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Kansas vs. Kentucky prediction and odds for Saturday, January 28 (Back the Jayhawks)

By Iain MacMillan

Jan 23, 2023; Waco, Texas, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Dajuan Harris Jr. (3) dribbles the ball against Baylor Bears guard LJ Cryer (4) during the first half at Ferrell Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 23, 2023; Waco, Texas, USA; Kansas Jayhawks guard Dajuan Harris Jr. (3) dribbles the ball against Baylor Bears guard LJ Cryer (4) during the first half at Ferrell Center. Mandatory Credit: Chris Jones-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Kansas Jayhawks will take on the Kentucky Wildcats in one of the most anticipated games of the Big 12 vs. SEC series.

Kansas will look to rebound after three-straight losses after starting the season with a 16-1 record. Meanwhile, Kentucky has trended in the complete opposite direction, winning four-straight after stumbling out of the gates in SEC play.

Let’s dive into the betting odds for this game, and then I’ll give you my best bet.

Kansas vs. Kentucky odds, spread, and total

Kansas vs. Kentucky prediction and pick

I think the difference maker in this game is going to be the interior defense of both teams. Both teams rank in the top third amongst all teams in two-point shot rate, with Kentucky coming in at 61st in that stat. 67.8% of the Wildcats shots come from two-point range.

But, the Jayhawks have the advantage in this area on defense. They’re 38th in opponent two-point field goal percentage, keeping teams to shooting 45.8% from two-point range. That mark has improved on the road, keeping teams to shooting 43.2% from two-point range when away from their home court.

Looking for Kansas to also do a good job forcing turnovers. The Jayhawks rank 54th in opponent turnovers per possession, forcing a turnover on 20.6% of its opponents possessions.

I think this game is destined to go down to the wire, and with that being the case, I’d much rather bet on the team that’s getting points as opposed to the one that’s laying points.

Give me Kansas with the points.

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Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.

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