USC Trojans vs. UCLA Bruins Betting Prediction 02/28/19

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The UCLA Bruins (15-13, 8-7 Pac-12) close out their home schedule at Pauley Pavilion against the USC Trojans (15-13, 8-7 Pac-12). Action begins at 9 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 28, 2019, and can be seen on ESPN.

USC Trojans at UCLA Bruins ATS Odds

In their last contest, the Bruins defeated the Oregon Ducks, 90-83, while the Trojans were beaten by the Oregon State Beavers, 67-62.

UCLA played a perfect game. They had a superb free throw rate of 0.316 (above their season average of 0.232) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 47.1 (above their season average of 31.2). Oregon had marks of 0.241 and 39.4, respectively, for those same stats. USC, meanwhile, had a better turnover percentage (14.7 vs. 17.0). Jaylen Hands fueled UCLA with 27 points and nine assists. USC was lifted by Kevin Porter Jr., who finished with 11 points and 10 rebounds.

In their first matchup this season, Nick Rakocevic led the Trojans to an 80-67 win. He notched a double-double with 21 points and 12 rebounds. USC’s 0.125 free throw rate was their biggest advantage over UCLA, who had a mark of 0.056.

The offensive glass could be a major edge for UCLA in this battle. The Bruins rank 86th in offensive rebounding percentage (31.7 percent), while USC ranks 254th in defensive rebounding percentage (70.2 percent).

USC Trojans vs. UCLA Bruins Odds Pick

Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Ucla, ATS Winner – UCLA, O/U – Over

Betting Notes:

  • USC averages 16.4 assists per game, which ranks 18th in the nation. UCLA ranks 263rd in assists allowed per game (16.8).
  • The Trojans average 6.3 steals per game, which ranks 134th in the country. The Bruins rank 193rd in steals allowed per game (7.4).
  • The Bruins rank ninth in rebounds per game (40.9) while the Trojans rank 247th in rebounds allowed per game (37.5).
  • USC ranks 191st in three pointers attempted per game (21.4) while UCLA ranks 274th in three pointers allowed per game (26.7).

Bettings Trends:

  • The Trojans’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 5.6, up from 4.4 for the season.
  • During their last five games, the Bruins have scored an average of 81.0 points per game (2.9 above their season average) and allowed an average of 82.8 points per game (6.4 above their season average).