The Eastern Illinois Panthers (7-9, 0-4 OVC) and the Jacksonville State Gamecocks (7-10, 2-2 OVC) go head-to-head at Lantz Arena. The Panthers will attempt to put an end to their five-game losing streak. Action starts at 8:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, January 16, 2020.
Jacksonville State Gamecocks at Eastern Illinois Panthers Betting Odds
Both teams were beaten in their last game. The Panthers lost a close one to the Morehead State Eagles, 69-66, while the Gamecocks lost to the Austin Peay Governors, 71-67.
Jacksonville State held Austin Peay to an effective field goal percentage of 0.458 (below their season average of 0.516) while Eastern Illinois held Morehead State to an offensive rebounding percentage of 20.7 (below their season average of 30.4). Eastern Illinois’ George Dixon had a solid performance, recording 12 points and seven rebounds. Jacksonville State rallied around Elias Harden, who contributed 15 points.
The Gamecocks dominated this series last year, taking both games. In the most recent game, Jacksonville State won 89-84. Jacksonville State was successful at getting to and converting from the free throw line. The Gamecocks made 21 of their 26 free throws (80.8 percent), while the Panthers were 15-21 (71.4 percent). This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
It could be an error-filled game for the Jacksonville State offense. Jacksonville State ranks 291st in the country in ball protection (turnover percentage of 21.3 percent), while the gambling defense of Eastern Illinois forces the 71st-most turnovers in the nation (22.1 percent).
Jacksonville State at Eastern Illinois ATS Pick
Free Prediction: SU Winner – Eastern Illinois, ATS Winner – Eastern Illinois, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Eastern Illinois ranks 48th in blocks per game (4.4) while Jacksonville State ranks 151st (2.6).
- The Panthers average 14.0 assists per game, which ranks 96th in the NCAA. The Gamecocks rank 153rd in assists allowed per game (13.2).
- The Panthers average 7.7 steals per game, which ranks 69th in the country. The Gamecocks rank 137th in steals allowed per game (6.9).
- Jacksonville State ranks 99th in rebounds per game (37.3) while Eastern Illinois ranks 162nd in rebounds allowed per game (35.8).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Panthers have scored an average of 67.4 points per game (7.9 below their season average) and allowed an average of 80.4 points per game (12.2 above their season average).
- The Gamecocks’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 13.8, up from 4.4 for the season.
