The Northern Kentucky Norse (21-7, 11-4 Hor) close out their home schedule at BB&T Arena against the Cleveland State Vikings (8-21, 3-13 Hor). Action gets underway at 7 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 23, 2019, and can be seen on ESPN 3.
Cleveland State Vikings vs. Northern Kentucky Norse Betting Odds
In their last contest, the Norse were victorious over the Youngstown State Penguins, 76-69, while the Vikings lost big to the Wright State Raiders, 87-61.
Northern Kentucky dominated nearly every facet of the game. They had a ridiculous free throw rate of 0.578 (above their season average of 0.242) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 48.0 (above their season average of 31.5). For those same stats, Youngstown State had marks of 0.172 and 38.2, respectively. Cleveland State, meanwhile, did a fantastic job of making free throws (10-13; 76.9 percent). Drew McDonald fueled Northern Kentucky with 27 points and 12 rebounds. Cleveland State, meanwhile, rallied around Seth Millner, who put up 11 points and six rebounds.
In their first matchup this year, McDonald led the Norse to a 91-76 win. He registered a double-double with 19 points and 15 rebounds. The Norse’s turnover percentage was their largest strength over the Vikings. Northern Kentucky had a rate of 6.5, while Cleveland State posted a mark of 13.8.
Northern Kentucky could have their way on the offensive side of the ball as their high-powered offense squares off against one of the worst defenses in the nation. The Norse rank 19th in offensive efficiency, while Cleveland State ranks 323rd in defensive efficiency.
Cleveland State Vikings vs. Northern Kentucky Norse Free Pick
Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Northern Kentucky, ATS Winner – Northern Kentucky, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Northern Kentucky ranks 52nd in rebounds allowed per game (32.4) while Cleveland State ranks 285th (39.3).
- The Norse rank 130th in steals per game (6.2) while the Vikings rank 166th in steals allowed per game (7.0).
- Northern Kentucky ranks 62nd in blocks per game (4.0) while Cleveland State ranks 96th in blocks allowed per game (3.3).
- The Norse rank 13th in assists per game (17.0) while the Vikings rank 241st in assists allowed per game (15.4).
- Northern Kentucky averages 24.6 three pointers per game, which ranks 83rd in the country. Cleveland State ranks 244th in three pointers allowed per game (24.9).
Bettings Trends:
- The Norse’s average margin of victory in their last five games has been 9.6, down from 11.5 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Vikings have scored an average of 74.0 points per game (0.6 above their season average) and allowed an average of 80.8 points per game (2.2 above their season average).
