Unlock the Winning College Basketball Bets with Greg Peterson
Omaha vs. Iowa State
Omaha has shown a tendency to slow down games, ranking a lowly 258th in possessions per game. Facing an Iowa State team that excels in defense, ranking eighth in the country in fewest points per possession allowed, Omaha's offensive struggles (250th in points per possession and 191st in percent of possessions ending in a turnover) are likely to be contained. Our pick: Omaha vs. Iowa State Under 149 (Greg’s Handicapped Total: 142).
This matchup presents a unique opportunity for bettors to analyze the differences in team styles and strategies. Iowa State's defensive prowess could prove to be the deciding factor in keeping the total score below the projected mark.
Illinois Chicago vs. Little Rock
Illinois Chicago entered Saturday in a somewhat interesting position, ranked 264th in points allowed per possession but 98th in points scored per possession. They also hold a decent ranking of 34th in possessions per game. Little Rock, on the other hand, is ranked 106th in possessions per game.
The contrast in offensive and defensive efficiencies makes this a game with potential for an over. Our pick: Illinois Chicago vs. Little Rock Over 144.5 (Greg’s Handicapped Total: 150.5). It will be interesting to see how these two teams' styles mesh on the court and if the higher-scoring potential can be realized.
Presbyterian vs. Miami
The Hurricanes have been a force on the offensive end, entering Saturday ranked 31st in points scored per possession. However, defensively, they struggle, ranking 278th in points allowed per possession. Presbyterian, while not a high-scoring team (284th in total possessions per game), plays at a faster pace on the road, averaging 4.5 more possessions per game.
This creates an interesting dynamic, as Miami's offense may struggle against Presbyterian's defense, but the increased possessions could lead to a higher-scoring game. Our pick: Presbyterian vs. Miami Over 143.5 (Greg’s Handicapped Total: 153.5).
New Orleans vs. Iowa
Both teams are known for their fast-paced play, with Iowa ranked 22nd in possessions per game and New Orleans ranked 56th. Coupled with a defense that ranks 275th in points allowed per possession, this sets the stage for a high-scoring affair.
Betting on the over in this matchup seems like a reasonable choice as both teams' offensive capabilities and lackluster defense could lead to a total that exceeds the projected mark. Our pick: New Orleans vs. Iowa Over 163.5 (Greg’s Handicapped Total: 169.5).
Saint Louis vs. Illinois State
Illinois State has made significant improvements in their 3-point shooting this year, hitting 38.3% of their 3-point shots compared to just 28.8% last season. They face a Saint Louis defense that ranks 294th in opponents’ 3-point shooting percentage and has struggled offensively, ranking 229th in turnovers per possession.
This gives Illinois State an advantage on the offensive end and could lead to them covering the spread. Our pick: Illinois State +2 (Greg’s Handicap: Illinois State -2.5). It will be interesting to see how Illinois State's improved shooting translates to on-court success.
Denver vs. CS Fullerton
CS Fullerton has had a rough start to the season without a dominant floor general, with no player averaging more than 1.5 assists per game. This has affected their overall performance, ranking outside the top 285 in both points scored and points allowed per possession. Denver holds a slight edge on the glass, facing a Fullerton team ranked 326th in rebound percentage.
Despite Denver's advantage, the lack of offensive firepower from CS Fullerton makes this a close call. Our pick: Denver +3 (Greg’s Handicap: Denver -2.5). It will be a battle on both ends of the court in this matchup.
Arkansas State vs. UAB
Arkansas State has improved their defensive performance, ranking 66th nationally in points allowed per possession. UAB's offense, on the other hand, has struggled to score outside the painted area, ranking 272nd in 3-point shooting percentage and making only 27.5% of their 3-point shots at home. Arkansas State entered Saturday ranked 212th in points per possession.
This defensive-oriented matchup suggests a lower-scoring game, and our pick reflects that. Arkansas State vs. UAB Under 159 (Greg’s Handicapped Total: 154.5). It will be a test of which team's defense can hold up under pressure.