Villanova Wildcats Betting Preview

The Villanova Wildcats recently played Butler, Georgetown, and Seton Hall, UCONN, and Colorado. Villanova has won five of its last seven games.

The Villanova Wildcats are averaging 73.4 points on 46.2 percent shooting and allowing 67.5 points on 43.1 percent shooting. Eric Dixon is averaging 23 points and 5.1 rebounds, while Wooga Poplar is averaging 14.7 points and 6.9 rebounds. Jordan Longino is the third double-digit scorer and Jhamir Brickus is dishing 4.8 assists. The Villanova Wildcats are shooting 39.8 percent from beyond the arc and 80 percent from the free throw line. The Villanova Wildcats are allowing 34.7 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 30.4 rebounds per game.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans recently played UCLA, Rutgers, Purdue, and Tulane. USC looks to win two straight games for the first time since January 11-14.

The USC Trojans are averaging 76.9 points on 48.2 percent shooting and allowing 75.5 points on 46.1 percent shooting. Desmond Claude is averaging 16 points and 4.3 assists, while Wesley Yates III is averaging 14.1 points and 1.8 assists. Chibuzo Agbo is the third double-digit scorer and Terrance Williams II is grabbing 4.6 rebounds. The USC Trojans are shooting 36.7 percent from beyond the arc and 74.6 percent from the free throw line. The USC Trojans are allowing 32.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 28.8 rebounds per game.

USC vs Villanova Injury Report

USC doesn’t have a player listed on its injury report. Villanova will be without Nnanna Njoku, while Aleksandar Gavalyugov is questionable with an illness.

USC vs Villanova Prediction

USC hasn’t been able to string together success this season, and that includes not winning two straight games in months. USC is not great defensively, and it makes the Trojans hard to trust against good teams. Villanova has underachieved all year, but it’s won five of its last seven games and has shown improvement over the last month. Villanova should have a field day against a bad USC defense, and I don’t see who is going to slowdown Eric Dixon. I’ll roll with Villanova to advance in the Crown tournament.

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Tulane Green Wave Betting Preview

The Wave got off to a fairly rocky start this year, but they were able to right the ship well enough to get far past the .500 mark again. Tulane opened at a rough 5-7 though, before taking out Dillard, Charlotte, UTSA, South Florida, FAU and Rice over the next eight games. The Green Wave would lose to Memphis, then beat Tulsa, UTSA, Rice, East Carolina, Charlotte and Tulsa over another eight-game span. After a loss to East Carolina and a win over UAB to finish out the regular season, the Wave beat FAU in the conference tournament before a loss to Memphis in their latest outing. That gives Tulane a 19-14 overall record so far this year.

In the American Athletic Conference Championship tournament matchup versus Memphis back on March 15, the Green Wave were within seven points at the break. Tulane surged on a 45-39 run in the second half but ended up taking a tough loss in the end 78-77. Leading the team in scoring during the defeat was Rowan Brumbaugh with 22 points, five rebounds and three steals. Asher Woods added 15 points with six rebounds and five assists, while Kam Williams had 16 points, eight boards and two assists. Tops off the bench was Mari Jordan with 10 points and three boards in 16 minutes of work during the defeat.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

Over on the USC side, they showed some flashes of greater things this season but couldn’t work their way through a tough Big Ten schedule very well. The Trojans were 9-4 in their first 13 games, then took losses to Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin, UCLA, Northwestern and Purdue over the next 10 games. USC would finish the regular season on a rough 2-6 skid, taking losses to Minnesota, Maryland, Rutgers, Ohio State, Oregon and UCLA in that time. The Trojans beat Rutgers in double-overtime during their first Big Ten Tournament game, then took a loss to Purdue for a 16-17 overall record so far through 33 games this year.

Matched up against Purdue in the second round of the conference tournament, the Trojans held a 35-35 tie at the break. USC was outpaced 41-36 the rest of the way however, giving the team a 76-71 loss in the end. Leading the way was Desmond Claude with 18 points, three rebounds and two assists. Wesley Yates added 13 points with seven boards and three assists, while Rashaun Agee chipped in with 11 points, seven rebounds and two assists.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• Tulane has lost each of its last four games against non-Conference opponents at neutral venues.
• USC has won 24 of its last 30 night games against non-Conference opponents.
• Tulane has lost the first half in five of its last six games against non-Conference opponents at neutral venues.

Why the Tulane Green Wave will win

• USC has lost each of its last four games against non-Conference opponents at neutral venues.
• Tulane has won four of its last five games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• USC has lost the first half in each of its last three games against non-Conference opponents at neutral venues.

Total Points Facts

• Each of USC’s last 12 Tuesday games against non-Conference opponents have produced a total of 151 or fewer points.
• Each of Tulane’s last six games against non-Conference opponents have produced a total of 155 or fewer points.

Matchup/League Facts

• USC ranks 28th among Division 1 teams for field goal percentage this season (48.2%).
• USC ranks 44th among Division 1 teams for true shooting percentage this season (58.7%).
• Tulane ranks 34th among Division 1 teams for opponent field goal percentage this season (40.7%).
• Tulane ranks T36th among Division 1 teams for blocks per game this season (4.6).

USC vs Tulane Prediction

I’m going to take a stab on Tulane. The Green Wave pushed a good Memphis team to their limit in the semifinal of the AAC championship tournament, eventually shooting a nice 45 percent from the field and 31 percent (9-of-29) from outside. Tulane was outpaced on the boards 47-34 though, and had 12 turnovers for 13 Tigers points. It’s been a good scoring run lately for the Green Wave; they’ve hit 77 or more points in five of the last six games (a 4-2 stretch).

As for USC, they didn’t shoot terribly (43.5 percent) in their last game versus Purdue, and they were pretty competitive on the boards. The 10 turnovers for 12 Boilermakers points didn’t help though, nor did the 47.3 percent shooting allowed during the five-point defeat. It’s tough telling what we’re going to get out of the Trojans on a game-by-game basis; they’ve been below 64 points in two of the last five games and above 92 in two others (with a 2OT game mixed in there). USC could potentially control this one, but I like Tulane a little better.

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USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans (16-16, 13-19 ATS) endured their toughest stretch of the season as they went through five consecutive defeats. The Trojans managed to avoid the sixth loss in a row with a massive win over Washington but closed out the regular season with a loss to UCLA. USC entered the Big Ten tournament as the No. 14 seed and needed two overtime to beat Rutgers in the opening round.

USC averages 77.1 PPG (102nd) and allows 75.5 PPG (285th). The Trojans are 401st in rebounds (31.3) and 72nd in assists (15.6). Desmond Claude leads the team with 16.2 PPG, 3.5 RPG, and a team-high 4.3 APG. Wesley Yates III follows him with 14.1 PPG, 2.8 RPG, and 1.2 SPG, while Chibuzo Agbo chips in 11.9 PPG, 4.5 RPG, and 1.0 SPG.

Purdue Boilermakers Betting Preview

The Purdue Boilermakers (21-10, 17-14 ATS) were also in all kinds of trouble recently. Purdue was on a four-game losing skid, their longest of the campaign but did respond with wins over UCLA and Rutgers. However, the Boilermakers lost the final game of the regular season to Illinois to finish 6th in the Big Ten Standings.

