A 10-game home winning streak is on the line for the East Tennessee State Buccaneers (15-3, 4-1 SoCon) when they challenge the Samford Bulldogs (8-10, 2-2 SoCon) at Freedom Hall Civic Center. Action begins at 7 p.m. ET on Wednesday, January 15, 2020.
Samford Bulldogs at East Tennessee State Buccaneers ATS Odds
In their last contest, the Buccaneers defeated the VMI Keydets, 61-55, while the Bulldogs were blown out by the Chattanooga Mocs, 105-67.
The Buccaneers had a turnover percentage of 10.9 (better than their season average of 16.5) and had a free throw rate of 0.385 (above their season average of 0.250). Samford, meanwhile, did a terrific job of making free throws (15-19; 78.9 percent). East Tennessee State was lifted by Patrick Good, who had 12 points. Meanwhile, Josh Sharkey fueled Samford with 21 points and five steals.
The Buccaneers dominated this series last year, securing victories in both games. In the last contest, East Tennessee State won 74-66. The Buccaneers’ turnover percentage was their largest strength over the Bulldogs. East Tennessee State had a rate of 10.6, while Samford posted a mark of 18.4. This will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams.
East Tennessee State could dominate on the offensive side of the ball as their prolific offense squares off against one of the worst defenses in the NCAA. The Buccaneers rank 19th in offensive efficiency, while Samford ranks 279th in defensive efficiency. It will also be a showdown of conflicting styles as the fast-breaking Bulldogs rank 18th in possessions per game, while the more half-court oriented Buccaneers rank 276th.
Samford Bulldogs vs. East Tennessee State Buccaneers Odds Pick
Pick: SU Winner – East Tennessee State, ATS Winner – East Tennessee State, O/U – Over
Betting Notes:
- East Tennessee State ranks 36th in rebounds allowed per game (31.6) while Samford ranks 255th (39.4).
- The Buccaneers average 9.0 steals per game, which ranks 23rd in the country. The Bulldogs rank 151st in steals allowed per game (7.3).
- East Tennessee State ranks 47th in blocks per game (4.4) while Samford ranks 115th (3.2).
- The Buccaneers rank 40th in assists allowed per game (10.6) while the Bulldogs rank 244th (17.6).
- East Tennessee State ranks 81st in three pointers allowed per game (20.2) while Samford ranks 273rd (29.1).
Bettings Trends:
- During their last five games, the Bulldogs have scored an average of 69.4 points per game (6.5 below their season average) and allowed an average of 82.8 points per game (5.0 above their season average).
- The Buccaneers’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 14.8, up from 14.6 for the season.
