Duquesne Dukes vs. Illinois Fighting Illini 3/23/24 – As the excitement surrounding NCAA’s March Madness builds, a thrilling second-round matchup between Duquesne Dukes (25-11) and Illinois Fighting Illini (27-8) awaits on Saturday in an intriguing clash that is sure to capture fans and bettors alike. Both teams boast impressive win/loss records this season making this matchup a must-watch for college basketball enthusiasts; those interested in betting online sportsbooks will discover plenty of predictions and odds for this electrifying encounter.
Duquesne Dukes vs. Illinois Fighting Illini 3/23/24
| When: | Saturday, March 23, 2024 at 8:40 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | CHI Health Center Omaha |
| TV: | TNT |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dukes | +9.5 (-110) | 148.5 over (-105) | +375 |  |
| Fighting Illini | -9.5 (-110) | 148.5 under (-115) | -500 | |
| ||||
THE MARCH IS ON.#GoDukes | #MarchMadness pic.twitter.com/EbbPOgJzlY
— Duquesne Basketball (@DuqMBB) March 21, 2024
The betting odds reveal Illinois as the significant favorites with a -9.5 spread and a -500 moneyline, reflecting their strong performance this season. Duquesne, despite being the underdog, has shown resilience and could offer value at +375. With the total set at 148.5, bettors will have to consider both teams’ offensive capabilities and defensive strategies before placing their wagers.
Dae Dae Grant (Guard) vs. Terrence Shannon Jr. (Guard)
Dae Dae Grant has been a commanding player for Duquesne evidenced through her impressive 16.7 points per game averaged over 32 games. Tech has been a dependable member for the team in view of both his 38.9 field goal and 93.9 free throw percentages. In this season match, though, Grant will confront the Illinois’s defense and this will be demanding him to play, not only well but excellently as he looks for a way to beat their odds.
Meanwhile, Terrence Shannon Jr. means no less on the other side and he has been making important contributions for the team of Illinois, averaging 23 points per game. Shannon’s averaging scores of 47 points and 36.2 from the line, both of these numbers play a big part of his game, making him a tough opponent for Duquesne. His defensive work, together with his offensive ability, might bring the critical pivot that makes the difference.
Often, the key contributors on both teams will duel for the crucial points which may in turn decide the outcome of the match. Grant’s pinpoint shooting behind the arc and Shannon’s output in the basket are necessary assets. It demonstrates the contrast in styles, Shannon’s accuracy being competive with Grant’s shot making. The influence of the both is destined to the game’s outcome.
Dynamic Offense Meets Steadfast Defense
The Duquesne Dukes have successfully managed an offensive game with an average of 66 points per match over the season. The fact that they make 70.4% of their free throws and get defensive rebounds per game shows the grit and focus that they have. Nevertheless, their task will be beating Illinois which is an incredibly strong defense, especially when they are away.
Illinois’ Balanced Attack
The Illinois Fighting Illini are dominant in the offensive game, scoring 73.8 points on average. Their match up, which is clear from a higher field goal rate and a good 3-point shooting, creates an almost impossible obstacle for Duquesne. By limiting turnovers and converting offensive rebounds, Illinois may control the game from the very beginning.
Trends
Duquesne Dukes Betting Trends
Duquesne are 5-0 in their last 5 games.
Dukes are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread
Duquesne are 7-6 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Duquesne’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Duquesne’ 20 last games at home
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Trends
Illinois are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Fighting Illini are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Illinois are 9-3 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Illinois’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 13 of Illinois’ 21 last games at home
Duquesne Dukes vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Picks
As for the outcome of the game, the Illinois Fighting Illini could favor both from the game analysis and betting trends, standing for it both performancewise and statistically. They have a great attacking offense and stable defense which make them the team to bet on, particularly with the spread. Nevertheless, the fact that Duquesne is currently on a roll, suggests that they have a great chance of covering the spread. Thus, such bettors might consider this as a good option for value betting.
Eventually, Illinois is well positioned for a straight win by a narrow margin, but the Nebraska Cornhuskers could be the darkhorse and cover the spread. Therefore, the betting enthusiasts come to props and over/under with the odds leaning to the under with both team’s defense. March Madness odds and picks seem to be in favor of Illinois, but we can expect a game that will likely be a close battle till the very end, possibly with certain twists and turns.
Score Prediction: Illinois 75, Duquesne 68
