BYU Cougars (14-3) vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders (14-3)
BYU Cougars vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders 1/20/24 – The upcoming NCAA Men’s Basketball game on Saturday presents an exciting matchup between the BYU Cougars and the Texas Tech Red Raiders, both standing at an impressive 14-3 record. This encounter is shaping up to be a pivotal clash in the college basketball landscape. Fans and bettors alike are eagerly looking forward to this game, seeking insights for their NCAAB picks and previews.
BYU Cougars enter this game boasting an impressive 14-3 record with a dominant offensive performance, averaging 85.7 points per game while boasting an excellent field goal percentage (47.7%) and three-point shooting (37%). They excel in rebounding by averaging 42.4 per game including an impressive 12.7 offensive rebound average per game; their defense, indicated by 6.8 steals and 3 blocks per game will need to be on its best form against an intimidating Texas Tech opponent.
Texas Tech Red Raiders have shown an effective balance with a 14-3 record as well. Averaging 77.6 points per game at 46.4% field goal accuracy, they slightly outscored BYU but more than made up for their lower scoring average with their high free throw percentage (77.9%). Their defensive statistics were particularly noteworthy: 6.1 steals and 3.3 blocks per game suggest significant challenges against BYU offense; however they average less rebounds (36.1) per game than BYU on rebounding alone.
BYU Cougars vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders 1/20/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, January 20, 2024 at 6:00 PM ET |
| Where: | United Supermarkets Arena |
| TV: | ESP2 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Jaxson Robinson (Guard) vs. Pop Isaacs (Guard)
Jaxson Robinson has been an offensive catalyst for the Cougars this season, averaging 14.3 points on 44.9% shooting from the field and 38.9% from three-point range. This junior guard is adept at moving without the ball, leveraging his quickness to get open looks from beyond the arc. In addition to his scoring, Robinson contributes 2.5 rebounds and 1.4 assists per contest. However, his lack of size can be a detriment when matched up with lengthier backcourt defenders.
Meanwhile, Pop Isaacs has burst onto the scene in his freshman campaign to lead the Red Raiders with 16.3 points per game on 36.8% shooting overall and 30.8% from deep. Isaacs has shown a high basketball IQ in running the offense and creates space for his shot with crafty dribble moves. The young floor general also chips in 2.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per outing as a well-rounded contributor. Although he doesn’t have elite athleticism, Isaacs compensates with fundamentals and step-back jumpers. His three-point efficiency can improve further.
This matchup will pit Isaacs’ size advantage against Robinson’s quick-trigger shooting ability. Robinson will look to leverage off-ball screens to find gaps all over the floor. Conversely, Isaacs has the length to potentially disrupt Robinson’s catch-and-shoot opportunities. Ultimately, Robinson must capitalize on quality looks for the Cougars to keep pace on the road.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but they will undoubtedly reflect the closely matched nature of these teams. Bettors should keep a close eye on the opening lines to gauge the market’s sentiment.
BYU Cougars Betting Trends
BYU is just 2-3 against the spread in their last 5 and 2-3 ATS on the road this season. The Cougars are prone to slow starts in opposing arenas. However, BYU is 4-1 straight up in their last 5 games, with their lone loss in overtime.
Texas Tech Red Raiders Betting Trends
Texas Tech has the betting edge recently, covering in 4 of their previous 5 contests. They are also 4-1 straight up over that stretch, thriving at home with a 7-2 record. The Red Raiders are 7-2 versus the total in their last 9 at home as well.
BYU Cougars vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders 1/20/24 Betting Picks
Considering the strengths and weaknesses of both teams, this game is poised to be a close contest. BYU’s offensive firepower matched against Texas Tech’s balanced approach makes for an intriguing battle. In terms of betting picks, this game could go either way, but the slight edge might be with Texas Tech due to their recent form and defensive capabilities.
For bettors looking for premium expert picks, focusing on the over/under might be worthwhile, given both teams’ tendencies for high-scoring games. Prop bets on key players like Robinson and Isaacs could also offer value, considering their significant impact on their respective teams.
Free Pick and Prediction: Texas Tech Red Raiders 8, BYU Cougars 74