Purdue is averaging 78.3 PPG (76th) and is allowing 70.6 PPG (139th). The Boilermakers are getting 32.2 RPG (370th) and dish out 16.2 APG (46th). Trey Kaufman-Renn is the team’s top performer with 19.7 PPG, a team-high 6.1 RPG, and 2.3 APG. Braden Smith has 16.3 PPG, 4.7 RPG, a team-high 8.8 APG, and a team-high 2.3 SPG, while Fletcher Loyer contributes 14.1 PPG and 2.2 RPG.

Why Purdue will beat USC

• Purdue has won nine of its last 10 games at Gainbridge Fieldhouse against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• USC has lost seven of its last eight night games against AP-ranked opponents.
• USC has lost the first half in six of its last seven games against AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.

Total Points Facts

• Each of USC’s last 12 night games against the Big Ten Conference has produced a total of 151+ points.
• Each of Purdue’s last seven games against Conference opponents at Gainbridge Fieldhouse have produced a total of 147 or fewer points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Purdue ranks 10th among Division 1 teams for effective field goal percentage this season (57.0%).
• Purdue ranks 12th among Division 1 teams for true shooting percentage this season (60.4%).
• USC ranks T46th among Division 1 teams for opponent rebounds per game this season (31.9).
• USC ranks 49th among Division 1 teams for a three-point percentage this season (36.8%).

Purdue vs USC Prediction

This will be the first meeting between these teams. Although I am not impressed with the way the Boilermakers played lately, I am backing them because they are still better than USC. After playing a double-overtime last night against Rutgers, the Trojans will surely feel tired legs today. That’s a big chance for Purdue to create a distance late on, but I do believe the Boilermakers will already have a solid lead at halftime. This is not the same team that played the championship game last year, but Purdue should progress to the next round here without problems.

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USC Trojans Betting Preview

Although they’ve powered out some big wins over some tough teams, it’s been a bumpy year for the Trojans so far. USC kicked things off with a 5-4 run featuring losses to Cal, Saint Mary’s, New Mexico and Oregon, then took out Washington, Montana State, CSU Northridge and Southern. A 5-6 stretch came next with wins over Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Michigan State and Penn State among losses to Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin, UCLA, Northwestern and Purdue. Since then it’s been a lone win over Washington amid losses to Minnesota, Maryland, Rutgers, Ohio State, Oregon and UCLA. That gives the Trojans a 15-16 overall run in their 31 games.

Over the weekend in the UCLA matchup, the Trojans faced a 39-27 deficit by halftime. USC couldn’t get it together on a 51-36 run from there and took the loss 90-63. Wesley Yates led the team on 21 points with six rebounds and five assists, while Desmond Claude put up 15 points with three rebounds and one steal. Leading the team off the bench was Clark Slajchert with nine points, one rebound, one steal and one block in 13 minutes of work on the court.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights Betting Preview

Over on the Knights’ side, they’ve had a pretty sketchy year in the win column themselves and are sitting just below the .500 mark overall. Rutgers lost to only Kennesaw State in their first five outings, then fell to Alabama, Texas A&M and Ohio State in the next three. A 3-1 run with wins over Penn State, Seton Hall and Columbia came next, then losses to Indiana, Wisconsin and Purdue. Rutgers would go 4-3 in their next seven with wins over UCLA, Nebraska, Northwestern and Illinois among losses to Penn State, Michigan State and Michigan. It’s been a 3-5 run since then with wins over Washington, UCLA and Minnesota among losses to Maryland, Iowa, Oregon, Michigan and Purdue. That gives the Knights a 15-16 overall run across 31 games so far this year.

In their matchup with Minnesota on Sunday, the Scarlet Knights were up 38-29 after the first half but gave the lead away in the second. After overtime however, Rutgers ended up with a 75-67 home win. Leading the team was Dylan Harper with 22 points, six rebounds, two assists, two steals and two blocks. Dylan Grant added 12 points with six rebounds and one steal. Leading the bench scoring for the Scarlet Knights in the victory were Lathan Sommerville (three rebounds; 14 minutes) and Jordan Derkack (four rebounds; 22 minutes), each with eight points.

Why the Rutgers Scarlet Knights will win

• USC has lost six of its last seven games.
• Rutgers has won each of its last three games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• USC has lost the first half in each of its last six Conference Tournament games.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• USC has won each of its last eight Wednesday games played at neutral venues.
• Rutgers has lost eight of its last nine games played at neutral venues.
• Rutgers has lost the first half in each of its last six games against the Big Ten Conference at neutral venues.

Total Points Facts

• Fourteen of USC’s last 15 Conference Tournament games have produced a total of 154 or fewer points.
• Each of Rutgers’ last six night games against the Big Ten Conference have produced a total of 155+ points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Rutgers ranks 33rd among Division 1 teams for opponent free throw percentage this season (69.0%).
• Rutgers ranks T44th among Division 1 teams for opponent steals per game this season (5.7).
• USC ranks 28th among Division 1 teams for field goal percentage this season (48.2%).
• USC ranks 44th among Division 1 teams for true shooting percentage this season (58.7%).

Rutgers vs USC Prediction

I’ll lean toward Rutgers. I was initially tempted to take USC, but I’ve been burned by the Trojans too many times lately. In any case, the Knights didn’t play great in their win over Minnesota this past weekend, hitting just 4-of-17 (23.5 percent) from 3-point range and 15-of-23 (65.2 percent) from the line alongside a 45-38 rebounding deficit and 10 turnovers. Rutgers has been scoring well during this 3-2 run though, with 71 or more points in all five of those games.

These teams last met up fairly recently, with Rutgers pulling off a 95-85 home win on February 23. The Knights shot very well in that one with 55.6 percent from the field and 26-of-28 (92.9 percent) from the line. Rutgers did get outmuscled on the boards 34-27 though, and coughed up 13 turnovers for 20 Trojans points. This one could go a lot of different ways, but if Rutgers can clean up some of their mistakes while keeping that shooting percentage high, I think the Knights will be okay.

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USC Trojans Betting Preview

USC has been a mixed bag this year, with some very nice winning runs early on mixed with some unsteady stretches more recently. The Trojans opened up on a 9-4 record across their first 13 outings, losing to Cal, Saint Mary’s, New Mexico and Oregon along the way. USC hit a 4-4 run from there featuring losses to Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and UCLA among wins versus Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska and Michigan State. Since then the Trojans have won just two games versus Penn State and Washington. Otherwise it’s been losses to Northwestern, Purdue, Minnesota, Maryland, Rutgers, Ohio State and Oregon. In total across 30 games this year that gives USC an even 15-15 record overall.

In their home matchup against Washington on Wednesday, the Trojans entered the second half with a 47-35 advantage. USC cruised from there on a 45-26 run and took the blowout victory in the end 92-61. Topping the scorers during the winning effort was Chibuzo Agbo with 26 points, six rebounds, four assists and two steals. Desmond Claude was right behind on a double-double with 25 points, 11 assists and four rebounds. Rashaun Agee also reached double-digits with his 18 points, five rebounds and two steals in 30 minutes during the victory.

