USC Trojans vs. Kansas State Wildcats 11-6-23 NCAA Men's Basketball Analysis, Best Picks, and Odds

USC Trojans vs. Kansas State Wildcats 11/6/23 – As college basketball enthusiasts eagerly anticipate an NCAA Men’s Basketball match between USC Trojans and Kansas State Wildcats on November 6, 2023, both teams are already receiving significant attention from Canadian betting websites. Boogie Ellis will lead USC Trojans with 22-11 record in last season while Markquis Nowell of Wildcats with 26-10 total should help continue their incredible form.

USC Trojans vs. Kansas State Wildcats

Date & Time: Monday, November 6, 2023, at 10:00 PM ET

Location: T-Mobile Arena

TV: TNT

USC Trojans vs. Kansas State Wildcats 11/6/23 Betting Odds

TeamMoneylineSpreadTotal
USC+215-3 (-110)225 over -110
Kansas State-263+3 (-110)225 under -110

USC Trojans Analysis

The USC Trojans enter this season looking to improve their offensive output, which averaged 72.5 points per game last season. They were supported by 45.5% shooting from the field which showed efficiency when selecting shots; additionally they averaged an impressive 6.5 three-pointers per game – something they will strive to increase and stretch defenses out further with.

Defense has not been an area of strength for USC against Big 12 opponents, evidenced by their subpar 4-14 record SU. If they want a chance against Kansas State’s offensive schemes, however, their perimeter defense needs to tighten up considerably and tightening it could help them do just that.

Boogie Ellis stands out as an integral piece for the Trojans. Last season, he led them with 17.7 points per game and proved himself as an adept playmaker. His contribution will be key in this matchup as it creates scoring opportunities and provides leadership on the court.

Kansas State Wildcats Analysis

On offense, the Wildcats posted an average of 76.2 points per game last season and managed a slightly better field goal percentage (46.1%) than their Trojan opponents (46.5). Furthermore, they connected on an impressive 7.2 three-pointers per game to demonstrate an ability to score from multiple sources which will enable them to take advantage of any defensive gaps created by Trojans defense.

Defense for Kentucky has been mixed. They maintained an even balance on defense but faced challenges in rebounding stats compared to USC, so their focus should be to dominate boards to control pace of play and keep committing minimal fouls as this season was marked by overzealousness from some players and excessive fouls for which some penalties may have been assessed against them.

Markquis Nowell stands out as Kansas State’s star performer, nearly matching Ellis in scoring while providing outstanding playmaking (8.3 assists per game) and defensive prowess with 2.6 steals per game. Nowell will be pivotal to Kansas State’s success by helping manage traffic efficiently and creating high-percentage shots.

USC Trojans vs. Kansas State Wildcats Against the Spread

The Trojans have not had an impressive record against the spread (ATS) over their last five games, covering once. This may cause bettors some concern considering they carry a -3 spread coming into this matchup and their track record against Big 12 opponents should not be overlooked.

Conversely, Kansas State’s ATS trends are better, covering seven out of ten games over their recent history and boasting an excellent SU record as well. Their ability to cover the spread coupled with their +3 spread advantage for this matchup could serve them well.

USC Trojans vs. Kansas State Wildcats Free Pick

Based on odds, trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:

Moneyline: Kansas State Wildcats (-263). The Wildcats’ stronger record and consistent performance, especially in offense, make them the safer pick.

Spread: Kansas State Wildcats +3 (-110). Kansas State’s solid ATS trend and their ability to perform under pressure make them the favorable choice to cover.

Total: Over 225 (-110). Both teams have shown capable scoring prowess and with their combined offensive trends, an over seems likely.

Predicted Score: Kansas State Wildcats 78, USC Trojans 73.

Betting college basketball free picks requires weighing statistics, trends and key player matchups carefully. While Kansas State may offer less value due to their favoritism, their spread offers more attractive opportunities given its strong ATS trend. Totals set high reflect both teams’ offensive abilities, taking over may be strategic considering scoring averages; taking Kansas State with its spread edge would likely give a reliable edge in an anticipated close and high-scoring matchup.