CBB: Purdue at Northwestern (5:30 PM ET, BTN)

Purdue was not expected to lose two games in the Big Ten all season long, yet after four league games, the Boilermakers are 2-2 and facing the prospects of falling behind further should they lose what figures to be a tough contest at Northwestern on Satur


2010-01-15

Purdue was not expected to lose two games in the Big Ten all season long, yet after four league games, the Boilermakers are 2-2 and facing the prospects of falling behind further should they lose what figures to be a tough contest at Northwestern on Saturday. The Wildcats are always known as a pesky home underdog, and having reached the Top 25 earlier this season, actually have the talent to compete now. With Purdue playing as the road chalk, Sportsbook.com bettors figure to be embracing their chances. Be sure to check the latest breakdown on the BETTING TRENDS page.

Basketball prognosticators knew Purdue (14-2, 8-8 ATS) was going to be a very good team coming into the season. The Boilermakers had experience, continuity of playing together for a couple of years and a strong work ethic. What has transformed Purdue into a national power is the elementary aspects of basketball. They force almost eight more turnovers than they commit, they are much better rebounding team than a season ago and they make roughly 75 percent of their free throw attempts to ice away games. They have hit a bump the last couple of contests though, not playing 40 minutes of basketball in either game. Purdue will have to find itself quickly since they are on a skid of 3-8 ATS on the road.

Northwestern’s (12-4, 8-4 ATS) confounding start landed them in the Top 25 briefly; however conference play has brought about new challenges. The Wildcats, despite severe injuries had thrived because of the play of mighty mite, 5’8 Michael “Juice” Thompson. He ignited the offense by scoring and setting up teammates. Big Ten opponents have taken notice though, and have squeezed “Juice”, not allowing him to roam as freely. As a result, they are 1-3 in league play to date. Conference clubs have also been prepared for the Wildcats various zone defenses. Northwestern lost to Wisconsin at home in last encounter and is 5-9 ATS after a defeat.

The Cats have played well against Purdue with a 10-4 ATS record. The StatFox Power Line shows Purdue by 7.

CBB: Purdue at Northwestern (5:30 PM ET, BTN) News

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