UCLA Bruins Betting Preview

Over on the Bruins’ side, they’ve had a couple of spotty runs this year but otherwise they’re doing pretty well record-wise. UCLA kicked things off with a nice 10-1 run featuring a lone loss to New Mexico. The Bruins would beat only Gonzaga in their next six games, falling otherwise versus North Carolina, Nebraska, Michigan, Maryland and Rutgers in that time. Wins came in the next seven games versus Iowa, Wisconsin, Washington, USC, Oregon, Michigan State and Penn State. Since then it’s been a 3-3 run with losses to Illinois, Minnesota and Purdue among wins versus Indiana, Ohio State and Northwestern. In total that gives the Bruins a 21-9 record across their first 30 games of the 2024-25 campaign.

Matched up against Northwestern on Monday, the Bruins were trailing by a point at halftime. UCLA woke up on a 39-34 run from there however, eventually pulling off the comeback win 73-69 on the road. Tops in scoring during the victory was Tyler Bilodeau with 19 points, three rebounds and two assists. Eric Dailey added 12 points with six rebounds and one assist, while Aday Mara came off the bench for a double-double on 11 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks in 16 minutes of action on the court during the victory.

Why the UCLA Bruins will win

• UCLA has won 12 of its last 13 games at Edwin W. Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescon against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• USC has lost each of its last five road games.
• UCLA has won the first half in each of its last 12 games at Edwin W. Pauley Pavilion presented by Wescon against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• The road team has won each of the last three games between USC and UCLA.
• The road team has won the first half in three of the last four games between USC and UCLA.

UCLA vs USC Prediction

I’m going to take a stab on USC, but you could make a case either way. I’m not so high on the Trojans as I was earlier in 2025; they’re still a potentially dangerous team, though. USC poured in 56.4 percent shooting from the field with a 30-24 rebounding edge in their latest win over a middling Washington team. The only real blemish was the 10 turnovers, but that hardly mattered in the end. USC had given up 82 or more points in four straight games prior to that, so it was nice to see them play a little defense.

The Trojans lost 82-76 at home the last time these teams met up back on January 27. UCLA has been on the road for four of the last six games and will be relieved to get back to Pauley for this one. USC is going to have an uphill climb in order to stay competitive here, but if they can get the offense moving quickly I think the Trojans can hang around.

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Matchup History

The USC Trojans won the first meeting earlier this season by a final score of 85-61 back on December 7^th, 2024 in Washington. The win gave USC a double-digit win streak over the Huskies with 7 ATS covers over the ten game stretch.

Washington Recap

The Washington Huskies come into this game looking to bounce back from a 78-62 loss at the hands of Indiana last time out to sit at 13-16 on the year. After this game, Washington will head home for a matchup against Oregon to finish off the regular season.

Huskies Lose Four In A Row

Great Osobor leads the Huskies across the board with team-highs of 14.5 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 3.3 APG and 1.9 SPG while Tyler Harris has 11.9 PPG and 5 RPG so far this season. Zoom Diallo also has 11.3 PPG, 3.1 RPG and 2.7 APG as well on the year for Washington, rounding out the trio of double-digit scorers for Washington so far this season. DJ Davis also has 8.8 PPG and Mekhi Mason’s added 9.5 PPG this season. As a team, Washington is averaging 71.9 PPG on 44.7% shooting from the field, 34.5% from three and 68.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Washington Huskies will win

• USC has lost seven of its last eight games.

USC Recap

The USC Trojans come into this game looking to bounce back from an 82-61 loss at the hands of Oregon in their last game to slip to 14-15 on the year. After this game, USC will close out the regular season by heading on the road for a rivalry game against UCLA.

Trojans Lose Fifth Straight

Desmond Claude leads USC in scoring and assists with 15.5 PPG and 4.1 APG along with 3.5 RPG while Chibuzo Agbo has 11.7 PPG with 4.3 RPG. Wesley Yates III has 13.9 PPG while Saint Thomas has 9.4 PPG with a team-high 6 RPG to lead the Trojans on the glass so far this season. Josh Cohen also has 6.3 PPG with 2.6 RPG while Rashaun Agee has 7.8 PPG with 4 RPG as well on the year. As a team, USC is averaging 76.3 PPG on 48.1% shooting from the field, 36% from three and 73.6% from the foul line this season.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• USC has won each of its last 10 games against Washington.
• Washington has lost nine of its last 10 games at Galen Center.

Total Points Facts

• Each of USC’s last 11 night games have produced a total of 151+ points.
• Three of Washington’s last four night games against non-AP-ranked opponents at Galen Center have produced a total of 154+ points.

Washington vs. USC Prediction

I’m on USC here. Normally with a team in as poor form as USC is in, I’d try to go the other way as much as possible. However, this feels like as good of a get right spot as any for the Trojans heading into the conference tournament as the Trojans have flat out owned Washington over the years and the Huskies, by a lot of metrics, have the worst and least efficient offense in the Big Ten so far this season. Points have been hard to come by and the Huskies just don’t have the scoring depth to keep themselves in the game more often than not. I think USC’s just the better team here and the number in my eyes is reasonable so give me USC here.

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USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans lost to Rutgers and Ohio State, and they play Washington and UCLA next. USC has lost four straight games and six of its last seven games overall.

The USC Trojans are averaging 76.9 points on 48.7 percent shooting and allowing 74.8 points on 45.6 percent shooting. Desmond Claude is averaging 16 points and 4.2 assists, while Wesley Yates III is averaging 13.9 points and 1.5 assists. Chibuzo Agbo is the third double-digit scorer and Terrance Williams II is grabbing 4.6 rebounds. The USC Trojans are shooting 36.5 percent from beyond the arc and 73.5 percent from the free throw line. The USC Trojans are allowing 32.5 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 28.3 rebounds per game.

Oregon Ducks Betting Preview

The Oregon Ducks beat Iowa and Wisconsin, and they play Indiana and Washington next. Oregon looks to win five straight games for the first time since starting the season with a 9-0 record.

The Oregon Ducks are averaging 76.6 points on 45.6 percent shooting and allowing 71.8 points on 43.8 percent shooting. Nate Bittle is averaging 13.3 points and 7.1 rebounds, while Jackson Shelstad is averaging 13.3 points and 3 rebounds. TJ Bamba is the third double-digit scorer and Brandon Angel is grabbing 3.9 rebounds. The Oregon Ducks are shooting 34.6 percent from beyond the arc and 76.3 percent from the free throw line. The Oregon Ducks are allowing 31.8 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 31 rebounds per game.

Oregon vs USC Injury Report

Oregon will be without Dezdrick Lindsay, Jamari Phillips, and Andre Warren. USC is without Terrance Williams II and Kallai Patton, while Isaiah Elohim is questionable.

Oregon vs USC Prediction

Rivalry game so you can talk yourself into USC and the points. The problem is, Oregon is 4-0 SU and ATS in the last four games against USC, which includes an eight-point road win back in December. USC has lost six of its last seven games and is 11-17 ATS on the season. Oregon is playing some of its best ball right now and is 10-4 SU at home. If USC continues to get destroyed defensively like it has these last few weeks, the Trojans stand no chance on the road here. Give me Oregon and the chalk.

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USC is Ice Cold

USC is ice-cold heading into this game, and they have lost three games in a row. Two games ago against Maryland, they lost 88-71, and in the last game against Rutgers, they lost 95-85. USC’s offense was impressive, shooting 51.5 percent from the field, while they allowed Rutgers to shoot 54.5 percent from the field. Desmond Claude had a huge game putting up 30 points, two rebounds, and two assists. Wesley Yates III had a strong game, also putting up 23 points, three rebounds, and three assists.

