A seven-game home winning streak hangs in the balance for the USC Trojans (13-9, 6-3 Pac-12) when they take on the Utah Runnin’ Utes (11-10, 5-4 Pac-12) at Galen Center. The game can be seen on Pac-12 Network at 11 p.m. ET on Wednesday, February 6, 2019.
Utah Runnin’ Utes vs. USC Trojans Betting Odds
In their last matchup, the Trojans were victorious over the Washington State Cougars, 93-84, while the Runnin’ Utes fell to the Oregon State Beavers, 81-72.
USC dominated nearly every facet of the contest. They had a great free throw rate of 0.304 (above their season average of 0.198) and an effective field goal percentage of 0.679 (above their season average of 0.520). For those same stats, Washington State put up marks of 0.174 and 0.522, respectively. Utah, on the other hand, forced Oregon State into a turnover percentage of 17.7 (above the 13.3 mark opponents have averaged against Utah this season). USC was lifted by Nick Rakocevic, who finished with 25 points and 13 rebounds. Timmy Allen, meanwhile played a pivotal role for Utah with 24 points and six rebounds.
The Trojans dominated this series last year, winning both games. In the most recent contest, USC won 74-58. The Trojans’ turnover percentage was their largest strength over the Runnin’ Utes. USC had a rate of 14.9, while Utah posted a mark of 20.2. This is the first time these teams will meet this year.
Conflicting paces will be on display in this showdown. USC has preferred an up-and-down style of play (52nd in possessions per game), while Utah has been more half-court-oriented (303rd in possessions per game).
Utah Runnin’ Utes vs. USC Trojans Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Usc, ATS Winner – USC, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Utah ranks 30th in rebounds allowed per game (31.5) while USC ranks 241st (38.0).
- The Trojans rank 100th in blocks per game (3.4) while the Runnin’ Utes rank 163rd in blocks allowed per game (4.2).
- The Runnin’ Utes average 24.8 three pointers per game, which ranks 74th in the NCAA. The Trojans rank 209th in three pointers allowed per game (24.2).
- USC averages 16.5 assists per game, which ranks 22nd in the NCAA. Utah ranks 125th in assists allowed per game (13.0).
Bettings Trends:
- The Trojans’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 6.8, up from 4.6 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Runnin’ Utes have scored an average of 74.8 points per game (0.2 below their season average) and allowed an average of 71.6 points per game (1.8 below their season average).
