Expert prediction
Akron vs Ball State Preview, Odds, Predictions (Feb. 20)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Zips have won 11 of their last 12 games.
- The Cardinals are going through a three-game losing streak.
- This marks the 53rd all-time matchup between the two MAC squads.
The MAC will tip off the Feb. 20 schedule as the Akron Zips go on the road to face the Ball State Cardinals on Friday evening. The former stand tall as the strong favorite, having motivation to win as they are competing for the regular-season title.
How to Watch
- When: Friday, Feb. 20, 6 pm ET
- Where: John Worthen Arena, Muncie, Indiana
- How to Watch: CBS Sports Network
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Akron | -110 | -14.5 | O147 |
| Ball State | -110 | +14.5 | U147 |
Game Preview
The Zips (21-5, 12-1 MAC) have enjoyed a remarkable season so far, seeing themselves competing with Miami (OH) for the regular-season title. They were rolling with a nine-game win streak before losing to Troy then bounced back with victories over UMass and Westerin Michigan. Akron ranks in the top five in the MAC in scoring offense (2nd – 89.9), scoring margin (2nd – +15.0), fg pct (2nd – .504), opp fg pct (1st – .426), 3pt pct (3rd – .374), 3s made per game (1st – 10.9). Tavari Johnson leads the Zips in points (20.3) and assists (5.2). Amani Lyles leads the squad in rebounds (7.3) while Evan Mahaffey leads the way in steals (1.8) and total blocks (19).
The Cardinals (8-18, 3-10 MAC) have struggled throughout the course of conference play, being near the bottom of the MAC standings. They are only above Western Michigan, losing 10 of their first 13 conference games. Ball State does lead the league in scoring defense (70.0 points per game) and ranks second in fewest fouls committed per game (15.7) and third in steals per game (7.7). Davion Hill has been a reliable spark plug off the bench with averages of 12.7 points and 4.2 rebounds, while Armoni Zeigler produces 12.1 points and 4.9 rebounds per game.
Akron vs Ball State Head-to-Head
The two programs have had 52 meetings in their history, and the result is 33-19 for the Zips. The last matchup was in January this year when Akron won 87-77 at home.
Akron vs Ball State Predictions
The Zips may be the visiting squad, but they firmly stand tall as the better squad over the Cardinals. Ball State has a solid defense that may have Akron get off to a slow start, but the hosts’ chances of winning this game will be low due to their inability to put the ball through the hoops at a high volume. Our betting pick here is the Zips to defend a 14.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: Akron Zips -14.5
NCAAB
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