SMU Mustangs vs. Murray State Racers 12/22/23

SMU vs. Murray State 12/22/23 NCAA Men’s Basketball Best Preview, Tips, and Forecast

SMU Mustangs (8-4) vs. Murray State Racers (3-8)

 

SMU Mustangs vs. Murray State Racers 12/22/23 – On Friday night in an exciting NCAA Men’s Basketball matchup, SMU Mustangs are set to clash against Murray State Racers, drawing significant attention due to their disparate records and strategies on court. This broadcast game on CBSSN offers ample opportunity for premium sports predictions with fans and analysts eagerly awaiting its outcome.

 

The SMU Mustangs have made an outstanding showing this season. Averaging 73.8 points per game across 11 games played, their field goal percentage stands at 45.2% which indicates their effectiveness when scoring. One key highlight has been 3-point shooting where on average 7 made per game at 33.6% success rate can be found. Their defense has also been reliable with 8 steals and 4.2 blocks being recorded per game while they average 12.4 turnovers and 17.3 fouls each game; these could provide opportunities for Murray State.

 

Murray State Racers should not be underestimated despite their less impressive 3-8 record. Their scoring average is close to SMU’s with 71.8 points per game and 43.8% field goal percentage; additionally, 3-point shooting success has increased slightly; on average 7.5 makes per game at 32.3% success rate makes up the difference for their lower win rate; however 21 of their last 31 games saw Game Total Over hits suggesting high scoring potential from this team.

 

SMU Mustangs vs. Murray State Racers Game Info

 

When: Friday, December 22, 2023 at 6:00 PM ET
Where: CFSB Center
TV: CBSSN
Stream: Sofascore

 

Zhuric Phelps (Guard) vs. Rob Perry (Guard)

 

Zhuric Phelps has been the catalyst for the Mustangs this season, stuffing the stat sheet on a nightly basis. In addition to his 15.5 points, he contributes 4.7 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game. Phelps is also tenacious on defense, averaging 1.8 steals per contest. His quickness and scoring ability make him difficult to contain.

 

For the Racers, Rob Perry has done it all, leading the team in points, rebounds and minutes played. Perry is scoring 15 points while pulling down 4.7 boards in over 32 minutes per game. He has been Murray State’s most reliable performer this season. His versatility and leadership give the Racers a much-needed boost.

 

This matchup pits two talented guards against one another who can score in a variety of ways. However, Phelps has shown better efficiency and has more talent around him. Perry will need to have a heroic performance for the Racers to pull off the upset. But the smart bet is on Phelps and the red-hot Mustangs continuing their winning ways.

 

NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD

 

The betting odds for this match-up are yet to be released, but they will play a significant role in shaping predictions. Given SMU’s better record and overall stats, they might be the favorites, but Murray State’s home advantage and scoring ability could affect the spread.

 

SMU Mustangs Betting Trends

 

The Mustangs are 7-1 in their last 8 non-conference games and have covered in 5 straight neutral site affairs. SMU is also 5-1-1 against the spread (ATS) in their previous 7 contests overall. Backing SMU to cover big numbers has been profitable all year.

 

Murray State Racers Betting Trends

 

The Racers have struggled mightily, going 1-7 straight up in their last 8 games overall. However, Murray State has gone over the total in 7 of their last 9 contests. The over also hit in 4 of the Racers’ previous 5 non-conference matchups. Murray State’s defense has been porous allowing over 73 points per game during their 7-game slide.

 

SMU Mustangs vs. Murray State Racers 12/22/23 Betting Picks

 

Analyzing the stats and trends, this game promises to be a battle of offensive strengths. SMU’s more balanced approach, both in offense and defense, might give them a slight edge. However, Murray State’s home advantage and tendency for high-scoring games cannot be overlooked.

 

In terms of betting picks, SMU might be the safer choice, but Murray State’s potential for an upset, especially with their strong home game trend, makes them an intriguing underdog pick. Considering the over/under, a high-scoring game is likely, aligning with both teams’ trends. NCAAB top predictions might lean towards SMU, but the potential for a surprise from Murray State adds an exciting uncertainty to this matchup.

 

Free Pick and Prediction: SMU Mustangs 75, Murray State Racers 72