Saint Louis Billikens (8-8) vs. VCU Rams (10-7)
Saint Louis Billikens vs. VCU Rams 1/19/24 – As the NCAA Men’s Basketball season progresses, a captivating matchup is set for Friday, January 19, 2024, with the Saint Louis Billikens, standing at an even 8-8, facing the VCU Rams, who have a slightly better record of 10-7. This game, slated for a 7:00 PM ET start at the Stuart Siegel Center and broadcasted on ESP2, is garnering attention for its potential impact on conference standings and is a key focus for NCAAB predictions today.
Saint Louis Billikens have shown both promise and unpredictability this season. On average they average 74.4 points per game with a 44.9% field goal percentage indicating efficient offensive play; their 3-point shooting success rate stands at 38.6% while 11.9 turnovers per game and slightly higher foul counts may present obstacles defensively; they must tighten up defensively and manage turnovers better to have any chance against the Rams.
VCU Rams have had an even more consistent season. Averaging 73.2 points per game on offense and 76.8% free throw percentage are both comparable with Billikens; however, VCU’s 45.3% field goal percentage and strong free throw percentage give them a slight edge. Furthermore, their defense boasts 5.1 blocks and 6.2 steals per game, showing their ability to disrupt opposing offensive flow while their higher turnover rate of 13.1 remains an issue.
Saint Louis Billikens vs. VCU Rams 1/19/24 Game Info
| When: | Friday, January 19, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Stuart Siegel Center |
| TV: | ESP2 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Gibson Jimerson (Guard) vs. Max Shulga (Guard)
Gibson Jimerson has been an integral component of Saint Louis Billikens this season, scoring 17.2 points per game across 16 games while shooting 41.3% from field goal range and 39.3% from three-point range – providing him with significant scoring prowess from beyond the perimeter and clutch free throw shooting of 86.6%. However, his challenge will lie in managing his 2.1 turnovers per game as well as finding other ways he can impact games beyond scoring alone.
Max Shulga of VCU Rams provides an exceptional all-around game. Averaging 15.2 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game he is an invaluable member of their lineup, boasting field goal percentage of 41.9% from beyond the arc with an excellent free throw percentage (88.6%) as he adds depth with his contributions in various forms such as his 1.1 steals per game contribution bringing an added layer of depth into VCU’s gameplay.
Jimerson and Shulga will play an essential role in deciding the game. Jimerson’s shooting ability and free throw accuracy could prove game-changing for Saint Louis; while Shulga’s all-around abilities could tilt things in VCU’s favor. Their battle will play an essential part in shaping its momentum and ultimately its outcome.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds and point spread for this game have yet to be released, however based on each team’s records and performances so far it may be closely contested between VCU’s slightly better defensive record and scoring ability, and Saint Louis’ scorers.
Saint Louis Billikens Betting Trends
The Billikens have been inconsistent against the spread, going 2-3 in their last five games against it. Furthermore, their tendency for games to go OVER total points both at home and away suggests they frequently engage in high-scoring contests.
VCU Rams Betting Trends
VCU has performed moderately better, with a 3-2 record against the spread in their last five games. Their balanced approach to offense and defense can be seen in their betting trends; totals have gone OVER in half of their recent matches; this indicates they can score effectively while keeping games competitive, leading to high scoring from both sides.
Saint Louis Billikens vs. VCU Rams 1/19/24 Betting Picks
Bettors in this matchup face a difficult choice in choosing between VCU Rams with their slightly better record and solid defensive stats and Saint Louis Billikens with their powerful scoring ability, especially from beyond the three point line, especially at home. Both teams’ performances will likely determine who comes out on top but choosing between them may be difficult.
Betting-wise, VCU Rams may be the safer pick given their overall consistency; however Saint Louis stands out as an underdog choice with their ability to outshout expectations during high-scoring games and exceed expectations in such matches. Over/Under points totals should also be kept in mind given both teams’ propensities for high scoring matches.
In the realm of multi-handicapper tips, where diverse perspectives and expert insights converge, this game is intriguing. Each team presents unique strengths and vulnerabilities that could sway the game in different directions. Therefore, bettors should consider not just the teams’ overall stats but also the specific dynamics of this matchup.
Free Pick and Prediction: VCU Rams 78, Saint Louis Billikens 73