The Southern Utah Thunderbirds (4-2) and the Central Michigan Chippewas (7-2), who both like to play up-tempo, will square off at McGuirk Arena. The game is scheduled to get underway at 4:30 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 8, 2018.
Southern Utah Thunderbirds at Central Michigan Chippewas Betting Prediction
In the Thunderbirds’ last outing, they blew out the West Coast Baptist Eagles, 109-63. The Thunderbirds had a much better turnover percentage (9.9 vs. 32.0) and had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (33.3 vs. 17.1). With 20 points on 8-for-13 shooting, Dwayne Morgan was Southern Utah’s high scorer.
The Chippewas dismantled the Concordia (MI) Cardinals in their last game, 98-67. The Chippewas had a much better free throw rate (0.308 vs. 0.092) and had a much better turnover percentage (13.1 vs. 22.6). Kevin McKay was the game’s leading scorer with 27 points on 10-for-13 shooting from the field.
The Thunderbirds won the lone contest against the Chippewas last season, 86-80. Making free throws was one of Southern Utah’s largest strengths. They were 21-24 (87.5 percent), while the Chippewas were 17-22 (77.3 percent).
There should be a fair amount of transition offense in this showdown that features two of the country’s more fast-breaking teams. Central Michigan ranks sixth in possessions per game (71.2) and Southern Utah is 42nd (73.4) dating back to the 2017-18 season.
Southern Utah Thunderbirds at Central Michigan Chippewas ATS Pick
Pick: SU Winner – Central Michigan, ATS Winner – Central Michigan, O/U – Over
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Notes
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
Central Michigan ranks 27th in rebounds per game (36.9) while Southern Utah ranks 241st in rebounds allowed per game (36.9).
The Chippewas rank third in steals per game (7.1) while the Thunderbirds rank 149th (6.1).
Central Michigan ranks 47th in blocks per game (3.5) while Southern Utah ranks 164th (3.2).
The Thunderbirds average 22.7 three pointers per game, which ranks 144th in the country. The Chippewas rank 210th in three pointers allowed per game (25.0).
Central Michigan ranks 50th in assists allowed per game (13.2) while Southern Utah ranks 101st (12.4).
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