It will be a clash between two superb defenses when the 24th-ranked Maryland Terrapins (6-1) meet the Penn State Nittany Lions (4-2) at Xfinity Center. Action starts at 5 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 1, 2018.
Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Maryland Terrapins Betting Odds
In their last game, the Terrapins lost to the fourth-ranked Virginia Cavaliers, 76-71, while the Nittany Lions edged the 13th-ranked Virginia Tech Hokies, 63-62.
The Nittany Lions, who came into the game averaging an offensive rebounding percentage of 32.1, had an extraordinary mark of 40.0, while the Hokies had a turnover percentage of 21.2 (above their season average of 15.8). Maryland, on the other hand, had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (41.7 vs. 26.5). Bruno Fernando played a key role for Maryland with 14 points and 11 rebounds. Lamar Stevens, meanwhile played well for Penn State, recording 14 points and eight rebounds.
This series was highly competitive last year. Each won one of the two games played against each other last season. In the most recent game, the Nittany Lions won 74-70. Penn State won the rebounding battle. The Nittany Lions had nine offensive rebounds and 27 total rebounds, while the Terrapins had four and 23, respectively.
The game should be a battle of strength against strength as the productive offense of Maryland takes on the top-notch defense of Penn State. Since the 2017-18 season, the Terrapins rank 51st in offensive efficiency, while the Nittany Lions are 38th in defensive efficiency.
Penn State Nittany Lions vs. Maryland Terrapins Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Maryland, ATS Winner – Penn State, O/U – Over
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
- Penn State ranks 49th in steals per game (7.3) while Maryland ranks 285th (4.7).
- The Terrapins rank eighth in rebounds allowed per game (30.5) while the Nittany Lions rank 71st (33.1).
- The Nittany Lions rank 27th in three pointers allowed per game (19.1) while the Terrapins rank 217th (23.0).
- Maryland ranks 45th in blocks per game (4.3) while Penn State ranks 190th in blocks allowed per game (3.6).