USC currently has a 14-13 overall record and has gone 11-16 against the spread. Its defense wasn’t just bad in the last game; it’s been bad all season, giving up 74.3 points per game. The Trojans, as a team, are shooting 48.3 percent from the field. USC knows they can score, and they will probably run up the score again here. The question is, will they make enough defensive stops?

Ohio State is Struggling

Ohio State is suddenly struggling, and it has lost two games in a row. Two games ago against Northwestern, they lost 70-49, and in the last game against UCLA, they lost 69-61. Against UCLA, they shot only 31.7 percent from the field and 22.2 percent from behind the three-point line. Bruce Thorton had a strong game, putting up 21 points, four rebounds, and three assists. Micah Parish also stepped up with 12 points. The rest of the offense wasn’t there, though. 

Ohio State sits with a 15-13 record overall, but they have only gone 3-6 away from home.  The offense for the Buckeyes has been strong, but the defense has been a major issue. The offense is ranked 74th in all of college basketball, but the defense is giving up 71.9 points per game. In this game, Ohio State is going to need the defense to step up in a major way here. Bruce Thorton has been the top player, averaging 17.3 points while shooting 50.8 percent from the field and 43.7 percent from behind the three-point line. Ohio State will meet Nebraska and Indiana after this game.

USC vs Ohio State Prediction

USC is going to push the tempo here, and that will be the difference here in terms of the total. In the last game against Rutgers, the defense gave up 95 points, and Ohio State will put on a show with the offense. The Buckeyes are averaging 78.2 points per game, a number they will end up blowing by in this game. USC’s offense is going to make up for their poor defense, and they will end up putting on a show. Zero defense will be played by either team, and the over will end up cashing. 

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Matchup History

This will be the first meeting between these two teams all-time.

USC Recap

The USC Trojans come into this game looking to bounce back from an 88-71 loss at the hands of Maryland in their last game to sit at 14-12 on the year. After this game, USC will head home for a matchup with Ohio State.

Trojans Drop Back-To-Back Games & 4 Of Last 5

Desmond Claude leads USC in scoring and assists with 16 PPG and 4.4 APG along with 3.7 RPG while Chibuzo Agbo has 12.1 PPG with 4.6 RPG. Wesley Yates III has 12.8 PPG while Saint Thomas has 10 PPG with a team-high 6.1 RPG to lead the Trojans on the glass so far this season. Josh Cohen also has 7 PPG with 2.5 RPG while Rashaun Agee has 6.8 PPG with 3.5 RPG as well on the year. As a team, USC is averaging 76.6 PPG on 48.3% shooting from the field, 36.3% from three and 73.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• Rutgers has lost each of its last 10 Sunday games.

Rutgers Recap

The Rutgers Scarlet Knights come into this game looking to build on an 89-85 win over the Washington Huskies last time out to sit at 13-14 on the year. After this game, Rutgers will head on the road for a game against the Michigan Wolverines.

Scarlet Knights Looking To Build Some Momentum

Dylan Bailey leads the Scarlet Knights in scoring and assists with 19.2 PPG and 4 APG along with 4.7 RPG while Ace Bailey has 18.6 PPG with a team-high 7.4 RPG as the only other double-digit scorer for Rutgers up to this point in the year. Jeremiah Williams also has 7.1 PPG and Lathan Sommerville has 7.4 PPG with 4.2 RPG. Jordan Derkack’s also added 6.3 PPG, 3.1 RPG and 2.1 APG as well on the year. As a team, Rutgers is averaging 76 PPG on 44.4% shooting from the field, 33.3% from three and 71.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Rutgers Scarlet Knights will win

• Rutgers has won 26 of its last 28 games at Jersey Mike’s Arena when playing with a rest advantage.
• USC has lost each of its last six Sunday road games.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Rutgers’ last eight Sunday home games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 141 or fewer points.
• Each of USC’s last four road games against non-AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 152 or fewer points.

USC vs. Rutgers Prediction

I’m on the Rutgers Scarlet Knights in this game. USC just has fallen off of a cliff on the road and I’m just really not sure what to make of this team in general. Rutgers has moments that are questionable in their own right, but usually, Rutgers is the team with the best two players on the floor whenever they take the court. I think that USC is starting to fall off of a cliff and I think that the Scarlet Knights get themselves the win and cover at home in this game.

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USC Recap

The USC Trojans come into this game looking to bounce back from a 69-66 loss at the hands of Minnesota last time out to sit at 14-11 on the year. After this game, USC will head on the road to take on Rutgers.

Trojans Can’t Find Their Footing

Desmond Claude leads USC in scoring and assists with 16 PPG and 4.4 APG along with 3.7 RPG while Chibuzo Agbo has 12.1 PPG with 4.6 RPG. Wesley Yates III has 12.8 PPG while Saint Thomas has 10 PPG with a team-high 6.1 RPG to lead the Trojans on the glass so far this season. Josh Cohen also has 7 PPG with 2.5 RPG while Rashaun Agee has 6.8 PPG with 3.5 RPG as well on the year. As a team, USC is averaging 76.6 PPG on 48.3% shooting from the field, 36.3% from three, and 73.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• USC has won six of its last seven games following a home loss.

Maryland Recap

The Maryland Terrapins come into this game looking to add on to their 101-75 win over Iowa last time out to sit at 20-6 on the year. After this game, Maryland will welcome Michigan State to town.

Terrapins Win 3^rd In A Row

Derik Queen leads the Terps in scoring with 16 PPG along with 8.8 RPG while Ja’Kobi Gillespie has 14.7 PPG with a team-high 4.8 APG to lead the Terrapins in the assist department. Rodney Rice has 13.4 PPG and Selton Miguel has 12 PPG, while Julian Reese has 13.8 PPG with a team-high 9.2 RPG to lead the Terrapins on the glass and to cap off the group of double-digit scorers for Maryland so far this season. As a team, Maryland is averaging 83.5 PPG on 48.8% shooting from the field, 37.4% from three, and 74.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Maryland Terrapins will win

• Maryland has won each of its last 13 games at XFINITY Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• USC has lost six of its last seven night games against AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Twelve of Maryland’s last 13 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents at XFINITY Center have produced a total of 148 or fewer points.
• Twenty of USC’s last 25 night games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 151 or fewer points.

Maryland vs USC Prediction

I’m on the over in this game. This Maryland offense has come alive in a lot of their recent performances, and just cracked the century mark against Iowa. Does that say more about the Iowa defense or about Maryland’s offense? Maybe it’s both, but this is going to be a good chance to see. On the other side, USC has a respectable lineup that’s been able to hang offensively in recent games despite not being the most consistent at winning games, putting up 70+ in 8 of their last 10 games overall. I think this is going to be a bit of a track meet, so give me the over.

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USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans are 14-10 (6-7) this year after they defeated Penn State by a score of 92-67 in their last game. USC led 40-31 at halftime and added 52 points in the second half to pull away in the win. The Trojans shot 67.3% from the field, 75% on three pointers, and 82.4% on free throws in the game. Chibuzo Agbo led USC with 21 points and two rebounds, while Desmond Claude added 16 points and eight assists in the win. 

