Here we go with the first game of the NCAA Tournament’s second day, as Michigan State is set to face USC on Friday, Mar. 17. Tip-off is scheduled for 12:15 pm ET while airing on CBS. Michigan State enters this game as 2.5-point favorites with the total set at 137.5. How will this one play out? Let’s dive into the Michigan State vs. USC predictions below.
Michigan State vs. USC Odds
- Spread: Michigan State -2.5
- Total: 137.5
Odds via DraftKings Sportsbook. New to DK? Check out our DraftKings Sportsbook Review to find out how to bet $5 to get $200 in bonus bets!
Game Info
- Date: Friday, Mar. 17
- Time: 12:15 pm ET
- Location: Nationwide Arena — Columbus, OH
- TV: CBS
- Stream: March Madness Live
Michigan State Betting Trends
- Spartans are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 neutral site games.
- Over is 5-1 in Spartans last 6 overall.
- Spartans are 10-3 ATS in their last 13 games following a straight up loss.
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USC Betting Trends
- Trojans are 7-2 ATS in their last 9 NCAA Tournament games.
- Under is 3-1-1 in Trojans last 5 NCAA Tournament games.
- Under is 9-3 in Trojans last 12 neutral site games.
Michigan State vs. USC Predictions
USC vs Michigan State is an even matchup between two subpar teams. On paper they match up well. However, I’m looking to fade the Big 10 and lean toward USC in this contest.
The Trojans backcourt is going to be the difference here, led by Boogie Ellis and Drew Peterson USC can play at their own pace. These veterans take care of the ball and find different ways to score every time down the floor. The experience should pay off here down the stretch. I expect the Trojans to start hot and not look back!
Michigan State led by Joey Hauser and Tyson Walker have played inconsistent throughout the year. That worries me in this spot because the Big 10 hasn’t been as strong as it’s been in the past. A.J. Hoggard and other role players must step up for MSU if they are going to compete in this game, but overall, I just don’t see enough firepower here for them to win.
Prediction: USC +2.5 | -110 at DraftKings Sportsbook
