Before we dive into the Michigan State Spartans vs. Auburn Tigers game let’s review the rules for the 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 tonight’s Michigan State vs. Auburn matchup.

Captain-Johni Broome, Forward, Auburn Tigers $12,200

Senior forward Johni Broome has been an exceptional player for the Auburn Tigers this season. Standing at 6’10” and weighing 240 pounds, Broome has been a formidable presence in the paint for Auburn. With that said, how has Broome performed from a statistical perspective? Let’s review Broome’s relevant game data from the 2024 NCAA season (including postseason games) to answer that question.

In the 34 games that forward Johni Broome has played for the Auburn Tigers in the 2024 NCAA season, Broome is averaging 18.5 points, 10.8 rebounds, 2.9 assists, 2.1 blocks and 0.9 steals a game.

Examining the data just presented more closely, in the 34 games that forward Johni Broome has played for the Auburn Tigers this season, Broome has compiled a 50.5% field goal percentage, a 26.7% three-point percentage and a 59.3% free throw percentage.

More recently, in the Auburn Tigers 78-65 win over the Michigan Wolverines two days ago, Auburn forward Johni Broome played exceptionally well. Let me be more specific. Broome accumulated a rather impressive 22 points, 16 rebounds, one assist, one block and two steals in the Tigers 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.

In my view, Johni Broome is the most likely player to post the most Draftkings points in this game. For that specific reason, I am rolling with Auburn Tigers forward Johni Broome at the captain position for this one game Draftkings NCAA Showdown contest.

Flex Plays

Jase Richardson, Guard, Michigan State Spartans $10,800

Talented guard Jase Richardson has been one of the Michigan State Spartans most consistent and productive players this season. His versatility and unique skill set make Jase Richardson an invaluable asset to the team. Let’s review Richardson’s game data from this season to better shed light on his contributions to the team.

In the 35 games that guard Jase Richardson has played for the Michigan State Spartans this season, Richardson is averaging 12.2 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.9 assists, 1.4 blocks and 0.3 steals a game.

Additional flex plays I like to perform well in this NCAA tournament game (Draftkings price noted): Tre Holloman, Guard (Michigan State Spartans) $6,200: Denver Jones, Guard (Auburn Tigers) $8,000.

Read the rest of "Draftkings NCAA Basketball Picks: MSU vs. Auburn 3/30/25" at Sports Chat Place

Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

The Michigan State Spartans (30-6, 24-11-1 ATS) have been dominant late in the season as they recorded seven consecutive victories to clinch the No. 1 seed for the Big Ten tournament. The Spartans defeated Oregon 74-64 in the quarterfinals but fell short to the No. 5 seed Wisconsin, in the semifinals. Michigan State wasn’t really tested in the opening two rounds of the NCAA tournament; it beat Bryant and New Mexico, but Ole Miss caused the Spartans trouble in the Sweet 16. Michigan State did edge out the Rebels 73-70.

Michigan State averages 78.1 PPG (79th) and allows 67.1 PPG (44th). The Spartans are 21st in rebounds (39.8) and 31st in assists (16.7). Jaden Akins leads the team with 12.8 PPG and 3.6 RPG. Jase Richardson follows him with 12.2 PPG and 3.3 RPG, while Tre Holloman chips in 9.3 PPG and 3.8 APG.

Auburn Tigers Betting Preview

The Auburn Tigers (31-5, 20-16 ATS) lost the final two games of the regular season but still secured the No. 1 seed for the SEC tournament. The Tigars entered the conference tourney in the quarterfinals and beat Ole Miss 62-57, but they fell short to Tennessee in the semis 70-65. Auburn was solid in the NCAA tournament so far, defeating Alabama State, Creighton, and Michigan.

Auburn is averaging 83.6 PPG (13th) and is allowing 69.3 PPG (88th). The Tigers are getting 37.6 RPG (72nd) and dishing out 16.3 APG (41st). Johni Broome is the team’s top performer with 18.5 PPG, 10.8 RPG, 2.9 APG, and 2.1 BPG. Chad Baker-Mazara has 12.3 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 2.6 APG, and a team-high 1.1 SPG, while Tahaad Pettiford contributes 11.8 PPG, 2.2 RPG, and 2.9 APG.

Why Michigan State will beat Auburn

• Michigan State has won each of its last seven games against non-conference opponents.
• Auburn has lost three of its last four games against AP-ranked opponents.

Why Auburn will beat Michigan State

• Auburn has won 18 of its last 19 night games against non-conference opponents.
• Michigan State has lost eight of its last nine games against Top 5 AP-ranked opponents.
• Auburn has won the first half in seven of its last eight night games against AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.

Total Points Facts

• Six of Michigan State’s last seven games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 141 or fewer points.
• Four of Auburn’s last five games have produced a total of 146 or fewer points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Auburn ranks 2nd among Division 1 teams for defensive rating this season (101.9).
• Auburn ranks 2nd among Division 1 teams for points per possession this season (1.24).
• Michigan State ranks 12th among Division 1 teams for rebounds per game this season (40.0).
• Michigan State ranks 14th among Division 1 teams for free throw percentage this season (78.9%).

Auburn vs Michigan State Prediction

These teams will meet for the first time. Auburn has a more potent offense, but Michigan State’s defense is a tricky one, and only because of the Spartans’ D, I am going with Under in this tilt. Each of the Spartans’ three games at the NCAA tournament went Under, and Michigan State is 11-25-0 Over/Under this season, so I am leaning toward a low-scoring affair. Also, Michigan State has hit the Game Total Under in 23 of its last 32 games.  If I had to choose a winner, I’d pick Auburn, but I am going with Under.

Read the rest of "Auburn vs Michigan State Prediction 3/30/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Before we dive into the Mississippi Rebels vs. Michigan State Spartans game let’s review the rules for the 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 tonight’s Mississippi vs. Michigan State matchup.

Draftkings NCAA Basketball Showdown Picks

Captain-Sean Pedulla, Guard, Mississippi Rebels $12,000

The Mississippi Rebels enter this evening’s NCAA tournament matchup with the Michigan State Spartans playing quality basketball. A big reason why the Rebels have been a success this season is talented guard Sean Pedulla.

In the 35 games that senior guard Sean Pedulla has played for the Mississippi Rebels in the 2024 NCAA season (including postseason games), Pedulla is averaging 15.2 points, 3.5 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 1.9 steals a game.

More recently, in the Mississippi Rebels dominant 91-78 win over the Iowa State Cyclones five days ago, Mississippi guard Sean Pedulla certainly played at a high level. More specifically, Pedulla amassed 20 points, two rebounds, eight assists and four steals in the Rebels victory over the Iowa State Cyclones.

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.

In my opinion, Sean Pedulla presents the best fantasy value of any player on this one game DFS slate. Having stated that, I am rolling with Mississippi Rebels guard Sean Pedulla at the captain position for this one game Draftkings NCAA Showdown contest.

