GAME: #721 Illinois vs #722 Maryland
TIME: 12/7/2019 – 5:00p EST
SPREAD: Maryland -11
TOTAL: 146
SPORTSBOOK: 5Dimes Sportsbook
The undefeated #3 Maryland Terrapins host the 7-2 Illinois Fighting Illini in this Big Ten matchup. Maryland pounded Notre Dame 72-51 last game out while Illinois lost to Miami on their home court by a score of 79-81 in a game that was almost a blowout loss. These teams only played each other once last season with Illinois beating Maryland on their own home court by a score of 67-78.
ILLINOIS FIGHTING ILLINI
The Illinois Fighting Illini are averaging 87 points per game while shooting 51% from the field and 34% from 3. The Fighting Illini are allowing 69 points per game and 42% field goal shooting along with 35% from three-point land from their opponents on defense. Illinois is averaging 12 offensive rebounds per game which helps them get extra buckets, however, the Fighting Illini turn the ball over 16 times per game. They also force 14 turnovers per game with six steals on defense.
MARYLAND TERRAPINS
The Maryland Terrapins are averaging 80 points per game while shooting 44% from the field and 31% from 3. On defense, the Terrapins are allowing 61 points per game and only 36% shooting from the field. Maryland is forcing 14 turnovers per game and adding 5.9 steals and 5.8 blocks per game on defense. Maryland has the ability to score a lot of points and they also use their defense forced turnovers into quick easy buckets.
MATCHUP SUMMARY
The Fighting Illini struggle controlling the ball which will give Maryland an edge. Maryland should have no problem forcing several turnovers and steals while turning them into easy points on the offensive end. Illinois has not faced much competition yet this year and Maryland should have no problem covering the spread while they also seek revenge from last year’s loss which will add extra fuel to their fire.
TRENDS
ILLINOIS
- Fighting Illini are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games as an underdog.
- Fighting Illini are 0-4 ATS in their last 4 games as a road underdog.
- Under is 5-1 in Fighting Illini last 6 games as an underdog.
MARYLAND
- Under is 4-1 in Terrapins last 5 games as a home favorite.
- Under is 4-1 in Terrapins last 5 Saturday games.
- Under is 4-1 in Terrapins last 5 home games.
- Terrapins are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games as a home favorite.
BETTING ANGLES:
Data Analysis: Maryland -11 / Over 146
Fade the Public: Maryland -11 / Over 146
Sharp Action: Maryland -11 / no data
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