Prior to that game, the Trojans lost to Purdue by a score of 90-72 and Northwestern by a score of 77-75. USC has lost four of their last seven games and they are currently 10th in the Big Ten standings with a 6-7 record. USC has scored 77.0 points per game and they have allowed 73.1 points against per game, while also averaging 31.7 rebounds and 15.7 assists per game this season. Desmond Claude is averaging 16.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per game, while Wesley Yates III is averaging 12.5 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game this year. USC is shooting 48.4% from the field, 72.8% on free throws, and 35.6% on three pointers this season. 

Minnesota Golden Gophers Betting Preview

The Minnesota Golden Gophers are 12-12 (4-9) this season after they lost to Illinois by a score of 95-74 in their last game. Minnesota trailed 46-35 at halftime and allowed 49 points in the second half in the loss. The Golden Gophers shot 40.9% from the field, 40% on three pointers, and 85.7% on free throws in the game. Lu’Cye Patterson led Minnesota with 24 points and four assists, while Femi Odukale added 22 points and five assists in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Golden Gophers defeated Penn State by a score of 69-61, but did lose to Washington by a score of 71-68 before that. Minnesota has lost three of their last four games and they are currently near the bottom of the Big Ten standings with a 4-9 record. Minnesota has scored 69.0 points per game and they have allowed 69.8 points against per game, while also averaging 33.5 rebounds and 15.8 assists per game this season. Dawson Garcia is averaging 19.8 points, 7.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game, while Lu’Cye Patterson is averaging 11.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game this year. Minnesota is shooting 44.8% from the field, 65.2% on free throws, and 32.9% on three pointers this season. 

Why USC will beat Minnesota

• USC has won nine of its last 10 games at Galen Center when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• Minnesota has lost 21 of its last 27 day games against the Big Ten Conference.
• Minnesota has lost the first half in each of its last four games against the Big Ten Conference.

USC vs Minnesota Prediction

Minnesota comes into this matchup struggling over the last two weeks and they will be on the road for this game. The Golden Gophers have lost three of their last four games and they are shooting 44.8% from the field this year. Minnesota did win their last road game against Penn State, but they are just 2-4 on the road in conference play. USC is trying to get their second straight win and they are 2-0 in their last two home games against Penn State and Michigan State. The Trojans are shooting 48.4% from the field this year and while they do struggle on defense, I don’t think this Minnesota offense is good enough to capitalize on it. Take USC at home. 

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Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Preview

The Penn State Nittany Lions lost to Minnesota and UCLA, and they play Washington, Nebraska, and Minnesota next. The Penn State Nittany Lions are averaging 80.3 points on 47.7 percent shooting and allowing 72.8 points on 44.9 percent shooting. Ace Baldwin Jr. is averaging 13.7 points and 7.3 assists, while Yanic Konan Niederhauser is averaging 12.7 points and 6.2 rebounds. Nick Kern Jr. is the third double-digit scorer and Zach Hicks is grabbing 4.7 rebounds. The Penn State Nittany Lions are shooting 33.9 percent from beyond the arc and 75.1 percent from the free throw line. The Penn State Nittany Lions are allowing 33.6 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 31.3 rebounds per game.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans lost to Northwestern and Purdue, and they play Minnesota, Maryland, and Rutgers next. The USC Trojans are averaging 76.4 points on 47.7 percent shooting and allowing 73.4 points on 44.9 percent shooting. Desmond Claude is averaging 16.2 points and 4.2 assists, while Wesley Yates III is averaging 12.5 points and 1.3 assists. Chibuzo Agbo is the third double-digit scorer and Terrance Williams II is grabbing 4.6 rebounds. The USC Trojans are shooting 34.2 percent from beyond the arc and 72.5 percent from the free throw line. The USC Trojans are allowing 31.2 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29 rebounds per game.

USC vs Penn State Injury Report

USC will be without Terrance Williams II, while Desmond Claude and Kallai Patton are questionable. Penn State will be without Eli Rice, while Yanic Konan Niederhauser and Puff Johnson are questionable.

USC vs Penn State Prediction

Penn State and USC are both heading in the wrong direction and not teams I’m excited to back. The problem is Penn State has experienced a different level of suck with losses in nine of its last 10 games and just can’t get the offense and defense on the same page. Penn State either barely scores 60 points, like in games against UCLA and Minnesota, or gets blasted defensively in games against Michigan State and Illinois. USC has seen 10 of its 13 wins come at home and has competed harder over the last few weeks. Let’s not ignore USC upsetting Michigan State and Nebraska. I’ll lay the reasonable line with the Trojans on Tuesday night.

Read the rest of "USC vs Penn State Prediction 2/11/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Before we dive into the USC Trojans vs. Purdue Boilermakers game let’s review the rules for Draftkings single game showdown contest.

Draftkings Single Game Showdown Contest Rules

You have $50,000 to utilize on five players from either team. However, one of those players will be designated as your team captain. The captain accumulates 1.5 times the standard fantasy points. Additionally, the captain is 1.5 times the standard cost of the flex position.

The remaining four players in your lineup will receive the standard fantasy points. Having stated that, it is highly important for you to identify the correct player for your captain position if you hope to win a large field DFS GPP (guaranteed prize pool) showdown contest.

If you have additional questions regarding the rules for the single game showdown contest, I recommend that you check out the Draftkings website for more details.

*I recommend that all readers review the starting lineups for both teams prior to setting your DFS lineup for this one game slate.

Here are my Draftkings picks for this evening’s USC Trojans vs. Purdue Boilermakers matchup.

Draftkings NCAA College Basketball Picks

Captain-Braden Smith, Guard, Purdue Boilermakers $12,000

Purdue guard Braden Smith has been a consistent scorer for the Purdue Boilermakers, contributing significantly to the team’s overall success this season. Smith is known for his ability to score and for his contributions on the defensive side of the basketball.

In the 23 games Braden Smith has played for the Purdue Boilermakers in the 2024 NCAA regular season, Smith is averaging a rather impressive 16.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, 8.6 assists and 2.5 steals a game.

Looking closer at the data just presented, in the 23 games that Braden Smith has played for the Purdue Boilermakers this season, Smith has compiled a 45.5% field goal percentage, a 40% three-point percentage, and an 84.8% free throw percentage.

More recently, in the Purdue Boilermakers convincing 91-64 win over the Michigan Wolverines last month, Purdue guard Braden Smith certainly played at a high level. More specifically, Smith tallied 24 points, seven rebounds, ten assists and four steals in the Boilermakers victory over the Michigan Wolverines.

As I noted in the rules section above, selecting the correct player at the captain position for a Draftkings NCAA showdown lineup is absolutely vital if you hope to win a large field GPP (guaranteed prize pool) DFS contest. Keep that in mind as you construct your lineups for this one game Draftkings slate.

In my view, Braden Smith is the most likely player to post the most Draftkings points in today’s NCAA regular season game. Having stated that, I am rolling with Purdue Boilermakers guard Braden Smith at the captain position for this one game Draftkings NCAA Showdown contest.

Flex Plays

Fletcher Loyer, Guard, Purdue Boilermakers $8,800

In addition to Braden Smith, Fletcher Loyer has been a standout performer for the Purdue Boilermakers. Let’s review Loyer’s game data from this season to better shed light on my previous statement.

In the 23 games that Fletcher Loyer has played for the Purdue Boilermakers in the 2024 NCAA regular season, Smith is averaging 13.8 points, 2.2 rebounds, 1.6 assists and 0.5 blocks a game.

