Michigan’s laying 15.5 at home against Ohio State, and the efficiency numbers back it up. The Wolverines own the #1 adjusted net rating in the country at 36.2, while the Buckeyes sit at #38. With elite interior defense and rebounding dominance, Michigan should control this Big Ten clash at Crisler Center.
Bryan Bash
Indiana vs. Rutgers Prediction: Can the Scarlet Knights Defend the RAC?
Indiana brings elite efficiency metrics into Jersey Mike’s Arena as 6.5 to 7-point favorites over Rutgers. Bryan Bash breaks down why the Hoosiers’ #20 adjusted net efficiency and suffocating defense should overcome their recent struggles against a Rutgers team that ranks #220 nationally.
Raptors vs Trail Blazers Prediction: Toronto’s Road Edge Meets Portland’s Hot Streak
Toronto’s 14-9 road record meets Portland’s four-game winning streak in a Friday night West Coast showdown. The Raptors are laying 3.5 points despite the Blazers’ recent momentum, but depth and versatility give Toronto the edge in this matchup.
Denver Nuggets vs Washington Wizards Prediction: Jokic-Less Denver Still Favored, But Depth Concerns Narrow This Number
The Wizards have dropped seven straight, but they are 1-0 ATS against Denver this year. Read our full preview for a sharp ATS pick and find out if Washington’s rebounding edge can force a close finish.
Spurs vs Jazz Prediction: Wembanyama’s Elite Defense Meets Utah’s Undermanned Frontcourt
The Spurs lay 13 at Utah with Victor Wembanyama facing an undermanned Jazz frontcourt missing Walker Kessler. San Antonio’s elite two-way star should dominate the paint against a 15-29 Jazz squad that lacks rim protection, making the double-digit spread justifiable despite the road spot.
NBA Free Picks: Bulls vs Timberwolves Analysis for Jan 22
The Timberwolves lay 9.5 at home against a Bulls team coming off a franchise-tying 25 threes, but Chicago’s 7-13 road record and Minnesota’s home efficiency edge make this spread playable. Bash breaks down why the shooting variance won’t travel and where this game gets decided.
Towson vs. Elon Pick: High-Powered Offense vs. Elite Defense
Elon’s laying 2.5 at home against Towson in a CAA battle that pits elite offense against solid defense. With Elon ranking 272nd in defensive rating and Towson bringing the 150th-ranked defense, this spread might not account for the Tigers’ ability to slow down the Phoenix attack.
Idaho State vs. Montana State Prediction: Can the Bengals Upset the Favorites?
Montana State lays 5.5 at home against Idaho State in a Big Sky battle between near-identical teams. The Bobcats’ shooting efficiency and perimeter defense should be enough to cover against a Bengals squad that can’t make threes.
Hornets vs. Magic Prediction: Bash’s Best Bet for Thursday’s Battle
Orlando lays 6 at home against Charlotte in a pace-up matchup. The Magic have the two-way balance and home-court edge, but can they cover against a Hornets squad that can score in bunches? Bash breaks down the spread and explains why Orlando’s execution should be enough.
UC San Diego vs. UC Davis Pick: Efficiency Gap Meets Big West Fortress
UC San Diego’s elite shooting meets UC Davis at home in a Big West battle. The Tritons are laying 2.5 to 3 points, but the efficiency numbers tell us why this spread might be giving us value on the road favorite.










