Michigan State vs. Auburn Predictions, Picks & Odds: March Madness Elite 8

The journey to the Final Four is almost at its end, with just one victory needed for the Michigan State Spartans and Auburn Tigers to secure their place in Phoenix. With that brings about some Michigan State vs. Auburn picks!
This matchup features two very different styles: the No. 2 seed Spartans, known for their disciplined and experienced play under coach Tom Izzo, face off against the No. 1 seed Auburn, which relies on a fast-paced offense and strong defensive pressure. Both teams demonstrated their resilience in the Sweet 16 by overcoming second-half deficits.
Michigan State vs. Auburn Predictions For March Madness Elite 8, 3/30
Michigan State made a comeback against Ole Miss, thanks to Jase Richardson's impressive 20-point game, while Auburn pulled ahead of Michigan with a powerful late-game surge led by Tahaad Pettiford.
As these two elite programs go head-to-head for a Final Four spot, fans can expect an intense game filled with strategic adjustments, standout performances, and possible betting opportunities. Let’s dive into the odds, matchups, and top Michigan State vs. Auburn predictions for the Elite 8 clash between Michigan State and Auburn.
Michigan State Spartans: January-February-Izzo
Michigan State's season followed a well-known pattern—starting off with some challenges, facing doubts in the middle, and then, just like clockwork, hitting a strong stride when it was most important.
Tom Izzo’s Spartans excel during the tough months of January and February, focusing on tough defense and making crucial shots. Their top-ranked three-point defense made it hard for opponents to score, while experienced guards kept the offense on track.
As March came around, MSU looked like a seasoned tournament team, pulling off wins against tough rivals. With Izzo leading the way, the Spartans' late-season push seemed certain, showing once again that betting against Michigan State in March is a risky move.
Auburn Tigers: Seniority Carrying The Way
Auburn's biggest strength is its experience. While many teams depend on new players, the Tigers have a solid group of seasoned veterans who have faced the ups and downs of college basketball.
Johni Broome is a key player in the front court, known for his strong rebounding skills, while Tahaad Pettiford and Denver Jones bring scoring and leadership to the backcourt. Their well-rounded approach has placed them among the top 10 teams in the nation for scoring, and their defense against three-point shots has made it tough for even the best shooters.
With these experienced players at the helm, Auburn stays calm under pressure, making them a formidable contender in the tournament.
How To Watch The Elite 8 Of March Madness 2025
The exciting Elite 8 of the NCAA Tournament kicked off yesterday, featuring thrilling games and unforgettable moments.
To keep up with all the action, including our Michigan State vs. Auburn predictions and other matches happening today, there are plenty of ways to watch:
TV Channels
- CBS
Streaming Options
- March Madness Live, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV
Michigan State vs. Auburn Game Details
- Date: Sunday, March 30, 2025
- Location: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
- Start Time: 5:05 PM ET
- TV: CBS
Michigan State vs. Auburn Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines
BetMGM Sportsbook promptly released the Michigan State vs. Auburn odds and lines for the Elite 8 matchup right after the announcement. Here are the most recent figures:
- Michigan State Spartans (+180) vs. Auburn Tigers (-220)
- Spread: Michigan State +4.5 (-105) vs. Auburn -4.5 (-115)
- Game Total: Over 147.5 (-110) vs. Under 147.5 (-110)
Michigan State vs. Auburn Spread Pick: Spartans +4.5 (-105 at BetMGM)
Michigan State is coming into this game as a 4.5-point underdog, but there are many reasons that favor our Michigan State vs. Auburn picks having Tom Izzo’s team cover the spread. The Spartans have faced tough competition all season, proving they can handle pressure, especially when they’re the underdogs.
On defense, MSU has one of the top perimeter defenses in the nation, allowing opponents to shoot only 27.8% from beyond the arc, which ranks first in the country. This is crucial against an Auburn team that relies heavily on outside shooting, hitting 36.8% from three-point range, placing them 46th nationally.
If Michigan State can shut down Auburn’s outside game, they’ll force the Tigers into a more challenging half-court style, which plays to MSU’s strengths on defense. Moreover, Michigan State excels in rebounding, ranking 8th in the nation with 37.0 rebounds per game, giving them an advantage over Auburn, which is 63rd in that category.
In a close match, having extra possessions can make a big difference. The Spartans have a history of performing well in March under Izzo, and with impressive contributions from players like Coen Carr, who has a shooting percentage of 65.2% from the field and 50.0% from three in the tournament, MSU has the offensive firepower to stay competitive.
Considering their solid defense, rebounding strength, and experience in clutch situations, betting on MSU +4.5 (-105 at BetMGM) seems like a wise choice to make in today’s Michigan State vs. Auburn predictions.
Michigan State vs. Auburn Injury Report & Starting Lineup
Michigan State Spartans Injury Report
- C. Walton – F: Out (Redshirt)
Michigan State Spartans Projected Starters
- C. Carr – F: 13.7 PPG, 6.0 RPG
- J. Richardson – G: 13.7 PPG, 4.3 RPG
- J. Akins – G: 13.3 PPG, 3.3 RPG
- T. Holloman – G: 12.7 PPG, 3.7 APG
- J. Fears – G: 6.7 PPG, 4.7 APG
Auburn Tigers Injury Report
- None
Auburn Tigers Projected Starters
- T. Pettiford – G: 19.7 PPG, 3.7 APG
- J. Broome – F: 14.7 PPG, 13.0 RPG
- D. Jones – G: 14.3 PPG, 3.7 APG
- M. Kelly – G: 11.0 PPG, 3.0 RPG
- C. Baker-Mazara – G: 9.3 PPG, 2.0 APG
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