Flex Plays

Jaden Akins, Guard, Michigan State Spartans $9,400

Guard Jaden Akins has certainly been a solid player for the Michigan State Spartans this season. Having stated that, how has the senior guard performed from a statistical perspective? Let’s review Jaden Akins game data from the 2024 NCAA season (including postseason games) to answer that question.

In the 35 games that guard Jaden Akins has played for the Michigan State Spartans in the 2024 NCAA season, Akins is averaging 12.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, 1.5 assists, 0.8 steals and 0.3 blocks a game.

Looking closer at the data just presented, in the 35 games that Jaden Akins has played this season, Akins has averaged a rather impressive 19.5 Draftkings points a contest.

Additional flex plays I like to perform well in tonight’s NCAA tournament game (Draftkings price noted): Tre Holloman, Guard (Michigan State Spartans) $7,600: Malik Dia, Forward (Mississippi Rebels) $10,800: Jaemyn Brakefield, Forward (Mississippi Rebels) $6,400.

Read the rest of "Draftkings NCAA Basketball Picks: Rebels vs. Spartans 3/28/25" at Sports Chat Place

Ole Miss Rebels Betting Preview

Ole Miss posted a nice run into January, but then tripped themselves up amid difficult conference games. The Rebels lost to only Purdue and Memphis in their first 17 outings, then hit losses to Mississippi State, Texas A&M, Missouri and Auburn in the next five. A 3-3 run came next with wins over Kentucky, LSU and South Carolina ahead of losses to Mississippi State, Vanderbilt and Auburn. After that came a 3-2 stretch with wins over Oklahoma, Tennessee and Arkansas mixed with losses to Florida and Auburn. Ole Miss has since beaten North Carolina and Iowa State in the national tourney, giving them a 24-11 overall record so far.

In the Iowa State matchup on Sunday, the Rebels entered the second half with a 40-29 edge. Ole Miss kept the pressure on with a 51-49 run the rest of the way and took the win 91-78 in the end. Leading the team in scoring was Sean Pedulla with 20 points, eight assists, four steals and two rebounds. Matthew Murrell added 15 points with four rebounds and two steals, while Malik Dia had 18 points with eight boards and two steals in 26 minutes of action in the victory.

Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

Over on the Michigan State side, they had a very brief run of rough games back in February but other than that they’ve been impressive amid a tough Big Ten slate. The Spartans opened at 5-2, then beat Minnesota, Nebraska, Oakland, FAU, Western Michigan, Ohio State, Washington, Northwestern, Penn State, Illinois, Rutgers and Minnesota in succession. Michigan State lost three of the next four versus USC, UCLA and Indiana, then beat Illinois, Purdue, Michigan, Maryland, Wisconsin, Iowa, Michigan and Oregon before a conference tournament loss to Wisconsin. The Spartans have taken out Bryant and New Mexico so far in the national tournament, giving the team a 29-6 overall record.

In the New Mexico matchup back on Sunday, the Spartans held a two-point deficit by the break. Michigan State woke up in the second half though, notching a 42-32 run on the way to a 71-63 victory in the end. The only starter to finish in double-digits was Jaden Akins with 16 points and one rebound in 30 minutes. Tre Holloman (14 points; four assists; three steals) and Frankie Fidler (10 points) came off the bench to provide the Spartans with a winning lift.

Why the Michigan State Spartans will win

• Michigan State has won 24 of its last 25 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.
• Ole Miss has lost 24 of its last 28 games against AP-ranked opponents.
• Ole Miss has lost the first half in each of its last eight games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents.

Why the Ole Miss Rebels will win

• Ole Miss has won each of its last 16 night games against non-Conference opponents.
• Michigan State has lost four of its last five NCAA Tournament night games against Top 8 Seeds.
• Ole Miss has won the first half in each of its last six night games against non-Conference opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Eight of Ole Miss’ last nine games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 152+ points.
• Seven of Michigan State’s last nine NCAA Tournament games against a lower seed have produced a total of 143 or fewer points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Michigan State ranks 3rd among Division 1 teams for opponent three-point percentage this season (28.0%).
• Michigan State ranks 3rd among Division 1 teams for rebound percentage this season (56.6%).
• Ole Miss ranks 3rd among Division 1 teams for turnovers per game this season (8.8).
• Ole Miss ranks 3rd among Division 1 teams for turnover percentage this season (11.2%).

Michigan State vs Ole Miss Prediction

I’m going to lean toward Michigan State, but you could call this one either way—especially with a fairly lackluster performance for the Spartans versus New Mexico. Michigan State shot pretty well from the field (44.4 percent) in that one and had a 34-28 rebounding edge with just nine turnovers. The Spartans gave up 48.2 percent shooting on the other side though, and missed nine of their 28 free throws (67.9 percent). Those attempts from the line are going to be crucial moving forward. Still, Michigan State has scored 71 or more points in nine of the last 11 games—a 10-1 run.

As for Ole Miss, they looked good against a talented Iowa State team in their latest win. The Rebels shot a nice 58.2 percent from the field with 57.9 percent (11-of-19) from 3-point range and only eight turnovers. Ole Miss got 20 points off 15 Cyclones turnovers though, so ball control is going to be very important for Michigan State here. I like this one to be won on the boards and at the line, so if the Spartans can play to their capabilities I think they’ve got it. Should be a great one to watch regardless.

Read the rest of "Michigan State vs Ole Miss Prediction 3/28/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

New Mexico Lobos Betting Preview

The New Mexico Lobos recently played UNLV, San Jose State, Boise State, and Marquette. New Mexico is 13-3 since January 17.

The New Mexico Lobos are averaging 81.2 points on 45.9 percent shooting and allowing 70.8 points on 42.9 percent shooting. Donovan Dent is averaging 20.6 points and 2.4 rebounds, while Nelly Junior Joseph is averaging 14.1 points and 11.1 rebounds. Mustapha Amzil is the third double-digit scorer and Tru Washington is grabbing 4 rebounds. The New Mexico Lobos are shooting 34.7 percent from beyond the arc and 68.7 percent from the free throw line. The New Mexico Lobos are allowing 33.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 35.3 rebounds per game.

Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

The Michigan State Spartans recently played Michigan, Oregon, Wisconsin, and Bryant. Michigan State has won nine of its last 10 games since February 15.

The Michigan State Spartans are averaging 78.2 points on 48.1 percent shooting and allowing 67.2 points on 40.3 percent shooting. Jaden Akins is averaging 12.6 points and 1.5 assists, while Jase Richardson is averaging 12.1 points and 3.2 rebounds. Tre Holloman is dishing 3.8 assists and Coen Carr is grabbing 3.6 rebounds. The Michigan State Spartans are shooting 30.8 percent from beyond the arc and 78.1 percent from the free throw line. The Michigan State Spartans are allowing 27.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 36.8 rebounds per game.

Michigan State vs New Mexico Injury Report

Neither New Mexico nor Michigan State have a player listed on its injury report.

