It will be a battle between CUSA opponents when the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (8-9, 1-3 CUSA) welcome the Florida Atlantic Owls (11-7, 2-3 CUSA) to E.A. Diddle Arena. The game is scheduled to start at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 19, 2019.
Florida Atlantic Owls at Western Kentucky Hilltoppers ATS Prediction
In the Owls’ last contest, they were defeated by the Marshall Thundering Herd, 96-84. One of Marshall’s largest advantages was getting to the free throw line. They had 37 free throw attempts, while Florida Atlantic had just 21. Michael Forrest was the game’s leading scorer with 35 points on 12-for-20 shooting.
The Hilltoppers lost a tough one against the FIU Golden Panthers in their last matchup, 77-76. One of FIU’s biggest strengths was getting to the charity stripe. They made 40 trips to the line, while Western Kentucky went just 24 times. With 19 points on 6-for-14 shooting, Jared Savage was the top scorer from either team.
After the Hilltoppers won the only game against the Owls last season, 75-63, these teams will clash for the first time this year. The Hilltoppers had a much better turnover percentage (8.3 vs. 15.7) and had a better free throw rate (0.345 vs. 0.255).
The offense of Western Kentucky (206th in the NCAA with an offensive efficiency of 104.2) will battle against the top-notch defense of Florida Atlantic (90th in the country with a defensive efficiency of 97.7). The Owls should have the edge on that end of the court.
Florida Atlantic at Western Kentucky Free Pick
Free Basketball Tip: SU Winner – Western Kentucky, ATS Winner – Western Kentucky, O/U – Over
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Notes
Betting Notes:
Florida Atlantic ranks 22nd in three pointers attempted per game (28.1) while Western Kentucky ranks 268th (16.0).
The Hilltoppers rank 15th in blocks per game (5.4) while the Owls rank 138th (2.8).
Florida Atlantic ranks 22nd in rebounds per game (40.3) while Western Kentucky ranks 136th (35.9).
The Hilltoppers rank 86th in steals per game (7.0) while the Owls rank 165th in steals allowed per game (7.7).
Bettings Trends:
The Owls have been outscored by an average of 4.0 points in their last five games. On the season, Florida Atlantic has defeated opponents by an average of 3.0 points.
During their last five games, the Hilltoppers have scored an average of 72.4 points per game (0.2 below their season average) and allowed an average of 68.4 points per game (3.7 below their season average).
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