The Central Michigan Chippewas (12-2, 1-0 MAC) and their outstanding offense welcome the Akron Zips (9-5, 1-0 MAC) and their superb defense. The game is scheduled to start at 7 p.m. ET on Tuesday, January 8, 2019.
Akron Zips vs. Central Michigan Chippewas ATS Odds
Both teams won big over their last opponent. The Chippewas defeated the Concordia (MI) Cardinals 98-67, while the Zips beat the Cedarville Yellow Jackets 70-50.
Akron played a flawless game. They had a free throw rate of 0.183 and an effective field goal percentage of 0.492. For those same stats, Cedarville was 0.016 and 0.389, respectively. Meanwhile, Central Michigan played a flawless game. They had a free throw rate of 0.308 and a turnover percentage of 13.1. For those same stats, Concordia (MI) was 0.092 and 22.6, respectively. Central Michigan received a boost from Kevin McKay, who finished with 27 points and five rebounds. Jimond Ivey had a good game for Akron, putting up 12 points and 11 rebounds.
The Zips won the lone game between these two teams last year, 69-63. Akron’s free throw rate was their biggest strength over Central Michigan. The Zips had a rate of 0.193, while the Chippewas posted a mark of 0.169. This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
McKay and Larry Austin Jr. have been playing well over the last five games for Central Michigan. McKay has averaged 0 points, while Austin Jr. has recorded 0 points a game during that span.
This battle pits one of the NCAA’s top offenses against one of its elite defenses. Central Michigan currently ranks 25th in offensive efficiency and Akron is 17th in defensive efficiency. Moreover, the Zips rank 20th in turnover percentage (15.7 percent), while the Chippewas rank 60th in opponents’ turnover percentage (22.3 percent).
Akron Zips at Central Michigan Chippewas Pick
Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Central Michigan, ATS Winner – Akron, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Central Michigan ranks 17th in steals per game (9.1) while Akron ranks 179th (5.2).
- The Zips rank 32nd in blocks allowed per game (2.5) while the Chippewas rank 137th (4.1).
- Akron is fifth in the country with 9.1 assists allowed per game while Central Michigan is 48th with 11.2 assists allowed per game.
- The Zips average 29.6 three pointers per game, which ranks sixth in the NCAA. The Chippewas rank 154th in three pointers allowed per game (23.2).
- Central Michigan ranks 44th in rebounds per game (39.6) while Akron ranks 162nd (35.6).
Bettings Trends:
- The Zips’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 16.4, up from 13.2 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Chippewas have scored an average of 83.6 points per game (4.1 below their season average) and allowed an average of 66.8 points per game (7.5 below their season average).
