The Illinois State Redbirds (14-14, 7-8 MVC) and the Drake Bulldogs (21-7, 10-5 MVC) square off at Redbird Arena. The Redbirds will attempt to put an end to their five-game losing streak. Action gets underway at 2 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 24, 2019, and can be seen on CBS Sports Network.
Drake Bulldogs at Illinois State Redbirds Betting Odds
In their last game, the Redbirds lost big to the Indiana State Sycamores, 73-50, while the Bulldogs were victorious over the Bradley Braves, 77-68.
Drake played a nearly perfect game. They had a ridiculous free throw rate of 0.564 (above their season average of 0.225) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 35.1 (above their season average of 25.8). Bradley was 0.102 and 21.2, respectively, for those same stats. Illinois State, meanwhile, had a better free throw rate (0.068 vs. 0.070). Illinois State was lifted by Phil Fayne, who put up 16 points and five rebounds. Meanwhile, Nick McGlynn played a key role for Drake with 13 points and nine rebounds.
In their first matchup this year, Milik Yarbrough led the Redbirds to a 69-55 victory. He produced 17 points, nine rebounds and five assists. Illinois State had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.591 vs. 0.462). Drake, on the other hand, had a better free throw rate (0.135 vs. 0.073).
It could be a tough game for Illinois State on the offensive glass. The Redbirds currently rank 273rd in offensive rebounding percentage (25.7 percent), while Drake ranks 94th in defensive rebounding percentage (73.9 percent).
Drake Bulldogs vs. Illinois State Redbirds ATS Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Drake, ATS Winner – Drake, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Drake ranks 31st in assists allowed per game (10.9) while Illinois State ranks 182nd (14.0).
- The Bulldogs rank 143rd in rebounds per game (35.8) while the Redbirds rank 154th in rebounds allowed per game (34.9).
- The Bulldogs rank 96th in three pointers attempted per game (24.0) while the Redbirds rank 210th in three pointers allowed per game (23.7).
- Illinois State ranks 12th in blocks allowed per game (2.3) while Drake ranks 65th (2.9).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Bulldogs have scored an average of 76.0 points per game (0.5 below their season average) and allowed an average of 75.8 points per game (4.8 above their season average).
- The Redbirds’ average margin of defeat in their last five games has been 11.8, up from 1.9 for the season.
