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Nebraska Cornhuskers vs. Indiana Hoosiers - Game Analysis and Prediction

On December 13, 2024, the Nebraska Cornhuskers (6-2, 0-1 Big Ten) host the Indiana Hoosiers (8-2, 1-0 Big Ten) at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska. The Hoosiers, riding a four-game winning streak, aim to strengthen their conference standing, while the Cornhuskers seek to bounce back after a tough loss to Michigan State in their conference opener.

 

Odds Table

Team	Spread	Moneyline	Total (Over/Under)
Indiana Hoosiers	+3.5 (EVEN)	+155	o153.5 (-105)
Nebraska Cornhuskers	-3.5 (-120)	-185	u153.5 (-115)

The Cornhuskers are slight home favorites, with the spread at -3.5. The total is set at 153.5, reflecting expectations for a high-scoring contest between two potent offenses.

Team Analysis

Indiana Hoosiers

The Hoosiers have started strong, boasting an 8-2 record and a perfect 1-0 mark in Big Ten play. Indiana’s offense is led by forward Malik Reneau, who averages 15.5 points per game on an efficient 60% shooting. Center Oumar Ballo dominates the glass, averaging 9.1 rebounds per game, while Trey Galloway orchestrates the offense with 3.7 assists per game.

• Offensive Strength: Indiana averages 80.4 points per game and leads the Big Ten in field goal percentage at 50.9%.
• Defensive Weakness: The Hoosiers allow 69.1 points per game, struggling at times to contain perimeter shooting.

Nebraska Cornhuskers

The Cornhuskers, sitting at 6-2 overall, are eager to rebound from a blowout loss to Michigan State in their conference opener. Guard Bryce Williams leads Nebraska in scoring with 17.5 points per game while shooting 92.5% from the free-throw line. Bekir Buyuktuncel contributes on the boards with 5.9 rebounds per game, and Rollie Worster adds steady playmaking at point guard.

• Offensive Strength: Nebraska averages 79.4 points per game, fueled by an up-tempo style and aggressive drives to the basket.
• Defensive Focus: The Cornhuskers generate 9.5 steals per game, often turning defense into transition opportunities.

Recent Performance

Indiana Hoosiers

Indiana has been in excellent form, winning four of its last five games:

• 12/9: Defeated Minnesota 82-67
• 12/6: Defeated Miami-Ohio 76-57
• 12/3: Defeated Sam Houston State 97-71
• 11/29: Defeated Providence 89-73
• 11/28: Lost to Gonzaga 89-73

Nebraska Cornhuskers

Nebraska is 3-2 in its last five games, with a significant win over Creighton:

• 12/7: Lost to Michigan State 89-52
• 12/1: Defeated North Florida 103-72
• 11/27: Defeated South Dakota 96-79
• 11/22: Defeated Creighton 74-63
• 11/17: Lost to Saint Mary’s 77-74

Head-to-Head Comparison

Indiana and Nebraska are evenly matched in terms of offensive firepower, but Nebraska has the edge in defensive disruption with its league-leading steals. The Hoosiers won both matchups last season, but Nebraska’s improved roster and home-court advantage could tip the scales in their favor this time.

Betting Stats and Trends

Key trends for Indiana:

• The Hoosiers are 5-0 ATS in their last five games.
• The total has gone over in four of Indiana's last six games.
• Indiana is 2-4 ATS in its last six road games.

Key trends for Nebraska:

• The Cornhuskers are 4-1 ATS in their last five games at home.
• The total has gone over in five of Nebraska's last six games.
• Nebraska is 3-1 ATS in its last four games as a favorite.

Prediction