The Eastern Michigan Eagles (10-5, 0-2 MAC) will be at the Convocation Center to meet the Northern Illinois Huskies (8-7, 1-1 MAC) in a MAC matchup. Action starts at 4:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 11, 2020.
Eastern Michigan Eagles vs. Northern Illinois Huskies Betting Odds
Both teams were beaten in their last outing. The Huskies lost a tough one against the Central Michigan Chippewas, 68-67, while the Eagles fell to the Ohio Bobcats, 74-68.
Eastern Michigan did a fantastic job of making free throws (10-13; 76.9 percent) while Northern Illinois forced Central Michigan into a turnover percentage of 19.3 (above their season average of 13.9). Northern Illinois received a boost from Eugene German, who had 20 points. Yeikson Montero, meanwhile had a good outing for Eastern Michigan, contributing 18 points, five rebounds and five steals.
The Eagles dominated this series last year, winning both contests. In the last matchup, Eastern Michigan won 75-69. Eastern Michigan made good use of their 28 trips to the free throw line, making 23 of them (82.1 percent). Northern Illinois, meanwhile, was 12-16 (75.0 percent). This is the first time these teams will battle this year.
Half-court execution will be at a premium when a pair of the country’s slowest-paced teams battle. Northern Illinois ranks 276th in possessions per game (68.0) and Eastern Michigan is 256th (68.6).
Eastern Michigan Eagles vs. Northern Illinois Huskies Free Pick
Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Northern Illinois, ATS Winner – Northern Illinois, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Eastern Michigan ranks first in steals per game (11.8) while Northern Illinois ranks 172nd (5.7).
- The Eagles rank 229th in assists per game (10.9) while the Huskies rank 237th (10.5).
- The Huskies rank 41st in rebounds per game (39.5) while the Eagles rank 178th (34.7).
- Northern Illinois ranks 115th in three pointers attempted per game (22.9) while Eastern Michigan ranks 226th in three pointers allowed per game (25.0).
Bettings Trends:
- The Huskies’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 1.0, down from 4.4 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Eagles have scored an average of 59.6 points per game (6.8 below their season average) and allowed an average of 72.2 points per game (10.1 above their season average).