The Jackson State Tigers (2-9) will travel to McGuirk Arena to clash against the Central Michigan Chippewas (9-2). Action begins at 1 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 22, 2018, and can be seen on ESPN 3.
Jackson State Tigers vs. Central Michigan Chippewas ATS Odds
In their last contest, the Chippewas won big over the Concordia (MI) Cardinals, 98-67, while the Tigers were beaten by the Louisiana-Monroe Warhawks, 75-66.
Central Michigan dominated every facet of the game. They had a free throw rate of 0.308 and a turnover percentage of 13.1. For those same stats, Concordia (MI) was 0.092 and 22.6, respectively. Jackson State, meanwhile, had a better turnover percentage (15.7 vs. 19.5). Central Michigan was lifted by Kevin McKay, who recorded 27 points and five rebounds. Meanwhile, Chris Howell had a good outing for Jackson State, putting up 15 points and eight rebounds.
The Chippewas won the only contest between these two teams last season, 70-63. Central Michigan’s 0.364 free throw rate was their biggest advantage over Jackson State, who had a rate of 0.078. This is the first time these teams will clash this year.
McKay and Larry Austin Jr. have played well over the last five games for Central Michigan. McKay has averaged 0 points, while Austin Jr. has recorded 0 points a game during that span.
This contest should be a battle of conflicting styles. Central Michigan has preferred to play up-tempo (19th in possessions per game), while Jackson State has been slower-paced (299th in possessions per game).
Jackson State Tigers at Central Michigan Chippewas ATS Pick
Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Central Michigan, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Central Michigan ranks 34th in rebounds per game (40.1) while Jackson State ranks 187th in rebounds allowed per game (36.4).
- The Chippewas rank 54th in blocks per game (4.1) while the Tigers rank 100th in blocks allowed per game (4.6).
- Central Michigan ranks 41st in assists allowed per game (11.1) while Jackson State ranks 87th (14.1).
- The Tigers rank 41st in three pointers allowed per game (22.6) while the Chippewas rank 147th (23.1).
- Central Michigan ranks ninth in steals per game (9.5) while Jackson State ranks 73rd (6.5).
Bettings Trends:
- The Chippewas’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 16.8, up from 11.4 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Tigers have scored an average of 59.2 points per game (1.5 below their season average) and allowed an average of 71.0 points per game (1.5 below their season average).
