The Norfolk State Spartans (12-10, 7-0 MEAC) visit Burr Arena to square off with the Howard Bison (10-12, 4-3 MEAC). The Spartans will attempt to prolong their seven-game winning streak. The game is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 2, 2019.
Norfolk State Spartans at Howard Bison ATS Odds
Both teams were victorious in their last game. The Bison were victorious over the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks 72-57, while the Spartans had no trouble getting past the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks 88-60.
Norfolk State dominated nearly every stat category in the game. They had a free throw rate of 0.275 (matching their season average) and an effective field goal percentage of 0.725 (above their season average of 0.508). For those same stats, Maryland Eastern Shore had marks of 0.173 and 0.490, respectively. Meanwhile, Howard played a nearly flawless game. They had a ridiculous offensive rebounding percentage of 43.3 (above their season average of 29.4) and a turnover percentage of 9.9 (better than their season average of 14.3). For those same stats, Maryland Eastern Shore put up marks of 21.1 and 17.2, respectively. Howard received a boost from Charles Williams, who recorded 21 points. Nic Thomas, meanwhile played a key role for Norfolk State with 26 points.
The Spartans won the only contest between these two teams last year, 79-74. The Spartans’ 42.9 offensive rebounding percentage was their largest strength over the Bison, who had a mark of 32.1. This is the first time these teams will battle this year.
Howard might struggle to score as they battle against one of the NCAA’s best defenses. Norfolk State currently ranks 80th in defensive efficiency, while the Bison rank 198th in offensive efficiency. Also, the Spartans are among the country’s best at getting to the line, ranking 46th in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.279). The Bison, meanhwile, rank 289th in opponents’ FTA rate (0.268).
Norfolk State Spartans vs. Howard Bison Odds Pick
College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Norfolk State, ATS Winner – Norfolk State, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Howard ranks 61st in rebounds per game (38.0) while Norfolk State ranks 170th in rebounds allowed per game (35.5).
- The Spartans are 28th in the country with 5.2 steals allowed per game while the Bison are 44th with 5.5 steals allowed per game.
- The Bison rank 38th in blocks allowed per game (2.6) while the Spartans rank 103rd (3.5).
- Norfolk State ranks 175th in assists per game (12.7) while Howard ranks 205th in assists allowed per game (14.7).
Bettings Trends:
- The Spartans’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 12.0, up from 4.0 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Bison have scored an average of 76.0 points per game (0.5 above their season average) and allowed an average of 74.2 points per game (0.5 below their season average).
