Two teams going in different directions meet in Big Ten play meet Wednesday night in Happy Valley as Illinois looks to stay hot against Penn State.
Last season, the Nittany Lions defeated the Illini three times, including in the second round of the Big Ten Tournament.
Illinois sits in second place in the conference at 10-4 behind Purdue, while Penn State has scuffled to a 6-9 record and is in the midst of a three-game losing streak.
Illinois vs. Penn State odds
- Spread: Illinois -7.5 (-104), Penn State +7.5 (-118)
- Total: Over 156.5 (-105), Under 156.5 (-115)
- Moneyline: Illinois -300, Penn State +240
The Fighting Illini held off Maryland on the road, 85-80, last Saturday as Terrence Shannon, Jr. led Illinois with 27 points. It marked the fifth straight game Brad Underwood’s team posted at least 80 points, while the over has hit in nine of Illinois’ last 10 games.
Penn State was riding a three-game winning streak earlier this month, but things have swung the wrong way for the Nittany Lions, who are coming off three straight losses. The most recent defeat came at Nebraska on Saturday as PSU was held to a season-low 49 points.
The Nittany Lions have seen the over cash in all six conference games played at State College while yielding at least 76 points each time.
Penn State should shoot the ball better at home after its dreadful offensive performance at Nebraska on Saturday. Wednesday night’s game will be played at Rec Hall on the PSU campus instead of Bryce Jordan Center.
Illinois and its opponents have combined for 160 points or more in each of their last six Big Ten road games.
Although this is the second-highest total the Fighting Illini have seen this season, let’s ride those offensive numbers and take the over when Illinois hooks up with Penn State.
Pick: Over 156.5 points (-102 at FanDuel)
