The Xavier Musketeers (12-13, 4-8 Big East) will be at the Dunkin’ Donuts Center to square off against the Providence Friars (14-11, 4-8 Big East) in a Big East matchup. Action begins at 2 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 16, 2019.
Xavier Musketeers at Providence Friars ATS Odds
In their last outing, the Friars lost big to the 13th-ranked Villanova Wildcats, 85-67, while the Musketeers barely escaped the Creighton Bluejays, 64-61.
The Musketeers held the Bluejays to an effective field goal percentage of 0.430 (below their season average of 0.587) and had a better offensive rebounding percentage (26.2 vs. 25.6). Providence, meanwhile, had an offensive rebounding percentage of 45.7 (above their season average of 32.6). Providence received a boost from Nate Watson, who put up 18 points and six rebounds. Naji Marshall had a good outing for Xavier, contributing 23 points, seven rebounds and five assists.
In their first matchup this year, Alpha Diallo led the Friars to a 64-62 win. He put up 11 points, six rebounds and five assists. The Friars’ 13.3 turnover percentage was their biggest strength over the Musketeers, who had a rate of 24.8.
The offensive glass should be a major advantage for Providence in this meeting. The Friars rank 51st in offensive rebounding percentage (33.1 percent), while Xavier ranks 195th in defensive rebounding percentage (71.7 percent).
Xavier Musketeers vs. Providence Friars ATS Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Providence, ATS Winner – Xavier, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Providence ranks 73rd in three pointers allowed per game (20.5) while Xavier ranks 240th (24.6).
- The Musketeers rank 125th in rebounds per game (35.8) while the Friars rank 166th in rebounds allowed per game (35.4).
- Providence blocks 3.9 opponent shots per game, which ranks 68th in the country. Xavier ranks 95th in blocks allowed per game (3.2).
- The Friars average 14.8 assists per game, which ranks 65th in the NCAA. The Musketeers rank 209th in assists allowed per game (14.9).
- Providence averages 7.3 steals per game, which ranks 64th in the NCAA. Xavier ranks 145th in steals allowed per game (6.8).
Bettings Trends:
- The Friars have been outscored by an average of 5.4 points in their last five games. For the season, Providence has defeated opponents by an average of 2.2 points.
- During their last five games, the Musketeers have scored an average of 67.0 points per game (5.0 below their season average) and allowed an average of 75.6 points per game (3.5 above their season average).
