Maryland Terrapins vs Penn State Lady Lions Picks and Predictions January 18th 2026

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The Penn State Nittany Lions look to break through on the road, while the Maryland Terrapins aim to defend their home floor in this Big Ten clash at the XFINITY Center.

Line Movement and Odds

Maryland enters as the slight favorite, but Penn State’s efficient shooting makes this line competitive. Current market:

  • Penn State Spread: +2.5 (-110)
  • Maryland Spread: -2.5 (-113)
  • Penn State MoneyLine: +120
  • Maryland MoneyLine: -148
  • Total: 147.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

Penn State Outlook

The Nittany Lions average 74.2 points per game, with Freddie Dilione V, Dominick Stewart, and Eli Rice leading the offense. Stewart’s 16 points vs UCLA highlighted his consistency, while Dilione’s 14.1 points per game showcase his impact when healthy. Penn State’s shooting efficiency (47.2% FG, 93rd nationally; 56.3% 2PT, 83rd nationally) underscores their strengths. Their 9-8 record and ability to compete in close games highlight resilience, making them a dangerous underdog.

Maryland Outlook

The Terrapins average 70.1 points per game, with David Coit, Solomon Washington, and Pharrel Payne driving production. Coit’s 30 points vs USC highlighted his scoring punch, while Washington’s rebounding showcased his versatility. Maryland’s shooting efficiency (39.8% FG, last in Big Ten; 31.2% from three) and turnover issues (13.2 per game, most in Big Ten) underscore their struggles. Their 7-10 record and 5-4 home mark highlight inconsistency, but their ability to get to the free-throw line (18.7 makes per game, 36th nationally) makes them tough at the XFINITY Center.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on shooting accuracy and ball security. Penn State thrives on efficient scoring inside the arc, while Maryland must rely on free throws and home-court energy to tilt the game. Turnovers and rebounding will likely decide the margin.

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Injuries / Availability

Penn State: Kayden Mingo (broken nose) out; Freddie Dilione V (ankle) questionable.

Maryland: Pharrel Payne (knee) out.

Environment

The XFINITY Center has been a balanced venue for Maryland, where they’ve gone 5-4 this season. Penn State enters with confidence from competitive performances against ranked teams, making this a clash of home strength vs road-tested resilience.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Penn State 75, Maryland 73

  • Penn State +2.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive efficiency and balanced scoring suggest they can stay within the number and win outright.
  • Under 147.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower pace and low shooting percentages point toward a combined score below the line.

Penn State’s depth and efficient shooting should carry them to victory, while Maryland’s home-court advantage keeps the game competitive. Expect a moderately low-scoring contest with totals landing just under the posted number.

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