Expect a shootout when the Sam Houston State Bearkats (9-4, 2-0 SthLnd) go head-to-head against the McNeese State Cowboys (5-7, 0-1 SthLnd) at H&HP Complex. Action starts at 8:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 2, 2020.
Sam Houston State Bearkats vs. McNeese State Cowboys Betting Odds
In their last outing, the Cowboys fell to the Stephen F. Austin Lumberjacks, 81-73, while the Bearkats were victorious over the Rice Owls, 75-61.
The Bearkats held the Owls to an effective field goal percentage of 0.398 (below their season average of 0.522) and had a better turnover percentage (17.0 vs. 17.1). McNeese State, on the other hand, had a free throw rate of 0.429 (above their season average of 0.229). McNeese State rallied around Roydell Brown, who finished with 25 points and 13 rebounds. Kai Mitchell, meanwhile had a solid performance for Sam Houston State, recording 27 points and 13 rebounds.
The Bearkats won the only contest between these two teams last year, 77-62. The Bearkats’ turnover percentage was their largest strength over the Cowboys. Sam Houston State had a rate of 16.8, while McNeese State posted a mark of 22.9. This is the first time these teams will battle this year.
The game should be a battle of strength against strength as the high-octane offense of McNeese State takes on the elite defense of Sam Houston State. The Cowboys rank 18th in offensive efficiency, while the Bearkats are 39th in defensive efficiency.
Sam Houston State Bearkats at McNeese State Cowboys Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Sam Houston State, ATS Winner – Sam Houston State, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Sam Houston State ranks 12th in assists per game (17.3) while McNeese State ranks 177th in assists allowed per game (14.1).
- The Cowboys rank 50th in rebounds allowed per game (32.3) while the Bearkats rank 127th (34.7).
- McNeese State ranks 33rd in blocks per game (4.7) while Sam Houston State ranks 96th (3.3).
- The Bearkats average 9.4 steals per game, which ranks 19th in the country. The Cowboys rank 168th in steals allowed per game (8.1).
- Sam Houston State ranks 114th in three pointers attempted per game (23.2) while McNeese State ranks 226th in three pointers allowed per game (25.0).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Cowboys have scored an average of 88.4 points per game (5.6 above their season average) and allowed an average of 71.0 points per game (0.6 below their season average).
- The Bearkats’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 14.2, up from 11.8 for the season.
