It will be a battle between Big 10 opponents when the No. 24 Michigan Wolverines (18-6, 7-4 Big 10) welcome the Minnesota Golden Gophers (14-10, 3-8 Big 10) to Crisler Center. The game begins at 2:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 3, 2018.
Minnesota Golden Gophers at Michigan Wolverines Free Prediction
In the Golden Gophers’ last game, they were beaten by the Iowa Hawkeyes, 94-80. Iowa’s 0.267 free throw rate was their largest advantage over Minnesota, who had a rate of 0.194. The Hawkeyes’ mark was above their season average of 0.244, while the Golden Gophers’ was below their season average of 0.266. Jordan Murphy was the top scorer from either team with 21 points on 9-for-14 shooting.
The Wolverines defeated the Northwestern Wildcats in their last outing, 58-47. The Wolverines forced 16 turnovers, while the Wildcats had a free throw rate of 0.149 (below their season average of 0.236). Charles Matthews led Michigan in scoring with 14 points on 6-for-11 shooting.
Michigan could put on a ball-control clinic in this matchup. Michigan ranks fifth in the nation at avoiding errors (turnover percentage of 14.7 percent), while Minnesota forces the 39th-fewest turnovers (16.6 percent).
After splitting two games last season, these teams will meet for the first time this year. The Wolverines won the last matchup 84-77. The Wolverines knocked down 18 of their 22 free throws (81.8 percent) and had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.611 vs. 0.485).
Minnesota Golden Gophers at Michigan Wolverines ATS Pick
Free Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Minnesota, ATS Winner – Minnesota, O/U – Over
Notes
Betting Notes:
Minnesota ranks 13th in rebounds per game (40.3) while Michigan ranks 238th (32.9).
The Wolverines rank 19th in assists allowed per game (10.6) while the Golden Gophers rank 215th (15.3).
Michigan ranks fifth in three pointers allowed per game (15.8) while Minnesota ranks 153rd (22.5).
The Golden Gophers rank sixth in blocks per game (6.1) while the Wolverines rank 117th (3.3).
Michigan ranks seventh in steals allowed per game (4.4) while Minnesota ranks 68th (5.7).
Betting Trends:
The Golden Gophers have been outscored by an average of 8.0 points in their last five games. For the season, Minnesota has defeated opponents by an average of 4.5 points.
During their last five games, the Wolverines have scored an average of 65.6 points per game (8.8 below their season average) and allowed an average of 65.0 points per game (1.9 above their season average).
