Friday features a light college basketball slate with several mid-major teams and a handful of high-major schools taking the floor on the fifth Friday of January 2026. Can #20 St. Louis cover a tough game against Dayton as double-digit home favorites? Will #3 Michigan knock off #7 Michigan State in a Big Ten rivalry clash on Friday night? Read on for our Friday CBB Best Bets Jan. 30 article.
CBB Best Bet: Dayton +11.5 over St. Louis
I like the Flyers here. Dayton is primed to cover the 11.5-point spread on Friday due to their historical dominance and situational efficiency. The Flyers are a solid 7-4 ATS this season when playing an opponent on equal rest, proving they maintain composure when they lack a rest advantage. Furthermore, their 5-3 ATS record against ranked opponents since 2023 highlights a knack for rising to the occasion in high-stakes environments against good teams. Most tellingly, Dayton has owned this matchup recently, going 8-2 straight up and 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games against St. Louis, suggesting they have the schematic edge to keep this contest within reach. Final score projection: ST. LOUIS BILLIKENS 76, DAYTON FLYERS 71.
CBB Best Bet: Michigan -1.5 over Michigan State
I’m backing the Wolverines in this one. Michigan is well-positioned to cover the 1.5-point spread as road favorites on Friday by relying on their proven ability to perform in high-pressure environments. The Wolverines have been battle-tested this season, boasting a sharp 3-1 ATS record against ranked opponents, including marquee wins over Auburn, Gonzaga, USC, and Nebraska. Their efficiency is further bolstered by a 4-3 ATS mark when playing an opponent on equal rest this year, indicating that Dusty May’s squad excels when given a level playing field to prepare. As the nation’s third-ranked team, Michigan’s offensive depth should allow them to navigate the hostile atmosphere in East Lansing and maintain their edge in this top-10 clash. Final score projection: MICHIGAN WOLVERINES 77, MICHIGAN STATE SPARTANS 74.
Friday CBB Best Bets Jan. 30
- Dayton Flyers +11.5
- Michigan Wolverines -1.5
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