The sixth-ranked Kentucky Wildcats (8-1) meet the Utah Runnin’ Utes (8-2) at T-Mobile Arena. Action gets underway at 11 p.m. ET on Wednesday, December 18, 2019, and can be seen on ESPN2.
Kentucky Wildcats vs. Utah Runnin’ Utes ATS Odds
Both teams defeated their last opponent. The Runnin’ Utes defeated the Weber State Wildcats 60-49, while the Wildcats beat the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets 67-53.
Kentucky played a flawless game. They had a free throw rate of 0.294 (below their season average of 0.343) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 29.6 (below their season average of 31.3). Georgia Tech had marks of 0.038 and 18.8, respectively, for those same stats. The Runnin’ Utes, meanwhile, made 15 of their 19 free throws (78.9 percent) and had an offensive rebounding percentage of 42.5 (above their season average of 28.2). Utah was lifted by Timmy Allen, who recorded 19 points and seven rebounds. Meanwhile, Ashton Hagans was a key piece for Kentucky with 21 points, seven rebounds and seven assists.
The Wildcats won the lone game between these two teams last season, 88-61. The Wildcats’ turnover percentage was their largest advantage over the Runnin’ Utes. Kentucky had a rate of 8.7, while Utah posted a mark of 23.8.
It might turn into a shootout as two of the country’s premier offenses face off. Utah ranks 13th with 113.0 points per 100 possessions and Kentucky is 33rd (113.0) dating back to the 2018-19 season. Furthermore, the Wildcats have been among the NCAA’s elite on the offensive backboards, ranking 23rd in offensive rebounding percentage (35.7 percent). The Runnin’ Utes, meanwhile, rank 48th at securing defensive rebounds with a defensive rebounding percentage of 73.7 percent.
Kentucky Wildcats vs. Utah Runnin’ Utes Free Pick
Free Pick: SU Winner – Kentucky, ATS Winner – Utah, O/U – Over
Betting Notes (2018-Present):
- Utah ranks 122nd in three pointers attempted per game (25.2) while Kentucky ranks 270th (16.2).
- The Wildcats rank 10th in rebounds allowed per game (29.3) while the Runnin’ Utes rank 62nd (32.4).
- Kentucky ranks 41st in steals allowed per game (5.5) while Utah ranks 84th (6.0).
- The Wildcats rank 32nd in blocks per game (4.7) while the Runnin’ Utes rank 113th (2.7).
- Utah ranks 27th in assists per game (14.7) while Kentucky ranks 95th (13.9).