Michigan State vs New Mexico Prediction

Michigan State has the name, the big conference, the respected coach and the pedigree, so it’s going to be favored. Michigan State is also 23-10-1 ATS on the season. However, this line is disrespectful toward a balanced New Mexico squad that’s top-30 in offensive scoring. New Mexico had its way with Marquette in the first round as a 4.5-point underdog and held a good Golden Eagles offense to 41 percent shooting from the field.

New Mexico hasn’t had much covering success this season, especially lately, but the Lobos are more than a team that’s happy to be here. Michigan State can go through scoring droughts at times, and that’s going to leave the door open for New Mexico. I’ll take a shot with the points.

Read the rest of "Michigan State vs New Mexico Prediction 3/23/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Bryant Bulldogs Betting Preview

Bryant started out the year on a rough run, but to their credit the Bulldogs recovered and have been playing well since the calendar flipped over to 2025. Bryant won just six of their first 15 games and were three games below the .500 mark on New Year’s Day. A win streak ensued however, as the Bulldogs dispatched Maine, Vermont, Albany, UMass Lowell, New Hampshire, Binghamton, UMBC and NJIT. A 3-2 stretch came next with wins over Binghamton, NJIT and UMBC sandwiched in between losses to Albany and Vermont. Bryant has since won six straight games, taking out Umass Lowell, Maine, New Hampshire, UMBC, Albany and Maine again during that time. The Bulldogs have an America East Tournament championship in the bag alongside a 23-11 overall record across 34 games so far this year.

In the tournament championship game versus Maine, the Bulldogs went into the break with a comfortable lead 38-27. Bryant hit a 41-32 run the rest of the way and took the win in the end 79-59. Leading the team in scoring was Barry Evans with 19 points and seven rebounds. Earl Timberlake put up 17 points with four rebounds, five assists and four steals, while Keyshawn Mitchell doubled up on 14 points with 12 rebounds and a pair of steals. Rafael Pinzon chipped in 13 points, and Kvonn Cramer led the bench scoring on seven points and 10 boards.

Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

Over on the Michigan State side, they’ve been doing pretty well this year amid a tough schedule—outside of a brief rough stretch back in February. The Spartans opened at 5-2, then beat Minnesota, Nebraska, Oakland, FAU, Western Michigan, Ohio State, Washington, Northwestern, Penn State, Illinois, Rutgers and Minnesota in succession. Michigan State lost three of the next four versus USC, UCLA and Indiana, then beat Illinois, Purdue, Michigan, Maryland, Wisconsin, Iowa, Michigan and Oregon before a conference tournament loss to Wisconsin. That gives the Spartans a 27-6 record so far this season.

Back on Saturday in the Big Ten Tournament versus the Badgers, Michigan State trailed by four points going into the locker room. The Spartans hit a 41-40 run the rest of the way but couldn’t make the comeback in a 77-74 loss. Jase Richardson topped the team on 21 points with seven rebounds, while Jeremy Fears put up 14 points, six assists and three rebounds. Tre Holloman led the bench scoring on 10 points with two boards and two assists. Carson Cooper added 10 boards, three assists and eight points in 28 bench minutes as well.

Why the Michigan State Spartans will win

• Michigan State has won 22 of its last 23 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.
• Bryant has lost each of its last five games against non-Conference opponents.
• Michigan State has won the first half in each of its last nine night games against non-AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.

Why the Bryant Bulldogs will win

• Bryant has won each of its last six games.
• Michigan State has lost four of its last five night games played at neutral venues.
• Michigan State has lost the first half in each of its last six games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Michigan State’s last seven NCAA Tournament games against a lower seed have produced a total of 147 or fewer points.
• Five of Bryant’s last six games at a neutral venue have produced a total of 170+ points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Michigan State ranks 3rd among Division 1 teams for opponent three-point percentage this season (28.0%).
• Michigan State ranks 3rd among Division 1 teams for rebound percentage this season (56.6%).
• Bryant ranks 2nd among Division 1 teams for field goal attempts per game this season (65.8).
• Bryant ranks 4th among Division 1 teams for rebounds per game this season (41.4).

Michigan State vs Bryant Prediction

I’m going with the Spartans, but the line’s probably too thick to mess with. No one’s doubting that Michigan State will (almost) surely win this one; the question is the margin of victory. The Spartans are coming off a tepid shooting outing versus a good Wisconsin team, hitting 40.7 percent from the field. Otherwise Michigan State looked pretty decent statistically with 37 rebounds and just seven turnovers—they just couldn’t get the push they needed to vanquish the Badgers. The loss ends an eight-game win streak, but the Spartans have been scoring well lately with 71 or more points in eight of their last nine outings. We should see another nice total here.

As for Bryant, they dismantled Maine in the conference tournament championship with 50.8 percent shooting and a 45-25 rebounding edge but did have 19 turnovers for 12 Bears points. the Bulldogs have scored 79 or more points in all six installments of this current win streak, but the Spartans will represent the toughest challenge of the season so far. I don’t think Bryant will quite keep the pace.

Read the rest of "Michigan State vs Bryant Prediction 3/21/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Wisconsin Badgers Betting Preview

The Wisconsin Badgers (25-8, 20-12-1 ATS) were on a five-game winning streak in February but closed the regular season with three losses in five games. The Badgers lost to Oregon, Michigan State, and Penn State, while they beat Washington and Minnesota in that span. Wisconsin entered the Big Ten tourney as the No. 5 seed.

Wisconsin is averaging 80.4 PPG (38th) and is allowing 70.7 PPG (138th). The Badgers are getting 36.2 RPG (146th) and dish out 14.6 APG (126th). John Tonje is the team’s top performer with 18.9 PPG and 5.1 RPG. John Blackwell has 15.4 PPG, 5.2 RPG, and 2.2 APG. while Nolan Winter contributes 10.0 PPG and a team-high 6.0 RPG.

Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

The Michigan State Spartans (27-5, 22-9-1 ATS) are playing the best basketball in the Big Ten conference this season. Following a loss to Indiana on February 12, the Spartans connected seven victories to conclude the regular season. Michigan State entered the conference tourney in the quarterfinals when it defeated Oregon 74-64.

Michigan State averages 78.4 PPG (76th) and allows 67.0 PPG (46th). The Spartans are 16th in rebounds (40.0) and 19th in assists (17.1). Jaden Akins leads the team with 12.9 PPG and 3.7 RPGT. Jase Richardson follows him with 11.6 PPG, 3.1 RPG, while Tre Holloman chips in 9.1 PPG and 3.8 APG.

Why the Michigan State Spartans will win

• Michigan State has won each of its last eight games against the Big Ten Conference.
• Wisconsin has lost five of its last six day games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.
• Wisconsin has lost the first half in nine of its last 12 day games against AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.

Total Points Facts

• Eight of Michigan State’s last nine games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 144 or fewer points.
• Seven of Wisconsin’s last eight games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 148+ points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Michigan State ranks 12th among Division 1 teams for rebounds per game this season (40.0).
• Michigan State ranks 14th among Division 1 teams for free throw percentage this season (78.9%).
• Wisconsin ranks 21st among Division 1 teams for offensive rating this season (118.0).
• Wisconsin ranks 21st among Division 1 teams for defensive rating this season (103.7).

