USC Trojans vs Michigan Wolverines Picks and Predictions for Friday, January 2, 2026

By: David Anicetti Published 01/02/2026, 12:40 AM ET

USC travels to Ann Arbor on Friday night for a Big Ten matchup against Michigan. The Trojans are 12-1 overall and 1-1 in conference play after a 102-63 win over UC Santa Cruz. Michigan enters at 12-0 overall and 2-0 in the Big Ten, coming off a 112-71 home win against McNeese State. Win and cash in with our free college basketball picks.

USC vs Michigan Game Information

Date: Friday, January 2
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Location: Crisler Center, Ann Arbor, MI
TV: Peacock

USC Trojans Outlook

USC scores 89.4 points per game while shooting 49% from the field. Chad Baker-Mazara leads the Trojans with an average of 21.0 points per game and adds a team-high 3.2 assists while playing heavy minutes. Rodney Rice provides another scoring option at 20.3 points per game, giving USC strong guard production. Ezra Ausar adds 17.1 points and brings physical play inside. Jacob Cofie anchors the frontcourt with 6.7 rebounds and 2.1 blocks per game, helping USC protect the rim.

Defensively, USC allows 75.3 points per game. The Trojans rely on length and shot blocking, averaging 6.5 blocks per contest. Turnovers have been an issue at times, and USC faces a challenge against teams that move the ball well and shoot well in the half-court.

Key Stats Per Game

Points: 89.4
Points Allowed: 75.3
Rebounds: 38.1
Assists: 17.4
Blocks: 6.5
Steals: 6.9
Turnovers: 12.2

Michigan Wolverines Outlook

Michigan averages 96.8 points per game and shoots 54% from the field, making it one of the most productive offenses in the country. Yaxel Lendeborg leads the team with 15.7 points and 7.2 rebounds per game while shooting nearly 60% from the floor. Aday Mara controls the paint with 8.3 rebounds and 2.6 blocks per game. Elliot Cadeau directs the offense with 5.6 assists and keeps Michigan’s tempo steady.

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On defense, Michigan allows just 66.5 points per game. The Wolverines rebound at a high level and limit second-chance points. Ball movement is a major strength, with Michigan averaging over 21 assists per game, and turnovers are kept under control.

Key Stats Per Game

Points: 96.8
Points Allowed: 66.5
Rebounds: 45.0
Assists: 21.6
Blocks: 6.4
Steals: 7.3
Turnovers: 12.8

USC Trojans vs Michigan Wolverines Prediction

Michigan will control this game with strong scoring and consistent ball movement. The Wolverines will generate clean looks throughout the game and dominate the glass, limiting USC’s second chances. USC will struggle to match Michigan’s pace and fall behind as defensive stops become harder to make. Final Score Prediction: Michigan Wolverines win and cover ATS, 94-72. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for USC with the Thrillz promo code. Make the most of your bets on Michigan by using the sportsbook promos. Make sure when you place your USC vs Michigan bet you are using the bet365 bonus code.

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