USC vs. Michigan Predictions & Odds | College Basketball Picks Today (Jan. 2)
It’s time for a Big Ten showdown between No. 24 USC (12-1, 1-1) and No. 2 Michigan (12-0, 2-0), as I make my USC vs. Michigan predictions. Tipoff is set for 7 p.m. ET on Friday at Crisler Center in Ann Arbor, Mich. (Peacock).
Personally, I’m still getting used to this matchup being a conference game. But I’m interested in seeing how this battle unfolds, as the Wolverines (22.5-point favorite) remain unbeaten entering this ranked contest.
🏀 USC vs. Michigan predictions
See our experts' college basketball picks based on the latest college basketball odds.
| Predictions | Best odds | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| USC +22.5 | -105 via FanDuel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Aday Mara Over 10.5 points | -125 via FanDuel | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
💰 USC vs. Michigan best bet
Want more college basketball betting advice? Check out all of our college basketball analysis and expert predictions this season.
USC +22.5 (-105) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Michigan hasn’t been tested much this year, which is why I’m inclined to take the points with USC in a conference battle.
The Wolverines have only faced one team currently ranked higher than the Trojans. That was a 40-point win over Gonzaga, which is currently No. 7. While Michigan has a case to be the best team in the sport, I don’t believe it's unbeatable. The Wolverines were forced into overtime by Wake Forest.
USC’s key to keeping this close is getting to the free-throw line. The Trojans lead the country in free-throw rate (53.5%).
Score prediction: Michigan 91, USC 74
🔥 Best USC vs. Michigan player prop
Search the best college basketball player prop odds for any team or player across every market from legal sportsbooks in your area.
Aday Mara, C, Michigan: Over 10.5 points (-125) ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Michigan center Aday Mara has scored at least 11 points in four straight games, clearing this mark in five of his past six outings. For the year, he’s scored 11-plus points seven times.
Mara, who is 7-foot-3, has the size advantage in this matchup. USC doesn’t have a player listed taller than 6-foot-10 on the roster. The Trojans surrendered 24 points to Washington freshman Hannes Steinbach in their lone loss.
I believe in Mara, which is why I’m taking FanDuel’s -125 offering to win $8 on a $10 bet.
Our Mike Spector includes two more player props in his college basketball best bets today.
📊 Live USC vs. Michigan odds
📺 How to watch USC vs. Michigan
- Date: Friday, Jan. 2
- Tipoff: 7 p.m. ET
- Location: Crisler Center (Ann Arbor, Mich.)
- TV: Peacock
📃 Affiliate disclosure
Sportsbook Review may receive a commission if you sign up through our links. Not intended for use in MA. Bonuses not applicable in Ontario. 21+ only. (Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER)
Related Articles
