8:49 pm
April 6

#3 Texas Tech v. #2 Michigan State

Who will WIN this matchup?

#3 Texas Tech Red Raiders (30-6)

#2 Michigan State Spartans (32-6)

 

Current odds:

Texas Tech Red Raiders: (+125)

Michigan State Spartans: (-145)

 

• The spread for the game is Michigan State by 2.5 points.

• The Red Raiders are one of the top defensive teams in the country, but the possession isn’t complete until a rebound is secured, and that’s not an easy task against Michigan State. Texas Tech average 34.2 boards while the Spartans snag 40.6 per game and are averaging 11.2 offensive rebounds in NCAA Tournament play, leading to 11.5 second-chance points per game. Coach Chris Beard talks about his team being physical and tough and tries to model his squad after the Spartans’ physical toughness but to advance, the Red Raiders are going to have to rebound as a team to limit Michigan State’s offensive opportunities.

• Henry has emerged as an important cog for the Spartans in the postseason, and it goes beyond his 10.2 points per game in the NCAA Tournament – up from his season scoring average of 5.4 points entering the tournament. Henry has shown a grasp of Michigan State’s team concepts on both ends of the floor more in the tournament, as shown by him averaging five assists against LSU and Duke. Texas Tech will look to force the ball out of Winston’s hands as much as possible, forcing other players to make good decisions – whether with their shot or with passes – and Henry could find his play making the difference in the semifinal contest.

• Since Michigan State F Xavier Tillman moved into the starting lineup 12 games ago, he’s averaged 13.8 points and 8.1 rebounds, scoring a career-high 19 points twice including against Duke.

5/10
Confidence
StreakSmarter Pick
#2 Michigan State Spartans
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