Iowa vs. Michigan Basketball Prediction & Game Preview (Thursday, Jan. 12)

Iowa Hawkeyes forward Filip Rebraca (0) reacts after a basket against the Indiana Hoosiers during the first half at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.
Image Credit: Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

We have some Big Ten basketball action on tap, as Iowa will host Michigan on Thursday, Jan. 12. The game is scheduled for 7 pm ET while airing on ESPN2. Iowa enters this game as a 6-point home favorite with the total set at 154. How will this one play out? Let’s dive into the Iowa vs. Michigan basketball predictions and game preview below.

Iowa vs. Michigan Odds

  • Spread: Iowa -6
  • Total: 154

Odds via FanDuel Sportsbook. New to FanDuel? Check out our FanDuel Sportsbook Review to learn how to bet $5 to win $150. 

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Game Info

  • Date: Thursday, Jan. 12
  • Time: 7 pm ET
  • Location: Carver-Hawkeye Arena — Iowa City, IA
  • TV: ESPN2

Iowa vs. Michigan Game Preview

Iowa is No. 39 in the latest KenPom rankings. When things are going the Hawkeyes’ way, they are an offensive machine while ranking No. 15 in adjusted offensive efficiency this year. Iowa hit a lull with a three-game losing streak to Eastern Illinois, Nebraska, and Penn State in late December and early January. However, the Hawkeyes bounced back with notable victories over Indiana and Rutgers last week. That begs the question: is Iowa back for good and ready to live up to its true potential?

Michigan is No. 50 according to KenPom. The Wolverines started the New Year with a pair of convincing home victories over Maryland and Penn State but lost on the road to rival Michigan State 59-53 on Saturday. Wolverine head coach Juwan Howard seems to have his team locked in for conference play. The first two months of the season were an adventure, but Michigan seems to be settling into a comfort zone at the right time. Will that hold up on the road at Iowa?

Iowa vs. Michigan Prediction

This game could go either way. Iowa is a streaky shooting team. If it’s sinking jumpers, then there’s a chance the Hawkeyes win this one going away. However, Michigan seems to be rounding a corner, and there’s a good chance it makes Iowa earn this home victory. Anything can happen in this game, which is why we are embracing the underdog — betting Michigan +6 while looking for a close match or potential Wolverine upset.

Score Prediction: Iowa 79 Michigan 75

The Pick: Michigan +6 | -110 at FanDuel Sportsbook