The Norfolk State Spartans (9-11, 5-0 MEAC) and the Florida A&M Rattlers (6-12, 4-3 MEAC) go head-to-head at Echols Hall. The Spartans look to prolong their five-game winning streak. The game will air on ESPNU at 7 p.m. ET on Monday, January 27, 2020.
Florida A&M Rattlers at Norfolk State Spartans ATS Odds
Both teams beat their last opponent. The Spartans defeated the South Carolina State Bulldogs 73-62, while the Rattlers beat the Howard Bison 87-83.
Florida A&M dominated nearly every stat category in the game. They had a turnover percentage of 14.2 (better than their season average of 18.8) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 39.4 (above their season average of 28.7). Howard was 21.3 and 26.9, respectively, for those same stats. Meanwhile, Norfolk State played a nearly flawless game. They had a phenomenal offensive rebounding percentage of 40.0 (above their season average of 31.4) and an effective field goal percentage of 0.508 (above their season average of 0.479). For those same stats, South Carolina State was 28.9 and 0.412, respectively. Norfolk State rallied around Jermaine Bishop, who recorded 17 points. Rod Melton Jr., meanwhile played a pivotal role for Florida A&M with 27 points.
The Spartans dominated this series last year, securing victories in both games. In the most recent matchup, Norfolk State won 66-54. Norfolk State had a better effective field goal percentage (0.481 vs. 0.390). Florida A&M, on the other hand, had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (26.3 vs. 18.2). This is the first time these teams will go head-to-head this year.
Looking at effective field goal percentage, Norfolk State figures to have a noteworthy advantage. The Spartans defense ranks 63rd in effective field goal percentage allowed (0.461), while the Florida A&M offense is ranked 343rd in effective field goal percentage (0.442). It could also be a sloppy game for the offense of the Rattlers, which ranks 306th in ball protection (turnover percentage of 21.4 percent). They’ll be going up against the top-notch defense of the Spartans, which forces the 39th-most turnovers in the nation (23.0 percent).
Florida A&M Rattlers at Norfolk State Spartans ATS Pick
Pick: SU Winner – Norfolk State, ATS Winner – Norfolk State, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Norfolk State ranks 110th in three pointers attempted per game (22.9) while Florida A&M ranks 284th (13.2).
- The Spartans rank 44th in steals allowed per game (5.5) while the Rattlers rank 158th (7.1).
- The Spartans average 36.9 rebounds per game, which ranks 109th in the nation. The Rattlers rank 240th in rebounds allowed per game (38.1).
- Norfolk State ranks 148th in assists per game (12.9) while Florida A&M ranks 268th (9.7).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Rattlers have scored an average of 72.0 points per game (7.7 above their season average) and allowed an average of 68.6 points per game (4.6 below their season average).
- The Spartans’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 13.0, up from 4.5 for the season.