Michigan State vs Wisconsin Prediction

These rivals have traded wins in the past few years as each recorded five wins in the last ten duels. Michigan State won the first meeting of the season 71-62 at home and covered the spread. This one will be tight but I am sure the Spartans will prevail, get a W, and cover. Michigan State is the best team in the conference and I am backing the Spartans to reach the finals. Back them to win and cover.

Read the rest of "Michigan State vs Wisconsin Prediction 3/15/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Matchup History

Michigan State won the lone meeting between these two teams in the regular season by a final score of 86-74 at home on February 8^th, 2025. The win made Michigan State 2-0 in the head-to-head series between these two teams.

Oregon Recap

The Oregon Ducks come into this game looking to add on to their 72-59 win over Indiana last time out to book their spot in the quarterfinals.

Ducks Looking To Spring Upset

Nate Bittle leads the Ducks in scoring and rebounding with 14.1 PPG and 7.3 RPG while Jackson Shelstad has 13.3 PPG with 3 RPG and a team-high 2.7 APG to lead the Ducks in assists. TJ Bamba has 10.2 PPG with 3.4 RPG and 2.9 APG while Keeshawn Barthelemy has 10.2 PPG with 2.5 RPG and 2.6 APG to round out the group of double-digit scorers for Oregon up to this point in the year. Brandon Angel has 8.4 PPG with 4 RPG while Jadrian Tracey also has 7.2 PPG with 2.8 RPG as well on the year. As a team, Oregon is averaging 76.7 PPG on 45.5% shooting from the field, 34.2% from three and 76.3% from the foul line this season.

Why the Oregon Ducks will win

• Oregon has won each of its last eight games.
• Michigan State has lost four of its last five Conference Tournament day games.

Michigan State Recap

The Michigan State Spartans come into the conference tournament as the top seed, finishing the year with an overall record of 26-5 on the year including a 17-3 mark in Big Ten conference play.

Spartans Looking To Win First Big Ten Title Since 2019

Jaden Akins leads the Spartans in scoring with 12.9 PPG along with 3.7 RPG while Jase Richardson’s posted 11.6 PPG with 3.1 RPG as the only other double-digit scorer for Michigan State so far this year. Tre Holloman has 9.1 PPG and 3.8 APG while Frankie Fidler has 7.2 PPG and 3.5 RPG and Jaxon Kohler has 8.1 PPG with 7.8 RPG to lead the Spartans on the glass. Coen Carr has 7.7 PPG with 3.3 RPG and Jeremy Fears Jr. has 7 PPG and has dished out a team-high 5.5 APG as well on the year. As a team, Michigan State is averaging 78.4 PPG on 46.3% shooting from the field, 30.2% from three and 78.9% from the foul line this season.

Why the Michigan State Spartans will win

• • Michigan State has won each of its last seven games.
  • Oregon has lost four of its last five games against AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Eight of Oregon’s last nine games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 150+ points.
• Each of Michigan State’s last five games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 141 or fewer points.

Michigan State vs Oregon Prediction

I’m going to take Oregon and the points here. I just think this is going to be more of a competitive matchup than the line would suggest. I know the Spartans won the first meeting between these two teams, but I still think Oregon is a good enough team to hang around in this game and the Ducks can keep this one respectable. If you can slow down the two-point shot, you can slow down Michigan State who does not take many threes and when they do take them, they’re not making them at a high rate. I think that Oregon keeps this one close and is live for the outright upset. Give me Oregon and the points here.

Read the rest of "Michigan State vs Oregon Prediction 3/14/25 College Basketball Picks Today" at Sports Chat Place

Michigan Wolverines Betting Preview

Michigan has a couple of (very brief) spotty stints this season, but overall they’re doing very well despite slipping a bit over the last five outings. The Wolverines kicked things off on an 8-1 opening run, falling to only Wake Forest on November 10 during that time. After consecutive losses to Arkansas and Oklahoma, the Wolverines took out Fort Wayne, Western Kentucky, USC, UCLA and Washington. Next came a 1-2 run with a win over Northwestern in between losses to Minnesota and Purdue. Michigan would roll past Penn State, Rutgers, Oregon, Indiana, Purdue and Ohio State in the next six before a loss to Michigan State and wins over Nebraska and Rutgers. Since then it’s been consecutive losses again, this time to Illinois and Maryland. In total that gives the Wolverines a 22-8 overall record across 30 games so far.

In the Maryland matchup on Wednesday, the Wolverines came out of halftime with a 33-22 deficit. Michigan got better in the second half with a 43-38 advantage but still ended up losing 71-65. Tops in scoring were Danny Wolf (eight rebounds; four assists) and Vladislav Goldin (15 rebounds and three assists for a double-double), each with 20 points. Tre Donaldson also landed in double-figures during the defeat with 10 points, six assists and three rebounds. Will Tschetter led a limp bench outing with three points and four rebounds.

Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

Over on the Michigan State side, they had one brief rough patch in the record column back in February, but aside from that it’s been a very nice run for the Spartans all year. Michigan State lost to Kansas and Memphis in their first seven games, then rattled off a lengthy win streak over North Carolina, Minnesota, Nebraska, Oakland, FAU, Western Michigan, Ohio State, Washington, Northwestern, Penn State, Illinois, Rutgers and Minnesota. A 1-3 run came next with a win over Oregon amid losses to USC, UCLA and Indiana. Since then however, the Spartans have bounced back with wins over Illinois, Purdue, Michigan, Maryland, Wisconsin and Iowa.

Matched up against Iowa on Thursday, Michigan State was down 37-30 by the break. The Spartans came back on a 61-47 run from there however, powering out the win 91-84. Tops in scoring was Jase Richardson with 22 points and four rebounds in 33 minutes of work during the comeback victory.

Why the Michigan State Spartans will win

• Michigan State has won each of its last 17 games at Jack Breslin Student Events Center when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• Michigan has lost each of its last six games at Jack Breslin Student Events Center.
• Michigan has lost the first half in seven of its last eight day games against AP-ranked opponents.

Why the Michigan Wolverines will win

• Michigan has won eight of its last nine day games.
• Michigan State has lost the first half in nine of its last 10 games against the Big Ten Conference.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Michigan State’s last four games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 141 or fewer points.
• Five of Michigan’s last six day games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 150+ points.

Michigan State vs Michigan Prediction

I’ll take a stab on Michigan here. Regardless, this should be a pretty fun rivalry matchup. The Wolverines do need a much better effort Sunday following their loss to Maryland this past week, though. Michigan shot decently (43.5 percent) and had a 39-37 rebounding edge. Trouble is, the Wolverines only got to the line for seven shots (making four), and coughed up 16 turnovers for 21 Terrapins points in a sloppy game. That’s the third time in the last four games that Michigan has finished below 66 points.

