois 72.
Bettors can expect a competitive, high-stakes clash between two well-coached programs with title aspirations. Will Illinois’ road dominance continue, or will Michigan State defend their home turf? Get ready for a thriller in the Big Ten!
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
