TSR 1/5/20 CBB Picks

TODAY’S GAMES

Game 1: Michigan State vs Michigan (1:30, CBS)

Nick: Michigan State--Since the defeat against Duke, the Spartans have played tremendous basketball. There have been runs in some of these games that give you the feeling that this team truly can win the Big Ten championship for the third straight year. The latest chapter in this storied rivalry sees the debut of Juwan Howard as a coach. Michigan is dealing with a nagging injury to Isaiah Livers, a player that is vital to them winning this game. I think that Marcus Bingham's play against Illinois showed that MSU has the weapons to contain Jon Teske as well. MSU wins this game for their fourth straight in the series.

Sam: Michigan State-- Unlike last year when these teams first met in late February, both teams are far from a finished product. Both teams are still trying to figure out their rotations and our giving newer players significant roles. I think due to Livers either being out entirely or if he does play not being very healthy, MSU wins this one at home.

Zach: Michigan State- Whether Livers plays or not, Michigan State has been clicking recently and that’s dangerous for any team in the country. I expect them to keep it going at home.

Game 2: Minnesota vs Northwestern (7:30, BTN)

Nick: Minnesota--The Gophers played Purdue really well, with small mistakes costing them the game late. Oh and Northwestern has lost to Radford, Hartford and Merrimack. The fact that Pat Spencer is starting for their team reflects a lot on their ability as a bunch, as he is an offensive liability.

Sam: Minnesota-- The Gophers have been playing good basketball of late

Zach: Minnesota- Northwestern is just not good whatsoever 

Game 3: Illinois vs Purdue (8:00, FS1)

Nick: Purdue--The Boilermakers have some momentum after that narrow victory over Minnesota. The inside matchups between Georgi B and Kofi Cockburn for Illinois against Matt Haarms and Trevion Williams of Purdue will be crucial in deciding the winner.

Sam: Illinois-- Illini need this one in the baddest of ways

Zach: Illinois- huge bounce back game, at home, to avenge the big loss in East Lansing

Game 4: Xavier vs St Johns (4:30, FOX)

Nick: Xavier

Sam: Xavier

Zach: Xavier

Game 5: Rhode Island vs Richmond (12:00, ESPN+)

Nick: Rhode Island

Sam: Rhode Island

Zach: Rhode Island

Game 6: Duquesne vs Davidson (2:00, NBCSN)

Nick: Duquesne

Sam: Davidson

Zach: Duquesne 

Game 7: Washington vs USC (10:00, FS1)

Nick: Washington

Sam: Washington

Zach: Washington- Isaiah Stewart vs Onyeka Okongwu will be very fun to watch

Game 8: Colorado vs Oregon St (6:00, ESPNU)

Nick: Colorado--The Buffs complete an impressive weekend sweep of the Oregon schools.

Sam: Colorado

Zach: Colorado

Game 9: Milwaukee vs UIC (2:00, ESPN3)

Nick: Milwaukee--Look for Darius Roy and Te'Jon Lucas to dominate the backcourt battle in this game. The return of Jordan Blount for UIC is important to their success this season, but he still appears to be getting back in basketball form with limited minutes.

Sam: Milwaukee

Zach: Milwaukee 

Game 10: George Mason vs VCU (12:00, NBCSN)

Nick: George Mason--The Rams are on of the top teams in the A10 (along with Dayton), but this will be the day the Patriots legitimize their 11-2 start with a statement win at home.

Sam: VCU

Zach: VCU

Upsets: 

Nick: Northern Kentucky over Oakland (+3.5)

Sam: Fairfield over Canisius (+4)

Zach: Manhattan over Niagara (+2.0)