The Florida A&M Rattlers (11-17, 8-5 MEAC) wrap up their home schedule at Al Lawson Center against the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats (12-15, 7-6 MEAC). Action begins at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 23, 2019.
Bethune-Cookman Wildcats vs. Florida A&M Rattlers Betting Odds
Both teams were beaten in their last contest. The Rattlers lost a close one to the South Carolina State Bulldogs, 57-54, while the Wildcats were beaten by the Savannah State Tigers, 79-70.
Bethune-Cookman had a turnover percentage of 12.7 (better than their season average of 18.3) while Florida A&M held South Carolina State to an effective field goal percentage of 0.400 (below their season average of 0.474). Florida A&M was led by Isaiah Martin, who finished with 14 points and five rebounds. Meanwhile, Cletrell Pope was a key piece for Bethune-Cookman with 13 points and six rebounds.
The Wildcats dominated this series last year, taking both games. In the most recent contest, Bethune-Cookman won 89-77. Bethune-Cookman was successful at getting and making free throws. The Wildcats made 22 of their 26 free throws (84.6 percent), while the Rattlers were just 11-17 (64.7 percent). This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
The offense of Florida A&M will go head-to-head against the top-notch defense of Bethune-Cookman. The Rattlers currently rank 329th in offensive efficiency, while the Wildcats are 70th in defensive efficiency. The Wildcats should have the advantage on that side of the ball. Opposite paces will be on display in this showdown. The fast-breaking Wildcats rank 38th in possessions per game, while the slower-paced Rattlers rank 303rd.
Bethune-Cookman Wildcats vs. Florida A&M Rattlers Odds Pick
Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Florida A&M, ATS Winner – Florida A&M, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Bethune-Cookman ranks sixth in rebounds per game (41.4) while Florida A&M ranks 272nd (31.7).
- The Rattlers average 7.2 steals per game, which ranks 63rd in the NCAA. The Wildcats rank 147th in steals allowed per game (6.7).
- Florida A&M averages 3.4 blocks per game, which is ranked 107th in the country. Bethune-Cookman ranks 152nd in blocks allowed per game (3.9).
- The Rattlers rank 42nd in three pointers allowed per game (19.6) while the Wildcats rank 186th (23.2).
- Florida A&M ranks 50th in assists allowed per game (11.5) while Bethune-Cookman ranks 190th (14.1).
Bettings Trends:
- The Rattlers have outscored opponents by an average of 0.2 points in their last five games. For the season, Florida A&M has lost by an average of 3.7 points.
- During their last five games, the Wildcats have scored an average of 78.8 points per game (4.8 above their season average) and allowed an average of 72.0 points per game (0.3 below their season average).
