The Jacksonville State Gamecocks (21-8, 13-3 OVC) and the Eastern Illinois Panthers (14-15, 7-9 OVC) square off at Lantz Arena. The Gamecocks will try to lengthen their five-game winning streak. The game starts at 9 p.m. ET on Thursday, February 28, 2019, and will air on ESPNews.
Jacksonville State Gamecocks vs. Eastern Illinois Panthers Betting Odds
In their last game, the Panthers were beaten by the Tennessee State Tigers, 75-60, while the Gamecocks edged the Eastern Kentucky Colonels, 104-101.
Jacksonville State dominated nearly every facet of the game. They had a free throw rate of 0.243 (above their season average of 0.231) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 35.9 (above their season average of 33.3). Eastern Kentucky was 0.136 and 25.5, respectively, for those same stats. Eastern Illinois, on the other hand, did a fantastic job of converting from the free throw line (17-23; 73.9 percent). Eastern Illinois was led by Josiah Wallace, who contributed 19 points and five rebounds. Christian Cunningham had a solid performance for Jacksonville State, contributing 17 points and 14 rebounds.
In their first matchup this year, Jason Burnell led the Gamecocks to a 69-62 victory. He was the game’s top overall scorer with 18 points. Jacksonville State won the rebounding battle. The Gamecocks had more offensive rebounds (12 vs. seven) and total rebounds (39 vs. 37).
Eastern Illinois might struggle to put up points as they clash against one of the country’s best defenses. Jacksonville State ranks 29th in defensive efficiency, while the Panthers rank 214th in offensive efficiency. Furthermore, the Gamecocks rank 47th in offensive rebounding percentage (33.4 percent), while the Panthers rank 278th in defensive rebounding percentage (69.5 percent).
Jacksonville State Gamecocks vs. Eastern Illinois Panthers Pick
Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Jacksonville State, ATS Winner – Jacksonville State, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Jacksonville State averages 40.0 rebounds per game, which ranks 15th in the nation. Eastern Illinois ranks 250th in rebounds allowed per game (37.6).
- The Gamecocks average 7.6 steals per game, which ranks 46th in the country. The Panthers rank 146th in steals allowed per game (6.7).
- Jacksonville State ranks 38th in blocks allowed per game (2.6) while Eastern Illinois ranks 110th (3.3).
- The Gamecocks rank 48th in assists allowed per game (11.5) while the Panthers rank 249th (15.7).
- Eastern Illinois ranks 136th in three pointers attempted per game (22.8) while Jacksonville State ranks 275th (18.7).
Bettings Trends:
- The Panthers’ average margin of defeat in their last five games has been 11.8, up from 4.8 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Gamecocks have scored an average of 80.2 points per game (3.4 above their season average) and allowed an average of 70.2 points per game (2.3 above their season average).
