Can Colorado’s Newfound Momentum Be Enough To Take Down The Mighty Kansas Jayhawks?

Get ready for an electrifying showdown in the heart of the Big 12 Conference as the No. 23 Kansas Jayhawks face off against the Colorado Buffaloes at the CU Events Center in Boulder, Colorado. This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, with Kansas seeking to build on their recent confidence-boosting win over Oklahoma State, while Colorado looks to capitalize on their momentum after a stunning victory over Baylor.

Date: Monday, February 24, 2025

Time: 11:00 PM ET

Arena: CU Events Center Boulder, CO

As we dive into the analysis, let’s explore what makes this game so compelling and how you can make an informed prediction.

Current Form of Both Teams

Kansas Jayhawks

Kansas has been through a rollercoaster of emotions lately, but their dominant performance against Oklahoma State was a much-needed morale boost. The Jayhawks showcased their depth with 10 players contributing to their 96-point tally, highlighting their ability to adapt and overcome adversity. Hunter Dickinson, their leading scorer, continues to be a force to be reckoned with, averaging 16.3 points per game. Zeke Mayo and Dajuan Harris Jr. also play crucial roles in the team’s offense, with Mayo’s sharp shooting and Harris Jr.’s playmaking skills making them a formidable duo.

Colorado Buffaloes

Colorado, despite their struggles in the Big 12, has shown signs of resilience. Their recent win over Baylor was a testament to their growing toughness, both physically and mentally. Julian Hammond III and Andrej Jakimovski are the Buffaloes’ top scorers, with Hammond III averaging 12.9 points per game. Jakimovski’s impressive performance against Baylor, where he scored 17 points and grabbed seven rebounds, demonstrates his ability to step up when needed.

Key Statistics and Notable Injuries

• Kansas Jayhawks:

  • Scoring Average: 76.1 points per game.

  • Defensive Efficiency: Allows 67.4 points per game.

  • Rebounding Margin: +3.4 rebounds per game.

  • Notable Players: Hunter Dickinson (C), Zeke Mayo (G), Dajuan Harris Jr. (G).

  • Injuries: No significant injuries reported.

• Colorado Buffaloes:

  • Scoring Average: Struggles to score consistently, but has shown improvement.

  • Defensive Performance: Held Baylor to 36% shooting in their last game.

  • Notable Players: Julian Hammond III (G), Andrej Jakimovski (F), Bangot Dak (C).

  • Injuries: No major injuries reported.

Why Pick Under 141.5 Total Points?

When considering the total points for this matchup, several factors suggest that the under 141.5 could be a smart choice. Here’s a step-by-step guide to support this prediction:

1. Defensive Strengths: Both teams have shown defensive prowess in recent games. Kansas has a strong defensive efficiency, while Colorado’s performance against Baylor highlighted their ability to limit opponents’ scoring.

2. Pace of Play: Kansas tends to control the tempo, which could limit Colorado’s scoring opportunities. If the Buffaloes can maintain their defensive intensity, the game might see fewer points than expected.

3. Historical Trends: The previous matchup between these teams resulted in a total of 130 points, suggesting that their contests tend to be lower-scoring.

4. Prediction Models: Let’s take a look at what some of the top NCAA Basketball prediction models have to say about this game:

   • ESPN’s BPI Model: Predicts Kansas to win 73-64.

   • KenPom Model: Forecasts a 75-66 victory for Kansas.

   • SportsLine’s Advanced Model: Suggests a score of 72-65 in favor of Kansas.

   • FiveThirtyEight’s ELO Model: Predicts Kansas to win 74-67.

   • CBS Sports’ Computer Model: Forecasts a 71-63 win for Kansas.

These predictions indicate a relatively low-scoring game, supporting the under 141.5 pick.

Conclusion

As the Kansas Jayhawks and Colorado Buffaloes prepare to face off, the stage is set for an intriguing contest. With both teams showcasing defensive strengths and the potential for a controlled tempo, the total points under 141.5 seem like a solid choice. Whether you’re a fan of the Jayhawks’ powerful offense or the Buffaloes’ growing resilience, this game promises to be an exciting matchup that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

PICK: under 141.5 total points WIN