Minnesota (11-9) at Michigan State (17-2)
- When: Jan 28 2025, 8:00 PM
- Where: Jack Breslin Students Events Center, East Lansing, MI, USA
- Where to watch: Peacock
Game Preview
No. 7 Michigan State will host Minnesota on Tuesday night in East Lansing, looking to extend their 12-game winning streak and maintain their perfect home record. The Spartans are heavy favorites at -13.0, while the total is set at 139.0. Let’s break down this Big Ten matchup and explore the betting angles.
Michigan State Overview
The Spartans are riding high with a 17-2 record and remain undefeated in conference play at 8-0. However, head coach Tom Izzo isn’t entirely satisfied despite the team’s 81-74 win over Rutgers in their last game. Izzo has called out his team for showing signs of complacency and a lack of ball movement, stressing the importance of staying sharp as they build toward March Madness.
Michigan State has been dominant at home this season, boasting a perfect 10-0 record at the Breslin Center. Their balanced scoring attack is a key strength, with nine players averaging at least 5 points per game. Jaden Akins leads the way, averaging 13.8 points, while Jase Richardson chips in 9.8. The Spartans’ depth and home-court advantage make them a formidable opponent, especially against a Minnesota team that has struggled on the road.
Minnesota Overview
Minnesota enters the game with momentum after winning three straight, including two victories over ranked opponents. The Golden Gophers most recently defeated then-No. 15 Oregon 77-69, adding to their wins over Michigan and Iowa. Despite their recent success, Minnesota is just 1-3 on the road this season, though their lone road victory came in their last away game against Iowa.
The Gophers are led by Dawson Garcia, who has been a standout performer, averaging 19.7 points and 7.4 rebounds while shooting 49.8% from the field. Head coach Ben Johnson praised Garcia as the team’s driving force, pushing the entire roster to elevate their performance. However, Minnesota’s reliance on Garcia could be a concern against a deep and defensively sound Michigan State team.
Key Matchups & Trends
Michigan State’s Depth vs. Minnesota’s Star Power: While Minnesota leans heavily on Dawson Garcia, Michigan State’s balanced roster gives them multiple scoring options and defensive versatility.
Home vs. Road Form: Michigan State’s perfect 10-0 home record contrasts sharply with Minnesota’s 1-3 road struggles.
Defensive Strength: Michigan State’s ability to limit turnovers and lock down defensively could frustrate a Minnesota team that has struggled with consistency.
Betting Predictions
While Minnesota’s recent form and upset wins are impressive, their struggles on the road and reliance on Garcia make this a tough matchup against Michigan State. The Spartans’ depth and home dominance should be enough to secure a comfortable victory, covering the 13-point spread. However, with both teams capable of grinding down the pace, the Under 139.0 looks like a solid play as well.
Best Bets:
Michigan State -13.0 (Spartans’ depth and home-court advantage lead to a dominant win.)
Under 139.0 (Expect a slower-paced game with strong defensive efforts.)
Final Score Prediction: Michigan State 74, Minnesota 58
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
