The Cleveland State Vikings (5-14, 0-6 Hor) and the Northern Kentucky Norse (14-4, 4-1 Hor) face off at Wolstein Center. The Vikings will attempt to put an end to their six-game losing streak. Action begins at 7 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 17, 2019.
Northern Kentucky Norse vs. Cleveland State Vikings Betting Odds
In their last matchup, the Vikings were beaten by the UIC Flames, 73-56, while the Norse beat the Wright State Raiders, 68-64.
The Norse knocked down 16 of their 22 free throws (72.7 percent) and held the Raiders to an effective field goal percentage of 0.449 (below their season average of 0.504). Cleveland State, meanwhile, had a free throw rate of 0.273 (above their season average of 0.236). Tyree Appleby fueled Cleveland State with 23 points and five rebounds. Meanwhile, Northern Kentucky received a boost from Drew McDonald, who finished with 22 points and 12 rebounds.
The Norse held the advantage in this series last year, securing victories in two out of three contests. In the most recent game, Cleveland State won 89-80. The Vikings’ turnover percentage was their biggest strength over the Norse. Cleveland State had a rate of 10.0, while Northern Kentucky posted a mark of 15.3. This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
Cleveland State might struggle to score as they battle against one of the country’s best defenses. Northern Kentucky currently ranks 52nd in defensive efficiency, while the Vikings rank 241st in offensive efficiency.
Northern Kentucky Norse at Cleveland State Vikings Odds Pick
Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Cleveland State, ATS Winner – Cleveland State, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Northern Kentucky ranks 28th in assists per game (16.5) while Cleveland State ranks 205th in assists allowed per game (15.5).
- The Norse rank 31st in steals allowed per game (5.2) while the Vikings rank 155th (7.3).
- Northern Kentucky ranks 64th in blocks per game (3.9) while Cleveland State ranks 91st in blocks allowed per game (3.4).
- The Norse rank 83rd in rebounds allowed per game (33.7) while the Vikings rank 243rd (39.5).
- Northern Kentucky ranks 64th in three pointers attempted per game (25.4) while Cleveland State ranks 211th in three pointers allowed per game (24.6).
Bettings Trends:
- The Norse’s average margin of victory in their last five games has been 10.8, down from 12.3 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Vikings have scored an average of 71.2 points per game (3.1 below their season average) and allowed an average of 81.8 points per game (4.3 above their season average).
