James Madison vs. Wisconsin Picks and Predictions – Friday, Mar. 22

Mar 21, 2024; Brooklyn, NY, USA; James Madison Dukes guard Terrence Edwards Jr. (5) reacts during team practice at Barclays Center.
Image Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

We have your James Madison Dukes vs. Wisconsin Badgers prop betting and game preview needs covered as the James Madison Dukes hit the road to face the Wisconsin Badgers.

The James Madison Dukes (31-3) are set to face off against the Wisconsin Badgers (22-13) in what promises to be a thrilling NCAA Tournament clash. With the Dukes on a 13-game winning streak and the Badgers coming off a strong Big Ten Tournament performance, this matchup is poised to be a battle of momentum.

James Madison Dukes vs. Wisconsin Badgers Odds Info

Moneyline: James Madison Dukes +190 (BetRivers) / Wisconsin Badgers -235 (BetRivers)

Spread: -5.5 – James Madison Dukes -115 (FanDuel) / Wisconsin Badgers -105 (FanDuel)

Total: 145.5 – -115 (BetMGM) / -105 (BetMGM)

Game Info

Date: Friday, Mar. 22

Time: 08:40 PM

Location: Barclays Center – Brooklyn, NY

TV: CBS

James Madison Dukes Betting Trends

  • On the road, James Madison Dukes are 12 and 2 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, James Madison Dukes are 19 and 14.
  • Against the spread on the road, James Madison Dukes are 9 and 7.

Wisconsin Badgers Betting Trends

  • At home, Wisconsin Badgers are 14 and 3 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Wisconsin Badgers are 16 and 17.
  • Against the spread at home, Wisconsin Badgers are 10 and 8.

James Madison Dukes vs. Wisconsin Badgers Predictions

The James Madison Dukes enter the game with an impressive 31-3 record, boasting one of the nation’s most potent offenses, averaging 84.4 points per game, good for 13th in the country. Led by guard Terrence Edwards Jr., who averages 17.4 points and 3.5 assists per game, the Dukes have been on a tear, winning their last 13 games. They will look to continue their high-scoring ways against a Wisconsin team that has shown resilience and the ability to grind out wins, especially in their recent Big Ten Tournament run where they reached the final.

Wisconsin, with a 22-13 overall record, has had a more turbulent season but has proven they can compete with the best, particularly with their strong showing in the Big Ten Tournament. The Badgers are led by guard AJ Storr, averaging 16.9 points per game, and forward Steven Crowl, who pulls down 7.1 rebounds per game. The team’s overall field goal percentage sits at 46.3%, ranking them 88th in the nation, and they will need to leverage their offensive efficiency to break through the Dukes’ defense.

This game will not only be a test of offensive firepower but also of defensive mettle. James Madison’s defense, allowing opponents to shoot just 36.5% from beyond the arc, will be key in containing Wisconsin’s perimeter shooters. On the other side, the Badgers’ ability to control the pace and play disciplined defense will be crucial in slowing down the Dukes’ high-octane offense. With both teams looking to advance in the tournament, expect a tightly contested game with pivotal performances from star players on both sides.

James Madison Dukes vs. Wisconsin Badgers Pick

Given the total line set at 145.5 and the recent trends of both teams, the under appears to be the more compelling pick for this matchup. The Wisconsin Badgers have been involved in games that have hit the over more frequently this season, with 22 overs compared to 12 unders. However, their slower, more methodical approach to the game, which has been effective in the Big Ten, is likely to reduce the number of possessions for both teams. Additionally, Wisconsin’s defense has been solid, and they will be focused on containing James Madison’s potent offense. The Badgers’ ability to control the tempo and keep the game at their pace will be crucial in keeping the score down. James Madison, despite their high-scoring offense, has an even split of 16 overs and 16 unders this season, indicating that they are capable of playing in lower-scoring affairs as well. With the pressure of the NCAA Tournament and the defensive capabilities of both teams, a more conservative and strategic game is expected, leading to fewer points scored overall.

The Pick: Under 145.5 -115 (BetMGM)