Syracuse Orange at Virginia Cavaliers Free Prediction 01/11/20

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The nation’s top scoring defense will be at home in John Paul Jones Arena, when the 18th-ranked Virginia Cavaliers (11-3, 3-1 ACC) clash with the Syracuse Orange (8-7, 1-3 ACC). The game starts at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 11, 2020, and will air on ESPN.

Syracuse Orange at Virginia Cavaliers Betting Odds

Both teams fell in their last game. The Cavaliers fell to the Boston College Eagles, 60-53, while the Orange were defeated by the Virginia Tech Hokies, 67-63.

Syracuse had a better turnover percentage (13.0 vs. 15.7) while Virginia held Boston College to an offensive rebounding percentage of 17.2 (below their season average of 25.0). Virginia was lifted by Braxton Key, who recorded 16 points and eight rebounds. Elijah Hughes led the way for Syracuse, contributing 18 points.

In their first matchup this year, Kihei Clark led the Cavaliers to a 48-34 win. He registered a double-double with 10 points and 11 rebounds. The Cavaliers’ 33.3 offensive rebounding percentage was their biggest advantage over the Orange, who had a mark of 17.8.

Half-court execution will be of utmost importance when two of the nation’s slowest-paced teams go head-to-head. Virginia ranks 353rd in possessions per game (59.7) and Syracuse is 303rd (67.1). Also, the Orange rank 49th in offensive efficiency (109.8), while the Cavaliers rank first in defensive efficiency (79.7).

Syracuse Orange at Virginia Cavaliers Betting Pick

Prediction: SU Winner – Syracuse, ATS Winner – Syracuse, O/U – Over

Betting Notes:

  • Virginia ranks second in assists allowed per game (7.6) while Syracuse ranks 229th (16.7).
  • The Orange rank 77th in steals per game (7.5) while the Cavaliers rank 125th in steals allowed per game (6.9).
  • Syracuse ranks 43rd in blocks per game (4.4) while Virginia ranks seventh in blocks allowed per game (2.1).
  • The Orange rank 43rd in three pointers attempted per game (26.5) while the Cavaliers rank 214th (19.1).
  • Virginia ranks ninth in rebounds allowed per game (29.4) while Syracuse ranks 169th (36.3).

Bettings Trends:

  • During their last five games, the Cavaliers have scored an average of 59.6 points per game (7.6 above their season average) and allowed an average of 53.8 points per game (9.3 above their season average).
  • The Orange’s average margin of victory in their last five games has been 6.6, down from 6.8 for the season.