Illinois Fighting Illini vs. Duquesne Dukes: A Second Round NCAA Tournament Matchup

The Illinois Fighting Illini (27-8) will lock horns with the Duquesne Dukes (25-11) in a highly anticipated second round NCAA Tournament matchup on Saturday, March 23. The Illini, the third seed in the East Region, are favored by 10.5 points against the 11th-seeded Dukes. The game will be played at the CHI Health Center in Omaha, Nebraska, and is scheduled to tip off at 8:40 p.m. ET.

A Look at the Illinois Fighting Illini

The Illinois Fighting Illini have been a force to be reckoned with all season long, boasting a stellar 27-8 record and a top-25 ranking in the AP Poll. They are led by a dynamic trio of Coleman Hawkins, Quincy Guerrier, and Terrence Shannon Jr. Hawkins, a senior forward, is an all-around contributor, averaging 12.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 1.5 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game. Guerrier, also a senior forward, is a force in the paint, notching 9.7 points and 6.2 rebounds per game. Shannon Jr., a junior guard, is the team's leading scorer, pouring in 16.4 points per game while adding 4.9 rebounds and 3.5 assists.

The Duquesne Dukes: A Cinderella Story

The Duquesne Dukes have captured the hearts of college basketball fans with their Cinderella run in this year's NCAA Tournament. The 11th-seeded Dukes upset sixth-seeded BYU in the first round, marking their first tournament victory since 1969. They are led by senior guard Dae Dae Grant, who is averaging 16.7 points per game and is a threat from beyond the arc. Fousseyni Drame, a senior forward, brings experience and versatility to the Dukes' lineup, contributing 6.8 points and 5.8 rebounds per game.

Expert Betting Advice from SportsLine

According to a projection model from SportsLine, a renowned source for college basketball picks and betting advice, the Illinois Fighting Illini are the smart pick against the Duquesne Dukes. The model projects Illinois to cover the 10.5-point spread and emerge victorious. For those seeking a more conservative bet, the model suggests playing the Under on the total points scored, which is set at 148.5.

A Thrilling Second Round Battle

The Illinois Fighting Illini and Duquesne Dukes are both hungry for success in this year's NCAA Tournament. The Illini, with their star-studded lineup and impressive regular season record, are the clear favorites. However, the Dukes have proven that they are not to be underestimated, and they will be looking to continue their magical run. This second round matchup promises to be an exciting and competitive affair, with both teams giving it their all to advance to the Sweet 16.