In conclusion, I fully expect Fletcher Loyer to continue his outstanding play in this NCAA regular season game.

Additional flex plays I like to perform well in this game (Draftkings price noted): Saint Thomas, Forward (USC Trojans) $9,800: Gicarri Harris, Guard (Purdue Boilermakers) $2,800.

Read the rest of "Draftkings NCAA Basketball Picks: USC vs. Purdue 2/7/25" at Sports Chat Place

USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans beat Michigan State, lost to Northwestern, and they play Penn State, Minnesota, and Maryland next. The USC Trojans are averaging 76.8 points on 48.1 percent shooting and allowing 72.6 points on 44.8 percent shooting. Desmond Claude is averaging 16.2 points and 4.2 assists, while Chibuzo Agbo is averaging 11.8 points and 1.4 assists. Wesley Yates III is the third double-digit scorer and Saint Thomas is grabbing 6.3 rebounds. The USC Trojans are shooting 35.3 percent from beyond the arc and 73.6 percent from the free throw line. The USC Trojans are allowing 31.7 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29 rebounds per game.

Purdue Boilermakers Betting Preview

The Purdue Boilermakers beat Iowa and Indiana, and they play Michigan, Wisconsin, and Michigan State next. The Purdue Boilermakers are averaging 78.3 points on 49.5 percent shooting and allowing 68.5 points on 43.9 percent shooting. Trey Kaufman-Renn is averaging 18.7 points and 6.3 rebounds, while Braden Smith is averaging 16.4 points and 4.7 rebounds. Fletcher Loyer is the third double-digit scorer and Daniel Jacobson is grabbing 3.5 rebounds. The Purdue Boilermakers are shooting 38.3 percent from beyond the arc and 72.6 percent from the free throw line. The Purdue Boilermakers are allowing 31.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29.8 rebounds per game.

Purdue vs USC Injury Report

Purdue will continue to be without Daniel Jacobsen with a knee injury. USC will be without Terrance Williams II, while Desmond Claude and Kallai Patton are questionable.

Purdue vs USC Prediction

The Purdue Boilermakers have found their form with wins in nine of their last 10 games, and they have the offense to bury teams, especially at home where they’re 11-1 SU. The problem is this line feels disrespectful toward the USC Trojans, a team that can score in their own right and is top-40 in offensive field goal percentage. USC upset Michigan State last week and has a road upset over Illinois as a double-digit underdog. USC also beat Nebraska on the road as an underdog. While it’s not consistent, USC has shown us a few teams that it’s capable of playing with the big boys. Just needs those shots to fall. Give me USC and the boatload of points.

Read the rest of "Purdue vs USC Prediction 2/7/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Northwestern Wildcats Betting Preview

The Northwestern Wildcats are 12-10 (3-8) this year after they lost to Wisconsin by a score of 75-69 in their last game. Northwestern led 31-25 at halftime, but they were outscored 50-38 in the second half in the loss. The Wildcats shot 42.4% from the field, 39.3% on three-pointers, and 88.9% on free throws in the game. Jalen Leach led Northwestern with 23 points and seven rebounds, while Nick Martinelli added 15 points and seven rebounds in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Wildcats lost to Rutgers by a score of 79-72 and Illinois by a score of 83-74. Northwestern has lost four of their last five games and they are currently near the bottom of the Big Ten standings with a 3-8 record. Northwestern has scored 73.9 points per game and they have allowed 69.6 points per game, while also averaging 34.1 rebounds and 14.8 assists per game this season. Nick Martinelli is averaging 19.4 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, while Jalen Leach is averaging 14.7 points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game this year. Northwestern is shooting 44.2% from the field, 72.8% on free throws, and 33.5% on three-pointers this season. 

USC Trojans Betting Preview

The USC Trojans are 13-8 (5-5) this season after they defeated Michigan State by a score of 70-64 in their last game. USC led 35-32 at halftime and held MSU to just 32 points in the second half in the win. The Trojans shot 42.1% from the field, 31.8% on three-pointers, and 78.9% on free throws in the game. Desmond Claude led USC with 19 points and six rebounds, while Wesley Yates III added 15 points and five rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Trojans lost to UCLA by a score of 82-76 but did beat Nebraska by a score of 78-73 before that. USC has won four of their last six games and they are currently eighth in the Big Ten standings with a 5-5 record. USC has scored 76.7 points per game and they have allowed 72.4 points per game, while also averaging 32.1 rebounds and 15.7 assists per game this season. Desmond Claude is averaging 16.2 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game, while Chibuzo Agbo is averaging 11.7 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game this year. USC is shooting 47.9% from the field, 73.9% on free throws, and 34.7% on three-pointers this season. 

Why USC will beat Northwestern

• Northwestern has lost four of its last five games.
• USC has won three of its last four road games.
• Northwestern has lost the first half in five of its last six night games against the Big Ten Conference.

Northwestern vs USC Prediction 

USC comes into this matchup after picking up a great win over Michigan State in their last game, but they will be on the road for this game. The Trojans are shooting 47.9% from the field this year and while their defensive numbers have not been good, they did hold MSU to just 64 points last time out. Northwestern has lost three games in a row and they have allowed 75, 79, and 83 points in those three games. The Wildcats will be without their second-leading scorer for the rest of the season, which is a huge loss for a team that can have some trouble scoring. USC is 2-0 in their last two road games and I like them to get the cover in this game as well. 

Read the rest of "Northwestern vs USC Prediction 2/4/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

Michigan State has been one of the more consistent teams in the country so far this season. The Spartans have recorded just a pair of losses, with the latest one coming all the way back in late November. Michigan State opened on a 5-2 run with wins over Monmouth, Niagara, Bowling Green, Samford and Colorado amid losses to Kansas and Memphis in that time. Since then it’s been a string of 13 straight victories for Michigan State. In succession those have come versus North Carolina, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oakland, Florida Atlantic, Western Michigan, Ohio State, Washington, Northwestern, Penn State, Illinois, Rutgers and Minnesota. The result so far has been a nice 18-2 overall record though 20 games for the Wolverines.

In their latest outing on Tuesday versus Minnesota, the Spartans came out of the break with a 36-16 advantage. Michigan State kept it up in the second half with a 37-35 advantage and took the eventual victory 73-51 in blowout fashion. Leading the team in scoring with 12 points, two boards and three assists was Tre Holloman. Jaden Akins added 10 points with three rebounds and two assists with one steal, while Xavier Booker added 10 points and three rebounds off the bench. Carson Cooper chipped in 11 rebounds off the bench as well.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

Over on the Trojans’ side, they’ve been something of a mixed bag so far this year amid a tricky Big Ten schedule. USC is still winning most of their games, though. The Trojans opened on a 5-1 stretch with a lone loss to California amid wins over Chattanooga, Idaho State, Texas Arlington, San Jose State and Grambling. USC would lose their next three to Saint Mary’s, New Mexico and Oregon, but then recovered with successive wins over Washington, Montana State, Cal State Northridge and Southern in the next four. Since then it’s been a shaky 3-4 run for the Trojans. The wins have come over Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska. Otherwise it’s been losses to Michigan, Indiana, Wisconsin and UCLA in that time, giving USC a 12-8 overall record through the first 20 games of the 2024-25 campaign.

