It will be a battle between MWC opponents when the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels (12-3, 1-1 MWC) welcome the Utah State Aggies (9-7, 2-1 MWC) to Thomas & Mack Center. The game is scheduled to begin at 10 p.m. ET on Saturday, January 6, 2018.
UNLV opened as a 9-point favorite, while the game’s Over/Under (O/U) has been set at 155 points.
Utah State Aggies at UNLV Runnin’ Rebels Free Prediction
In the Aggies’ last matchup, they defeated the Fresno State Bulldogs, 81-79. The Aggies made 18 of their 24 free throws (75.0 percent) and held the Bulldogs to an offensive rebounding percentage of 18.2 (below their season average of 34.2). With 28 points on 10-for-18 shooting, Koby McEwen was the top scorer from either team.
The Runnin’ Rebels beat the San Jose State Spartans in their last contest, 82-76. The Runnin’ Rebels made 25 of their 35 free throws (71.4 percent) and had an offensive rebounding percentage of 41.9 (above their season average of 35.8). Brandon McCoy led UNLV in scoring with 23 points on 7-for-14 shooting.
Opposite paces will be on display in this contest. UNLV has preferred to play quickly (seventh in possessions per game), while Utah State has been more half-court-oriented (257th in possessions per game).
After splitting two games last season, this will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams. In the last contest, the Runnin’ Rebels won 66-59. The Runnin’ Rebels made 10 of their 14 free throws (71.4 percent) and had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (22.9 vs. 16.2).
Utah State Aggies vs. UNLV Runnin’ Rebels Free Pick
Predictions: SU Winner – Utah State, ATS Winner – Utah State, O/U – Over
Notes
Betting Notes:
Utah State ranks 95th in three pointers attempted per game (23.9) while UNLV ranks 270th (15.7).
The Runnin’ Rebels rank ninth in rebounds per game (42.3) while the Aggies rank 183rd (34.6).
UNLV ranks 19th in assists per game (17.8) while Utah State ranks 148th (13.6).
The Runnin’ Rebels rank 55th in blocks per game (4.4) while the Aggies rank 68th in blocks allowed per game (3.1).
Bettings Trends:
The Aggies’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 9.4, up from 3.9 for the season.
During their last five games, the Runnin’ Rebels have scored an average of 85.2 points per game (4.2 below their season average) and allowed an average of 77.8 points per game (3.3 above their season average).