Mercer Bears vs. Furman Paladins ATS Prediction 03/09/19

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The Furman Paladins (24-6, 13-5 SoCon) will be in the Southern Conference Tourney at U.S. Cellular Center when they clash against the Mercer Bears (11-19, 6-12 SoCon). Action gets underway at 8:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, March 9, 2019.

Mercer Bears vs. Furman Paladins Betting Odds

In their last matchup, the Paladins easily got past the Chattanooga Mocs, 71-50, while the Bears lost big to the UNCG Spartans, 74-47.

The Paladins held the Mocs to an effective field goal percentage of 0.397 (below their season average of 0.524) and had a turnover percentage of 12.6 (better than their season average of 15.9). Mercer, meanwhile, had a better free throw rate (0.173 vs. 0.188). Furman was lifted by Matt Rafferty, who finished with 20 points and 13 rebounds. Jaylen Stowe, meanwhile played a key role for Mercer with 10 points.

The high-octane offense of Furman will square off against the mid-tier defense of Mercer. The Paladins rank 31st in offensive efficiency, while the Bears are 235th in defensive efficiency. The Paladins should have the advantage on that side of the ball.

Mercer Bears vs. Furman Paladins Pick

Prediction: SU Winner – Furman, ATS Winner – Furman, O/U – Under

Betting Notes:

  • Furman ranks 14th in three pointers attempted per game (28.3) while Mercer ranks 267th in three pointers allowed per game (26.5).
  • The Paladins rank 42nd in blocks per game (4.2) while the Bears rank 154th (2.7).
  • Furman ranks 116th in rebounds per game (36.1) while Mercer ranks 161st in rebounds allowed per game (35.3).
  • The Paladins rank 24th in assists per game (15.9) while the Bears rank 174th (12.7).
  • Furman averages 8.8 steals per game, which ranks 12th in the nation. Mercer ranks 135th in steals allowed per game (6.6).

Bettings Trends:

  • The Paladins’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 13.2, up from 12.6 for the season.
  • During their last five games, the Bears have scored an average of 65.2 points per game (7.3 below their season average) and allowed an average of 75.4 points per game (3.4 above their season average).