The Norfolk State Spartans (3-6) visit SIU Arena to square off with the Southern Illinois Salukis (3-5). The Spartans will try to snap their five-game losing streak. Action starts at 8 p.m. ET on Wednesday, December 4, 2019.
Norfolk State Spartans at Southern Illinois Salukis Betting Odds
Both teams were beaten in their last outing. The Salukis fell to the Saint Louis Billikens, 69-60, while the Spartans were defeated by the Niagara Purple Eagles, 65-61.
Norfolk State had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (34.2 vs. 22.2) while Southern Illinois had a better turnover percentage (13.1 vs. 14.5). Southern Illinois’ Marcus Domask had a solid performance, finishing with 21 points, five rebounds and five assists. Norfolk State, meanwhile, received a boost from Jermaine Bishop, who contributed 17 points and nine rebounds.
It might be a mistake-prone game for the Southern Illinois offense. Since the 2018-19 season, Southern Illinois ranks 295th in the country in ball protection (turnover percentage of 20.5 percent), while the ball-hawking defense of Norfolk State has forced the 35th-most turnovers in the nation (22.0 percent). Moreover, the Spartans rank 57th in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.265), while the Salukis rank 45th in opponents’ FTA rate (0.185).
Norfolk State at Southern Illinois Pick
College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Southern Illinois, ATS Winner – Southern Illinois, O/U – Over
Betting Notes (2018-Present):
- Norfolk State ranks 87th in rebounds per game (37.2) while Southern Illinois ranks 270th (33.0).
- The Salukis average 13.5 assists per game, which ranks 154th in the country. The Spartans rank 195th in assists allowed per game (13.3).
- Southern Illinois ranks 105th in blocks per game (3.7) while Norfolk State ranks 131st in blocks allowed per game (3.2).
- The Spartans rank 20th in steals allowed per game (5.0) while the Salukis rank 162nd (6.3).
- Norfolk State ranks 189th in three pointers attempted per game (21.7) while Southern Illinois ranks 307th (18.2).