Wisconsin vs. Illinois prediction and odds for Saturday, January 7th (Can Fighting Illini get on track?)

Things have fallen apart for Illinois after a strong start to the season, losers of four of their last five games to high major teams and now without their prized freshman guard.

In the midst of a free fall, former five star recruit Skyy Clark stepped away from Illinois for personal reasons, leaving the Illini backcourt searching for answers to solve their ball handling issues. They welcome a stout Wisconsin defense to Champaign, Illinois on Saturday afternoon in hopes of turning it around.

The Badgers may not have star forward Tyler Wahl, who missed the second half of the teams win against Minnesota, how will that impact this game? First, let’s check out the odds:

Wisconsin vs. Illinois odds, spread and total

Wisconsin vs. Illinois prediction and pick

Clark wasn’t the lone ball handler for coach Brad Underwood, but he played in more than 55% of minutes this season and he contributed to the poor Illini turnover marks (310th in TO rate). While some may say getting rid of Clark can help the team protect the rock, this Illinois team isn’t super deep at guard and the sloppy play can continue.

They face a Wisconsin team that doesn’t force a ton of ball pressure, but they are as disciplined as any team in the country at shutting down driving lanes and shots at the rim. I expect Illinois to struggle to get clean looks all game against this Badgers defense as they find a new rotation without Clark.

On the other side, Wisconsin’s preferred method is to play a methodical style and protect the ball, moving the ball to find the best look. However, they may not have their highest usage player in Wahl (22nd in possessions used nationally according to KenPom).

Wisconsin has been bailed out this season by their high level three-point shooting, 38% this season which is 21st in the country, but Illinois limits three-point shots and does a good job of keeping teams off the glass.

I think Illinois’ question marks on offense continues and this is a low possessions matchup, leading to an under bet.

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Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.