The upcoming clash between the Mississippi Rebels and the Iowa State Cyclones in the NCAA Tournament’s second round promises to be an exciting matchup. With both teams vying for a spot in the Sweet 16, fans and bettors alike are eagerly anticipating the showdown. In this article, we’ll delve into the prediction, betting tips, analysis, and key statistics for this highly anticipated game.
Game Overview
- Date: March 23, 2025
- Time: 7:45 PM ET
- Venue: Fiserv Forum, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
- Broadcast: TNT
Team Profiles
Mississippi Rebels (Ole Miss)
- Record: 23-11
- Conference: SEC
- Key Players: Sean Pedulla (14.9 PPG, 3.6 APG), Malik Dia (5.7 RPG)
- Strengths: Ball handling, minimal turnovers, clutch shooting
- Weaknesses: Inconsistent defense, rebounding
Iowa State Cyclones
- Record: 25-9
- Conference: Big 12
- Key Players: Curtis Jones (17.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG), Milan Momcilovic (20 points in the last game)
- Strengths: Strong defense, efficient scoring, depth
- Weaknesses: Occasional scoring droughts, reliance on key players
Betting Odds and Tips
- Spread: Iowa State -5.5
- Total Points: 145.5
- Moneyline: Iowa State -230, Ole Miss +190
Betting Insights:
- Against the Spread (ATS): Iowa State has a 20-14-0 ATS record, while Ole Miss stands at 17-17-0.
- Over/Under: The total has gone over 145.5 points in 15 games for Iowa State and 18 games for Ole Miss this season.
- Moneyline: Iowa State has an 80% win rate as a moneyline favorite, while Ole Miss has a 40% win rate as an underdog.
Betting Tips:
- Pick ATS: Ole Miss (+5.5) – The Rebels have shown resilience in close games and could cover the spread.
- Pick OU: Over (145.5) – Both teams have a combined average of 157.4 points per game, suggesting a high-scoring affair.
- Moneyline: Iowa State – While Ole Miss has the potential for an upset, Iowa State’s consistency makes them the safer bet.
Game Analysis
Offensive and Defensive Matchups:
- Iowa State’s Offense vs. Ole Miss’s Defense: Iowa State averages 80.4 points per game, ranking 34th in the nation. Their efficient scoring and depth will challenge Ole Miss’s defense, which allows 71.5 points per game.
- Ole Miss’s Offense vs. Iowa State’s Defense: Ole Miss scores 77.0 points per game, but their inconsistency could be exploited by Iowa State’s strong defense, which gives up just 67.7 points per game.
Key Factors:
- Turnovers: Ole Miss excels at minimizing turnovers, which will be crucial against Iowa State’s aggressive defense.
- Rebounding: Iowa State’s advantage on the boards (32.7 RPG) could limit Ole Miss’s second-chance opportunities.
- Three-Point Shooting: Both teams have capable shooters, but Iowa State’s 35.8% from deep could be a deciding factor.
Statistical Breakdown
Team Stats:
- Points Per Game: Iowa State 80.4, Ole Miss 77.0
- Rebounds Per Game: Iowa State 32.7, Ole Miss 29.6
- Assists Per Game: Iowa State 15.0, Ole Miss 14.2
- Turnovers Per Game: Iowa State 11.5, Ole Miss 8.5
- Points Allowed Per Game: Iowa State 67.7, Ole Miss 71.5
Player Stats:
- Curtis Jones (Iowa State): 17.1 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 2.3 APG
- Sean Pedulla (Ole Miss): 14.9 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 3.6 APG
- Milan Momcilovic (Iowa State): 20 points in the last game against Lipscomb
Prediction
Final Score Prediction: Iowa State 77, Ole Miss 72
Iowa State’s balanced attack and defensive prowess give them the edge in this matchup. While Ole Miss has the talent to keep it close, the Cyclones’ consistency and depth should see them through to the Sweet 16.
Conclusion
The Mississippi Rebels vs. Iowa State Cyclones game is set to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for both teams. Bettors should consider the spread, total points, and moneyline when making their wagers. With Iowa State favored to win, the game promises to deliver high-intensity action and plenty of excitement for fans and bettors alike.
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