NJIT Highlanders at Houston Cougars Free Prediction 12/29/18

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The 22nd-ranked Houston Cougars (12-0) hope to remain undefeated when they clash against the NJIT Highlanders (11-2) at Fertitta Center. The game starts at 4 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 29, 2018, and will air on ESPN 3.

NJIT Highlanders vs. Houston Cougars ATS Odds

Both teams were triumphant in their last game. The Cougars dismantled the Alabama A&M Bulldogs 101-54, while the Highlanders won a close one over the Colgate Raiders 81-78.

The Highlanders had a better turnover percentage (10.7 vs. 14.5) and had a better effective field goal percentage (0.573 vs. 0.528). Meanwhile, Houston played a flawless game. They had a free throw rate of 0.197 and an offensive rebounding percentage of 33.3. For those same stats, Alabama A&M put up marks of 0.056 and 12.1, respectively. Houston was led by Armoni Brooks, who contributed 24 points. Reilly Walsh played a pivotal role for NJIT with 21 points.

Corey Davis Jr. has been exceptional as of late for Houston, averaging 0 points over the last five games.

Half-court execution will be critical when two of the country’s slowest-paced teams battle. Houston currently ranks 323rd in possessions per game (66.7) and NJIT is 272nd (68.4). Moreover, the Highlanders, who rank ninth in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.328), will face a difficult challenge against the Cougars, who rank 55th in opponents’ FTA rate (0.189).

NJIT Highlanders at Houston Cougars Odds Pick

Pick: SU Winner – Houston, O/U – Over

Betting Notes:

  • Houston ranks 41st in three pointers attempted per game (26.6) while NJIT ranks 223rd (19.1).
  • The Highlanders rank second in steals allowed per game (4.1) while the Cougars rank 89th (6.4).
  • Houston ranks 32nd in blocks per game (4.8) while NJIT ranks 114th (2.8).
  • The Cougars rank 14th in rebounds per game (42.1) while the Highlanders rank 192nd (34.3).
  • Houston ranks 23rd in assists allowed per game (10.2) while NJIT ranks 114th (13.2).

Bettings Trends:

  • During their last five games, the Cougars have scored an average of 79.2 points per game (5.2 above their season average) and allowed an average of 58.4 points per game (0.4 above their season average).
  • The Highlanders’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 8.6, up from 6.2 for the season.