The Valparaiso Crusaders (11-6, 4-0 MVC) look to lengthen their five-game winning streak against the Loyola Chicago Ramblers (10-7, 3-1 MVC) at Joseph J. Gentile Center. The game is scheduled to start at 8 p.m. ET on Tuesday, January 15, 2019.
Valparaiso Crusaders vs. Loyola Chicago Ramblers ATS Prediction
In the Crusaders’ last game, they topped the Southern Illinois Salukis, 65-61. The Crusaders made 11 of their 15 free throws (73.3 percent) and had a turnover percentage of 10.7 (better than their season average of 17.3). Valparaiso received a boost from Derrik Smits, who was the team’s leading scorer with 16 points on 4-for-7 shooting.
The Ramblers edged the Illinois State Redbirds in their last outing, 67-64. Loyola Chicago’s turnover percentage was their largest advantage over Illinois State. The Ramblers had a rate of 10.9 (better than their season average of 18.7), while the Redbirds posted a mark of 19.4 (above their season average of 15.7). With 13 points and eight rebounds, Cameron Krutwig had a solid performance for Loyola Chicago.
After the Ramblers won both meetings against the Crusaders last season, these teams will clash for the first time this year. In the last contest, Loyola Chicago won 80-71. Loyola Chicago had a much better turnover percentage (8.5 vs. 15.8). Valparaiso, on the other hand, had a much better offensive rebounding percentage (37.5 vs. 24.1).
Half-court execution will be at a premium when two of the NCAA’s slowest-paced teams go head-to-head. Loyola Chicago ranks 319th in possessions per game (66.5) and Valparaiso is 289th (67.7).
Valparaiso at Loyola Chicago ATS Pick
Prediction: SU Winner – Valparaiso, ATS Winner – Valparaiso, O/U – Over
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Notes
Betting Notes:
Loyola Chicago ranks 15th in rebounds allowed per game (30.7) while Valparaiso ranks 116th (34.5).
The Crusaders rank 41st in blocks allowed per game (2.7) while the Ramblers rank 118th (3.8).
Valparaiso ranks 199th in three pointers attempted per game (20.6) while Loyola Chicago ranks 252nd (18.3).
The Crusaders rank 48th in assists per game (15.7) while the Ramblers rank 86th (14.6).
Loyola Chicago averages 6.5 steals per game, which ranks 111th in the nation. Valparaiso ranks 132nd in steals allowed per game (6.9).
Bettings Trends:
The Crusaders’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 13.8, up from 5.4 for the season.
During their last five games, the Ramblers have scored an average of 64.2 points per game (4.1 below their season average) and allowed an average of 58.8 points per game (2.3 below their season average).
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