Utah Utes vs. USC Trojans 2/15/24 NCAAB Betting Picks

Utah Utes vs. USC Trojans 2/15/24 – As the NCAA Men’s Basketball season heats up, the Utah Utes (15-9) are set to clash with the USC Trojans (9-15) in a pivotal game that will have significant implications for both teams. Scheduled for Thursday, this matchup at the Galen Center promises excitement and intensity. Fans and bettors alike are eagerly anticipating what is expected to be a closely contested game, making it a key highlight for those seeking the best college basketball picks and predictions.

Team	SP/RL	TOTAL	ML
Utes	-1.5 -110	o150 -105	-116
Trojans	+1.5 -110	u150 -115	-104

Special shoutout to @utahalumni Captain Mark Lekic (‘85), who flew us to LA today! #GoUtes pic.twitter.com/XpUMwoie34

— Utah Basketball (@UtahMBB) February 15, 2024

Branden Carlson (Center) vs. Boogie Ellis (Guard)

Branden Carlson has put together an impressive junior campaign, averaging 17 points, 7 rebounds and 1.4 blocks per game. The 7-footer is shooting an efficient 47.1% from the field in nearly 30 minutes a night. Carlson excels as a pick-and-roll finisher and low post scorer while anchoring the Utes’ interior defense with his shot blocking ability. He does struggle with foul trouble on occasion, averaging nearly 3 fouls per contest.

For USC, Boogie Ellis is the team’s offensive catalyst, putting up 16.4 points and 3.2 assists per game. He has the ability to connect from all three levels, shooting 43% from downtown and 76% from the charity stripe. However, Ellis has been turnover prone in the lead guard role, coughing the ball up 1.7 times per game. He also offers little production outside of his scoring, averaging just 3.6 rebounds per contest with mediocre defensive stats.

Carlson’s efficient interior scoring and rim protection present an intriguing matchup against Ellis’ high-volume perimeter scoring. Ellis will look to attack off the dribble and shoot over the top of Carlson, while Carlson wants to establish deep post position against the smaller Trojan defenders. This individual battle could swing the game for either side. If Carlson gets into early foul trouble it would give Ellis an opportunity to dominate the offensive end.

Utah’s Solid Foundation: A Closer Look at the Utes’ Performance

Utah Utes have established an impressive profile this season, scoring an average of 79.2 points per game on 47% field shooting and pulling down 39.5 boards per game in rebounding led by Carlson, which has helped control the pace and flow of their games. Their primary weaknesses, however, are a high turnover rate (11.8 per game) and subpar free throw shooting percentage (64%). Without proper adjustments or solutions these areas could easily be exploited by USC in close game scenarios.

Trojans’ Tenacity: Unpacking USC’s Team Dynamics

USC Trojans have shown moments of brilliance despite their record, particularly their ability to generate steals (6.6 per game) and blocks (5.3 per game), signaling a resilient defense. Averaging 74.4 points per game with Ellis leading the charge, USC has maintained competitive edge while keeping turnovers (13 per game). In order to counter Utah’s offensive firepower effectively, USC will need to leverage their defensive strengths as well as take advantage of free throw opportunities (68.9% FT).

NCAAB Betting Odds: TBD, Over/Under: TBD

As the betting odds are yet to be determined, bettors should keep a close eye on the spreads and moneylines once they’re available. The performance trends and key player matchups will be crucial in shaping the odds and predicting the outcome.

Trends

Utah Utes Betting Trends

Utah are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
Utes are 1-4 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Utah are 2-5 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Utah’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 8 of Utah’ 17 last games at home.

USC Trojans Betting Trends

USC are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
Trojans are 1-4 in their last 5 games against the spread.
USC are 4-6 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of USC’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 9 of USC’ 14 last games at home.