Minnesota vs Michigan State Picks and Prediction – 1/29/2025

The Minnesota Golden Gophers face off against the Michigan State Spartans in a pivotal Big Ten matchup. Minnesota, sitting at 11-9 (3-6 conference), has won three straight games, including a tight 77-69 victory over Oregon. Michigan State, with a stellar 17-2 (8-0 conference) record, extended its winning streak to 12 games after an 81-74 road win over Rutgers. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Minnesota’s offense is anchored by Dawson Garcia, averaging 19.7 points per game on an efficient 49.8% shooting. He also leads the team with 7.4 rebounds per contest, making him a critical component of the Golden Gophers’ offensive success. Complimenting him is Lu’Cye Patterson, the team’s assist leader at 3.5 per game, helping the team maintain a 44.6% field goal percentage. Minnesota scores an average of 69.8 points per game, relying heavily on Garcia’s versatility and Femi Odukale’s defensive impact (1.4 steals per game). However, the lack of consistent secondary scoring has hurt them against top-tier competition.

Defensively, Minnesota allows 68.7 points per game and struggles to control the boards, averaging just 34.9 rebounds. The defensive stats suggest problems against elite offenses. Despite Parker Fox’s rim protection (1.3 blocks per game), the Golden Gophers have shown lapses against well-rounded teams, often surrendering easy second-chance opportunities due to rebounding inefficiencies.

Michigan State has dominated the Big Ten behind its balanced attack. Jaden Akins leads the Spartans with 13.8 points per game, and his 87.0% free throw shooting underscores his clutch ability. Jaxon Kohler is a key presence in the paint, grabbing 7.6 rebounds per game. The Spartans score an impressive 81.7 points per contest, fueled by 47.5% shooting and excellent ball movement, averaging 18.4 assists per game. Jeremy Fears Jr. is the playmaker with 6.3 assists per game, ensuring consistent scoring opportunities.

Defensively, Michigan State allows just 68.1 points per game, excelling on the boards with 40.9 rebounds per game. Xavier Booker anchors the interior defense, contributing 0.9 blocks per game. The Spartans’ physicality and defense make them a nightmare matchup for teams reliant on one-dimensional scorers. The ability to dominate both ends of the floor has made them nearly unbeatable in conference play.

Michigan State’s depth, offensive ability, and rebounding dominance give them a clear edge. Minnesota lacks the firepower to keep pace with the Spartans’ balanced attack. Expect Michigan State to control the tempo and exploit the Golden Gophers’ defensive weaknesses. Final Score Prediction: Michigan State Spartans win and cover 90-70.