Michigan State (16-2) at Rutgers (10-9)
- When: Jan 25 2025, 1:30 PM
- Where: Madison Square Garden, New York, NY, USA
- Where to watch: CBS
Betting Preview: Michigan State vs. Rutgers
Spread: Michigan State -5.0 | Total: 149.0
Michigan State, the only undefeated team in Big Ten play, takes its 11-game winning streak to Madison Square Garden on Saturday to face Rutgers in what should be an intense matchup. The Spartans are riding high after a hard-fought win over Illinois, while Rutgers is trying to rebound from a tough stretch that has seen them drop four of their last six games. Let’s dive into the game’s betting angles, predictions, and props.
Michigan State Spartans: A Well-Oiled Machine
Michigan State (16-2, 7-0 Big Ten) is firing on all cylinders, highlighted by an 80-78 victory over then-No. 19 Illinois. Coach Tom Izzo’s squad is playing with confidence, especially after overcoming a 10-point deficit in the first half of that game.
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Key Players to Watch:
Tre Holloman (Over 10.5 Points -110)
Holloman stepped up big against Illinois with 17 points, well above his season average of 8.1. His ability to knock down shots when needed could be a crucial factor again.Coen Carr (Over 7.5 Points -105)
Carr chipped in 11 points off the bench last game and has been a reliable contributor in key moments.
Michigan State is built on defensive toughness, holding teams to just 65.4 points per game. Their ability to limit second-chance opportunities will be crucial, as rebounding was a concern in their last outing.
Rutgers Scarlet Knights: A Team Fighting for Relevance
Rutgers (10-9, 3-5 Big Ten) is in a tough spot, and their NCAA Tournament hopes are hanging by a thread. The Scarlet Knights enter this game after an 80-72 loss to Penn State, where freshman Ace Bailey scored a career-high 30 points. However, late-game mistakes and a lack of depth have been their Achilles’ heel.
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Key Players to Watch:
Ace Bailey (Over 19.5 Points -120)
Bailey has been a force, averaging 19.9 points per game. He was nearly flawless against Penn State, shooting 13-of-15, and Rutgers will rely heavily on him to keep pace with Michigan State.Dylan Harper (Over 17.5 Points -115)
Harper’s scoring has dipped slightly to 19.3 points per game, but he remains a focal point of Rutgers’ offense. Expect him to bounce back with a strong performance.
Rutgers’ reliance on freshmen could be a double-edged sword. While their young lineup brings energy, their inexperience has led to inconsistency, especially in close games.
Betting Insights and Predictions
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Spread Pick: Michigan State -5.0
The Spartans have been consistent all season, and their balanced attack should be too much for Rutgers’ freshman-heavy lineup to handle. Michigan State’s defensive edge and superior experience give them the upper hand to cover the spread. -
Total Points: Over 149.0
Both teams have shown the ability to score, and with Rutgers’ defensive struggles, this game could turn into a higher-scoring affair. Michigan State has hit 80+ points in back-to-back games, and Rutgers’ top scorers, Bailey and Harper, will do their best to keep pace. -
Prop Bet to Consider:
Ace Bailey Over 6.5 Rebounds (-110)
Bailey is averaging nearly eight boards per game, and with Rutgers relying on him heavily, expect him to clean up on the glass.
Final Score Prediction:
Michigan State 82, Rutgers 74
Michigan State’s experience, depth, and defensive strength will prove too much for Rutgers’ young lineup. Expect a strong showing from the Spartans, who should cover the spread while Bailey and Harper do their best to keep the Scarlet Knights competitive.
Key Betting Picks Recap:
Spread: Michigan State -5.0
Total: Over 149.0
Props:
Tre Holloman Over 10.5 Points
Ace Bailey Over 19.5 Points
Ace Bailey Over 6.5 Rebounds
This Big Ten showdown at Madison Square Garden offers plenty of betting opportunities. Will Michigan State’s winning streak continue, or can Rutgers pull off the upset? Place your bets and enjoy the action!
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
