Dayton Flyers (18-3) vs. VCU Rams (14-8)
Dayton Flyers vs. VCU Rams 2/9/24 – As the NCAA Men’s Basketball season ramps up, fans and bettors alike can look forward to a stellar matchup this Friday between Dayton Flyers and VCU Rams, two powerhouse teams. This clash promises intensity and skill from both teams in their battle for supremacy – it should provide excellent handicapper game reviews considering these teams have both enjoyed strong seasons thus far.
The Flyers have continued their strong play from last season, ranking as one of the highest scoring teams in the nation at 74.1 points per game. They sit second in the Atlantic 10 with a 10-1 conference record and have won four straight contests. Dayton boasts impressive shooting numbers with 47.2% from the field and 39.4% from three. Sophomore forward DaRon Holmes II powers the attack, averaging 20 points and 7.8 rebounds.
VCU has shaken off a slow start to crack the top 25 rankings once again. The Rams have won four of their last five to improve to 6-3 in A10 play. They force teams into mistakes with their trademark havoc defense, averaging 12.5 turnovers per game. VCU also protects the rim well, swatting 4.6 shots per contest. On offense, junior guard Max Shulga leads a balanced attack with 15.2 points per game on 42.9% shooting from the field and 40.6% from deep. His scoring and playmaking helps drive VCU’s efficient offensive unit that averages 72.3 points on 44.5% shooting.
Dayton Flyers vs. VCU Rams 2/9/24 Game Info
| When: | Friday, February 9, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Stuart Siegel Center |
| TV: | ESP2 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
DaRon Holmes II (Forward) vs. Max Shulga (Guard)
DaRon Holmes has put up monster numbers for the Flyers this season, averaging 20 points, 7.8 rebounds and 2.3 blocks per game while shooting over 55% from the field. The sophomore forward is a matchup nightmare who dominates the paint. He’ll look to overwhelm VCU inside with his rare blend of size and skill.
Max Shulga leads the Rams offense, averaging 15.2 points and 3.5 assists while shooting 40.6% from three. The junior guard drives VCU’s efficient attack with his scoring and playmaking ability. He excels at breaking down defenses off the dribble and creating open looks for himself and teammates.
This matchup pits Holmes’ interior scoring against Shulga’s perimeter scoring. If Holmes commands double teams down low it could open up the three point line for Shulga. But if Shulga has to help defend Holmes in the post it could tire out his legs on offense. Which star will gain the upper hand could swing this game.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, reflecting the closely matched nature of this contest. Bettors and fans alike will be keenly watching the line movement leading up to tip-off for any edge in what promises to be a tightly contested battle.
Dayton Flyers Betting Trends
Dayton has been a bit shakier against the spread though, going just 3-2 ATS over that same sample. However, the Flyers excel against the number away from home, boasting a 5-2 road ATS record. The over has also hit in three of Dayton’s previous five outings.
VCU Rams Betting Trends
As for VCU, they’ve been a bettors dream recently, covering the spread in four of their last five while splitting the over/under at 2-3. The Rams have defended their home court well this season, going 3-2 ATS in Richmond. Stuart Siegel Center has also seen its fair share of high-scoring affairs, with 10 of VCU’s last 17 home games eclipsing the total.
Dayton Flyers vs. VCU Rams 2/9/24 Betting Picks
Statistical analysis and betting trends point towards this game being an exhibition of talent and strategy. While VCU might appear slightly favored with its home court advantage and knack for drawing fouls, the Flyers could make for a dramatic rivalry matchup.
In terms of picks, while the exact betting lines are TBD, the strength of Dayton’s performance on the road and their offensive efficiency might give them the edge. However, VCU’s aggressive defense and ability to control the game’s tempo at home should not be underestimated. Daily NCAAB free analysis suggests a close game, with potential value in betting the OVER on total points, considering both teams’ recent scoring trends.
Free Pick and Prediction: Dayton Flyers 76, VCU Rams 72.