The Illinois State Redbirds (6-13, 1-6 MVC) and the Southern Illinois Salukis (10-10, 4-3 MVC) battle at Redbird Arena. The Redbirds will attempt to put an end to their six-game losing streak. The game begins at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 25, 2020.
Southern Illinois Salukis at Illinois State Redbirds Betting Odds
In their last outing, the Redbirds were beaten by the Bradley Braves, 75-63, while the Salukis won a close one over the UNI Panthers, 68-66.
The Salukis had a much better free throw rate (0.226 vs. 0.036) and had a turnover percentage of 8.7 (better than their season average of 18.1). Illinois State, meanwhile, had a better effective field goal percentage (0.467 vs. 0.525). Keith Fisher III led the way for Illinois State, contributing 17 points and seven rebounds. Lance Jones was a key piece for Southern Illinois with 20 points.
In their first matchup this season, Eric McGill led the Salukis to a 67-55 win. He produced 12 points and six rebounds. The Salukis’ 26.7 offensive rebounding percentage was their biggest strength over the Redbirds, who had a rate of 15.2.
Half-court execution will be at a premium when a pair of the country’s slowest-paced teams go head-to-head. Illinois State currently ranks 266th in possessions per game (67.9) and Southern Illinois is 347th (63.6).
Southern Illinois vs. Illinois State Odds Pick
Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Southern Illinois, ATS Winner – Southern Illinois, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Illinois State ranks 232nd in rebounds per game (33.5) while Southern Illinois ranks 281st (30.2).
- The Redbirds are 43rd in the country with 2.7 blocks allowed per game while the Salukis are 57th with 2.9 blocks allowed per game.
Bettings Trends:
- The Salukis have been outscored by an average of 0.6 points in their last five games. For the season, Southern Illinois has defeated opponents by an average of 2.1 points.
- During their last five games, the Redbirds have scored an average of 60.4 points per game (2.4 below their season average) and allowed an average of 70.6 points per game (3.7 above their season average).
