The Valparaiso Crusaders (13-13, 6-7 MVC) will be at the Knapp Center to clash against the Drake Bulldogs (19-7, 8-5 MVC) in a MVC matchup. The game starts at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 16, 2019, and will air on ESPN 3.
Valparaiso Crusaders vs. Drake Bulldogs ATS Odds
In their last contest, the Bulldogs won a close one over the Southern Illinois Salukis, 72-69, while the Crusaders were beaten by the Indiana State Sycamores, 87-82.
Drake played a nearly flawless game. They had a free throw rate of 0.232 (above their season average of 0.221) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 33.3 (above their season average of 25.4). For those same stats, Southern Illinois had marks of 0.125 and 24.4, respectively. Valparaiso, meanwhile, had a free throw rate of 0.563 (above their season average of 0.228). Drake was led by Nick McGlynn, who put up 10 points and 13 rebounds. Meanwhile, Derrik Smits had a good outing for Valparaiso, recording 23 points and 11 rebounds.
In their first matchup this year, Anthony Murphy led the Bulldogs to a 70-59 victory. He recorded 12 points and nine rebounds. Drake had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.539 vs. 0.397). Valparaiso, on the other hand, had a much better turnover percentage (16.3 vs. 21.8).
It could be a tough game for Valparaiso on the offensive glass. The Crusaders rank 218th in offensive rebounding percentage (27.5 percent), while Drake ranks 72nd in defensive rebounding percentage (74.3 percent).
Valparaiso Crusaders vs. Drake Bulldogs Betting Pick
Free Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Drake, ATS Winner – Drake, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Drake ranks 91st in three pointers attempted per game (24.3) while Valparaiso ranks 268th (18.7).
- The Crusaders rank 50th in blocks allowed per game (2.7) while the Bulldogs rank 76th (3.1).
- The Bulldogs rank 36th in assists per game (15.8) while the Crusaders rank 83rd (14.5).
- Valparaiso ranks 144th in steals per game (6.1) while Drake ranks 187th in steals allowed per game (7.6).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Crusaders have scored an average of 61.8 points per game (6.7 below their season average) and allowed an average of 63.0 points per game (3.7 below their season average).
- The Bulldogs have been outscored by an average of 4.2 points in their last five games. On the season, Drake has defeated opponents by an average of 5.3 points.
