Lamar Cardinals at Central Arkansas Bears ATS Prediction 01/12/19

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The Lamar Cardinals (8-8, 1-2 SthLnd) will be at the Farris Center to square off against the Central Arkansas Bears (6-10, 1-2 SthLnd) in a SthLnd matchup. Action gets underway at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 12, 2019.

Lamar Cardinals at Central Arkansas Bears Betting Odds

Both teams were beaten in their last matchup. The Bears fell to the Sam Houston State Bearkats, 78-69, while the Cardinals were defeated by the New Orleans Privateers, 78-71.

Lamar had a free throw rate of 0.407 (above their season average of 0.284) while Central Arkansas had an offensive rebounding percentage of 33.3 (above their season average of 23.4). Thatch Unruh was a key piece for Central Arkansas with 27 points. Meanwhile, Lamar rallied around Christian Barrett, who put up 16 points and 12 rebounds.

The Bears dominated this series last year, taking both games. In the most recent game, Central Arkansas won 67-57. Central Arkansas’ 0.383 free throw rate was their largest advantage over Lamar, who had a rate of 0.113. This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.

The ineffective offense of Central Arkansas will clash against the top-notch defense of Lamar. The Bears rank 310th in offensive efficiency, while the Cardinals are 28th in defensive efficiency. The Cardinals should have the advantage on that end of the court.

Lamar Cardinals vs. Central Arkansas Bears Betting Pick

Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Central Arkansas, O/U – Over

Betting Notes:

  • Lamar ranks 18th in rebounds per game (40.8) while Central Arkansas ranks 207th in rebounds allowed per game (37.9).
  • The Bears rank 33rd in blocks allowed per game (2.6) while the Cardinals rank 122nd (4.1).
  • Central Arkansas averages 23.1 three pointers per game, which ranks 119th in the country. Lamar ranks 137th in three pointers allowed per game (22.8).
  • The Cardinals rank 70th in assists per game (15.1) while the Bears rank 208th in assists allowed per game (15.4).
  • Lamar ranks fifth in steals per game (10.1) while Central Arkansas ranks 127th (5.9).

Bettings Trends:

  • The Bears’ average margin of defeat in their last five games has been 2.6, down from 4.8 for the season.
  • During their last five games, the Cardinals have scored an average of 91.4 points per game (11.5 above their season average) and allowed an average of 62.2 points per game (7.2 below their season average).