College Basketball Preview: Marquette-5 Purdue Total 153
#6 Purdue ventures on the road to take on #15 Marquette. Purdue is coming off a nice home victory over Alabama, However their defense has raised concerns in recent games, where they’ve allowed opponents to average 81 points on 47.7% shooting. This vulnerability on the defensive end could be a critical factor.
Marquette comes into this contest as the betting favorite, with the line moving from -2.5 to -5.0. Despite being the lower-ranked team, the Golden Eagles have earned respect for their defensive prowess and efficiency. Forcing turnovers on 25.3% of opponents’ possessions (14th nationally), Marquette thrives on disrupting offenses and converting those mistakes into scoring opportunities. This defensive pressure, coupled with their rebounding advantage, gives them an edge in a game that promises to be competitive.
Offensively, Marquette’s ability to close out tight games was evident in their recent 78-74 victory over Maryland on the road. Marquette has the ability to close out teams and stretch the lead late as they are a 76% free throw shooting team.
Marquette enters this matchup motivated to avenge narrow losses to Purdue in the past two seasons (75-70 and 78-75). Those games demonstrated the Golden Eagles’ ability to compete with Purdue, and this year’s improved defense gives them a legitimate shot to turn the tables.
The Boilermakers’ strength lies in their offensive firepower, led by their top scorers and ability to execute in transition. If Purdue can limit turnovers and improve their defensive intensity, they may keep the game close. However, the combination of Marquette’s disruptive defense, superior rebounding, and composure in clutch moments makes them a formidable opponent. We do not see Purdue being consistent offensively in their first road game.
With Marquette’s ability to knock down free throws this looks like a perfect spot for Marquette to get over the hump and pull away but double digits in this game. This early in the season rankings do not mean a thing, look for Marquette to pull away in this one.
LEAN MARQUETTE-5