Michigan State Spartans vs. Ohio State Buckeyes 1/3/25 – As the calendar flips to 2025, NCAA Men’s Basketball is set for an electrifying confrontation as the Michigan State Spartans (11-2) face off against the Ohio State Buckeyes (9-4) in a Big Ten showdown. This thrilling matchup is scheduled for Friday, January 3, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET and will unfold at Value City Arena, home of the Buckeyes. Fans eager to catch the live action can tune into FOX for the broadcast.
Michigan State Spartans vs. Ohio State Buckeyes 1/3/25
| When: | Friday, January 3, 2025, at 8:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Value City Arena |
| TV: | FOX |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spartans | +2 (-110) | Over 148.5 (-110) | +110 |  |
| Buckeyes | -2 (-110) | Under 148.5 (-110) | -130 | |
| ||||
B1G SEASON 😤
8 PM ET on FOX. pic.twitter.com/WYCHFDMeYc
— Michigan State Men's Basketball (@MSU_Basketball) January 3, 2025
This contest comes unique betting odds. The Buckeyes have been tough competition for the Spartans, reflected in their competitive memory with the score as reflected in their relative betting equity against Ohio State. The over/under is hovering at 148.5 total points, whereas the last games of these two teams suggest an inclination toward the UNDER on this occasion. These factors should be taken into account by the bettors when placing bets.
Jaden Akins (Guard) vs. Bruce Thornton (Guard)
Jaden Akins, the impressive Michigan State guard, was able to show his potential during the whole season, recording 13.7 points over 26.6 minutes of gameplay, with good shooting numbers from the field (45.3%) and from the charity stripe, where he converted 86.7%. Although he comes in with a slightly lower three-point percentage (27%), Akins plays a very well-rounded game, which will be an asset in the upcoming game against Ohio State.
Bruce Thornton, the sharpshooter from Ohio State, not only scored more than Akins this season, averaging 17.4 points per game but also had a better efficiency, shooting 55.8% from the field and 49% from the three-point range. Furthermore, Thornton’s average of 4.8 assists per game indicates his capacity to play make, which definitely presents a problem for the Spartans defense as well.
The game might turn out to be determined by the contrasting performance of Akins and Thornton as they fight it out. Akins will have Thornton in front of him to use his scoring stations effectively during the game. Conversely, Akins has to be best to score against Thornton as he is able to deliver excellent offensive pressure.
Spartans’ Strategic Strengths and Recent Success
The Michigan State Spartans come into the game averaging 82 points a game having won their last two games against Western Michigan and Florida Atlantic. They maintain control over rebounding averaging 42 per game which makes it easier for them to control and prevent the opposing team from attaining second-chance opportunities, which is vital with this contest being as decisive as it is.
Buckeyes’ Home Court Advantage and Sharp Shooting
As the host for this encounter, Ohio State looks to take the win as they head in this match with a 7-1 ATS record in their last 8 home games. The Shooting Team also has a well-done playing offensive system averaging 82.8 points defeating slightly the Spartans, largely driven by their three-point shooting percentage which stands at 39.6%. Michigan State’s defense is something they need to overcome; however, they have shown their efficiency with their recent demolitions of Indiana State and Kentucky.
Trends
Michigan State Spartans Betting Trends
Michigan State are 5-1 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Michigan State’s last 9 games.
Michigan State are 6-0 SU in their last 6 games.
Michigan State are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games against Ohio State.
Michigan State are 13-6 SU in their last 19 games against Ohio State.
Ohio State Buckeyes Betting Trends
Ohio State are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Ohio State’s last 6 games.
Ohio State are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Ohio State’s last 7 games against Michigan State.
Ohio State are 7-1 ATS in their last 8 games at home.
Michigan State vs. Ohio State Betting Prediction
In light of the rivalry’s history and both teams’ recent efforts, the game will most likely be highly competitive. The sharpshooting of Ohio State along with the home support gives them a slight edge. Nonetheless, the form of Michigan State suggests that they have enough resolve and a sufficient ATS trend likely to allow them to cover the spread. Simply put, this will be a battle of physical nature with the total probably being UNDER 148.5.
Most prop bets centre on picking a player like Bruce Thornton, well for his case a scoring prop would not be such a bad idea either owing to his scoring spree. In terms of this matchup, while both teams can be argued to be evenly matched on both ends of the court, Ohio state’s greater percentage on three pointers alongside the home environment might be enough to edge them out.
Score Prediction: Ohio State 74, Michigan State 70.
Hilbert Mayer
Sports Writer
Hilbert Mayer is a professional sports writer, betting analyst, and content strategist with over 15 years of experience in the sports industry. Before focusing on sports betting analysis and handicapping, Hilbert worked as a sports writer for various news outlets, covering everything from game recaps to in-depth matchup features. Today, he specializes in MLB, NFL, March Madness, and UFC betting, combining his journalistic background with deep statistical expertise and real-world betting insights. His proven track record, sharp reads, and ability to break down complex matchups make him a trusted voice among both casual bettors and seasoned sharps.
Published on: January 3, 2025
Last updated: March 28, 2025