A five-game home winning streak hangs in the balance for the Southern Illinois Salukis (7-8, 1-1 MVC) when they clash with the Valparaiso Crusaders (8-7, 1-1 MVC) at SIU Arena. The game begins at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday, January 7, 2020.
Valparaiso Crusaders vs. Southern Illinois Salukis ATS Odds
Both teams were triumphant in their last game. The Salukis beat the Illinois State Redbirds 67-55, while the Crusaders barely escaped the Evansville Aces 81-79.
Valparaiso’s 12.3 turnover percentage was their biggest strength over Evansville, who had a mark of 17.6. The Crusaders’ mark was better than their season average of 17.4. Meanwhile, Southern Illinois played a flawless game. They had an offensive rebounding percentage of 26.7 (above their season average of 21.9) and an effective field goal percentage of 0.520 (above their season average of 0.515). Illinois State was 15.2 and 0.429, respectively, for those same stats. Eric McGill played a key role for Southern Illinois with 12 points and six rebounds. Meanwhile, Valparaiso was led by Javon Freeman-Liberty, who recorded 25 points.
The Crusaders dominated this series last year, winning both games. In the most recent matchup, Valparaiso won 55-52. Valparaiso had a better turnover percentage (20.8 vs. 25.0). Southern Illinois, meanwhile, had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (25.7 vs. 18.2). This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
It could be an error-filled game for the Southern Illinois offense. Southern Illinois ranks 238th in the country in ball protection (turnover percentage of 20.4 percent), while the disruptive defense of Valparaiso forces the 58th-most turnovers in the country (22.8 percent). This contest should be a battle of opposite tempos. The fast-paced Crusaders rank 48th in possessions per game, while the more methodical Salukis rank 344th.
Valparaiso Crusaders vs. Southern Illinois Salukis Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Southern Illinois, ATS Winner – Southern Illinois, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Valparaiso ranks 27th in assists per game (16.7) while Southern Illinois ranks 155th (12.8).
- The Salukis rank 33rd in blocks allowed per game (2.5) while the Crusaders rank 70th (3.0).
- Southern Illinois ranks 40th in three pointers allowed per game (18.7) while Valparaiso ranks 42nd (18.8).
- The Crusaders rank 43rd in steals per game (8.3) while the Salukis rank 131st (6.3).
- Valparaiso ranks 189th in rebounds per game (34.8) while Southern Illinois ranks 274th (30.2).
Bettings Trends:
- The Salukis’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 5.0, up from 3.1 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Crusaders have scored an average of 71.2 points per game (4.5 below their season average) and allowed an average of 71.2 points per game (2.1 below their season average).
