Valparaiso Crusaders vs. Illinois State Redbirds Free Prediction 02/05/19

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A six-game home winning streak is on the line for the Illinois State Redbirds (14-9, 7-3 MVC) when they welcome the Valparaiso Crusaders (12-11, 5-5 MVC) to Redbird Arena. Action starts at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday, February 5, 2019.

Valparaiso Crusaders at Illinois State Redbirds ATS Odds

In their last contest, the Redbirds beat the Loyola Chicago Ramblers, 65-57, while the Crusaders lost to the Evansville Aces, 64-53.

Illinois State made 11 of their 25 three pointers (44.0 percent), while Loyola Chicago was just 5-25 (20.0 percent). Valparaiso, meanwhile, had a better turnover percentage (16.3 vs. 14.7). Illinois State rallied around Milik Yarbrough, who finished with 21 points. Javon Freeman-Liberty led the way for Valparaiso, contributing 12 points and six rebounds.

In their first matchup this year, Derrik Smits led the Crusaders to a 58-56 victory. He recorded 10 points and nine rebounds. Valparaiso’s 0.208 free throw rate was their biggest strength over Illinois State, who had a rate of 0.102.

Getting to the line could be scarce for Illinois State in this showdown. The Redbirds currently rank 284th in the nation with a free throw attempt (FTA) rate of 0.201, while Valparaiso ranks 87th in FTA rate allowed (0.205).

Valparaiso Crusaders vs. Illinois State Redbirds Pick

Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – Illinois State, ATS Winner – Illinois State, O/U – Under

Betting Notes:

  • Illinois State ranks 108th in three pointers attempted per game (23.7) while Valparaiso ranks 259th (18.8).
  • The Redbirds rank 14th in blocks allowed per game (2.3) while the Crusaders rank 52nd (2.8).
  • The Crusaders average 14.6 assists per game, which ranks 80th in the country. The Redbirds rank 179th in assists allowed per game (14.0).
  • Illinois State ranks 185th in rebounds per game (34.9) while Valparaiso ranks 240th (33.6).

Bettings Trends:

  • The Crusaders have been outscored by an average of 6.2 points in their last five games. For the season, Valparaiso has defeated opponents by an average of 1.9 points.
  • During their last five games, the Redbirds have scored an average of 71.2 points per game (0.3 below their season average) and allowed an average of 65.8 points per game (5.4 below their season average).