Dayton Flyers (21-5) vs. Loyola Chicago Ramblers (20-7)
Dayton Flyers vs. Loyola Chicago Ramblers 3/1/24 – In an eagerly anticipated NCAA Men’s Basketball showdown, the Dayton Flyers face off against the Loyola Chicago Ramblers on Friday. Both teams have had impressive seasons so far, with Dayton boasting a 21-5 record and Loyola Chicago not far behind at 20-7. This matchup promises to be a pivotal clash in the college basketball landscape. Given the teams’ performances, this game is shaping up to be a crucial free NCAAB matchup analysis for followers and analysts alike.
The Flyers enter Friday’s matchup averaging 73.7 points per game on 47.3% shooting from the field. Dayton hits on 39.2% of shots from three-point range and 72.7% of attempts from the free throw line. Rebounding has been a strength as well, with the Flyers pulling down 33.7 total rebounds per contest thanks in large part to 8.4 offensive boards per outing. Defensively, Dayton forces 9.5 turnovers per game while racking up 5.3 steals and 4 blocks. Their defensive prowess shows in the scoring column, as opponents are averaging just 67.2 points against the Flyers.
As for the Ramblers, they average 74.1 points per game on 46.4% shooting. From deep, Loyola Chicago knocks down 35.9% of three-point tries. Their efficiency from the charity stripe sits at 69.8%. On the glass, the Ramblers snag 36.5 rebounds per game with 8.7 coming on the offensive end. Loyola Chicago’s defense generates 12.8 turnovers per contest while compiling 6.7 steals and 4.9 blocks. Opposing teams score just 63.7 points per matchup when facing the stingy Ramblers’ defense. Rebounding and defensive play should be determining factors in this matchup between A10 foes.
Dayton Flyers vs. Loyola Chicago Ramblers 3/1/24 Game Info
| When: | Friday, March 1, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Joseph J. Gentile Center |
| TV: | ESP2 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
DaRon Holmes II (Forward) vs. Philip Alston (Forward)
Flyers’ forward DaRon Holmes II is averaging 20.2 points and 7.9 rebounds per game this season while shooting efficiently from the field (55.3% FG) and the free throw line (68.9% FT). His defensive presence also stands out with 2.5 blocks per contest. Holmes will look to exploit Loyola in the post while using his athleticism to make an impact on both ends. Areas of concern include his outside shooting (37.7% 3PT) and a high turnover rate at 2.1 per game.
For the Ramblers, senior forward Philip Alston leads the team at 12.9 points per game while knocking down perimeter jumpers at a 35.9% clip. Alston isn’t afraid to shoot the ball but his efficiency numbers are rather low across the board. He will need to avoid lapses on defense when matched up with the skilled Holmes II. His impact on this game will depend on whether or not his outside shot is falling.
When these forwards face off on Friday, expect Holmes to establish a deep post position often. If Alston can force Holmes to catch the ball further away from the rim it will neutralize his efficient interior scoring. Rebounding on both ends will be key as these frontcourt players on opposite sides exert their will. Expect physical play that could force foul trouble on either side.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
As the betting odds are yet to be determined, it’s clear that this game is expected to be tightly contested. The performance trends and key player matchups will significantly influence the odds once they’re released.
Dayton Flyers Betting Trends
The Flyers enter this matchup having gone 3-2 straight up in their last five contests. Against the spread is where Dayton has struggled recently, posting a 2-3 ATS record over their previous five matchups. For the full season, the Flyers have been a strong road play against the number with a record of 6-4 ATS away from home. The over has hit in three of Dayton’s last five overall outings. Looking even further back, a robust nine of the Flyers’ last 15 home games have gone over the total points scored projection.
Loyola Chicago Ramblers Betting Trends
The Ramblers could not be playing much better leading up to this showdown, riding a five-game winning streak straight up. Loyola Chicago has also covered the spread in each of those last five victories against conference opponents. Betting trends clearly favor this red-hot team. On top of the flawless 5-0 ATS run, the Ramblers have posted a respectable 6-3 ATS record in home games for the full season. Yet over the entire year, a more telling trend emerges with under cashing in 13 of the Ramblers’ 17 total home games.
Dayton Flyers vs. Loyola Chicago Ramblers 3/1/24 Betting Picks
Analysis and betting trends indicate that this game promises to be tightly contested, with both teams possessing strengths that could balance each other out effectively. Given Holmes II vs Alston’s key player matchup as well as each team’s recent form, this match could go in favor of the team which manages to impose its playing style more successfully.
While the betting odds are TBD, the Flyers’ offensive efficiency and slightly better defensive metrics give them a slight edge. However, Loyola Chicago’s recent form and ATS record, especially at home, cannot be ignored. This makes the game a tough call, but given the trends, the Flyers might just have the edge in what promises to be a high-scoring game.
Premium picks today would lean towards a slight advantage to Dayton due to their overall performance metrics and Holmes II’s impactful presence. However, the Ramblers’ recent form and home court advantage make them a formidable opponent.
Free Pick and Prediction: Dayton Flyers 76, Loyola Chicago Ramblers 72.