Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Purdue Boilermakers – The Purdue Boilermakers host the Iowa Hawkeyes tonight in a Big Ten showdown. The Hawkeyes, with a 5-2 record, face a challenging road game against the formidable Boilermakers, who boast an impressive 7-1 tally. These teams feature talented rosters and intriguing matchups that should provide exciting NCAAB picks today.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Purdue Boilermakers
Date & Time: Monday, December 4, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET
Location: Mackey Arena
TV: BTN
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Purdue Boilermakers Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Iowa | +640 | +12.5 -102 | 164.5 over (-110) |
| Purdue | -1000 | -12.5 -120 | 164.5 under (-110) |
Iowa Hawkeyes Analysis
The Hawkeyes have an explosive offense averaging over 90 points per game. They excel in shot-making, with an impressive 49.3 FG% as a team along with knocking down 6.9 threes per contest. Guards Ben Krikke and Dasonte Bowen provide consistent production in both scoring and facilitating. Meanwhile, freshman PF Michael Owusu has been a pleasant surprise, bringing energy and rebounding off the bench. This three-headed attack gives Iowa versatility across multiple lineups.
While able to light up the scoreboard, Iowa does have concerning defensive weaknesses. They allow over 75 points per game, often getting into high-scoring shootouts with opponents. Interior defense has been a specific sore spot, with teams grabbing almost 40 rebounds per outing. Iowa’s tendency to play up-tempo certainly doesn’t help their defensive efficiency. They will need to tighten things up on that end to compete in Big Ten play.
Krikke has been phenomenal in his first year at Iowa, averaging 18.7 points on 61.4% shooting. His versatility to shoot from deep or drive to the basket with athleticism makes him a matchup nightmare. Krikke also chips in 4.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game. His two-way playmaking ability will be vital for an Iowa victory tonight.
Purdue Boilermakers Analysis
The Boilermakers feature a balanced offensive attack, with four players averaging double figures. Guards Braden Smith and Fletcher Loyer keep the ball moving, resulting in high percentage looks as evidenced by their 48.7 team FG%. Seven-footer Zach Edey commands constant double-teams down low, opening up space for Purdue’s bevy of shooters like Loyer and Brandon Newman. Crashing the offensive boards also leads to second chance opportunities. This multifaceted offense presents problems for every opponent.
Defensively, Purdue owns one of the best interior defenses in the country. Opponents shoot just 39.6% on two-point attempts, as Edey protects the rim. Perimeter defense has been more of an issue though, so containing Iowa’s talented guards will be key. Smith and Loyer have length on the wings, but must fight through screens and close out under control. Foul trouble would also compromise Purdue’s thin rotation of bigs behind Edey.
Speaking of the junior center, Edey has taken a monumental leap this season. He puts up 23.5 points and 11.1 rebounds per game on 60.8% shooting. His combination of size, skill, and soft touch is almost impossible to stop one-on-one in the post. Edey also flashes potential as a passer, adding to his versatile offensive game. Dominating the paint gives Purdue a distinct advantage most games.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Purdue Boilermakers Against the Spread
Iowa has struggled to cover spreads recently, going 3-7 ATS in their last 10 matchups. Road games have also given Iowa trouble, with a 2-6 SU record in their previous 8 away contests.
Meanwhile, Purdue has covered in 7 of their last 10 outings. The Boilermakers also ride a 5-game SU home winning streak into tonight’s action. And Purdue has owned this matchup at Mackey Arena, winning the last 5 home meetings versus Iowa.
Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Purdue Boilermakers Free Pick
Based on the odds, trends, stats, and analysis, here are our picks:
Moneyline: Purdue -1000
Despite the short odds, Purdue’s strong home record and overall performance make them the safer pick.
Spread: Iowa +12.5 -102
Iowa’s potent offense could help them cover the +12.5 spread, even if they don’t win outright.
Total: 164.5 over (-110)
Both teams have trends favoring high-scoring games, making the over a compelling choice.
Predicted Score: Purdue Boilermakers 81, Iowa Hawkeyes 66
The most reliable pick in this matchup, considering the tendencies of both teams and their recent performances, seems to be the total going over. Both teams have shown the ability to score heavily, and this trend is likely to continue in their head-to-head matchup. As for those betting through a Canadian sportsbook, this game offers intriguing options, with the total and spread bets providing the most interest.
