Purdue travels to Ann Arbor to take on Michigan in a key Big Ten matchup at Crisler Center. The game tips off at 7:00 PM ET, and both teams are near the top of the conference standings. Purdue leads the Big Ten with a 19-5 record (11-2 in conference play), while Michigan is right behind at 18-5 (10-2). The winner will take control of the Big Ten race.
Purdue dominated the first meeting between these teams on January 24, winning 91-64 at home. Michigan, undefeated at home this season (11-0), will be looking for revenge. Purdue has won four straight games and is in strong form, while Michigan is also on a four-game winning streak under first-year coach Dusty May.
Purdue Preview – Can They Stay in First?
Purdue has been dominant in conference play, winning 11 of their last 12 games. The Boilermakers have been led by forward Trey Kaufman-Renn, who averages 18.9 points per game and shoots 42.9% from three. Guards Braden Smith (16.1 ppg, 8.8 assists) and Fletcher Loyer (13.8 ppg, 45.8% from deep) provide strong perimeter play.
Defense remains an area of focus for Purdue. Coach Matt Painter has emphasized improving containment and defensive awareness. The Boilermakers allow 70.4 points per game, ranking 144th nationally. Their ability to control Michigan’s size inside will be crucial.
Purdue has also been effective in betting trends. They have covered the spread in 22 of their last 39 games and have been strong on the moneyline, winning 31 of their last 38 games.
Michigan Preview – Protecting Home Court
Michigan has been dominant at home, posting an 11-0 record this season. The Wolverines have won four straight and are looking to take over first place in the Big Ten. They are led by 7-footers Vladislav Goldin (15.7 ppg) and Danny Wolf (12.7 ppg, 10 rebounds per game). Wolf’s ability to handle the ball and create mismatches has drawn attention from NBA scouts.
Coach Dusty May has praised Wolf for his impact beyond the stat sheet, noting how his presence opens opportunities for teammates. Michigan’s offense has been effective, averaging 78.7 points per game, but they will need a strong defensive effort against Purdue’s shooters.
Michigan has struggled against the spread, covering in just 11 of their last 32 games. However, they have been strong on the moneyline at home, winning 11 of their last 14 games.
Betting Prediction
Michigan is a slight favorite at home, with a -1.5 spread. The total is set at 149.5 points. Purdue has dominated recent meetings, winning four straight, including a 91-64 blowout last month. However, Michigan’s home dominance (11-0) makes this a closer contest.
Purdue’s offensive efficiency and recent form suggest they can pull off a road win. Their strong three-point shooting could be the difference. Michigan’s size could cause problems, but Purdue has the edge in guard play. Expect a close game, with Purdue having a slight edge.
Pick: Purdue Boilermakers +1.5
Purdue is going to find a way to win this game. Take the Boilermakers over the Wolverines in a huge Big Ten affair on Tuesday.
