The Utah Runnin’ Utes (7-2) look to put an end to the five-game winning streak of BYU when they head to Marriott Center to square off with the Cougars (8-2). BYU is a 4-point favorite on the opening line, while the games Over/Under (O/U) opened at 147.5 points. Tip-off is set for 11 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 16, 2017, and it can be seen on ESPN2.
Utah Runnin’ Utes vs. BYU Cougars Betting Preview
In the Runnin’ Utes last contest, they defeated the Utah State Aggies, 77-67. With 16 points and seven assists, Justin Bibbins had a solid outing for Utah. The Runnin’ Utes made 19 of their 22 free throws (86.4 percent) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.617 (above their season average of 0.532).
The Cougars will look to maintain momentum after topping the Weber State Wildcats in their last contest, 74-68. With 24 points on 7-for-12 shooting, TJ Haws led BYU in scoring. The Cougars had a much better free throw rate (0.298 vs. 0.185) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.638 (above their season average of 0.533).
It could be a tough game for BYU on the offensive glass. The Cougars rank 265th in offensive rebounding percentage (28.6 percent), while Utah ranks 45th in defensive rebounding percentage (75.9 percent) dating back to last season.
Of Utah’s 7 games with betting action, three have finished over the O/U total, while 5 of BYU’s 8 games have finished under the projected point total. Both teams have outstanding straight up (SU) records (7-2 for Utah; 8-2 for BYU), but the Runnin’ Utes have the advantage against the spread (ATS). Utah is 5-2 ATS, while the Cougars are 3-5.
Yoeli Childs has taken his game to another level over the last five games for BYU, averaging 19.6 points, 9.6 rebounds and 2.2 blocks per game.
Utah Runnin’ Utes vs. BYU Cougars Free Prediction
Predictions: SU Winner – Utah, ATS Winner – Utah, O/U – Under
Betting Notes (2016-Present):
- Utah ranks eighth in assists allowed per game (11.1) while BYU ranks 79th (13.8).
- The Cougars rank 30th in rebounds allowed per game (35.1) while the Runnin’ Utes rank 100th (31.8).
- Utah ranks 38th in blocks allowed per game (3.1) while BYU ranks 71st (3.0).
