Western Kentucky Hilltoppers vs. Rice Owls Free Prediction 02/07/19

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The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (13-10, 6-4 CUSA) will be at Tudor Fieldhouse to challenge the Rice Owls (9-14, 4-6 CUSA) in a CUSA matchup. The game will air on CBS Sports Network at 9 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 7, 2019.

Western Kentucky Hilltoppers at Rice Owls Betting Odds

In their last contest, the Owls lost to the Old Dominion Monarchs, 80-76, while the Hilltoppers were victorious over the UTEP Miners, 76-59.

Western Kentucky played a flawless game. They had a ridiculous free throw rate of 0.333 (above their season average of 0.276) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 32.4 (above their season average of 29.8). For those same stats, UTEP put up marks of 0.148 and 23.1, respectively. Rice, meanwhile, had a better turnover percentage (13.0 vs. 13.5). Rice’s Jack Williams had a good game, putting up 12 points and 10 rebounds. Western Kentucky was lifted by Charles Bassey, who had 17 points and 12 rebounds.

The Hilltoppers won the lone contest between these two teams last season, 85-66. Western Kentucky’s free throw rate was their largest advantage over Rice. The Hilltoppers had a rate of 0.153, while the Owls posted a mark of 0.103. This is the first time these teams will meet this year.

Western Kentucky vs. Rice Free Pick

College Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Western Kentucky, ATS Winner – Western Kentucky, O/U – Over

Betting Notes:

  • Rice ranks 55th in three pointers attempted per game (25.7) while Western Kentucky ranks 284th (17.0).
  • The Owls average 13.7 assists per game, which ranks 124th in the NCAA. The Hilltoppers rank 138th in assists allowed per game (13.2).
  • The Hilltoppers average 37.3 rebounds per game, which ranks 83rd in the country. The Owls rank 177th in rebounds allowed per game (35.7).
  • Western Kentucky ranks 16th in blocks per game (5.0) while Rice ranks 102nd (3.3).

Bettings Trends:

  • During their last five games, the Owls have scored an average of 76.2 points per game (0.7 above their season average) and allowed an average of 74.8 points per game (3.5 below their season average).
  • The Hilltoppers’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 5.0, up from 1.8 for the season.