Furman Paladins vs. Western Carolina Catamounts Betting Prediction 02/07/19

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The Furman Paladins (18-5, 7-4 SoCon) will be at the Ramsey Center to take on the Western Carolina Catamounts (6-18, 3-8 SoCon) in a SoCon matchup. Action gets underway at 7:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 7, 2019, and can be seen on ESPN 3.

Furman Paladins vs. Western Carolina Catamounts ATS Odds

In their last game, the Catamounts fell to the Samford Bulldogs, 92-81, while the Paladins defeated the Mercer Bears, 74-63.

The Paladins, who came into the game averaging an effective field goal percentage of 0.552, had an extraordinary mark of 0.711 and had a free throw rate of 0.222 (above their season average of 0.172). Western Carolina, on the other hand, had an offensive rebounding percentage of 37.8 (above their season average of 30.5). Onno Steger fueled Western Carolina with 21 points and 11 rebounds. Meanwhile, Furman was led by Jordan Lyons, who contributed 24 points.

In their first matchup this year, Matt Rafferty led the Paladins to a 90-88 victory. He notched a double-double with 21 points and 15 rebounds. Furman’s 0.205 free throw rate was their biggest strength over Western Carolina, who had a rate of 0.150.

The ineffective offense of Western Carolina will clash against the elite defense of Furman. The Catamounts currently rank 260th in offensive efficiency, while the Paladins are 45th in defensive efficiency. The Paladins should have the advantage on that end of the court.

Furman Paladins at Western Carolina Catamounts Pick

College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Furman, ATS Winner – Furman, O/U – Over

Betting Notes:

  • Furman ranks 12th in steals per game (9.0) while Western Carolina ranks 228th (4.4).
  • The Paladins rank 66th in blocks per game (3.9) while the Catamounts rank 150th in blocks allowed per game (4.0).
  • Western Carolina ranks 28th in rebounds allowed per game (31.4) while Furman ranks 109th (34.2).
  • The Paladins rank 22nd in assists per game (16.5) while the Catamounts rank 187th (12.3).
  • Furman averages 29.2 three pointers per game, which ranks sixth in the country. Western Carolina ranks 91st in three pointers allowed per game (21.4).

Bettings Trends:

  • The Paladins’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 5.8, down from 11.5 for the season.
  • During their last five games, the Catamounts have scored an average of 79.6 points per game (7.8 above their season average) and allowed an average of 87.8 points per game (7.8 above their season average).