VCU Looks for Fifth Straight Win

VCU has all kinds of confidence right now and they have won four straight games. Two games ago against Dayton, they won 73-68 and in the last game against George Washington, they ended up losing 80–72. In the second half, they scored 45 points and that led to the win. Forward Jack Clark had a strong game putting up 18 points, nine rebounds, and four assists. There were three different platyers that put up at least 11 points. 

VCU sits with a 20-5 record overall and they have gone 15-8-1 against. At home this season they have gone 11-0 straight up. The Rams are averaging 78.4 points while their defense is giving up 63.3 points per game. The offense is ranked 76th in the league while the defense is ranked 13th. Joe Bamisile is averaging 15.8 points while shooting 46.9 percent from the field and 32.7 percent from behind the three-point line. 

Why VCU Will Beat UMass

• VCU has won each of its last 12 games at Stuart C. Siegel Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Massachusetts has lost each of its last three night games against the Atlantic 10 Conference.
• Massachusetts has lost the first half in each of its last three night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

UMass is Struggling

UMass is really struggling heading into this game and they have lost three games in a row. UMass faced off against St Bonaventure in the last game and they scored only 59 points while the defense gave up 73 points and that led to the defeat. At halftime, they were down 39-26, and in the second half, they couldn’t get anything else going, and that led to the defeat. Tarique Foster was the top player for UMass putting up 14 points and one assist. There were three different players that put up at least 11 points. 

UMass currently sits with an 11-15 record overall and they have gone 12-13 against the spread. UMass is averaging 74.8 points while their defense is giving up 74.3 points per game. The offense is ranked 163rd in the league while the defense is ranked 258th in the league. They are averaging 64.31 field goals attempted per game which is 9th in the league. Rahsool Diggins has been the top player for this team, averaging 17.2 points while shooting while shooting 37.9 percent from the field and 32.2 percent from behind the three-point line. 

Why UMass Will Beat VCU

• Massachusetts has won three of its last four road games.

VCU vs UMass Prediction

This total is too high. Yes, UMass’s defense hasn’t been good this season, but this total is going to come down to the defense of VCU. VCU’s defense is giving up 63.3 points per game and they are going to step up in a major way here. UMass is going to struggle to get to even 55 points here. VCU will win, but they aren’t going to have the top offensive game of the season, and it will be VCU that is going to get the job done. Back the under to end up cashing here with ease. 

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UMass Minutemen Betting Preview

It’s been quite the rocky season for the Minutemen so far this year, but to be fair they’re playing better lately. UMass beat New Hampshire in their opener, then fell to West Virginia, LA Tech, Hofstra, Temple, and Florida State in the next five. A 4-2 run came next with losses to Central Connecticut and UMass Lowell among wins over Harvard, NJIT, Massachusetts-Boston, and Northeastern, then more losses to Arizona State, Saint Joseph’s, Richmond, and George Mason mixed with a lone win over Dayton. UMass is 4-2 in the last six games with losses to Rhode Island and Saint Louis among wins over Fordham, La Salle, George Washington, and Duquesne. So far that makes a 10-13 overall record through the first 23 games of the year.

In the Saint Louis game on Tuesday, the Minutemen came out of the first half looking up at a manageable 35-33 deficit on the scoreboard. UMass kept the pace from there on a 38-38 run but ended up losing 73-71. Jaylen Curry led the team with 16 points, three rebounds, and two steals. Daniel Rivera managed to double up on 14 points, 14 rebounds, two steals and one assist. Daniel Hankins Sanford came off the bench for 14 points with seven boards and two assists in 27 minutes of work on the floor as well.

La Salle Explorers Betting Preview

Over on the La Salle side, they got off to a pretty good start through November but it’s been a choppy record in the books since then. The Explorers took out American U, Lafayette, Cornell, Drexel, Stetson, and Temple among losses to UC San Diego and UIC in their first eight outings. A 2-5 stretch came next with wins over Fairleigh Dickinson and Immaculata among losses to Northeastern, Saint Joseph’s, North Carolina, Dayton, and Loyola Chicago. It’s been a 4-4 run since then with wins over St. Bonaventure, Davidson, Rhode Island, and George Washington mixed with losses to UMass, Saint Louis, Fordham, and VCU in that time. The result in the record column so far has been a 12-11 overall run through 23 games for La Salle.

