CBB PINNACLE BEST OF THE BEST RATED TODAY
- Handicapper
- Wayne Root
- League
- NCAAB
- Competition
- Illinois vs Iowa State
- Time
- 03/28/2024 10:14 PM
- Bet Type
- Point Spread
- Pick
-
Iowa State -1.5 (-110)
(BetOnline)
- Outcome
- Loss
- Analysis
- Pinnacle on Iowa State
It's going to “get real” quickly for both of these squads as the level of competition takes a dramatic leap forward with the Nation’s best defense in Iowa State facing-off against the Nation’s top offense in efficiency according to KenPom, behind one of the most prolific scorers in Terrance Shannon Jr. Iowa State has been so impressive on defense that they haven’t allowed a team to score above 65 in their last 10 games and their opponents have averaged just 57 points during that stretch including many strong BIG12 teams. The thing about defense is that it is always in play, as long as there is motivation, whether either teams’ offenses are hot or cold. ISU has proven they can stop the best of them which gives them the edge here. As stated, defense travels as does experience. This is Iowa State’s third consecutive year in the NCAA Tournament and second Sweet Sixteen visit during that stretch, including a 70-56 loss to Miami in 2022. It’s great to be back to the 16 for the Cyclones as they lost to Pittsburgh, in the first-round last season, 59-41. In addition to a Sweet 16 berth, ISU has already had a successful season finishing second in the conference, just behind Houston, and defeating those Cougars in the BIG12 Champ game. Additionally, Iowa States’ guards will be able to take advantage of the Illinois 4-small forward set, sharp shooting from distance. In fact, ISU’s 35.6% rate from behind the arc compares nicely with the 34.3% rate allowed by Illinois. Furthermore, ISU’s 10.5 steals per game is strong and will be in play against Illinois’ lower quantity of assists, posting just 13.4 each match. This one will be a barn burner but ISU gets the edge. Lay the -1.5
