The Norfolk State Spartans (0-8) are off to a slow start and will try to pick up their first victory when they challenge the Loyola Chicago Ramblers (9-1) at Joseph J. Gentile Center. Action gets underway at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 9, 2017.
Norfolk State Spartans at Loyola Chicago Ramblers ATS Preview
In the Spartans last matchup, they were beaten by the Bowling Green Falcons, 92-77. Preston Bungei put together a good performance for Norfolk State, finishing with 18 points, eight assists and seven rebounds. Bowling Green did a great job of making free throws (18-21; 85.7 percent). Norfolk State, on the other hand, had a turnover percentage of 16.6 (better than their season average of 21.7).
The Ramblers come in on a high note after topping the No. 5 Florida Gators in their last matchup, 65-59. Loyola Chicago received a boost from Aundre Jackson, who was the top scorer from either team with 23 points on 10-for-12 shooting. The Ramblers held the Gators to an effective field goal percentage of 0.385 (below their season average of 0.552). The Gators had a free throw rate of 0.138 (below their season average of 0.306).
Norfolk State might have a tough time putting up points as they face off against one of the nation’s best defenses. Since the 2016-17 season, Loyola Chicago ranks 74th in defensive efficiency while the Spartans rank 326th in offensive efficiency.
Jackson has been superb over the last five games for Loyola Chicago, averaging 15.8 points per game.
The Ramblers won the only game against the Spartans last season, 75-62. Loyola Chicago did an excellent job of converting from the charity stripe (18-23; 78.3 percent). Norfolk State, meanwhile, had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (29.0 vs. 16.7).
Norfolk State Spartans vs. Loyola Chicago Ramblers Odds Prediction
Predictions: SU Winner – Norfolk State, ATS Winner – Norfolk State, O/U – Under
Betting Notes (2016-Present):
- The Spartans rank 30th in blocks per game (5.0) while the Ramblers rank 229th (2.5).
- Loyola Chicago ranks 118th in steals per game (6.5) while Norfolk State ranks 247th (5.2).
- Loyola Chicago ranks 54th in assists per game (15.5) while Norfolk State ranks 289th (11.2).
- The Spartans rank 87th in rebounds per game (37.5) while the Ramblers rank 291st (32.0).
- Loyola Chicago ranks 56th in three pointers allowed per game (19.3) while Norfolk State ranks 259th (23.5).
