Expert prediction
Northern Illinois vs Akron Preview, Odds, Predictions (March 6)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Huskies play their final regular-season game in the MAC.
- The Zips have won 15 of their last 16 games.
- This marks the 50th all-time matchup between the two MAC squads.
The MAC will early evening hours of the March 6 schedule as the Akron Zips host the Northern Illinois Huskies on Friday. The former stands tall as the dominant favorite, having motivation to win as they are competing for the regular-season title.
How to Watch
- When: Friday, March 6, 6 pm ET
- Where: James Rhodes Arena, Akron, Ohio
- How to Watch: CBS Sports Network
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Northern Illinois | -112 | +22.5 | O155.5 |
| Akron | -108 | -22.5 | U155.5 |
Game Preview
Conference play has been brutal for the Huskies (9-20, 4-13 MAC), being at the bottom of the MAC standings. They are going through four consecutive losses, hoping to win their final regular-season game as a MAC member. They head into the Horizon League, starting in the 2026-27 campaign and beyond. Gianni Cobb leads the squad with averages of 14.8 points, four assists and 3.2 rebounds per game over the last five contests, shooting 86.4 percent (19-of-22) from the free-throw line.
The Zips (25-5, 16-1 MAC) have enjoyed an incredible campaign so far, competing with Miami (OH) for the regular-season title. They have won 15 of their last 16 games, including wins over Kent State and Central Michigan. Akron ranks sixth in the country in scoring offense at 89.4 points per game, fifth in assists per game (19.0), and 10th in field goal percentage (50.4 percent). Tavari Johnson leads the Zips in points (20.5) and assists (5.2). Lyles leads the Blue and Gold in rebounds (7.6) while Mahaffey leads the way in steals (1.8).
Northern Illinois vs Akron Head-to-Head
The two programs have had 49 meetings in their history, and the result is 34-15 for the Zips. The last matchup was in February 2025 when Akron won 73-63 at home.
Northern Illinois vs Akron Predictions
Akron yearns to end conference play with a win to remain in the race for the regular-season title. They can clinch a share if Miami (OH) loses its finale to Ohio but will secure second place in the MAC standings if that doesn’t happen. As for Northern Illinois, the squad will look to play with dignity as it exits the MAC and begins a new chapter of the program’s history next year. Our betting pick here is the Zips to defend a 22.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: Akron Zips -22.5
NCAAB
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