Matched up on the road versus VCU in their Tuesday game, the Explorers hit a rough 48-28 deficit in the first half. La Salle didn’t get any closer during a rough 48-38 run from there and lost in blowout fashion 96-66 by the game’s end. Tunde Vahlberg Fasasi came off the bench to lead the team with 11 points, three rebounds, two assists, and one steal. Jahlil White chipped in with 10 points, two rebounds, and two steals as the leading starter, and Daeshon Shepherd added nine points with one rebound and one steal in 24 minutes during the losing effort.

Why the La Salle Explorers will win

• La Salle has won each of its last eight day games at John Glaser Arena.
• La Salle has won the first half in nine of its last 10 day games at John Glaser Arena.

Why the Massachusetts Minutemen will win

• Massachusetts has won the first half in eight of its last nine day games against La Salle.

La Salle vs UMass Prediction

I’ll take a stab at La Salle. If both teams play to their capabilities here, we should have a fun matchup that ends up very competitive. If not, it’ll be a comedy of errors. The Explorers were blitzed by a good VCU team in their last road matchup, shooting just 38.6 percent from the field with a 45-24 rebounding deficit. La Salle gave up 52.1 percent on the other side shooting-wise and was pretty much buried by the end of the first half. The Explorers had been scoring pretty well prior to that, however, with 70 or more points in three straight games.

Back on January 19 when these teams last saw each other, La Salle took a rough 82-60 road loss. The Explorers again shot poorly (35.3 percent) from the field in that one and had a 53-37 discrepancy in rebounding. The 13 turnovers for 20 Minutemen points didn’t help either. I like La Salle to look better in the home rematch but I’m probably avoiding this one.

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La Salle Looks for Third Straight Win

La Salle has some major confidence right now and they have won two games in a row. Two games ago against St Bonaventure, La Salle was able to secure the 83-82 victory. In the last game against Davidson, La Salle scored 79 points, and they ended up winning by three points. At halftime, they were down big, but in the second half they scored 46 points and that was enough for the victory. Deuce Jones had a strong game putting up 23 points, five rebounds, and two assists. 

La Salle on the season is averaging 77.8 points while their defense is giving up 75 points per game The offense is ranked 105th in the league while the defense is ranked 280th. They are averaging 64.59 field goal attempts per game which is 280th in the league. Corey McKeithan is having a strong season averaging 16.3 points while shooting 43.4 percent from the field and 38.9 percent from behind the three-point line. 

Are UMass Legs Still Tired?

The last game for Mass came on Wednesday but there have to be some questions about whether their legs are still tired leading into this game. UMass faced off against Fordham and it took triple overtime but they were able to get the job done with ease. Daniel Riveria had a strong game putting up 39 points, 12 rebounds, and three assists. Rashool Diggins was the start of the show putting up 46 points, six rebounds, and four assists. 

UMass on the season is averaging 76.1 points while their defense is giving up 77.3 points per game. The offense is ranked 154th in the league while the defense is ranked 311st. UMass wants to push the pace and is averaging 63.67 field goals attempted per game which is 28th in the league. Rashool Diggins has been the top player for UMass averaging 16.1 points while shooting 36.3 percent from the field. 

UMass vs La Salle Prediction

There is going to be no shortage of scoring in this game. Even if UMass has tired legs, that is going to only hurt their defense, not their offense. UMass is averaging 76.1 points while La Salle is averaging 77.8 points per game. There is going to be no defense played by either team, and that will be the difference here as this game is going to end up being way over the total. Back the over to cash here.

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NJIT Highlanders Betting Preview

The NJIT Highlanders lost to Cleveland State, beat Morehead State, and they play Seton Hall, Navy, and Delaware State next. The NJIT Highlanders are averaging 61.3 points on 39.4 percent shooting and allowing 73.5 points on 45.2 percent shooting. Tariq Francis is averaging 19.1 points and 4.8 rebounds, while Sebastian Robinson is averaging 11.5 points and 2.3 assists. Tim Moore Jr. is grabbing 5.3 rebounds and Jake Goldberg is dishing 0.4 assists. The NJIT Highlanders are shooting 2.6 percent from beyond the arc and 79.8 percent from the free throw line. The NJIT Highlanders are allowing 33.3 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 28.3 rebounds per game.

