Utah Runnin’ Utes at UCLA Bruins Free Prediction 02/09/19

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The Utah Runnin’ Utes (12-10, 6-4 Pac-12) will be at Pauley Pavilion to challenge the UCLA Bruins (12-11, 5-5 Pac-12) in a Pac-12 matchup. Action starts at 5 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 9, 2019.

Utah Runnin’ Utes vs. UCLA Bruins Betting Odds

In their last outing, the Bruins fell to the Colorado Buffaloes, 84-73, while the Runnin’ Utes defeated the USC Trojans, 77-70.

Utah played a nearly perfect game. They had a free throw rate of 0.246 (below their season average of 0.253) and an effective field goal percentage of 0.553 (below their season average of 0.555). USC was 0.099 and 0.444, respectively, for those same stats. UCLA, meanwhile, held Colorado to an offensive rebounding percentage of 24.0 (below their season average of 30.0). UCLA was lifted by Moses Brown, who had 17 points and eight rebounds. Meanwhile, Jayce Johnson led the way for Utah, recording 13 points and 13 rebounds.

This was a highly contested series last year, as the teams split their two games last season. The Runnin’ Utes won the last game 84-78. One of Utah’s biggest advantages was their ability to convert at the free throw line. They were 15-17 (88.2 percent), while the Bruins were 9-11 (81.8 percent). This is the first time these teams will go head-to-head this year.

Conflicting paces will be on display in this contest. UCLA has preferred an up-and-down style of play (27th in possessions per game), while Utah has been more half-court-oriented (294th in possessions per game).

Utah Runnin’ Utes vs. UCLA Bruins ATS Pick

Free Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Ucla, ATS Winner – UCLA, O/U – Over

Betting Notes:

  • Utah averages 25.0 three pointers per game, which ranks 70th in the nation. UCLA ranks 264th in three pointers allowed per game (26.6).
  • The Bruins rank 39th in blocks per game (4.4) while the Runnin’ Utes rank 176th (2.4).
  • The Runnin’ Utes rank 32nd in rebounds allowed per game (31.8) while the Bruins rank 187th (35.8).
  • Utah ranks 109th in assists per game (14.1) while UCLA ranks 248th in assists allowed per game (16.1).

Bettings Trends:

  • The Bruins’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 1.0, down from 2.5 for the season.
  • During their last five games, the Runnin’ Utes have scored an average of 74.6 points per game (0.4 below their season average) and allowed an average of 71.8 points per game (1.5 below their season average).