Don’t expect a fast-paced game when the Missouri State Bears (14-12, 8-5 MVC) head to Loyola Chicago to play the Ramblers (16-10, 9-4 MVC). The game will air on ESPNU at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 17, 2019.
Missouri State Bears vs. Loyola Chicago Ramblers ATS Odds
In their last game, the Ramblers lost to the Bradley Braves, 61-54, while the Bears were victorious over the Evansville Aces, 68-56.
Missouri State played a nearly flawless game. They had an absurd free throw rate of 0.366 (above their season average of 0.258) and an effective field goal percentage of 0.646 (above their season average of 0.524). For those same stats, Evansville had marks of 0.204 and 0.469, respectively. Loyola Chicago, meanwhile, had a better turnover percentage (19.2 vs. 20.1). Loyola Chicago received a boost from Cameron Krutwig, who put up 13 points and 11 rebounds. Tulio Da Silva, meanwhile had a good game for Missouri State, recording 17 points and seven rebounds.
In their first matchup this year, Keandre Cook led the Bears to a 70-35 win. He was the game’s top overall scorer with 21 points. The Bears’ 53.8 offensive rebounding percentage was their largest strength over the Ramblers, who had a mark of 12.5.
Half-court execution will be critical when two of the country’s slowest-paced teams clash. Loyola Chicago currently ranks 345th in possessions per game (63.8) and Missouri State is 299th (66.7).
Missouri State Bears vs. Loyola Chicago Ramblers Pick
Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Loyola Chicago, ATS Winner – Loyola Chicago, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Missouri State ranks 67th in blocks per game (4.0) while Loyola Chicago ranks 158th in blocks allowed per game (3.9).
- The Ramblers are third in the nation with 29.2 rebounds allowed per game while the Bears are 27th with 31.5 rebounds allowed per game.
- Missouri State averages 7.1 steals per game, which ranks 74th in the NCAA. Loyola Chicago ranks 86th in steals allowed per game (5.9).
- The Bears rank 213th in three pointers attempted per game (20.7) while the Ramblers rank 289th (17.2).
- Loyola Chicago ranks 50th in assists allowed per game (11.5) while Missouri State ranks 119th (12.9).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Ramblers have scored an average of 62.8 points per game (3.8 below their season average) and allowed an average of 60.2 points per game (0.6 below their season average).
- The Bears’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 3.0, down from 3.1 for the season.
