The Tennessee State Tigers (8-19, 5-10 OVC) close out their home schedule at Gentry Center against the Eastern Illinois Panthers (14-14, 7-8 OVC). Action starts at 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 23, 2019.
Eastern Illinois Panthers vs. Tennessee State Tigers Betting Odds
Both teams lost in their last game. The Tigers lost a tough one against the SIUE Cougars, 85-84, while the Panthers were blown out by the Belmont Bruins, 99-58.
Eastern Illinois had a better turnover percentage (15.9 vs. 14.8) while Tennessee State held SIUE to an offensive rebounding percentage of 20.6 (below their season average of 30.3). Donte Fitzpatrick-Dorsey played a key role for Tennessee State with 23 points and nine rebounds. Mack Smith, meanwhile played well for Eastern Illinois, recording 10 points and five rebounds.
The Tigers edged out the Panthers in this series last year, taking two out of three contests. In the last game, Eastern Illinois won 73-71. The Panthers’ offensive rebounding percentage was their largest advantage over the Tigers. Eastern Illinois had a rate of 20.6, while Tennessee State posted a mark of 12.9. This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
This contest should be a showdown of conflicting styles. Tennessee State has preferred to play fast (39th in possessions per game), while Eastern Illinois has been slower-paced (159th in possessions per game).
Eastern Illinois Panthers at Tennessee State Tigers Free Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Tennessee State, ATS Winner – Tennessee State, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Tennessee State ranks 44th in assists allowed per game (11.3) while Eastern Illinois ranks 252nd (15.6).
- The Tigers average 7.5 steals per game, which ranks 49th in the nation. The Panthers rank 151st in steals allowed per game (6.8).
- Eastern Illinois ranks 73rd in blocks per game (3.9) while Tennessee State ranks 144th in blocks allowed per game (3.8).
- The Tigers rank 23rd in three pointers allowed per game (18.9) while the Panthers rank 211th (23.9).
- Tennessee State ranks 140th in rebounds allowed per game (34.6) while Eastern Illinois ranks 253rd (37.5).
Bettings Trends:
- The Panthers’ average margin of defeat in their last five games has been 11.0, up from 4.5 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Tigers have scored an average of 72.2 points per game (0.1 above their season average) and allowed an average of 80.2 points per game (2.7 above their season average).
