Conference play has arrived, and it is here to stay. Let’s check out the college basketball slate for Friday. Here are the College Basketball Picks for January 5th.
College Basketball Picks January 5th
Illinois at Purdue (-10.5) (O/U 153.5)
How does Illinois continue to move forward without Terrance Shannon Jr? Shannon hasn’t played since 12/22, and it is unclear when or if he will be back. The fighting Illini have taken care of both opponents by 30+ in his absence.
Marcus Domask has stepped up all season, and it appears that Justin Harmon’s role will only increase. Harmon has averaged 19 points over the last two games, with a significant minute increase. The Illinois team was heralded as the most complete team that Brad Underwood has had, but this theory is being put to the ultimate test now as they travel to #1 Purdue amidst adversity.
We could talk about Edey. However, I’m curious how Lance Jones shows up for Purdue. The guard transferred to Purdue for the big moments and has done nothing but disappear in them thus far.
The fifth-year senior has averaged just over 8.0 PPG in contests decided by less than 10 points or less for the Boilermakers this season, including a 2-11 shooting performance in the loss to Northwestern.
The Pick: Illinois +10.5
Boise State at San Jose State (+6) (O/U 138.5)
This number has dropped a considerable amount since it has opened at 142.5. Too much for my liking. The Boise State Broncos have welcomed Texas Tech transfer Chibuzo Agbo and have given him the green light from deep. He has rewarded them by leading the team in scoring by way of efficient three-point shooting. Agbo is a top 10 3P% shooter in the country.
San Jose State’s last five games have gone over the total. We will take the discounted number as this total is being bet down off the original line, and Boise State is going over in four of their last five. Wait to see if it goes lower if you wish, but firing at 138.5 will be just fine for me.
The Pick: Over 138.5