On February 21 when these teams last met, Michigan fell at home 75-62. The Wolverines were doing fine at the break on a 38-34 edge but got pummeled 41-24 the rest of the way. Michigan shot fairly well in that one also (46 percent), however they again got into turnover trouble with 15 for 18 Spartans points. The 34-25 rebounding deficit didn’t help, either. In the road rematch ball security is going to be even more important, as Michigan likely won’t win the rebounding battle. It’s going to take a strong effort but I think the Wolverines can stay close enough to cover in this one.

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Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

The Michigan State Spartans (24-5, 19-9-1 ATS) went through their worst period of the season during which they suffered three losses in early February. After losing to USC, UCLA, and Indiana, Michigan State defeated Illinois, Purdue, Michigan, Maryland, and Wisconsin. The Spartans are at the top of the Big Ten Standings with a 1.5 game ahead of Michigan and nine ahead of Iowa.

Michigan State is averaging 78.0 PPG (83rd) and is allowing 66.6 PPG (42nd). The Spartans are getting 40.2 RPG (17th) and dish out 17.2 APG (17th). Jaden Akins is the team’s top scorer with 12.9 PPG and 3.7 RPG. Jase Richardson adds 11.0 PPG and 3.0 RPG, while Tre Holloman contributes 8.6 PPG, 2.0 RPG, and 3.9 APG.

Iowa Hawkeyes Betting Preview

The Iowa Hawkeyes (15-14, 10-18-1 ATS) are struggling in 2025. Since mid-January, Iowa lost ten out of 13 games, including four of the previous five. The Hawkeyes are back home from a two-game road trip on which they suffered losses to Illinois and Northwestern. Iowa is 16th in the Big Ten Standings with 2.5 games ahead of the last-placed Washington.

Iowa averages 82.2 PPG (22nd) and allows 79.1 PPG (340th). The Hawkeyes are 373rd in rebounds (32.0) and 6th in assists (18.3). Owen Freeman leads the team with 16.7 PPG, a team-high 6.7 RPG, and a team-high 1.8 BPG. Payton Sandfort follows him with 16.1 PPG, 6.2 RPG, and 3.0 APG, while Josh Dix has 14.0 PPG, 3.1 RPG, 2.7 APG, and 1.0 SPG.

Why Michigan State will beat Iowa

• Iowa has lost each of its last 11 night games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents.
• Michigan State has won each of its last five games.
• Iowa has lost the first half in each of its last four games against the Big Ten Conference.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Michigan State’s last 12 Thursday night road games against the Big Ten Conference have produced a total of 151 or fewer points.
• Each of Iowa’s last six games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents has produced a total of 154+ points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Iowa ranks 4th among Division 1 teams for assists per game this season (18.3).
• Iowa ranks 4th among Division 1 teams for assist-to-turnover ratio this season (1.82).
• Michigan State ranks 3rd among Division 1 teams for rebound percentage this season (56.8%).
• Michigan State ranks 4th among Division 1 teams for opponent three-point percentage this season (28.2%).

Iowa vs Michigan State Prediction

The rivals have traded wins in the last ten H2H encounters as each recorded five. Iowa won five of the previous six games, but the situation now is completely on Michigan State’s side. The Spartans won the last three games on the road, while Iowa lost three of the past four at home. The visitors will be highly motivated to win as they are battling for the No. 1 seed, and I am backing them to get it. Iowa has only covered the Spread in 11 of its last 33 games, while Michigan State has covered the Spread in 24 of its last 35 games.

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Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

The Michigan State Spartans are 23-5 (14-3) this year after they defeated Maryland by a score of 58-55 in their last game. Michigan State trailed 23-21 at halftime, but they scored 37 points in the second half and won on a last second shot from half court. The Spartans shot 33.8% from the field, 26.7% on three pointers, and 83.3% on free throws in the game. Jase Richardson led Michigan State with 15 points and eight rebounds, while Tre Holloman added nine points and three assists in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Spartans defeated Michigan by a score of 75-62 and Purdue by a score of 75-66. Michigan State has won four games in a row and they are currently first in the Big Ten standings with a 14-3 record. Michigan State has scored 78.2 points per game and they have allowed 66.8 points against per game, while also averaging 39.8 rebounds and 17.1 assists per game this season. Jaden Akins is averaging 12.7 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, while Jase Richardson is averaging 11.0 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game this year. Michigan State is shooting 46.5% from the field, 80% on free throws, and 29.5% on three pointers this season. 

Wisconsin Badgers Betting Preview

The Wisconsin Badgers are 22-6 (12-5) this season after they defeated Washington by a score of 88-62 in their last game. Wisconsin led 43-28 at halftime and added 45 points in the second half for the blowout win. The Badgers shot 51.6% from the field, 33.3% on three pointers, and 75% on free throws in the game. John Blackwell led Wisconsin with 24 points and 10 rebounds, while John Tonje added 13 points and five rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Badgers lost to Oregon by a score of 77-73, but did beat Illinois by a score of 95-74 before that. Wisconsin has won six of their last seven games and they are currently third in the Big Ten standings with a 12-5 record. Wisconsin has scored 81.9 points per game and they have allowed 70.5 points against per game, while also averaging 36.1 rebounds and 14.9 assists per game this season. John Tonje is averaging 19.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, while John Blackwell is averaging 15.2 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game this year. Wisconsin is shooting 47% from the field, 83.3% on free throws, and 36.2% on three pointers this season. 

Why Michigan State will beat Wisconsin

• Michigan State has won each of its last 16 games at Jack Breslin Student Events Center when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• Wisconsin has lost 11 of its last 14 day games against Top 10 AP-ranked opponents.
• The home team has won the first half in each of Wisconsin’s last nine games.

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Michigan State vs Wisconsin Prediction 

Both of these teams come into this matchup at the top of the Big Ten standings, but Michigan State has the better conference record and they will be at home. The Spartans have won four games in a row and they are coming off of a very dramatic win over Maryland. MSU has played some very tight defense during this winning streak, as they have allowed 66 points or fewer in all four of those wins. Wisconsin has won six of their last seven games and they have scored at least 88 points in three of their last four. The Badgers are the slightly better shooting team and they are 5-2 in their last seven road games. This should be a great matchup, but Izzo has the Spartans playing at an elite level and they have so much depth. Take MSU here. 

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Maryland Terrapins Betting Preview

The Maryland Terrapins are 21-6 (11-5) this year after they defeated USC by a score of 88-71 in their last game. Maryland led 37-27 at halftime and added 51 points in the second half in the win. The Terrapins shot 49.2% from the field, 40% on three-pointers, and 85.7% on free throws in the game. Rodney Rice led Maryland with 22 points and four rebounds, while Ja’Kobi Gillespie added 20 points and four assists in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Terrapins defeated Iowa by a score of 101-75 and Nebraska by a score of 83-75. Maryland has won four games in a row and they are currently battling Wisconsin for third in the Big Ten standings with an 11-5 record. Maryland has scored 83.7 points per game and they have allowed 67.3 points per game, while also averaging 37.3 rebounds and 15.1 assists per game this season. Derik Queen is averaging 15.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, while Ja’Kobi Gillespie is averaging 14.9 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 4.8 assists per game this year. Maryland is shooting 48.8% from the field, 74.7% on free throws, and 37.5% on three-pointers this season. After this game, Maryland will head on the road for a game against Penn State. 

Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

The Michigan State Spartans are 22-5 (13-3) this season after they defeated Michigan by a score of 75-62 in their last game. Michigan State trailed 38-34 at halftime, but they held Michigan to just 24 points in the second half for the win. The Spartans shot 45.9% from the field, 40.9% on three-pointers, and 66.7% on free throws in the game. Jase Richardson led Michigan State with 21 points and six rebounds, while Tre Holloman added 18 points and four assists in the win. 

Prior to that victory, the Spartans defeated Purdue by a score of 75-66 and Illinois by a score of 79-65. Michigan State has won four of their last five games and they are currently tied for first in the Big Ten standings with a 13-3 record. Michigan State has scored 79.0 points per game and they have allowed 67.2 points per game, while also averaging 39.6 rebounds and 17.4 assists per game this season. Jaden Akins is averaging 13.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, while Jase Richardson is averaging 10.8 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game this year. Michigan State is shooting 47% from the field, 79.9% on free throws, and 29.6% on three-pointers this season. 

Why Maryland will beat Michigan State

• Maryland has won each of its last 13 games at XFINITY Center.
• Michigan State has lost eight of its last 10 night games against AP-ranked opponents.
• Maryland has won the first half in each of its last six games against AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Each of the last 12 games between Michigan State and Maryland has produced a total of 148 or fewer points.
• Each of Michigan State’s last six night games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 144 or fewer points.

Maryland vs Michigan State Prediction 

Michigan State rolls into this matchup looking for their fourth win in a row, but they will be on the road for this game. The Spartans have picked up back-to-back ranked wins over Michigan and Purdue, and they are looking like one of the top teams in the country. Michigan State does have a big flaw with their three-point shooting, but they did make 40% of them against Michigan. Maryland is going for their fifth straight win and they have scored at least 83 points in their last four games. This should be a great game between two of the better teams in the Big Ten, but Michigan State has been very fortunate in the last ten minutes of each of their last three games and I don’t know if that luck can continue. Take Maryland at home. 

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This is the first meeting between the two teams this season. 

Michigan Keeps Winning

Michigan keeps winning games, and they have all kinds of confidence right now. Two games ago against Purdue, they picked up a 75-73 victory, and in the last game against the Ohio State Buckeyes, they were able to pick up an 86-83 win. They were up 44-39 at halftime and never looked back on the way to victory. Vladislav Goldin had a strong game, putting up 20 points, nine rebounds, and one assist. There were three different players that ended up putting up at least 11 points. 

Michigan, overall, sits with a 20-5 record, and they have gone 12-13 against the spread. Michigan averages 81.6 points, while their defense gives up 71 points per game. The offense is ranked 28th in the league, while the defense is ranked 163rd in the league. Michigan, straight up at home this season, has gone 12-0. They are shooting 49.04 percent from the field, which is 15th in the league. Vladislav Goldin has been the top player for Michigan, averaging 15.7 points while shooting 64 percent from the field and 45 percent from behind the three-point line. It’s hard to imagine where this team would be without Goldin this year, but I can’t imagine it would be all that pretty. 

Why Michigan Will Beat Michigan State

• Michigan has won each of its last eight night games at Crisler Center.
• Michigan State has lost four of its last five games at Crisler Center.
• Michigan has won the first half in four of its last five games against the Big Ten Conference.

Michigan State Looks for Third Straight Win

Michigan State is playing well right now, and they have won two games in a row. Two games ago against Illinois, Michigan State secured the 79-65 victory, and in the last game against Purdue, they secured the 75-66 victory. In the second half, they scored 42 points, and finishing games strong has been a big reason for the success this year. It was a balanced attack, with four different players putting up at least 10 points. Jase Richardson had a strong game, putting up 12 points, three assists, and one rebound. 

Michigan State has a 21-5 record overall, and they have gone 16-9-1 against the spread. Michigan State averages 79.1 points, while their defense gives up 67.4 points per game. The offense is ranked 62nd in the league, while the defense is ranked 58th in the league. Jaden Akins has been the top player for Michigan this season, averaging 13.1 points while shooting 41.8 percent from the field and 28.6 percent from behind the three-point line. If he could even improve the three-point shooting by just a couple of percentage points, this team would be even more dangerous.  Michigan State is still probably not getting talked about enough, but this classic Tom Izzo team could make a deep run in March. 

Total Point Facts

• Seven of Michigan State’s last eight night games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 144 or fewer points.
• Four of Michigan’s last five night games against Conference opponents at Crisler Center have produced a total of 148 or fewer points.

Michigan vs Michigan State Prediction

I am not betting against Michigan at home. Michigan at home this season has gone 12-0 straight up, and they will find success here. Michigan State is a strong offensive team, but Michigan averages 81.6 points per game, and they will have no issue running up the score here. Goldin is playing confidently right now, and he will be a mismatch here. This Michigan squad is just too deep, especially at home.  No matter the pace at which this game is played, Michigan will make the baskets late to come out on top like they have done all season in front of their home fans. It might be a sweat, and they might only win by six, but that will be enough to cash the tickets. Back Michigan to win this game and cover the spread. 

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Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

The Michigan State Spartans are 20-5 (11-3) this year after they defeated Illinois by a score of 79-65 in their last game. Michigan State trailed 41-37 at halftime, but they held Illinois to just 24 points in the second half for the huge win. The Spartans shot 48.5% from the field, 41.7% on three-pointers, and 61.5% on free throws in the game. Jaxon Kohler led Michigan State with 23 points and 10 rebounds, while Tre Holloman added 14 points and three assists in the game. 

Prior to that win, the Spartans lost to Indiana by a score of 71-67 but did beat Oregon by a score of 86-74 before that. Michigan State has lost three of their last five games and they are currently second in the Big Ten standings with an 11-3 record. Michigan State has scored 79.3 points per game and they have allowed 67.5 points per game, while also averaging 40.5 rebounds and 17.6 assists per game this season. Jaden Akins is averaging 13.2 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, while Jase Richardson is averaging 10.3 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game this year. Michigan State is shooting 46.7% from the field, 80.6% on free throws, and 29.1% on three-pointers this season. 

Purdue Boilermakers Betting Preview

The Purdue Boilermakers are 19-7 (11-4) this season after they lost to Wisconsin by a score of 94-84 in their last game. Purdue led 37-36 at halftime, but they allowed 58 points in the second half in the loss. The Boilermakers shot 51.8% from the field, 45.5% on three-pointers, and 76.2% on free throws in the game. Trey Kaufman-Renn led Purdue with 30 points and five assists, while Fletcher Loyer added 15 points and four rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that loss, the Boilermakers lost to Michigan by a score of 75-73 but did beat USC by a score of 90-72 before that. Purdue has won four of their last six games and they are currently third in the Big Ten standings with an 11-4 record. Purdue has scored 78.7 points per game and they have allowed 69.8 points per game, while also averaging 33 rebounds and 16.5 assists per game this season. Trey Kaufman-Renn is averaging 19.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game, while Braden Smith is averaging 16.0 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game this year. Purdue is shooting 49.4% from the field, 72.6% on free throws, and 37.7% on three-pointers this season. Purdue will take on Indiana and UCLA after this game. 

