Expert prediction
UTRGV vs McNeese Preview, Odds, Predictions (Feb. 23)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Vaqueros have been resilient with an 8-5 road record.
- The Cowboys are on fire with five consecutive wins in league play.
- This marks the 11th all-time matchup between the two Southland squads.
Another intriguing matchup at the mid-major level will commence in the Southland, seeing the McNeese Cowboys host the UTRGV Vaqueros. The hosts come out as the dominant favorite, having direct implications on the playoff picture of the Southland Tournament.
How to Watch
- When: Monday, Feb. 23, 7:30 pm ET
- Where: Townsley Law Arena, Lake Charles, Louisiana
- How to Watch: ESPN+
NCAA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| UTRGV | -110 | +11.5 | O146.5 |
| McNeese | -110 | -11.5 | U146.5 |
Game Preview
The Vaqueros (16-12, 12-7 Southland) are in the upper bracket of the conference standings, riding high after winning 10 of their last 11 games. They are coming off back-to-back wins over Lamar and Southeast Louisiana, making a late run to end conference play. Koree Cotton heads the attack with averages of 13.5 points and 4.8 rebounds per game. On another note, Marvin McGhee III shines as a 3-point sniper with 64 made triples on a 44.1% clip.
The Cowboys (23-5, 16-3 Southland) boast one of the best records in the nation, competing for the regular-season title. They also possess one of the best win streaks at home, having won 26 consecutive home games as it marks the third-longest in the NCAA. Larry Johnson leads the attack with 16.8 points, 5.1 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. Meanwhile, Tyshawn Archie and DJ Richards Jr. stand out as perimeter threats with 52 made triples each.
UTRGV vs McNeese Head-to-Head
The two programs have had 10 meetings in their history, and the result is 8-2 for the Cowboys. The last matchup was in January this year when UTRGV won 79-76 at home.
UTRGV vs McNeese Predictions
Even though UTRGV won the previous encounter, it’s probable that McNeese gets payback this time around. The Cowboys have motivation to get back to the NCAA Tournament and make noise once again as one of the Southland contenders. Even though the Vaqueros are in solid form, the talent of the Cowboys might shine better down the stretch, especially at home. Our betting pick here is the Cowboys to defend an 11.5-point spread.
- Free NCAAB pick: McNeese Cowboys -11.5
NCAAB
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