Wednesday nights in college basketball rarely disappoint, and this slate is no exception. Even without a heavy dose of ranked matchups, the board still features a strong mix of intriguing games.
Here are a few plays we’re backing.
Northern Iowa vs. Southern Illinois – Northern Iowa to Cover
It’s been a rough January for the Panthers, as they’ve gone 3-5. Saturday’s victory over first-place Murray State could provide the momentum shift Northern Iowa’s been looking for. The Panthers have been one of the better defenses in the country, as they rank 21st in defensive rating per KenPom. Their problem is on the offensive end, as they’re averaging 62.9 points per game in conference play. Southern Illinois has had the same scoring woes and ranks 75th in the country in defensive rating. We’re cautious playing teams to cover on the road, but the Salukis are 0-4 against the spread in conference.
Wyoming vs. Utah State – Utah State to Cover
The Aggies have not played well in their past few matchups. They’ve lost two of their last three and were on the ropes against Colorado State before pulling away late. Some regression was inevitable for this team after starting the season 15-1 and being ranked No. 23 in the AP Top 25 poll. Facing a Wyoming squad that has lost three straight conference road games should be a get-right spot for Utah State. The Cowboys are 1-4 against the spread as an underdog, and trips to Logan have been a nightmare for Wyoming in recent years, as they’ve lost their last three games there by an average of 15.7 points.
Texas vs. Auburn – Over
We’ve attacked Texas overs a number of times so far this season, as Sean Miller’s team is playing fast. The Longhorns are 11th in KenPom offensive rating, and they’ve struggled defensively, allowing 86 points per game in road conference matchups. Auburn has won four of its past five conference games, including a statement victory over Florida in Gainesville. The Tigers are averaging 84.7 points per game at home in conference.
UCLA vs. Oregon – Under
Staying up until 11 p.m. EST to root for an under isn’t fun. But it’s worth it for a matchup like this. Oregon’s offense has been horrendous without its top two players in Jackson Shelstad and Nate Bittle (the Ducks have scored less than 60 points in three of their last four conference matchups). Now they get to face off against a Mick Cronin squad that always gets after it on the defensive end. In the previous meeting between these two this season, there were 137 points scored, comfortably going under the 146.5 total — and Bittle and Shelstad played in that matchup. This rivalry has gone under in six of the last seven matchups.
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