The Murray State Racers (16-3, 7-1 OVC) and their phenomenal offense visit Jacksonville State to take on the Gamecocks (15-6, 7-1 OVC) and their superb defense. The game is scheduled to start at 8:15 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 31, 2019.
Murray State Racers vs. Jacksonville State Gamecocks Betting Odds
Both teams were triumphant in their last game. The Gamecocks beat the Morehead State Eagles 77-71, while the Racers won big over the Tennessee State Tigers 100-62.
Murray State played a flawless game. They had an absurdly low turnover percentage of 7.3 (better than their season average of 15.6) and a free throw rate of 0.467 (above their season average of 0.239). Tennessee State recorded marks of 20.8 and 0.291, respectively, for those same stats. Meanwhile, Jacksonville State’s offensive rebounding percentage was their biggest strength over Morehead State. The Gamecocks had a rate of 24.1 (below their season average of 31.7), while the Eagles posted a mark of 20.0 (below their season average of 30.6). Jacksonville State was lifted by Jason Burnell, who recorded 19 points and 13 rebounds. Meanwhile, Ja Morant played well for Murray State, recording 24 points and nine assists.
The Racers edged out the Gamecocks in this series last year, securing victories in two out of three games. In the last matchup, Murray State won 70-63. Murray State had a much better free throw rate (0.255 vs. 0.097). Jacksonville State, meanwhile, had a better turnover percentage (15.4 vs. 17.6). This is the first time these teams will meet this year.
Points could be at a premium as two of the country’s best defenses clash. Jacksonville State currently ranks 22nd in defensive efficiency (93.3) and Murray State is 31st (93.9).
Murray State Racers at Jacksonville State Gamecocks ATS Pick
College Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Jacksonville State, ATS Winner – Jacksonville State, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Murray State ranks 62nd in three pointers allowed per game (20.3) while Jacksonville State ranks 231st (24.8).
- The Gamecocks average 4.6 blocks per game, which ranks 31st in the nation. The Racers rank 114th in blocks allowed per game (3.5).
- Murray State averages 38.2 rebounds per game, which ranks 55th in the nation. Jacksonville State ranks 132nd in rebounds allowed per game (34.6).
- The Racers rank sixth in assists per game (18.8) while the Gamecocks rank 133rd (13.5).
- Murray State averages 8.3 steals per game, which ranks 25th in the country. Jacksonville State ranks 117th in steals allowed per game (6.5).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Racers have scored an average of 83.2 points per game (0.7 below their season average) and allowed an average of 68.2 points per game (1.7 above their season average).
- The Gamecocks’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 10.4, up from 9.1 for the season.
