Top Betting Picks and Predictions for Big Ten Football Week 12
As the Big Ten football season progresses into Week 12, teams are facing crucial matchups. With only two games featuring single-digit spreads, predictions become essential for fans and bettors alike. Here’s a breakdown of the key games, betting lines, and insights for this week.
Key Matchups and Betting Picks for Big Ten Week 12
1. Minnesota at Oregon
– Spread: Oregon favored by 25.5 points
– Total Over/Under: 43.5
This line started at 21.5 but moved in favor of Oregon despite 63% of bets being placed on Minnesota. The Ducks have performed well against the spread (ATS) this season (5-4), while Minnesota struggles with a poor 2-6-1 record, particularly on the road (0-3). Given these trends, it’s wise to back Oregon.
2. Wisconsin at Indiana
– Spread: Indiana favored by 29.5 points
– Total Over/Under: 44.5
Both teams are in a tight contest regarding their ATS performance. Wisconsin’s recent trend shows they consistently go under the total, whereas Indiana has a higher success rate this season (7-3 ATS). However, following a significant win, Indiana might experience a letdown. This leads to a pick for Wisconsin to cover the spread.
3. Michigan (-12.5) at Northwestern
– Spread: Michigan favored by 12.5 points
– Total Over/Under: 41.5
Bets are evenly distributed, although the spread favoring Michigan has shifted upwards. While Northwestern has recently struggled to cover (0-2), Michigan’s defense is expected to excel, even in a less conventional setting at Wrigley Field. The prediction leads toward a defensive battle.
4. Iowa at USC
– Spread: USC favored by 7 points
– Total Over/Under: 49.5
Despite USC attracting a majority of the bets (68%), the spread hasn’t budged. Iowa has proven resilient, notably with a 7-2 ATS record and a perfect road record (3-0), suggesting they will present a strong challenge to USC.
5. Penn State (-7.5) at Michigan State
– Spread: Penn State favored by 7.5 points
– Total Over/Under: 49.5
Michigan State has impressively covered in four of their last five games despite not winning. Meanwhile, Penn State is struggling with a poor ATS record (2-7). This week may see a potential upset as Michigan State could continue its cover streak.
6. Maryland at Illinois
– Spread: Illinois favored by 15.5 points
– Total Over/Under: 52.5
This matchup sees a split in betting trends, making the total an intriguing focal point. Illinois holds a mediocre home record (1-4), while Maryland tends to go under the total frequently. Expect a low-scoring affair here.
7. Purdue at Washington
– Spread: Washington favored by 16.5 points
– Total Over/Under: 53.5
Following a surprising loss, Washington is heavily backed by the public (86% of bets). The shift in the spread reflects this confidence, and despite both teams being around .500 ATS, a bounce-back from Washington is anticipated.
8. UCLA at Ohio State
– Spread: Ohio State favored by 32.5 points
– Total Over/Under: 48.5
Ohio State enjoys a strong home advantage and boasts a solid ATS record (7-2). UCLA’s performance has been lackluster throughout the season (3-6 ATS). The prediction favors Ohio State to cover the steep spread.
In conclusion, Week 12 of Big Ten football presents several compelling betting opportunities. Fans should exercise caution and bet responsibly while considering these insights and predictions.
