The Western Michigan Broncos (6-16, 0-9 MAC) will attempt to put an end to their seven-game road losing streak in a matchup against the Ball State Cardinals (12-11, 3-7 MAC) at John E. Worthen Arena. The game is scheduled to get underway at 2 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 9, 2019.
Western Michigan Broncos at Ball State Cardinals Betting Prediction
In the Broncos’ last outing, they were beaten by the Bowling Green Falcons, 85-72. Bowling Green’s turnover percentage was their largest advantage over Western Michigan. The Falcons had a rate of 12.8 (better than their season average of 14.6), while the Broncos posted a mark of 26.7 (above their season average of 18.5). Seth Dugan played well for Western Michigan, recording 17 points and 11 rebounds.
The Cardinals barely escaped the Northern Illinois Huskies in their last contest, 72-71. One of Ball State’s largest strengths was getting to the free throw line. They made 28 trips to the line, 20 more than Northern Illinois. With 22 points and 10 rebounds, Trey Moses had a good outing for Ball State.
After the Broncos won both meetings against the Cardinals last season, these teams will clash for the first time this year. In the most recent contest, Western Michigan won 87-80. The Broncos had a much better free throw rate (0.362 vs. 0.232) and had a better turnover percentage (14.3 vs. 18.7).
Ball State appears to have the edge on the offensive side of the ball. The Cardinals currently rank 88th in offensive efficiency, while the Broncos rank 315th in defensive efficiency.
Western Michigan Broncos at Ball State Cardinals Free Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Ball State, ATS Winner – Ball State, O/U – Over
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Notes
Betting Notes:
Western Michigan ranks 130th in three pointers attempted per game (23.0) while Ball State ranks 253rd (19.0).
The Cardinals average 38.2 rebounds per game, which ranks 53rd in the country. The Broncos rank 159th in rebounds allowed per game (35.2).
Ball State ranks 118th in steals per game (6.3) while Western Michigan ranks 195th in steals allowed per game (8.0).
The Cardinals rank 158th in assists per game (13.3) while the Broncos rank 200th in assists allowed per game (14.5).
Ball State blocks 3.6 opponent shots per game, which ranks 86th in the NCAA. Western Michigan ranks 123rd in blocks allowed per game (3.6).
Bettings Trends:
The Broncos’ average margin of defeat in their last five games has been 12.0, up from 4.7 for the season.
During their last five games, the Cardinals have scored an average of 70.0 points per game (9.2 below their season average) and allowed an average of 77.2 points per game (3.2 above their season average).
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