The No. 25 USC Trojans (6-4) and the Akron Zips (6-2) clash in the Diamond Head Classic at Stan Sheriff Center. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on Friday, December 22, 2017, and it can be seen on ESPNU.
Akron Zips vs. USC Trojans Betting Preview
The Zips won big over the Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils in their last game, 81-63. Daniel Utomi was the top scorer from either team with 23 points on 7-for-12 shooting. The Zips held the Delta Devils to an effective field goal percentage of 0.373 (below the 0.549 mark opponents have averaged against Akron this season) and had an offensive rebounding percentage of 44.1 (above their season average of 31.8).
In the Trojans last matchup, they were blown out by the Princeton Tigers, 103-93. Chimezie Metu was USC’s leading scorer with 25 points on 10-for-16 shooting. One of Princeton’s largest strengths was getting to the free throw line. They had 28 free throw attempts, while USC had 20.
USC could put on a ball-control clinic in this matchup. Since last season, USC ranks 52nd in the nation at avoiding errors (turnover percentage of 16.1 percent), while Akron has forced the 79th-fewest turnovers (17.8 percent).
Of Akron’s 7 games that accepted bets, four have finished under the O/U total, while 4 of USC’s 9 games have finished over the O/U total. The Zips have the sizable advantage straight up (SU) (6-2 vs. 6-4), but both teams are at the .500 mark against the spread (ATS).
Akron Zips vs. USC Trojans Prediction
Predictions: SU Winner – Akron, ATS Winner – Akron, O/U – Under
Betting Notes (2016-Present):
- The Zips average 14.5 assists per game, which ranks 118th in the NCAA. The Trojans rank 135th in assists allowed per game (14.3).
- Akron ranks 34th in three pointers attempted per game (26.9) while USC ranks 242nd in three pointers allowed per game (23.5).
- The Trojans rank 20th in rebounds per game (36.8) while the Zips rank 170th (35.1).
- USC ranks 30th in blocks per game (5.3) while Akron ranks 124th (3.3).
