Illinois vs Northwestern Prediction Basketball Picks 1-2-24

The Northwestern Wildcats and Illinois Fighting Illini face off on Tuesday in a college basketball showdown at the State Farm Center. Let’s look at the betting matchup and give a free Northwestern vs Illinois prediction.

Northwestern Looks to Pick Up Another Big Win

Northwestern has already picked up a couple of big wins including against Purdue, but this would also be a big win. In the last game against Jackson State, Northwestern scored 74 points and they ended up winning by 11 points. Northwestern on the season is averaging 72.9 points while their defense is giving up 63.1 points per game. The defense is ranked 22nd in college basketball and they are going to need the defense to step up here. Boo Buie is averaging 17.9 points while shooting 44.4 percent from the field and 33.8 percent from behind the three point line. 

Illinois Offense Looks to Continue Success of Last Couple Games

Illinois offense has a ton of confidence heading into this game. Two games ago against Missouri, Illinois scored 97 points and in the last game against FDU the offense scored 104 points. Illinois on the season is averaging 82.9 points while their defense is giving up 65.5 points per game. The offense is ranked 38th but sometimes the defense is overlooked and they are ranked 60th. Terrence Shannon Jr. has been the top player for Illinois averaging 21.7 points while shooting 51.4 percent from the field and 40.8 percent from behind the three point line. The big problem for Illinois though is that Shannon is suspended. 

Northwestern vs Illinois Betting Prediction

Northwestern is actually the better defensive team and they are going to step up in this game. Even against a good offense, I expect Northwestern’s defense is going to step up and they are going to make life tough on Illinois here. Northwestern’s offense is also solid averaging 72.9 points per game and they will get to at least that number here. Back Northwestern to cover the spread.