It will be a contest between two superb defenses when the South Florida Bulls (8-8, 1-2 AAC) challenge the 21st-ranked Memphis Tigers (12-3, 1-1 AAC) at Yuengling Center. Action gets underway at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, January 12, 2020, and can be seen on ESPN2.
Memphis Tigers vs. South Florida Bulls ATS Odds
Both teams fell in their last outing. The Bulls lost a close one to the East Carolina Pirates, 62-59, while the Tigers were beaten by the 23rd-ranked Wichita State Shockers, 76-67.
Memphis had a free throw rate of 0.411 (above their season average of 0.263) while South Florida held East Carolina to an offensive rebounding percentage of 16.1 (below their season average of 30.3). Laquincy Rideau played well for South Florida with 16 points. Memphis, meanwhile, rallied around Precious Achiuwa, who finished with 22 points and 12 rebounds.
The Bulls won the sole game between these two teams last season, 84-78. South Florida did a terrific job of getting and making free throws (32-44; 72.7 percent). Memphis, on the other hand, had a much better turnover percentage (20.1 vs. 33.6). This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
The inefficient offense of South Florida (282nd in the nation with an offensive efficiency of 96.7) will face off against the elite defense of Memphis (sixth in the NCAA with a defensive efficiency of 84.1). The Tigers figure to have the edge on that end of the court. Conflicting styles will be on display in this battle. The aggressively-paced Tigers rank 20th in possessions per game, while the more methodical Bulls rank 316th.
Memphis Tigers vs. South Florida Bulls Odds Pick
College Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – South Florida, ATS Winner – South Florida, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Memphis ranks fifth in rebounds per game (42.7) while South Florida ranks 210th (34.1).
- The Bulls rank 25th in steals per game (8.9) while the Tigers rank 167th in steals allowed per game (7.9).
- The Tigers rank 58th in assists per game (14.9) while the Bulls rank 241st (10.1).
- Memphis ranks second in blocks per game (6.9) while South Florida ranks 166th (2.3).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Bulls have scored an average of 63.6 points per game (0.8 below their season average) and allowed an average of 65.6 points per game (3.2 above their season average).
- The Tigers’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 13.8, down from 15.3 for the season.
