The Virginia Tech Hokies (9-1) visit Kentucky to take on the No. 8 Wildcats (8-1) in a matchup that pits great offense against superb defense. The game starts at 2 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 16, 2017, and will air on ESPN2.
Virginia Tech Hokies at Kentucky Wildcats Betting Prediction
The last time the Hokies played, they blew out the Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks, 93-40. The Hokies held the Hawks to an effective field goal percentage of 0.315 (below their season average of 0.433) and had a turnover percentage of 8.0 (better than their season average of 16.2). Virginia Tech received a boost from Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who contributed 16 points and eight rebounds.
The Wildcats beat the Monmouth Hawks in their last outing, 93-76. The Wildcats made 24 of their 32 free throws (75.0 percent) and had an effective field goal percentage of 0.595 (above their season average of 0.538). Hamidou Diallo was the game’s high scorer with 23 points on 8-for-13 shooting.
This contest figures to be low-scoring as two of the nation’s premier defenses go head-to-head. Kentucky ranks 48th in defensive efficiency (96.6) and Virginia Tech is 42nd (104.1) since last season. Moreover, the Hokies, who rank second in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.320), will battle against the Wildcats, who rank 20th in opponents’ FTA rate (0.216).
Virginia Tech Hokies at Kentucky Wildcats Free Pick
Predictions: SU Winner – Virginia Tech, ATS Winner – Virginia Tech, O/U – Over
Notes
Betting Notes (2016-Present):
Virginia Tech ranks 134th in three pointers attempted per game (21.9) while Kentucky ranks 279th (18.6).
The Hokies average 16.2 assists per game, which ranks third in the nation. The Wildcats rank 121st in assists allowed per game (11.7).
Kentucky ranks fourth in blocks per game (5.5) while Virginia Tech ranks 107th (2.9).
The Wildcats rank 22nd in rebounds per game (40.0) while the Hokies rank 73rd (33.6).
Virginia Tech averages 4.4 steals per game, which ranks 138th in the NCAA. Kentucky ranks 159th in steals allowed per game (5.2).
