An eight-game home winning streak is on the line for the Central Michigan Chippewas (8-6, 1-0 MAC) when they challenge the Northern Illinois Huskies (8-6, 1-0 MAC) at McGuirk Arena. The game begins at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, January 7, 2020.
Northern Illinois Huskies at Central Michigan Chippewas Betting Odds
Both teams were victorious in their last game. The Chippewas beat the Miami (OH) RedHawks 93-82, while the Huskies won a close one over the Buffalo Bulls 73-72.
Northern Illinois’ effective field goal percentage was their biggest strength over Buffalo. The Huskies had a rate of 0.620 (above their season average of 0.479), while the Bulls posted a mark of 0.413 (below their season average of 0.516). The Chippewas, meanwhile, made 14 of their 19 free throws (73.7 percent), while the RedHawks had a turnover percentage of 20.9 (above their season average of 14.2). Rob Montgomery played well for Central Michigan, recording 11 points and 10 rebounds. Lacey James, meanwhile was a key piece for Northern Illinois with 18 points and 13 rebounds.
This series was highly competitive last year, as the teams split their two games last season. The Huskies won the last contest 89-86. Northern Illinois’ rebounding was their largest advantage. The Huskies had 18 offensive rebounds and 46 total rebounds, while the Chippewas had 11 and 32, respectively. This is the first time these teams will meet this year.
It will be a matchup of contrasting styles as the fast-breaking Chippewas (ranked 11th in the country in possessions per game) will look to push the more half-court-oriented Huskies (276th in possessions per game). Furthermore, the Huskies rank 261st in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.194), while the Chippewas rank 12th in opponents’ FTA rate (0.148).
Northern Illinois vs. Central Michigan Free Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Central Michigan, ATS Winner – Central Michigan, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Central Michigan ranks sixth in steals per game (10.0) while Northern Illinois ranks 171st (5.6).
- The Chippewas rank 114th in assists per game (13.6) while the Huskies rank 228th (10.6).
- The Chippewas average 25.4 three pointers per game, which ranks 59th in the country. The Huskies rank 222nd in three pointers allowed per game (24.7).
- Northern Illinois averages 40.1 rebounds per game, which ranks 40th in the NCAA. Central Michigan ranks 182nd in rebounds allowed per game (36.5).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Chippewas have scored an average of 73.0 points per game (13.4 below their season average) and allowed an average of 85.2 points per game (8.2 above their season average).
- The Huskies have been outscored by an average of 0.6 points in their last five games. On the season, Northern Illinois has defeated opponents by an average of 4.8 points.