Why Purdue will beat Michigan State

• Michigan State has lost each of its last eight night games against AP-ranked opponents.
• Purdue has won nine of its last 10 games against Michigan State.
• Michigan State has lost the first half in each of its last eight night games against AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Twelve of the last 13 games between Purdue and Michigan State have produced a total of 145 or fewer points.
• Each of Purdue’s last five games at Jack Breslin Student Events Center has produced a total of 136 or fewer points.

Michigan State vs Purdue Prediction 

These two teams come into this matchup just a half-game apart in the Big Ten standings, so this is a huge game for both sides. Michigan State hasn’t played their best over the last few weeks, but they were able to have a huge second half against Illinois to avoid another loss in their last game. The Spartans are shooting 46.7% from the field this year and they have scored 67 points or fewer in three of their last five games. Purdue is shooting 49.4% from the field this year, but they are trying to snap a two-game losing streak here. Both teams have had recent struggles, but Michigan State’s three-point shooting is a concern and I think Purdue has a great chance to get the win, so take the Boilermakers with the points here. 

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Before we dive into the Michigan State Spartans 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 tomorrow’s Purdue vs. Michigan State matchup.

Draftkings NCAA College Basketball Picks

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

Purdue guard Braden Smith has undoubtedly been the driving force behind the Purdue Boilermakers success on the basketball court this season. Let’s take a look at Smith’s relevant player data from the 2024 NCAA regular season to better shed light on my previous statement.

In the 26 games Braden Smith has played for the Purdue Boilermakers in the 2024 NCAA regular season, Smith is averaging a rather impressive 16.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 8.8 assists and 2.4 steals a game.

Looking closer at the data just presented, in the 26 games that Braden Smith has played for the Purdue Boilermakers this season, Smith has compiled a 44.5% field goal percentage, a 38.6% three-point percentage and an 86.8% free throw percentage.

Earlier this month, in the Purdue Boilermakers 90-72 win over the USC Trojans, Purdue guard Braden Smith played exceptionally. More specifically, Smith tallied nine points, three rebounds, 13 assists and five steals in the Boilermakers victory over the USC Trojans.

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 opinion, Braden Smith is the most likely player to post the most Draftkings points in this 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

Trey Kauffman-Renn, Guard, Purdue Boilermakers $11,000

In addition to guard Braden Smith, Trey Kauffman-Renn has been a standout performer for Purdue this season. In the 26 games that Trey Kauffman-Renn has played for the Purdue Boilermakers in the 2024 NCAA regular season, Kaufman-Renn is averaging 19.4 points, 6.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 0.3 blocks a game.

In conclusion, I fully expect Trey Kauffman-Renn 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): Jaxson Kohler, Forward (Michigan State) $9,400: Fletcher Loyer, Guard (Purdue) $7,800: C.J. Cox, Guard (Purdue) $6,200.

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Michigan State Recap

The Michigan State Spartans come into this game looking to bounce back from a 71-67 loss at the hands of Indiana in their last game to fall to 19-5 on the year. After this game, Michigan State will head home for a matchup with the Purdue Boilermakers.

Spartans Drop 3 Of Last 4

Jaden Akins leads the Spartans in scoring with 13.4 PPG along with 3.8 RPG while Jase Richardson’s posted 10.3 PPG with 2.7 RPG and 1.9 APG as the only other double-digit scorer for Michigan State so far this year. Frankie Fidler has 7.9 PPG and 3.6 RPG and Jaxon Kohler has 7.5 PPG with 7.8 RPG to lead the Spartans on the glass. Tre Holloman has 8.3 PPG with 3.9 RPG while Coen Carr has 8.1 PPG with 3.4 RPG and Jeremy Fears Jr. has dished out a team-high 6 APG as well on the year. As a team, Michigan State is averaging 79.3 PPG on 46.6% shooting from the field, 28.8% from three and 81% from the foul line this season.

Why the Michigan State Spartans will win

• Michigan State has won 11 of its last 13 night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Illinois has lost each of its last three games following a home win.

Illinois Recap

The Illinois Fighting Illini come into this game looking to add on to their 83-78 win over UCLA last time out to improve to 17-8 on the year. After this game, Illinois will head on the road for a game against the Wisconsin Badgers.

Fighting Illini Win Back-To-Back Games

Kasparas Jakucionis leads the Illini in scoring and assists with 16 PPG and 5.2 APG along with 5.6 RPG while Tomislav Ivisic has 13.1 PPG with a team-high 8.5 RPG to lead the Illini in rebounding up to this point in the year. Will Riley has 11.9 PPG with 3.8 RPG and Kylan Boswell has 11.5 PPG with 5.2 RPG and 3.4 APG to cap off the scoring in double figures for Illinois so far this season. Tre White also has 9.3 PPG with 5.3 RPG and Ben Humrichous has 8.6 PPG and 3.9 RPG as well on the year. Dra Gibbs-Lawhorn also has 7.3 PPG as well this season. As a team, Illinois is averaging 85.1 PPG on 45.1% shooting from the field, 31.6% from three and 75.9% from the foul line this season.

Why the Illinois Fighting Illini will win

• Illinois has won 17 of its last 18 night games at State Farm Center following a home win.
• Michigan State has lost four of its last five games at State Farm Center.

Total Points Facts

• Each of the last eight night games between Michigan State and Illinois have produced a total of 153 or fewer points.
• Thirty-two of Michigan State’s last 36 night games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 154 or fewer points.

Illinois vs Michigan State Prediction

I’m on Illinois in this one. Michigan State’s still a solid team, but the problem for Sparty right now is that this is a bad matchup for Michigan State. The Spartans are a mainly 2-point driven offense as they barely shoot threes and are heavily reliant on shots inside the arc. That’s not good against Illinois’ 5^th-best 2-point defense and that’s 5^th-best in the country. Illinois has a solid defense and an offense that can go off on any given opponent and I also think the Illini have the better scoring depth here. Give me Illinois at home here.

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Indiana Hoosiers Betting Preview

The Indiana Hoosiers lost to Michigan and Wisconsin, and they play UCLA, Purdue, and Penn State next. The Indiana Hoosiers are averaging 76.2 points on 46.3 percent shooting and allowing 73.5 points on 43.6 percent shooting. Oumar Ballo is averaging 13.7 points and 9.6 rebounds, while Mackenzie Mgbako is averaging 13.3 points and 1.2 assists. Malik Reneau is the third double-digit scorer and Myles Rice is grabbing 3 rebounds. The Indiana Hoosiers are shooting 32.2 percent from beyond the arc and 71.9 percent from the free throw line. The Indiana Hoosiers are allowing 32.8 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.5 rebounds per game.

Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

The Michigan State Spartans beat Oregon, lost to UCLA, and they play Illinois, Purdue, and Michigan next. The Michigan State Spartans are averaging 79.9 points on 46.9 percent shooting and allowing 67.5 points on 39.6 percent shooting. Jaden Akins is averaging 13.4 points and 1.6 assists, while Jase Richardson is averaging 10.2 points and 2.5 rebounds. Tre Holloman is dishing 3.8 assists and Coen Carr is grabbing 3.5 rebounds. The Michigan State Spartans are shooting 29.3 percent from beyond the arc and 80.9 percent from the free throw line. The Michigan State Spartans are allowing 29.5 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 37.3 rebounds per game.

Michigan State vs Indiana Injury Report

Nick Sanders, Xavier Booker, and Jeremy Fears Jr. are questionable for Michigan State. Indiana will be without Shaun Burke, Gabe Cupps, and Ian Stephens. Kanaan Carlyle, Jakai Newton, and Jackson Creel are questionable for Indiana.

Michigan State vs Indiana Prediction

The Indiana Hoosiers showed a fight against Michigan, but it still resulted in a loss, and at some point, all of this loss is going to impact the confidence of this group. Indiana has won one game since January 11. The Michigan State Spartans are coming off a big comeback win over Oregon, which should improve the confidence of this group. Michigan State is undefeated at home and a profitable 14-8-1 ATS on the season. This is a lot of points, but Indiana and Michigan State are also heading in different directions. Indiana has had some ugly blowout losses on the road this season. Michigan State has covered 14 of its last 20 games as a double-digit favorite. I’ll lay the points with Michigan State on Tuesday in this Big Ten showdown.

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Michigan State Spartans Betting Preview

The Michigan State Spartans are 18-4 (9-2) this year after they lost to UCLA by a score of 63-61 in their last game. Michigan State trailed 35-28 at halftime, but they held UCLA to just 28 points in the second half in the close loss. The Spartans shot 37.7% from the field, 22.7% on three pointers, and 84.2% on free throws in the game. Jaden Akins led Michigan State with 15 points and four rebounds, while Jaxon Kohler added eight points and seven rebounds in the game. 

Prior to that loss, the Spartans lost to USC by a score of 70-64, but did beat Minnesota by a score of 73-51 before that. Michigan State has won 13 of their last 15 games and they are currently tied for second in the Big Ten standings with a 9-2 record. Michigan State has scored 79.5 points per game and they have allowed 67.1 points against per game, while also averaging 40.7 rebounds and 18.1 assists per game this season. Jaden Akins is averaging 13.5 points, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game, while Jase Richardson is averaging 9.3 points, 2.4 rebounds, and 2.0 assists per game this year. Michigan State is shooting 46.8% from the field, 80.5% on free throws, and 28.7% on three pointers this season. 

Oregon Ducks Betting Preview

The Oregon Ducks are 16-7 (5-7) this season after they lost to Michigan by a score of 80-76 in their last game. Oregon trailed 41-36 at halftime, but they did score 40 points in the second half in the loss. The Ducks shot 43.3% from the field, 33.3% on three pointers, and 81.8% on free throws in the game. Jackson Shelstad led Oregon with 18 points and four rebounds, while Nate Bittle added 16 points and seven rebounds in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Ducks lost to Nebraska by a score of 77-71 and UCLA by a score of 78-52. Oregon has lost four games in a row and they are currently tied for 10th in the Big Ten standings with a 5-7 record. Oregon has scored 76.4 points per game and they have allowed 71.3 points against per game, while also averaging 35.7 rebounds and 14.7 assists per game this season. Nate Bittle is averaging 12.7 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game, while Jackson Shelstad is averaging 12.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game this year. Oregon is shooting 45.9% from the field, 75.6% on free throws, and 33.1% on three pointers this season. 

Why Michigan State will beat Oregon

• Michigan State has won each of its last 12 games at Jack Breslin Student Events Center.
• Oregon has lost each of its last four games.
• Michigan State has won the first half in each of its last 12 day games at Jack Breslin Student Events Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Twelve of Michigan State’s last 14 day games against non-AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 146 or fewer points.
• Six of Oregon’s last seven games against AP-ranked opponents have produced a total of 150+ points.

Matchup/League Facts

• Michigan State ranks 4th among Division 1 teams for free throw percentage this season (80.5%).
• Michigan State ranks 5th among Division 1 teams for rebound percentage this season (57.0%).

Michigan State vs Oregon Prediction 

Michigan State comes into this matchup with one of the best records in the Big Ten, but they have lost two games in a row and will be looking to get back on track here. The Spartans are shooting nearly 47% from the field this year, but they have scored 64 and 61 points in their last two games. Oregon has lost four games in a row and they have allowed at least 77 points in all four losses. The Ducks are shooting 45.9% from the field this year and they are 0-3 in their last three road games. Michigan State struggled in their road trip out West, but I expect them to be dialed in for a bounce back performance at home. Take the Spartans here. 

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Michigan State Fell Short

Michigan State faced off against USC in the last game and they ended up falling short. Michigan scored 64 points against USC but the defense gave up 70 points and that led to the defeat. At halftime, they were down 35-32 and they couldn’t bounce back in the second half, and that led to the defeat. Michigan State shot 42.1 percent from the field and 33.3 percent from behind the three-point line. Jeremy Fears Jr put up 12 points, six rebounds, and two assists. 

Michigan State currently sits with an 18-3 record overall and they have gone 13-8 against the spread. The over has hit in only eight of the games. Michigan State is averaging 80.4 points while their defense is giving up 67.3 points per game. The offense is ranked 47th in the league while the defense is ranked 60th in the league. Jaden Atkins has been the top player for Michigan State averaging 13.5 points while shooting 42.7 percent from the field and 28.8 percent from behind the three-point line. 

UCLA has Confidence

UCLA has all kinds of confidence right now and they have won five games in a row. Two games ago against USC, they won 82-76 and in the last game against Oregon, they won 78-52. The offense was good in the last game, but the defense was even more impressive and that led to the easy victory. Eric Dailey Jr had a strong game putting up 21 points and four rebounds. There were three different players that put up at least 15 points. 

UCLA comes into this game with a 16-6 record overall and they have gone 12-2 against the spread. The over has hit in nine of the games. UCLA is averaging 76 points while their defense is giving up 64.5 points per game. The offense is ranked 134th in the league while the defense is ranked 21st in the league. Tyler Bilodeau is averaging 14 points while shooting 50.9 percent from the field. UCLA will face Penn State following this one.

UCLA vs Michigan State Prediction

Michigan State has lost some confidence and UCLA has all kinds of confidence right now. ULCA’s defense is giving up 64.5 points per game and their defense is going to step up in a big way here. Michigan State isn’t going to use their balanced offense, and it’s going to be UCLA that gets the job done. This could be a game where Michigan State finished with only 50 or 52 points. Back UCLA against the spread. 

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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.

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