It will be a showdown between two tremendous defenses when the Saint Louis Billikens (6-1) square off with the Southern Illinois Salukis (3-4) at Chaifetz Arena. The game is scheduled to start at 4 p.m. ET on Sunday, December 1, 2019.
Southern Illinois Salukis vs. Saint Louis Billikens ATS Odds
Both teams defeated their last opponent. The Billikens defeated the Boston College Eagles 64-54, while the Salukis beat the North Carolina Central Eagles 64-48.
The Salukis were 8-9 from the foul line (88.9 percent) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.667 (above their season average of 0.494). Meanwhile, Saint Louis dominated nearly every facet of their game. They had an offensive rebounding percentage of 35.4 (below their season average of 37.9) and a turnover percentage of 16.8 (worse than their season average of 16.6). Boston College was 15.8 and 22.8, respectively, for those same stats. Saint Louis rallied around Jordan Goodwin, who contributed 20 points and 14 rebounds. Marcus Domask, meanwhile played a pivotal role for Southern Illinois with 18 points, five rebounds and five assists.
The Salukis won the only game between these two teams last year, 61-56. Southern Illinois’ free throw rate was their biggest advantage over Saint Louis. The Salukis had a rate of 0.216, while the Billikens posted a mark of 0.058.
Half-court execution will be critical when two of the nation’s slowest-paced teams face off. Saint Louis ranks 298th in possessions per game (66.8) and Southern Illinois is 324th (65.8) dating back to last season.
Southern Illinois Salukis vs. Saint Louis Billikens Betting Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Saint Louis, ATS Winner – Southern Illinois, O/U – Under
Betting Notes (2018-Present):
- Saint Louis ranks 12th in rebounds per game (40.2) while Southern Illinois ranks 271st (33.1).
- Neither of these teams shoot many threes. The Billikens are 295th in the NCAA with 18.7 three pointers per game while the Salukis are 302nd with 18.4 threes per game.
- The Salukis rank 100th in blocks per game (3.8) while the Billikens rank 223rd in blocks allowed per game (3.9).
- Saint Louis ranks 59th in steals per game (7.4) while Southern Illinois ranks 169th in steals allowed per game (6.4).
