Tennessee Volunteers (27-8) vs. Purdue Boilermakers (32-4)
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Purdue Boilermakers March 31 2024 – As the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament heads into the Elite 8, a thrilling matchup is set between the Tennessee Volunteers and the Purdue Boilermakers on Sunday. With Tennessee’s solid 27-8 record going up against Purdue’s impressive 32-4, this game promises to be a highlight for bettors and fans alike. It’s an ideal opportunity for those frequenting top-ranked betting sites to engage with one of the tournament’s most anticipated games.
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Purdue Boilermakers March 31 2024 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, March 31, 2024 at 2:20 PM ET |
| Where: | Little Caesars Arena |
| TV: | CBS |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Purdue Boilermakers Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Tennessee | +140 | +3 (-110) | 148 over (-110) |
| Purdue | -166 | -3 (-110) | 148 under (-110) |
The betting odds paint a picture of a closely contested battle, with Purdue slightly favored to win. The spread indicates a narrow margin of victory is expected, making this game a tough call for bettors. The total points line is set at 148, reflecting both teams’ ability to score while suggesting a relatively high-scoring affair.
Dalton Knecht (Guard) vs. Zach Edey (Center)
Dalton Knecht has been the coordinates of consistency for Tennessee, and he played in 34 games averagely with 21.1 points per game. Scoring is not the single area where he contributes, he also collects nearly five rebounds and records over one assist per game. Knecht’s glory from the three-point line will be critical for IU to win the game, but he will have to deal with the defense, mainly along the perimeter.
Zach Edey, on the other hand, dominates for Purdue with averages that scream efficiency: 24.5 ppg and 12.1 rebounds per game, and to top it all off, the field goal percentage of 62.3. The addition of Edey as the Purdue team’s paint presence, both offensively and defensively, is a powerful advantage for them. Given which shooting and blocks he can make, this could become a serious problem for Tennessee’s scoring from inside.
At this point, this confrontation of them in the court is going to be the main event. Knecht’s speed of thought and multiple scoring options against Edey overwhelming height and inside field superiority – this one should be cool to see. When the best players of each team go one-on-one against their counterparts, the dynamic of the game can easily shift, accentuating the importance of match-ups in shaping the fate of knockout games decided by the smallest of details.
Volunteers’ Precision and Pace
Tennessee’s offense has been notable for its balanced contribution and efficiency. Their ability to shoot and score is proven at 79.1 points per game for 44. 3% shooting accuracy from the field as an example. On the other hand, they solely depend on shooting from perimeter position against Purdue, a team that excelled in diminishing the scoring opportunities for the opponent. Tennessee’s sending 3-point shots and its ability to deal with the Boilermakers’ interior defense will be the key of the game.
Boilermakers’ Balanced Behemoth
The statistics of Purdue’s team indicate that they are like an accurately oiled machine with a 83.9 points per game average and a higher shooting efficiency compared to Tennessee. Their 49% FG percentage and 40.9% three-point field goal rate illustrate this scenario of a team that makes every possession count. The ability to control the game’s pace and deny the opponents’ second chance is also attributed to the Boilermakers’ rebounding power led by Edey.
Tennessee Volunteers Betting Trends
Tennessee are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Volunteers are 3-2 in their last 5 games against the spread
Tennessee are 6-8 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 1 of Tennessee’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 8 of Tennessee’ 18 last games at home
Purdue Boilermakers Betting Trends
Purdue are 4-1 in their last 5 games.
Boilermakers are 1-4 in their last 5 games against the spread
Purdue are 7-5 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Purdue’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 14 of Purdue’ 19 last games at home
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Purdue Boilermakers Betting Picks
Taking into account the analysis and trends, a situation like this should be considered as a nail-biter, likely decided in the endgame. In conclusion, Purdue’s lead in team efficiency and Edey’s performance might be the final factors which will sway the tie. But, it should be noted that Tennessee’s capability to shoot from the perimeter and their defensive quickness should not be underestimated.
For those making winning March Madness picks, taking Purdue to cover the spread seems a prudent choice, albeit with caution due to the game’s expected tightness. The over on the total points is tempting, given both teams’ offensive capabilities and Purdue’s tendency towards higher-scoring games.
Score Prediction: Purdue 78, Tennessee 72.