UMass Minutemen Betting Preview

The UMass Minutemen beat Harvard, lost to Florida State, and they play Central Connecticut, UMASS Lowell, and Northeastern next. The UMass Minutemen are averaging 73 points on 40.7 percent shooting and allowing 76.1 points on 43.6 percent shooting. Jaylen Curry is averaging 4.6 points and 5 rebounds, while Rahsool Diggins is averaging 12.4 points and 2.7 rebounds. Daniel Hankins-Sanford is the third double-digit scorer and Daniel Rivera is grabbing 5.9 rebounds. The UMass Minutemen are shooting 25.5 percent from beyond the arc and 64.3 percent from the free throw line. The UMass Minutemen are allowing 35.6 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 36.4 rebounds per game.

Why the Massachusetts Minutemen will win

• Massachusetts has won 15 of its last 16 day games against non-conference opponents at William D. Mullins Memorial Center.
• NJIT has lost 13 of its last 14 games.
• Massachusetts has won the first half in each of its last six day games against non-conference opponents at William D. Mullins Memorial Center.

UMass vs NJIT Prediction

The UMass Minutemen are the better team and should win comfortably, but that was the case against Temple and Hofstra, and they lost outright. UMass just doesn’t shoot the ball well enough to cover these sorts of numbers. The NJIT Highlanders are a battle-tested squad that’s hung around at times, and at some point, those tough games will pay off. This feels like too much respect for UMass. I’ll take my chances with NJIT and the points.

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UMass Minutemen Betting Preview

UMass started out on a pretty rough run this year, but most of their losses were pretty close. The Minutemen beat New Hampshire 103-74, then fell to West Virginia 75-69, Louisiana Tech 76-66, and Hofstra 75-71 in the next three games.

On Saturday against Temple, the Minutemen were down 43-36 at the break. UMass kept the pace from there on a loss 87-80. Leading team scorer Jaylen Curry put up 17 points, while Daniel Hankins-Sanford doubled on 15 points and 10 boards.

Florida State Seminoles Betting Preview

Over on the Florida State side, they opened up the year on three straight wins. Those victories came over Northern Kentucky, Rice, and Tarleton State in succession. The Seminoles’ first loss came 87-74 versus Florida, but they’d bounced back with a 79-61 win over Hofstra on Tuesday.

Matched up against Temple on Friday, the Seminoles were up by six heading into the second half. Florida State took a 39-36 run from there for a 78-69 win. Jamir Watkins topped the team with 19 points and four rebounds, and Malique Ewin chipped in 15 points with nine boards. Florida State will meet Western Carolina and LSU after this game.

Why the Massachusetts Minutemen will win

• Massachusetts has won four of its last five games when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• Florida State has lost seven of its last nine day games against non-AP-ranked opponents at a neutral venue.
• Florida State has lost the first half in four of its last five day games against non-conference opponents.

Why the Florida State Seminoles will win

• Florida State has won each of its last seven games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• Massachusetts has lost each of its last four games.
• Florida State has won the first half in each of its last nine games against the Atlantic 10 Conference.

Florida State vs UMass Prediction

I’ll lean toward Florida State. The Seminoles didn’t have a ton of issues with a middling Temple team in their Friday matchup, shooting 45.9 percent from the field with 39 rebounds and 12 assists. FSU did cough up 15 turnovers though, and went a measly 15-of-24 (62.5 percent) from the line. Still, given the fact that Florida State has hit 72 or more points in every game so far, they should score pretty well on Sunday.

As for UMass, they didn’t shoot particularly well Saturday, posting 39.3 percent from the field and 21.7 percent (5-of-23) from 3-point range. The Minutemen have posted 151 points over the last pair, but they’ve also allowed 164 combined points in that time as well. Florida State should be able to get their offense going without too much issue here.

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Temple Recap

The Temple Owls come into this game looking to bounce back from a 78-69 loss at the hands of Florida State last time out to drop to 3-2 on the year.

Owls Look Back-To-Back Games

Jamal Mashburn Jr. leads the Owls in scoring and assists with 23.5 PPG and 2.5 APG while Steve Settle III has 13.3 PPG with a team-high 8.8 RPG to lead the Owls on the glass so far this season. Zion Stanford also has 10.8 PPG to round out the scoring in double figures for Temple so far this season. Babatunde Durodola also has 7.8 PPG and 6 RPG as well on the year. As a team, Temple is averaging 80.5 PPG on 46.8% shooting from the field, 41.8% from three and 70.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Temple Owls will win

• Massachusetts has lost each of its last six Saturday day games played at neutral venues.
• Temple has won five of its last six games when playing with a rest disadvantage.

