A nine-game home winning streak hangs in the balance for the George Mason Patriots (11-2) when they meet the VCU Rams (11-3, 1-0 A10) at EagleBank Arena. Action begins at 12 p.m. ET on Sunday, January 5, 2020, and can be seen on NBC Sports Network.
VCU Rams at George Mason Patriots ATS Odds
In their last matchup, the Patriots lost big to the TCU Horned Frogs, 87-53, while the Rams had no trouble getting past the Fordham Rams, 64-46.
VCU dominated nearly every facet of the game. They had a turnover percentage of 12.5 (better than their season average of 16.5) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 27.8 (below their season average of 27.8). For those same stats, Fordham put up marks of 26.6 and 18.5, respectively. George Mason, on the other hand, had a better free throw rate (0.218 vs. 0.123). Xavier Johnson had a good game for George Mason, contributing 14 points. VCU, meanwhile, received a boost from Mike’L Simms, who recorded 14 points and eight rebounds.
The Rams dominated this series last year, winning both games. In the last matchup, VCU won 71-36. VCU’s 0.485 effective field goal percentage was its largest advantage over George Mason, who had a mark of 0.265. This is the first time these teams will battle this year.
The offensive glass could be a huge edge for George Mason in this meeting. The Patriots rank 35th in offensive rebounding percentage (34.9 percent), while VCU ranks 282nd in defensive rebounding percentage (69.2 percent).
VCU vs. George Mason Odds Pick
College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – George Mason, ATS Winner – George Mason, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- George Mason ranks 39th in rebounds per game (40.1) while VCU ranks 227th (33.4).
- The Rams rank 35th in assists allowed per game (10.4) while the Patriots rank 107th (12.3).
- George Mason blocks 5.5 opponent shots per game, which is ranked 17th in the NCAA. VCU ranks 68th in blocks allowed per game (3.1).
- The Rams rank 25th in three pointers allowed per game (17.9) while the Patriots rank 199th (24.2).
- VCU ranks eighth in steals per game (10.1) while George Mason ranks 161st (5.8).
Bettings Trends:
- The Rams’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 11.4, up from 11.1 for the season.
- During their last five games, the Patriots have scored an average of 65.0 points per game (4.6 below their season average) and allowed an average of 63.4 points per game (1.8 below their season average).