Providence Friars vs. Texas Longhorns Free Prediction 12/21/18

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The Texas Longhorns (7-3) welcome the Providence Friars (9-3) to Frank Erwin Special Events Center. The Longhorns will attempt to extend their five-game winning streak. Action gets underway at 9 p.m. ET on Friday, December 21, 2018, and can be seen on ESPN2.

Providence Friars vs. Texas Longhorns Betting Odds

Both teams defeated their last opponent. The Longhorns defeated the Eastern Illinois Panthers 71-59, while the Friars beat the Siena Saints 77-67.

The Friars had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (44.0 vs. 31.0) and had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.670 vs. 0.569). The Longhorns, meanwhile, had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.577 vs. 0.411) and had a better turnover percentage (20.8 vs. 22.9). Texas’ Matt Coleman III had a good outing, contributing 13 points and seven assists. Meanwhile, Providence received a boost from Alpha Diallo, who put up 16 points, 11 rebounds and five assists.

Diallo has been playing at a high level recently for Providence, averaging 0 points over the last five games.

Looking at effective field goal percentage, Texas figures to have a considerable advantage. The Longhorns defense ranks 50th in effective field goal percentage allowed (0.460), while the Providence offense is ranked 191st in effective field goal percentage (0.514).

Providence vs. Texas Free Pick

College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Texas, ATS Winner – Providence, O/U – Over

Betting Notes:

  • Texas ranks 25th in three pointers attempted per game (28.0) while Providence ranks 227th (19.1).
  • The Friars rank 15th in blocks allowed per game (1.9) while the Longhorns rank 66th (3.1).
  • Texas is 13th in the country with 9.2 assists allowed per game while Providence is 55th with 11.6 assists allowed per game.
  • The Longhorns rank 11th in steals allowed per game (4.7) while the Friars rank 109th (6.7).
  • Providence ranks 96th in rebounds per game (37.5) while Texas ranks 182nd in rebounds allowed per game (36.7).

Bettings Trends:

  • During their last five games, the Longhorns have scored an average of 79.6 points per game (4.8 above their season average) and allowed an average of 68.6 points per game (2.1 above their season average).
  • The Friars’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 1.2, down from 7.9 for the season.