FIU Panthers at Rice Owls Free Prediction 01/11/20

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Expect a fast-paced game when the FIU Panthers (11-5, 2-1 CUSA) visit Rice to play the Owls (8-8, 0-3 CUSA). Action begins at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 11, 2020.

FIU Panthers vs. Rice Owls ATS Odds

Both teams were beaten in their last contest. The Owls fell to the Florida Atlantic Owls, 81-76, while the Panthers were blown out by the North Texas Mean Green, 74-56.

FIU had a better free throw rate (0.176 vs. 0.172) while Rice did a terrific job of getting to and converting from the free throw line (24-27; 88.9 percent). Drew Peterson had a solid performance for Rice, finishing with 15 points, six rebounds and five assists. Meanwhile, Osasumwen Osaghae fueled FIU with 11 points and six rebounds.

The Panthers won the only contest between these two teams last season, 86-65. The Panthers’ 16.3 turnover percentage was their largest strength over the Owls, who had a mark of 34.8. This is the first time these teams will battle this year.

There could be plenty of transition offense in this matchup that features two of the country’s more fast-breaking teams. Rice currently ranks 44th in possessions per game (73.5) and FIU is 10th (77.1).

FIU at Rice Betting Pick

Pick: SU Winner – Rice, ATS Winner – Rice, O/U – Over

Betting Notes:

  • Rice ranks 17th in three pointers attempted per game (28.3) while FIU ranks 173rd in three pointers allowed per game (23.1).
  • The Panthers rank fifth in steals per game (10.4) while the Owls rank 118th in steals allowed per game (6.8).
  • FIU ranks 26th in assists per game (16.4) while Rice ranks 112th (13.6).
  • The Owls average 37.1 rebounds per game, which ranks 107th in the nation. The Panthers rank 252nd in rebounds allowed per game (41.9).
  • FIU ranks third in blocks per game (6.9) while Rice ranks 147th (2.6).

Bettings Trends:

  • The Panthers have been outscored by an average of 4.0 points in their last five games. For the season, FIU has defeated opponents by an average of 8.0 points.
  • During their last five games, the Owls have scored an average of 74.0 points per game (0.5 above their season average) and allowed an average of 76.6 points per game (2.0 above their season average).