The Western Illinois Leathernecks (4-5) take on the Eastern Illinois Panthers (4-5) at Western Hall. The game gets underway at 8 p.m. ET on Saturday, December 8, 2018.
Eastern Illinois Panthers vs. Western Illinois Leathernecks Free Prediction
The last time the Panthers played, they were topped by the Texas Longhorns, 71-59. Texas’ 0.577 effective field goal percentage was their largest strength over Eastern Illinois, who had a mark of 0.411. Rade Kukobat was Eastern Illinois’ high scorer with 12 points on 3-for-11 shooting.
The Leathernecks fell to the Creighton Bluejays in their last matchup, 78-67. Creighton’s effective field goal percentage was their biggest advantage over Western Illinois. The Bluejays had a rate of 0.548, while the Leathernecks posted a mark of 0.428. Western Illinois’ Kobe Webster had a solid performance, leading both teams in scoring with 24 points on 10-for-22 shooting.
This is the second game of the season between these two teams. Brandon Gilbeck put up 9 points, 19 rebounds and 9 blocks in the first game, in which the Leathernecks lost 68-66. Eastern Illinois had a much better turnover percentage (11.2 vs. 18.2). Western Illinois, on the other hand, had a better free throw rate (0.246 vs. 0.214).
Western Illinois could dominate on the defensive side of the ball as they go head-to-head against one of the NCAA’s worst offenses. Since last season, the Leathernecks rank 17th in effective field goal percentage allowed (0.483), while Eastern Illinois is 281st in effective field goal percentage (0.490). Moreover, the Panthers, who rank 260th in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.216), will face off against the Leathernecks, who rank fifth in opponents’ FTA rate (0.183).
Eastern Illinois Panthers vs. Western Illinois Leathernecks ATS Pick
Free Prediction: SU Winner – Western Illinois, ATS Winner – Eastern Illinois, O/U – Over
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Notes
Betting Notes (2017-Present):
Western Illinois ranks 24th in rebounds per game (36.3) while Eastern Illinois ranks 217th (34.5).
The Panthers rank 99th in three pointers allowed per game (21.0) while the Leathernecks rank 260th (24.1).
Western Illinois ranks 15th in blocks per game (4.2) while Eastern Illinois ranks 104th in blocks allowed per game (3.1).
The Panthers rank 222nd in assists per game (12.4) while the Leathernecks rank 271st (11.0).
Eastern Illinois averages 6.1 steals per game, which ranks 152nd in the nation. Western Illinois ranks 176th in steals allowed per game (6.5).
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