USC Trojans vs Minnesota Golden Gophers Picks and Predictions January 9th 2026

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USC Trojans vs Minnesota Golden Gophers Betting Preview

The USC Trojans enter 12-3 and look to rebound from a tough loss, while the Minnesota Golden Gophers aim to defend their home court in this Big Ten Conference clash at Williams Arena.

Line Movement and Odds

Minnesota opened as the favorite, with the line reflecting confidence in their home-court strength. Current market:

  • Minnesota Spread: -4.5 (-105)
  • USC Spread: +4.5 (-115)
  • Minnesota MoneyLine: -193
  • USC MoneyLine: +161
  • Total: 146.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

USC Outlook

USC averages 85.3 points per game, with Chad Baker-Mazara, Ezra Ausar, and Boogie Ellis leading the offense. Their free-throw production (2nd nationally in attempts and makes) and shooting efficiency highlight offensive strength. Their 12-3 overall record underscores competitiveness, with a 4-2 road mark showing resilience away from home.

Minnesota Outlook

Minnesota averages 73.3 points per game, with Langston Reynolds, Cade Tyson, and Pharrel Payne providing scoring depth. Their shooting efficiency (46.4% FG) and ball movement (18.5 assists per game, 26th nationally) highlight offensive strength. Their 10-5 overall record and 9-1 home mark underscore dominance at Williams Arena.

Key Matchup / Path to Victory

The game hinges on USC’s ability to maintain offensive rhythm, while Minnesota must lean on Reynolds and Tyson to pace the offense. If USC controls tempo and free-throw opportunities, their depth should keep the game close.

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Injuries / Availability

USC: No injury updates provided.

Minnesota: No injury updates provided.

Environment

Williams Arena provides Minnesota with a strong home-court edge, where they are 9-1 this season. USC’s balanced offense highlights their ability to compete in Minneapolis.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Minnesota 78, USC 76

  • USC +4.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive pace and free-throw efficiency make them a strong cover candidate.
  • Under 146.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.

Minnesota’s depth and home-court advantage should dictate the game, while USC’s offense keeps the spread in play. Expect a competitive contest trending under the total.

Handicappers and Service Plays

Momentum plays a huge role in betting markets. Our Best Handicappers spotlight experts who consistently read market shifts, while the Leaderboard shows who’s riding winning streaks. Premium Buy Picks provide in-depth reasoning behind each wager. For matchups like USC vs Minnesota, understanding momentum and market perception can help you find value before the lines move.

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