The Iowa-Illinois total is moving north ,but the question is why? They played twice last year in games that totaled 183 and 201 and my guess is this is prevalent factor in public buying over.
Prior to last years scoring outburst in this series, Illinois averaged 63.8 in 5 previous trip to Iowa.Illini off a 95 point outburst against Minnesota and that coupled with last years results has bettors pushing this total to 159. Not one I have interest in but I think it stays under.
Sunday, 01/20/2019 (821) ILLINOIS vs. (822) IOWA
Favoring: Over on the first half line.
ILLINOIS is 18-5 OVER (+12.5 Units) the 1rst half total after playing a game as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was ILLINOIS 35.8, OPPONENT 34.9 - (Rating = 3*)
Sunday, 01/20/2019 (821) ILLINOIS vs. (822) IOWA
Favoring: Over on the first half line.
ILLINOIS is 10-1 OVER (+8.9 Units) the 1rst half total after playing 2 consecutive games as an underdog over the last 2 seasons.
The average score was ILLINOIS 37.4, OPPONENT 35.6 - (Rating = 3*)
The public is actually fairly split on this game, with 53% of bettors taking the over, but sharps have been pounding the over. It’s getting 82% of the cash and has had multiple steam moves triggered on it.
This combination has helped it rise 3.5 points since opening.