Media by Associated Press – Kansas State forward Keyontae Johnson drives during the first half of an NCAA college basketball game against Texas-Rio Grande Valley Monday, Nov. 7, 2022, in Manhattan, Kan. On Dec. 12, 2020, Johnson collapsed on the court while playing for Florida in a game against rival Florida State. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel)
There are plenty of good college basketball matchups featuring highly-regarded conference opponents Tuesday night. There are several programs that are eager to prove themselves against more established foes, which should lead to some intense battles. Here’s a look at a few basketball games to bet on Tuesday night.
Kansas Jayhawks at Kansas State Wildcats (+2.5)
The Wildcats have taken a big step forward this season. Keyontae Johnson (18.4 points per game) and Markquis Nowell (17.1) lead a dangerous Kansas State offense in scoring. The Wildcats have put up 78.2 points per game, which ranks 48th nationally. The Wildcats’ shooting has been excellent, as Kansas State shoots 46.9 percent from the field.
Kansas, the defending national champions, has had several close calls in conference play thus far. The Jayhawks survived a two-point victory over Iowa State, a three-point win over Texas Tech, and a two-point win over Oklahoma State. The Jayhawks are 7-10 against the spread this season.
The Wildcats, who are 15-2 overall and 11-6 against the spread, have the team that can push Kansas. With the game being played in Manhattan, Kan., the Wildcats will get a leg up on their rival.
Penn State Nittany Lions at Wisconsin Badgers (-2.5)
Wisconsin is having a hard time during recent Big Ten games. The Badgers have lost three straight conference games and have a home game against Penn State before heading back on the road for two more games. Wisconsin is 11-5 this season but has not covered the spread during their past six games.
The Badgers play at a deliberate pace, scoring 66.8 points per game while limiting opponents to 62.9. Penn State has been having a solid season, compiling a 12-5 record straight up. The Nittany Lions are 9-7-1 against the spread, but are 2-4 in their last six. Penn State plays at a faster pace than Wisconsin but is also as adept on defense.
This is a spot where the Badgers need a win, and Penn State hasn’t been great on the road. The Nittany Lions, who are 1-2 straight up in true road games, will lose to Wisconsin.
Baylor Bears (+2.5) at Texas Tech Raiders
Life in the Big 12 has been rough on every team in the conference. There really aren’t any soft spots in the schedule. Both Texas Tech and Baylor need to avoid falling further behind. The Red Raiders, who have lost their first five conference games, are in need of answers quickly.
Texas Tech has lost four of its five conference games by five points or less. The Red Raiders average 76.2 points per game and allow 65.5. Baylor has started to gain some momentum, winning two straight games to improve to 2-3 in Big 12 play. The Bears are 28th nationally ins coring, putting up 80.6 points per game.
While Texas Tech will be desperate to protect its home court, Baylor will want to get back to .500. The Bears will keep this one close and will likely win outright.
You can find more NCAA basketball picks here.