A seven-game home winning streak is on the line for the North Carolina Central Eagles (9-12, 5-2 MEAC) when they welcome the Norfolk State Spartans (10-12, 6-1 MEAC) to McDougald-McLendon Gymnasium. The game starts at 7 p.m. ET on Monday, February 3, 2020, and will air on ESPNU.
Norfolk State Spartans at North Carolina Central Eagles ATS Odds
In their last game, the Eagles beat the South Carolina State Bulldogs, 73-56, while the Spartans were beaten by the North Carolina A&T Aggies, 74-68.
The Eagles had a superb turnover percentage of 10.0 (better than their season average of 20.5) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.589 (above their season average of 0.499). Norfolk State, on the other hand, had a better effective field goal percentage (0.491 vs. 0.475). North Carolina Central was lifted by C.J. Keyser, who had 23 points. Joe Bryant Jr., meanwhile had a solid performance for Norfolk State, contributing 17 points and six rebounds.
This was a highly contested series last year, as the teams split their two games last season. The Eagles won the last game 50-47. North Carolina Central had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (33.3 vs. 14.7). Norfolk State, meanwhile, had a better turnover percentage (20.7 vs. 23.0). This is the first time these teams will meet this year.
It could be a mistake-prone game for the North Carolina Central offense. North Carolina Central ranks 338th in the country in ball protection (turnover percentage of 22.9 percent), while the gambling defense of Norfolk State forces the 33rd-most turnovers in the NCAA (23.0 percent).
Norfolk State Spartans at North Carolina Central Eagles Betting Pick
College Basketball Prediction: SU Winner – North Carolina Central, ATS Winner – North Carolina Central, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- Norfolk State ranks 106th in rebounds per game (36.7) while North Carolina Central ranks 234th (33.4).
- The Eagles average 13.5 assists per game, which ranks 122nd in the nation. The Spartans rank 170th in assists allowed per game (13.6).
- The Spartans rank 127th in three pointers attempted per game (22.5) while the Eagles rank 239th (18.5).
- North Carolina Central averages 9.3 steals per game, which ranks 14th in the nation. Norfolk State ranks 69th in steals allowed per game (5.9).
Bettings Trends:
- The Eagles’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 13.4, up from 2.9 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Spartans have scored an average of 73.8 points per game (3.7 above their season average) and allowed an average of 63.6 points per game (1.4 below their season average).
