We have your Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Penn State Nittany Lions prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Illinois Fighting Illini hit the road to face the Penn State Nittany Lions.
The Illinois Fighting Illini (19-6) are set to face off against the Penn State Nittany Lions (12-14) in a Big Ten showdown. With Illinois looking to solidify their conference standing and Penn State aiming to bounce back from recent setbacks, this matchup promises to be a battle of resilience and strategy.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Penn State Nittany Lions Odds Info
Moneyline: Illinois Fighting Illini -325 (PointsBet) / Penn State Nittany Lions +290 (BetPARX)
Spread: +7.5 – Illinois Fighting Illini -110 (PointsBet) / Penn State Nittany Lions -105 (FanDuel)
Total: 158.0 – -113 (BetPARX) / -108 (BetRivers)
Game Info
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 21
Time: 06:30 PM
Location: Bryce Jordan Center – University Park, PA
TV: BTN
Illinois Fighting Illini Betting Trends
- On the road, Illinois Fighting Illini are 4 and 4 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Illinois Fighting Illini are 15 and 9.
- Against the spread on the road, Illinois Fighting Illini are 7 and 2.
Penn State Nittany Lions Betting Trends
- At home, Penn State Nittany Lions are 10 and 4 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Penn State Nittany Lions are 12 and 14.
- Against the spread at home, Penn State Nittany Lions are 7 and 8.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Penn State Nittany Lions Predictions
The Illinois Fighting Illini enter the game with a strong 19-6 overall record and a notable 10-4 in conference play, showcasing their ability to compete at a high level within the Big Ten. With a four-game winning streak under their belt, the Fighting Illini are looking to extend their success on the road against the Nittany Lions. Illinois boasts a potent offense, averaging 83.1 points per game, which ranks 25th nationally, and they excel in rebounding, with an average of 42.2 rebounds per game, placing them 10th in the country. Star player Terrence Shannon Jr. has been a standout, contributing significantly with an average of 21.4 points per game.
Penn State, on the other hand, has had a more challenging season with a 12-14 overall record and 6-9 in conference matchups. The Nittany Lions are trying to find their footing after a three-game losing streak and the recent departure of leading scorer Kanye Clary. Despite these challenges, Penn State has shown they can be competitive, especially at home with a 9-4 record. They will be looking to leverage their home-court advantage and a defense that has had moments of effectiveness throughout the season.
This game will also feature key matchups, including the defensive efforts of Penn State against the offensive prowess of Illinois. The Fighting Illini’s Quincy Guerrier, who leads the team with 7.2 rebounds per game, will be crucial in controlling the boards. For Penn State, Qudus Wahab’s presence in the paint, averaging 7.6 rebounds per game, will be vital for their defensive strategy. As both teams prepare to take the court, the spotlight will be on Illinois’ ability to maintain their offensive rhythm and Penn State’s capacity to rally and defend their home court against a top-tier Big Ten opponent.
Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Penn State Nittany Lions Pick
The Illinois Fighting Illini come into this matchup with a strong track record, boasting a 19-6 overall record and a 10-4 conference play record. Their offensive firepower, averaging 83.1 points per game, and their dominance on the boards, with an average of 42.2 rebounds per game, give them a significant edge. Terrence Shannon Jr.’s scoring ability, with an average of 21.4 points per game, has been a key factor in Illinois’ success, and his performance is expected to continue against Penn State. Additionally, Illinois’ ATS (against the spread) record is impressive, especially on the road where they are 7-2, indicating their ability to perform well in away games.
Penn State, while strong at home with a 9-4 record, has been struggling recently, losing their last three games and dealing with the loss of their leading scorer, Kanye Clary. The Nittany Lions’ defense will be tested against the high-scoring Illini, and without Clary’s offensive contributions, they may find it difficult to keep up on the scoreboard. Considering these factors, along with Illinois’ current four-game winning streak and their strong performance against the spread, the Illinois Fighting Illini moneyline bet is the more compelling choice for this matchup.
The Pick: Illinois Fighting Illini -325 (PointsBet)
