Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans 3/9/25 – This Sunday features a highly anticipated battle within the Big Ten conference, as the Michigan Wolverines (22-8) take on their arch-rivals, the Michigan State Spartans (25-5). With both claiming the NCAA spot, the rivalry game is all set to conclude at the Breslin Center in Michigan. As bruising as the contest might sound, the splits do tell a different story… Michigan State, who is on an impressive six-game winning streak, and Michigan, who has struggled to cover non-favorable spreads, make for an interesting narrative. These two factions looking to make a statement in the postseason is what will make this game a spectacle.
Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans 3/9/25 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, March 9, 2025, at 12:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Breslin Center – East Lansing, Michigan |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wolverines | +6.5 (-105) | Over 147.5 (-110) | +240 |  |
| Spartans | -6.5 (-115) | Under 147.5 (-115) | -290 | |
| ||||
Beat MSU. pic.twitter.com/vfWfwANc6G
— Michigan Men's Basketball (@umichbball) March 9, 2025
Michigan enters this game as a 6.5-point underdog, a position they’ve struggled with all season, covering the spread in only two of their last 14 outings. Meanwhile, Michigan State has been a bettor’s dream, covering the spread in six consecutive games. The total is set at 147.5, a number worth noting as the under has hit in six of Michigan State’s last seven games. If Michigan’s offense falters against the Spartans’ stifling defense, the under could once again be a strong play.
Vladislav Goldin (Center) vs. Jaden Akins (Guard)
Goldin has certainly found his rhythm with the Wolverines, averaging 16.3 points and 6.7 rebounds with an astonishingly accurate shooting percentage of 63.7%. With foot movement like a ballet dancer, he has been an elite scoring option as Michigan’s primary interior presence. Regardless of his magnificent scoring, he is highly turnover prone, averaging 2.3 per game which will spell trouble against an aggressive Michigan State defense. His self imposed inside punishment along with discipline needs to be on point for Michigan’s upset dream to become a reality.
On the opposite side, Jaden Akins makes the scoring leading mark for Michigan State at 13 per game with support on the glass contributing 3.6 rebounds and 1.6 assists. Even though he is not the most dazzling scorer, his free throw percentage of 80.8% shows how valuable he is along with his defensive activity. It is unfortunate that his three-point percentage drop off a cliff and sits at 29.4%. Yet, if he finds his groove, the Wolverines may be in deep trouble this afternoon.
Michigan Wolverines Can They Overcome Recent Struggles?
Michigan has dropped three of its last five games, including a 75-62 loss to Michigan State on February 21. They did notch wins over Rutgers and Nebraska, but an embarrassing 93-73 loss to Illinois highlights their defensive inconsistencies. Despite a solid offense averaging 79.1 PPG, turnovers (14.4 per game) remain a major issue. If they can limit giveaways and capitalize on their size advantage inside, they have a chance to keep this one close.
Michigan State Spartans A Team Hitting Its Stride
The Spartans are riding a six-game win streak, taking down Purdue and Wisconsin along the way. Their defense has been outstanding, holding opponents to an average of 66.4 PPG over the last five contests. They also boast a rebounding edge (40.1 RPG to Michigan’s 38 RPG) and superior free-throw efficiency (78.7% to 71.7%), both key factors in a tight rivalry game. If they continue their disciplined play, they should cover the spread comfortably.
Trends
Michigan Wolverines Betting Trends
Michigan is 2-12 ATS in their last 14 games.
Michigan is 14-5 SU in their last 19 games.
Michigan is 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games against Michigan State.
Michigan is 4-1 SU in their last 5 road games.
Michigan is 0-6 ATS in their last 6 road games against Michigan State.
Michigan State Spartans Betting Trends
Michigan State is 6-0 ATS in their last 6 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Michigan State’s last 7 games.
Michigan State is 6-0 SU in their last 6 games.
Michigan State is 15-1 SU in their last 16 home games.
Michigan State is 5-0 ATS in their last 5 home games against Michigan.
Michigan Wolverines vs. Michigan State Spartans Betting Prediction
Michigan State bests Michigan historically, winning five out of their last six matchups. From recent form, they look like the better team, especially at home where they are virtually unbeatable. Michigan’s struggles with covering spreads and high turnovers can make them a risky bet against the disciplined Spartans.
With Michigan’s offense having troubles and Michigan State’s defense clamping down, the under on 147.5 looks enticing. Also, the Spartans’ phenomenal free-throw shooting and rebounding should help them control the game late. They should extend their winning streak and cover the 6.5 point spread.
Score Prediction: Michigan State 74, Michigan 65.