Matched up against UCLA on Monday, the Trojans went into the break with a 42-37 deficit. USC didn’t end up getting any closer in a 40-39 second half and took the loss 82-76 in the end. Leading the team in scoring during the losing effort was Rashaun Agee, who came off the bench to contribute 21 points with five rebounds and one steal. Tops among the starters was Wesley Yates with 19 points, one rebound and one assist in 39 minutes. Saint Thomas added 13 points with eight boards and six assists in the defeat as well.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• USC has won five of its last six games following a home loss.

Why the Michigan State Spartans will win

• Michigan State has won each of its last 13 games.
• USC has lost each of its last four day games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents.
• Michigan State has won the first half in each of its last 11 games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Each of USC’s last seven games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 151+ points.
• Eleven of Michigan State’s last 13 day games against non-AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 146 or fewer points.

USC vs Michigan State Prediction

I’m going to stay with Michigan State in this one. The Spartans didn’t have much issue with an average Minnesota squad in their last outing, posting 44.6 percent shooting from the field, a 40-22 rebounding advantage and 12 points off 12 Gophers turnovers. Michigan State had 20 team assists and shot a decent 8-of-25 (32 percent) from long range. During this lengthy 13-game win streak, the Spartans have scored 69 or more points in each outing, and 73 or more points in 12 of them.

As for USC, they shot well versus UCLA in their latest loss (49.1 percent) but also got outmuscled on the boards 29-25 and had a rough 11-of-19 (57.9 percent) rate from the line. USC has scored well themselves lately with 69 or more points in 11 straight outings. The Trojans are giving up a lot on the other side to good offenses though, and I don’t think they’ll keep Michigan State at bay here.

Read the rest of "USC vs Michigan State Prediction 2/1/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

UCLA Bruins Betting Preview

The Bruins kicked off the season on quite a strong run across their first 11 outings. UCLA would run into some trouble during a tough stretch in December and early January, but they’ve been able to right the ship since then. The Bruins went a smooth 10-1 in those first 11 games, losing to only New Mexico with wins otherwise versus Rider, Boston U, Lehigh, Idaho State, Cal State Fullerton, Southern Utah, Washington, Oregon, Arizona, and Prairie View. After a loss to North Carolina and a win over Gonzaga, the Bruins hit a four-game losing streak. Those losses were versus Nebraska, Michigan, Maryland, and Rutgers in succession. Since then UCLA has cleaned up their act on a three-game winning streak versus Iowa, Wisconsin, and Washington for a 14-6 overall run through the first 20 outings of the season.

Matched up against Washington on Friday, the Bruins held a 36-32 edge after the first half. UCLA kept the pace from there, notching a 29-28 advantage the rest of the way for a 65-60 victory in the end. Tops in scoring among the starters was Skyy Clark with 12 points, six boards, three assists, and two steals. Aday Mara came off the bench for 12 points as well, posting seven rebounds and five blocks in 30 minutes of work on the court.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

Over on the USC side, they’ve had a couple of rough stretches this season so far. The Trojans also have some solid runs in comparison, however, and they’ve beaten a few very good teams. USC fell to only Cal in their first six outings, beating Chattanooga, Idaho State, Texas Arlington, San Jose State, and Grambling otherwise. After losses to Saint Mary’s, New Mexico, and Oregon, the Trojans took out Washington, Montana State, Cal State Northridge, and Southern in the next four. Since then it’s been a 3-3 stretch for USC. The wins have come courtesy of Illinois, Iowa and Nebraska. The losses otherwise were versus Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin, giving the Trojans a 12-7 overall run through 19 games so far.

In their Wednesday outing versus Nebraska, the Trojans hit a 33-31 deficit in the first half. USC recovered in the second however, making the comeback on a 47-40 run for a 78-73 victory in the end. Leading the team in scoring during the win was Desmond Claude with 21 points, six assists, and three rebounds. Wesley Yates added 17 points with four steals, while Rashaun Agee came off the bench for 14 points, eight rebounds, and a steal in 22 minutes of work.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• USC has won seven of its last eight night games at Galen Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• UCLA has lost five of its last six games at Galen Center.
• USC has won the first half in each of its last nine night games at Galen Center.

Why the UCLA Bruins will win

• UCLA has won nine of its last 11 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• UCLA has won the first half in 10 of its last 11 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

USC vs UCLA Prediction

I’ll lean toward USC in this one. We should have a good matchup here regardless, though. The Trojans hit the road and took out a decent Nebraska team in their last outing thanks to 44.3 percent shooting and 18-of-22 from the line (81.8 percent). The 36-31 rebounding advantage and 16 points off 11 Cornhuskers turnovers really helped out as well. During this current 3-1 stretch, USC has notched 78 or more points in all three wins. The Trojans have also scored a nice 69 or more points in 10 straight games (a 7-3 run).

As for UCLA, they shot a tepid 41.1 percent from the field with a 35-34 rebounding deficit in their last matchup versus Washington. The Bruins took advantage of 14 Huskies turnovers for 15 points though, which helped make the difference in the victory. UCLA has been below 69 points in five of their last eight games though, and they’ve given up 70 or more points in five of the last six. Should be a fun one to watch; I like USC slightly better but it’s a coin flip.

Read the rest of "USC vs UCLA Prediction 1/27/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

USC Trojans Betting Preview

The Trojans have been something of a mixed bag so far this year. USC has some nice stretches of play in the books, however, they’ve also got a couple of spotty runs against some tricky competition. The Trojans opened with a 5-1 run featuring a lone loss to California alongside wins over Chattanooga, Idaho State, Texas Arlington, San Jose State, and Grambling. Three straight losses versus Saint Mary’s, New Mexico, and Oregon followed, then four wins over Washington, Montana State, Cal State Northridge, and Southern. Since then it’s been a 2-3 run over the last five games for the Trojans. They’ve got wins over Illinois and Iowa mixed with losses to Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin during that time for an 11-7 overall record so far.

In the Wisconsin game on Saturday, the Trojans came out of halftime with a 42-27 deficit. USC kept the pace going from there on a 42-42 second half but still took a sizable loss 84-69. Leading the charge in the losing effort was Saint Thomas with 19 points, four rebounds, three assists, and two steals. Rashaun Agee added 15 points with four rebounds, two assists, and two steals, while Wesley Yates put up 11 points with three rebounds and two assists.

Nebraska Cornhuskers Betting Preview

Over on the Nebraska side, they got off to a great start this year, with only a couple of blemishes over their first 14 games. Since then, however, the Cornhuskers have hit a losing streak in their last four outings. Nebraska lost to only Saint Mary’s and Michigan State in those first 14 outings, beating UTRGV, Bethune-Cookman, Fairleigh Dickinson, Creighton, South Dakota, North Florida, Indiana, Murray State, Hawaii, Oregon State, Southern and UCLA otherwise in that time. Over the last four games, Nebraska has taken a string of consecutive losses. Those defeats have come in succession versus Iowa, Purdue, Rutgers, and Maryland, giving the Cornhuskers a 12-6 overall record so far this season through 18 games.

Matched up against Maryland on Sunday, the Cornhuskers were within two points at the break. Nebraska didn’t end up getting any closer on a 32-31 second half and fell 69-66 in the end. Leading team scorer Andrew Morgan came off the bench to provide 17 points with five rebounds and a steal in 24 minutes of work. Brice Williams added 14 points with four rebounds, three assists, and three steals in 33 minutes to lead the starters.

