The Western Illinois Leathernecks (6-9, 1-1 Summit) will be at the Mabee Center to challenge the Oral Roberts Golden Eagles (6-11, 2-0 Summit) in a Summit matchup. The game gets underway at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 5, 2019.
Western Illinois Leathernecks at Oral Roberts Golden Eagles Betting Odds
Both teams fell in their last contest. The Golden Eagles were blown out by the Missouri State Bears, 84-50, while the Leathernecks lost to the Creighton Bluejays, 78-67.
Western Illinois had a better turnover percentage (13.1 vs. 14.3) while Oral Roberts had a better free throw rate (0.190 vs. 0.127). Kerwin Smith had a good outing for Oral Roberts with 12 points and nine rebounds. Meanwhile, Western Illinois received a boost from Kobe Webster, who contributed 24 points and 10 rebounds.
This was a highly competitive series last year. Each won one of the two games played against each other last season. The Leathernecks won the most recent contest 82-56. One of Western Illinois’ largest strengths was their ability to convert at the free throw line. They were 17-19 (89.5 percent), while the Golden Eagles were just 9-13 (69.2 percent). This will be the first contest of the year between these two teams.
Webster has taken his game to another level recently for Western Illinois, averaging 0 points over the last five games.
Oral Roberts may have difficulty getting to the foul line in this showdown. The Golden Eagles currently rank 307th in the nation with a free throw attempt (FTA) rate of 0.187, while Western Illinois ranks 37th in FTA rate allowed (0.179).
Western Illinois Leathernecks vs. Oral Roberts Golden Eagles Odds Pick
College Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Oral Roberts, ATS Winner – Western Illinois, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Oral Roberts averages 35.6 rebounds per game, which ranks 151st in the country. Western Illinois ranks 212th in rebounds allowed per game (37.7).
- The Leathernecks rank 38th in blocks per game (4.6) while the Golden Eagles rank 98th (3.3).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Golden Eagles have scored an average of 65.0 points per game (6.3 below their season average) and allowed an average of 76.0 points per game (1.1 below their season average).
- The Leathernecks’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 10.4, up from 1.7 for the season.
