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Game Preview: Missouri Tigers vs Minnesota Golden Gophers
The Missouri Tigers will aim to stay unbeaten as they host the Minnesota Golden Gophers on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, at Mizzou Arena in Columbia. This early-season clash brings together two undefeated programs with contrasting strengths — Missouri’s size and scoring power against Minnesota’s efficiency and rebounding balance.
The Missouri Tigers (3-0) have started strong, averaging over 94 points per game and shooting above 57 percent from the field. They dominated VMI 106-68 in their last outing, led by Mark Mitchell’s 24-point, 10-rebound double-double and point guard Anthony Robinson II’s breakout 20-point night. Missouri’s interior presence has been a focal point, with 7-footer Shawn Phillips Jr. expected back after missing one game due to illness.
Coach Dennis Gates has emphasized rebounding and defensive consistency, noting improved rotations and deflections against VMI after sluggish first halves in previous games. Missouri’s lineup, featuring multiple players over 6-foot-9, creates natural mismatches for smaller opponents and should test Minnesota’s frontcourt depth.
The Minnesota Golden Gophers (2-0) enter their first road contest of the year following home wins over Gardner-Webb and Alcorn State. Cade Tyson has been their offensive anchor, scoring 51 points across two games, while forward Jaylen Crocker-Johnson has averaged an impressive 14 points and 15 rebounds per game.
For bettors studying efficiency trends, the basketball betting strategies guide breaks down how to evaluate matchup-dependent shot quality and pace — both of which are key here.
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Odds and Key Information
| Market | Odds |
|---|---|
| Spread | Missouri -7.5 (-113), Minnesota +7.5 (-110) |
| Moneyline | Missouri -336, Minnesota +252 |
| Total | 156.5 |
| Venue | Mizzou Arena, Columbia, MO |
| Time | Wednesday, 8:00 PM ET |
Missouri opened as a 7.5-point home favorite, with the total set at 156.5. Both teams rank among the top 50 nationally in scoring, suggesting the potential for a high-tempo contest. Compare lines and movement using the college basketball odds page.
Minnesota Golden Gophers Outlook
Minnesota’s early schedule has provided a confidence boost, but Wednesday’s matchup marks a step up in competition. The Gophers average 91.0 points per game while holding opponents to just 55.0, thanks to active rebounding and interior physicality. Jaylen Crocker-Johnson’s work on the glass — 15 rebounds per game — has been the driving force behind the team’s +17.5 rebounding margin.
Cade Tyson’s scoring has come efficiently, shooting over 50 percent from the floor. Guard play has been solid, with consistent ball movement leading to 19 assists per game. However, the Gophers have yet to face a frontcourt like Missouri’s, which features three players 6-foot-10 or taller.
Coach Niko Medved believes effort and positioning can overcome size disadvantages, but Missouri’s length may limit second-chance points. Minnesota’s ability to control tempo and find rhythm from the perimeter will determine its chances of covering.
For insights on handling road underdogs, review the spread betting guide.
Missouri Tigers Outlook
Missouri’s offensive flow has improved game by game. The Tigers average 94.3 points and rank among the top 10 nationally in field goal percentage (57.2%). Their three-point accuracy of 41.8% ranks 33rd, giving them balance inside and out.
Mark Mitchell has been dominant, averaging 20.7 points and seven rebounds. Phillips Jr. and Jevon Porter add interior size and rebounding, while Robinson’s emergence gives Missouri an additional shooter at the point. The Tigers’ interior advantage could be decisive, especially if they control pace and force Minnesota into half-court possessions.
Defensively, Missouri’s length allows them to contest perimeter shots and rotate effectively in man-to-man schemes. Coach Gates continues to emphasize deflections and defensive rebounding as building blocks for SEC play.
For advanced market context, see how elite shooting teams sustain margins in the alternate total points guide.
Key Matchup Table
| Category | Advantage |
|---|---|
| Offensive Efficiency | Missouri |
| Rebounding | Even |
| Three-Point Shooting | Missouri |
| Interior Defense | Missouri |
| Free-Throw Rate | Missouri |
| Turnover Margin | Even |
| Pace | Minnesota |
| Bench Depth | Missouri |
Missouri’s length and shooting edge could dictate the flow of play, but Minnesota’s rebounding and tempo might offset it enough to keep the margin tight through the first half. The battle between Crocker-Johnson and Phillips Jr. will be central to both sides’ strategy.
Betting Trends
- Missouri is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 home games.
- The Tigers are 5-1 to the over in their last six non-conference matchups.
- Minnesota is 6-2 ATS in its last eight November games.
- The over is 4-1 in Minnesota’s last five when scoring 85+ points.
- Missouri is 12-2 straight up in its last 14 home contests.
Compare public and expert betting splits on the college basketball picks page.
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Predictions
Both teams prefer an uptempo game, but Missouri’s interior advantage should eventually break Minnesota’s defensive structure. The Gophers’ rebounding strength may keep it close early, yet the Tigers’ offensive versatility and home-court shooting make them the better bet to cover.
Projected Final Score: Missouri 92, Minnesota 82
Spread Pick: Missouri -7.5
Total Lean: Over 156.5
For context on high-scoring matchups, review the prop betting guide and unit management basics to manage exposure on totals and spreads.
Why You Need Expert Picks
Early-season data can mislead bettors when teams face their first quality opponents. The Handicappers Leaderboard highlights proven cappers with transparent performance metrics.
ScoresAndStats combines shot analytics, efficiency data, and possession trends to help bettors make informed choices. Deepen your understanding with the moneyline betting guide, hedge betting breakdown, and futures betting overview for comprehensive wagering insight.
Projected Final: Missouri Tigers 92, Minnesota Golden Gophers 82
Spread Pick: Missouri -7.5
Total Lean: Over 156.5