Why the Nebraska Cornhuskers will win

• Nebraska has won each of its last 12 games at Pinnacle Bank Arena when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• USC has lost three of its last four games when playing with a rest advantage.
• Nebraska has won the first half in 15 of its last 16 games at Pinnacle Bank Arena against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• Nebraska has lost each of its last four games.
• USC has won four of its last five games following a home loss.
• Nebraska has lost the first half in each of its last three games against the Big Ten Conference.

Nebraska vs USC Prediction

I’ll lean toward Nebraska I suppose. You could make a case either way, though—and both teams could use a good performance here. The Cornhuskers didn’t play horrendously against a talented Maryland team in their last outing—but did make a couple of statistical mistakes. Nebraska missed five of their 11 free throws (54.5 percent) and had 13 turnovers during the tight road loss. The Cornhuskers have given up 69 or more points in each of the last four games (all losses) and 85 or more in three of those. To be fair, however, Nebraska has played some tricky teams in that time.

As for USC, they’re a stellar squad themselves this year when they can put everything together. The Trojans were quite permissive in their latest loss to Wisconsin though, giving up 56.4 percent shooting and posting 16 turnovers for 22 Badgers points. Still, USC has some nice wins in the bag, including their 10-point victory on the road over Illinois earlier this month. I like the Trojans to put up a good fight here, but in the end, I think Nebraska pulls it off. It’ll be a fun matchup to watch though, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see USC shine in this one either.

Read the rest of "Nebraska vs USC Prediction 1/22/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

USC Has Won Two Straight Games

USC has been up and down this season but they have won two straight games. Two games ago against Illinois, USC was able to secure the 82-72 and in the last game against Iowa, they were able to secure the 99-89 victory. At halftime they were up 48-32 and they held on in the second half. USC has shot 64.9 percent from the field and 66.7 percent from behind the three point line. They hit 10 of the 15 shots from deep. Desmond Claude put up 25 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds. 

USC comes into this game with an 11-6 record and they have gone 7-10 against the spread. USC is averaging 77.5 points, while their defense is giving up 71.6 points per game. The offfense is ranked 120th in the league while the defense is ranked 199th. They are averaging 16.35 assists per game which is 52nd in the league. Desmond Claude is averaging 16.4 points while shooting 50.6 percent from the field and 30.8 percent from behind the three point line. 

Why USC Will Beat Wisconsin

USC has won five of its last six day games.

Wisconsin Coming off a Close Win

Wisconsin is coming off a close win against Ohio State in the last game although it wasn’t the most dominant game they still picked up the win. At halftime they were up 37-20 and although they almost blew it late, they still ended up winning by two points. John Tonje had a strong game putting up 17 points and four rebounds. There were three different players that put up at least 14 points. 

Wisconsin currently sits with a 14-3 record overall and they have gone 9-7-1 against the spread. Wisconsin on the season is averaging 82.5 points while their defense is giving up 70.4 points per game. The offense is ranked 35th in the league while the defense is ranked 151st. THey do have a free throw percentage of 85.41 which is the best in all of college basketball. John Tonje has been the top player putting up averaigng 18.2 points while shooting 45.6 percent from the field. 

Why Wisconsin Will Beat USC

Wisconsin has won each of its last six games.

USC has lost the first half in each of its last five day games against AP-ranked opponents.

USC vs Wisconsin Prediction

This total is just a little bit too high. Wisconsin likes to play at a faster pace than years past, and their defense hasn’t been having been as strong overall, but in this game, they are going to step up in a big way here. USC’s offense is going to have no answer and that is going to be the difference as this game is going to be lower scoring. Back the under to end up cashing here with ease. 

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Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Preview

The Hawkeyes have had a pretty steady season so far; they’ve only got one bad stretch of games in the books this year. Iowa would open things up with a string of wins over East Texas A&M, Southern, South Dakota, Washington State, and Rider. The aforementioned bad stretch came next in a 2-3 run with wins over only USC Upstate and Northwestern alongside losses to Utah State, Michigan, and Iowa State. Since then Iowa has been on a pretty solid run. They’re 5-1 in their last six games, losing to only Wisconsin in that time. The wins otherwise have been over New Orleans, Utah, New Hampshire, Nebraska, and Indiana for a 12-4 overall record through the first 16 games so far this season.

In the Indiana matchup back on Saturday, the Hawkeyes didn’t have too many issues. Iowa came out of the break sporting a 10-point lead 43-33, then got even better in the second half on a 42-27 run. The result was a dominant blowout win at home 85-60 against a pretty good Hoosiers team. Iowa’s Payton Sandfort led the team with 23 points with six boards and three assists. Owen Freeman doubled up on 16 points, 12 boards, four blocks and three steals. Brock Harding doubled as well with 10 points, 10 assists, and four rebounds in the victory.

USC Trojans Betting Preview

Over on the USC side, they’ve been a pretty erratic team for most of the season, but they do have some nice wins in the bag so far. The Trojans opened on a 5-1 run with a lone loss to California amid wins over Chattanooga, Idaho State, Texas Arlington, San Jose State, and Grambling. A three-game losing streak versus Saint Mary’s, New Mexico, and Oregon came next, then a string of wins over Washington, Montana State, Cal State Northridge, and Southern. Following losses to Michigan and Indiana, USC took an upset road win over Illinois over the weekend for a 10-6 overall record so far this year.

In the Saturday game versus the Illini, the Trojans came out of the gate swinging. USC stayed with Illinois in the first half, going into the locker room with a three-point deficit. The Trojans hit a 47-34 run the rest of the way and took the win 82-72. Desmond Claude went off for 31 points, three assists, and one rebound in the victory, while Wesley Yates added 15 points, six rebounds, and two assists. Coming off the bench to score 13 points with eight boards, one steal and one block in 30 minutes of work was Rashaun Agee.

Why the USC Trojans will win

• Iowa has lost 13 of its last 15 road night games against the Big Ten Conference.
• USC has won six of its last seven night games at Galen Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• USC has won the first half in each of its last eight night games at Galen Center.

Why the Iowa Hawkeyes will win

• Iowa has won each of its last eight Tuesday games.
• USC has lost four of its last five night games.
• Iowa has won the first half in seven of its last nine night games.

USC vs Iowa Prediction

I’ll stick with Iowa. The Hawkeyes posted an impressive win over a pretty talented Indiana team in their last win, notching a nice 54.2 percent shooting from the field, 11-of-24 (45.8 percent) from outside, and 37 rebounds. It wasn’t perfect though, as Iowa also tallied just 10-of-18 (55.6 percent) from the line with 13 turnovers. Still, the Hawkeyes continue to post some nice points totals this year. They’ve hit 69 or more points in all 16 games so far, and 80 or more points in 10 consecutive outings.

As for USC, we got to see them play to their capabilities during the second half of the upset win over Illinois. The Trojans finally put everything together in that one, posting 52.3 percent shooting and a 37-34 rebounding edge while holding a great Illini squad to just 37.1 percent shooting on the other side. USC was a little careless with the ball (14 turnovers) during a pretty sloppy overall game (29 total turnovers), but it was still their best effort of the season. All of that said, I don’t think USC will maintain that intensity in another tricky matchup against Iowa.

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