Expect a defensive battle when the Loyola Chicago Ramblers (14-7, 6-2 MVC), 4-point favorites, meet the Southern Illinois Salukis (11-10, 5-3 MVC) at SIU Arena. The game’s Over/Under (O/U) opened at 117.5 points and it begins at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday, January 29, 2020.
Loyola Chicago Ramblers at Southern Illinois Salukis Betting Odds
In their last game, the Salukis edged the Illinois State Redbirds, 58-55, while the Ramblers fell to the UNI Panthers, 67-62.
The Salukis had a much better free throw rate (0.216 vs. 0.038), while the Redbirds had a turnover percentage of 23.3 (above their season average of 18.1). Loyola Chicago, meanwhile, held UNI to an offensive rebounding percentage of 13.3 (below their season average of 31.1). Southern Illinois received a boost from Marcus Domask, who recorded 19 points and six rebounds. Cameron Krutwig played a pivotal role for Loyola Chicago with 19 points and 14 rebounds.
In their first matchup this year, Marquise Kennedy led the Ramblers to a 64-48 victory. He scored a game-high 17 points. Loyola Chicago’s 0.604 effective field goal percentage was its largest advantage over Southern Illinois, who had a rate of 0.398.
The inefficient offense of Southern Illinois (274th in the NCAA with an offensive efficiency of 98.0) will face off against the stingy defense of Loyola Chicago (30th in the NCAA with a defensive efficiency of 91.1). The Ramblers should have the advantage on that end of the court.
Loyola Chicago Ramblers at Southern Illinois Salukis Free Pick
Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Southern Illinois, ATS Winner – Southern Illinois, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Loyola Chicago ranks 10th in rebounds allowed per game (30.1) while Southern Illinois ranks 142nd (35.2).
- The Ramblers rank 60th in assists per game (14.8) while the Salukis rank 96th in assists allowed per game (12.0).
- The Salukis rank 161st in three pointers attempted per game (21.5) while the Ramblers rank 282nd (15.2).
- Loyola Chicago ranks 61st in steals per game (7.8) while Southern Illinois ranks 111th in steals allowed per game (6.5).
Bettings Trends:
- The Ramblers’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 15.4, up from 9.0 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Salukis have scored an average of 57.6 points per game (4.8 below their season average) and allowed an average of 60.2 points per game (0.0 above their season average).
