Purdue Boilermakers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini 3/5/24 – The clash between Purdue Boilermakers (25-3) and Illinois Fighting Illini (21-7) is set to be a highlight of the college basketball season, taking place on Tuesday. This game is not just another regular-season matchup; it’s a battle between two of the top teams in the NCAA, with implications that could ripple through the rankings as we inch closer to March Madness. Fans and bettors alike are eagerly anticipating what could be one of the March Madness top free predictions, as both teams look to solidify their positions and make a strong case for a high seed in the upcoming tournament.
Purdue Boilermakers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini 3/5/24
| When: | Tuesday, March 5, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | State Farm Center |
| TV: | PEAC |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boilermakers | +2 -108 | o163.5 -110 | +109 |  |
| Fighting Illini | -2 -112 | u163.5 -110 | -127 | |
| ||||
Rematch Tuesday. pic.twitter.com/mMur0Db7Yl
— Purdue Men's Basketball (@BoilerBall) March 4, 2024
Zach Edey (Center) vs. Terrence Shannon Jr (Guard)
Zach Edey has been nothing short of incredible for Purdue Boilermakers this season, standing tall at center position and boasting stats to show his dominance: 23.7 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game. With an exceptional field goal percentage of 62.7% and reliable free throw percentage (71.9%) to back it up along with 50% from beyond-the-arc attempts that underline his versatility and efficiency; his size and skill set makes Edey an asset both offensively and defensively as well as being Purdue’s pivot both offensively and defensively; however his 2.2 turnovers per game show an area for Illinois opponents to exploit.
On the Illinois Fighting Illini side of things, Terrence Shannon Jr has been an impressive guard this season, contributing 21.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 2.2 assists per game for Illinois. His agility and scoring prowess as evidenced by 47.7% field goal percentage and 78.9% free throw percentage make him a key part of Illinois’ offense; 35% three-point shooting adds depth and dimension to their attack; his matchup against Edey could determine its outcome significantly.
When these two key players clash on the court, their encounter is more than a contest of stats; it’s an exhibition of strategy. Edey’s presence could force Illinois to alter their offensive strategy, opening up opportunities for Shannon from outside and quick drives. Conversely, Purdue might leverage Edey’s defensive capabilities against Illinois to neutralize inside scoring and force more pressure onto Shannon from outside scoring.
Purdue’s Offensive Prowess
Purdue’s Boilermakers have been an outstanding offensive team this season, scoring an average of 84.8 points per game and posting an efficient field goal percentage (49.1%) and three-point field goal percentage (40.2%) that show their ability to score from various ranges. Led by Edey, Purdue can potentially control the paint while opening up plenty of open looks for its shooters.
Illinois’ Defensive Resilience
Illinois Fighting Illini have been stellar on defense, holding opponents to only 84.5 points per game and forcing turnovers (10.9 per game) and blocking shots (3.8 per game) could disrupt Purdue’s offensive flow. Illinois should focus on limiting Edey’s impact in the paint while contesting Purdue’s outside shooters.
NCAAB Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game are currently TBD, but based on the teams’ performances and statistics, this matchup promises to be tightly contested. Bettors should pay close attention to the spread once it’s available, as well as any movement in the moneyline and total points.
Trends
Purdue Boilermakers Betting Trends
Purdue are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Boilermakers are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Purdue are 6-5 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Purdue’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 11 of Purdue’ 15 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 7-3 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 5 of Illinois’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 11 of Illinois’ 18 last games at home.
Purdue Boilermakers vs. Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Picks
This game promises to be an intense contest with both teams possessing quality offensive and defensive units. The key battle will be whether Illinois can meet Purdue’s size and inside dominance with speed and perimeter shooting from Illinois; given their recent form, particularly under Zach Edey, Purdue may hold an edge here.
Illinois’ balanced attack and Terrence Shannon Jr’s leadership make them capable of pulling off an upset, especially at home. Bettors may consider going with Illinois on total points given both teams’ offensive prowess. Purdue may be a safer bet for spread or moneyline markets but keep an eye out for any shifts leading up to game day.
Purdue’s overall efficiency and dominance in the paint are likely to see them through in a high-scoring affair, so bettors should keep up-to-date on odds updates from top betting websites to make informed decisions.
Score Prediction: Purdue 82, Illinois 78
