The Butler Bulldogs (15-14, 6-10 Big East) close out their home schedule at Hinkle Fieldhouse against the Xavier Musketeers (16-13, 8-8 Big East). The game is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. ET on Tuesday, March 5, 2019.
Xavier Musketeers at Butler Bulldogs Betting Odds
In their last game, the Bulldogs lost big to the Villanova Wildcats, 75-54, while the Musketeers were victorious over the St. John’s Red Storm, 84-73.
Xavier played a nearly flawless game. They had an extraordinary free throw rate of 0.510 (above their season average of 0.228) and an offensive rebounding percentage of 50.0 (above their season average of 31.5). For those same stats, St. John’s put up marks of 0.066 and 25.0, respectively. Butler, on the other hand, had a better turnover percentage (10.0 vs. 13.4). Butler received a boost from Kamar Baldwin, who finished with 10 points and five rebounds. Meanwhile, Naji Marshall played a pivotal role for Xavier with 31 points and six rebounds.
In their first matchup this year, Paul Scruggs led the Musketeers to a 70-69 victory. He was the game’s top overall scorer with 23 points. One of Xavier’s largest advantages was getting to the charity stripe. They had 25 free throw attempts, while Butler had just 12.
Half-court execution will be at a premium when two of the nation’s slowest-paced teams battle. Butler currently ranks 268th in possessions per game (67.3) and Xavier is 283rd (67.1).
Xavier Musketeers at Butler Bulldogs Betting Pick
Free College Basketball Pick: SU Winner – Xavier, ATS Winner – Xavier, O/U – Under
Betting Notes:
- Butler ranks 68th in three pointers attempted per game (25.1) while Xavier ranks 237th in three pointers allowed per game (24.9).
- The Bulldogs rank 143rd in assists per game (13.3) while the Musketeers rank 222nd in assists allowed per game (14.6).
- Xavier ranks 73rd in blocks per game (3.8) while Butler ranks 128th in blocks allowed per game (3.6).
- The Bulldogs rank 37th in steals allowed per game (5.3) while the Musketeers rank 178th (7.0).
- Xavier ranks 125th in rebounds per game (36.0) while Butler ranks 255th (32.8).
Bettings Trends:
- The Bulldogs have been outscored by an average of 5.6 points in their last five games. For the season, Butler has defeated opponents by an average of 2.5 points.
- During their last five games, the Musketeers have scored an average of 71.8 points per game (0.4 below their season average) and allowed an average of 63.6 points per game (7.4 below their season average).
