Offense meets defense when the No. 9 Michigan State Spartans (5-2) visit Rutgers to take on the Scarlet Knights (5-1). The game begins at 6 p.m. ET on Friday, November 30, 2018.
Michigan State Spartans vs. Rutgers Scarlet Knights Free Prediction
The Spartans are hoping for a better outcome after their 82-78 loss to the Louisville Cardinals in their last matchup. Getting to the free throw line was one of Louisville’s biggest advantages. They had 41 free throw attempts, while Michigan State had just 23. Michigan State’s Xavier Tillman had a good outing, putting up 11 points and 13 rebounds.
In the Scarlet Knights’ previous outing, they won a close one over the Miami (FL) Hurricanes, 57-54. Rutgers’ 0.458 effective field goal percentage was their largest strength over Miami (FL), who had a rate of 0.392. The Scarlet Knights’ mark was below their season average of 0.515, while the Hurricanes’ was below their season average of 0.548. Geo Baker led Rutgers in scoring with 16 points on 7-for-17 shooting from the field.
The Spartans won both games against the Scarlet Knights last season. In the most recent matchup, Michigan State won 76-72. Michigan State did a fantastic job of getting and making free throws (25-34; 73.5 percent). Rutgers, on the other hand, had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (25.6 vs. 18.9).
Rutgers might struggle to put up points as they face off against one of the country’s best defenses. Since last season, Michigan State ranks 16th in defensive efficiency while the Scarlet Knights rank 327th in offensive efficiency.
Michigan State vs. Rutgers Betting Pick
Pick: SU Winner – Rutgers, ATS Winner – Michigan State, O/U – Under
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Notes
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
Michigan State ranks first in assists per game (19.3) while Rutgers ranks 310th (10.5).
The Spartans rank first in blocks per game (6.8) while the Scarlet Knights rank 247th in blocks allowed per game (4.2).
Rutgers ranks 68th in steals per game (7.0) while Michigan State ranks 294th (4.4).
The Spartans average 41.7 rebounds per game, which ranks fourth in the NCAA. The Scarlet Knights rank 208th in rebounds allowed per game (35.9).
Michigan State ranks 194th in three pointers attempted per game (21.4) while Rutgers ranks 321st (16.1).
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