NCAAB Predictions: Illinois State vs Murray State Odds & Best Bets Jan. 28

Avery K. Bristow

Published: January 28, 2026 10:21 PM ET

The Illinois State Redbirds will face off against the Murray State Racers on January 28 at the CFSB Center in Murray, Kentucky. This NCAA basketball matchup has garnered interest as Murray State is currently favored by 3.5 points. The game is set to tip off at 9:00 PM ET and will be broadcast on ESPN.

NCAAB Predictions: Illinois State vs Murray State Odds & Best Bets

Game Overview

Murray State enters this game as the betting favorite. The spread is set at -3.5 for Murray State, while the total points over/under is 159.5. Betting enthusiasts can place wagers on this game through various platforms, including BetMGM.

Predictions and Betting Trends

Prediction models give Murray State a 61.9% chance of winning based on recent performances and player statistics. When analyzing the spread, Murray State has a 53.8% confidence level to cover the -3.5 point spread.

Illinois State Betting Insights

Illinois State has an 11-9 record against the spread this season.
The team has covered the first half spread in 21 of their last 35 games, earning a return of 12% on investment.
They have scored the game total over in 11 of their last 18 away games.
Illinois State is shooting 48% from the field, ranking among the top teams in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Murray State Betting Insights

Murray State holds a 12-9 record against the spread this season.
They have won 14 out of their last 16 home games with a 12% ROI.
The team averaged 87.3 points per game this season, the highest in the Missouri Valley Conference.

Defensive Performance

Defensive stats reveal that Illinois State has allowed an average of 67.0 points per game, ranking them 27th among Division 1 teams. In contrast, Murray State excels at defending the three-pointer, allowing only 5.3 made threes per game this season, showcasing their strong defensive capabilities.

Conclusion

This highly anticipated matchup between Illinois State and Murray State presents exciting betting opportunities. With favorable odds and compelling trends, both teams are poised for a competitive game. Bettors should stay informed and consider these insights before placing their bets for this NCAA showdown.