It will be a showdown between two tremendous defenses when the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (5-1) clash with the ninth-ranked Michigan State Spartans (5-2) at Louis Brown Athletic Center. The game begins at 6 p.m. ET on Friday, November 30, 2018.
Michigan State Spartans at Rutgers Scarlet Knights Betting Odds
In their last outing, the Scarlet Knights won a close one over the Miami (FL) Hurricanes, 57-54, while the Spartans fell to the Louisville Cardinals, 82-78.
The Scarlet Knights held the Hurricanes to an effective field goal percentage of 0.392 (below their season average of 0.548). The Hurricanes had a free throw rate of 0.046 (below their season average of 0.287). Michigan State, meanwhile, held Louisville to an offensive rebounding percentage of 10.0 (below their season average of 30.2). Geo Baker led the way for Rutgers, finishing with 16 points, seven rebounds and six assists. Xavier Tillman played a key role for Michigan State with 11 points and 13 rebounds.
The Spartans dominated this series last year, securing victories in both contests. In the most recent contest, Michigan State won 76-72. Michigan State did a fantastic job of getting and making free throws (25-34; 73.5 percent). Rutgers, meanwhile, had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (25.6 vs. 18.9).
The ineffective offense of Rutgers will go head-to-head against the top-notch defense of Michigan State. Since the 2017-18 season, the Scarlet Knights rank 327th in offensive efficiency, while the Spartans are 16th in defensive efficiency. The Spartans figure to have the advantage on that end of the court.
Michigan State at Rutgers Free Pick
College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Rutgers, ATS Winner – Michigan State, O/U – Over
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
- Michigan State ranks first in assists per game (19.3) while Rutgers ranks 310th (10.5).
- The Spartans rank fourth in rebounds per game (41.7) while the Scarlet Knights rank 208th in rebounds allowed per game (35.9).
- Michigan State ranks 194th in three pointers attempted per game (21.4) while Rutgers ranks 321st (16.1).
- The Spartans average 6.8 blocks per game, which ranks first in the nation. The Scarlet Knights rank 247th in blocks allowed per game (4.2).
- Rutgers ranks 68th in steals per game (7.0) while Michigan State ranks 294th (4.4).