UMass Recap

The UMass Minutemen come into this one looking to bounce back after a 75-71 OT loss to Hofstra last time out, ending up at 1-3 on the year with the loss.

Minutemen Lose 3^rd Straight

Rahsool Diggins leads the Minutemen in scoring with 16.8 PPG while Jaylen Curry has 14.5 PPG with 5.3 RPG and a team-high 7.8 APG to lead the Minutemen in the assist department so far this season. Daniel Hankins-Sanford also has 10.8 PPG with 5.3 RPG to cap off the trio of double-digit scorers for UMass so far this season. Daniel Rivera also has 7.3 PPG with 6.3 RPG and Malek Abdelgowad has 6.5 PPG with 6.5 RPG to lead the Minutemen on the glass so far this season. As a team, UMass is averaging 77.3 PPG on 43.2% shooting from the field, 32.7% from three and 56.9% from the foul line this season.

Why the Massachusetts Minutemen will win

• Temple has lost eight of its last nine day games against non-Conference opponents.
• Massachusetts has won each of its last five games following an overtime loss.

UMass vs Temple Prediction

I’m on Temple here. I think Temple is simply the better and more talented team. I still think it says something when a program like Temple can bring in a top-tier guard like Jamal Mashburn Jr. UMass just hasn’t been able to get the breaks late in games or else this could be a 3-1 team instead of 1-3. I’ll side with the Owls in this one.

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Massachusetts Minutemen Betting Preview

The Massachusetts Minutemen are 2-8 this year after they lost to Liberty in overtime by a score of 35-34 in their last game. Massachusetts led 20-7 at halftime, but they allowed Liberty to tie the game and they lost on a missed extra point in overtime. The Minutemen outgained Liberty by a total of 426-423, won the turnover battle 2-0, and went 6-14 on third down in the game. AJ Hairston threw for 163 yards, while Jalen John rushed for 119 yards and two scores on 15 carries in the loss. 

Prior to that game, the Minutemen lost to Mississippi State by a score of 45-20 but did beat Wagner by a score of 35-7 before that. The UMass offense has scored 21.3 points per game with 185 passing yards and 155.2 rushing yards per game, while the defense has allowed 32 points per game this season. AJ Hairston has completed 55.6% of his passes for 225 yards and one touchdown, while Jakobie Keeney-James has caught 42 passes for 670 yards and four scores. 

Georgia Bulldogs Betting Preview

The Georgia Bulldogs are 8-2 (6-2) this season after they defeated Tennessee by a score of 31-17 in their last game. Georgia trailed 10-0 and 17-14 in the first half, but they scored the last 17 points in the game for the win. The Bulldogs outgained Tennessee by a total of 453-319, won the turnover battle 1-0, and went 8-14 on third down in the game. Carson Beck threw for 347 yards and two touchdowns, while Nate Frazier rushed for 68 yards and one score.

Prior to that win, the Bulldogs lost to Ole Miss by a score of 28-10 but did win the four games before that. The UGA offense has scored 30.8 points per game with 292.5 passing yards and 122.3 rushing yards per game, while the defense has allowed 18.3 points per game this season. Carson Beck has completed 65.1% of his passes for 2,835 yards, 19 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, while Arian Smith has caught 37 passes for 585 yards and three scores. 

Why Massachusetts will cover

• Georgia has failed to cover the spread in each of its last six games against non-AP-ranked teams.
• Massachusetts has covered the spread in each of its last four November games against AP-ranked teams.
• Massachusetts has won the first quarter in each of its last three games against non-conference opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Four of Massachusetts’ last five road games against AP-ranked teams have gone OVER the total points line.
• Three of Georgia’s last four games against non-conference opponents have gone UNDER the total points line.

Matchup/League Facts

• Georgia ranks T7th among FBS teams for Q4 opponent points per game this season (3.7).
• Georgia ranks T7th among FBS teams for 4th down conversion percentage this season (75.0).
• Massachusetts ranks 133rd among FBS teams for average point differential in third quarters this season (-7.9).
• Massachusetts ranks T131st among FBS teams for Q3 points per game this season (1.7).

Georgia vs Massachusetts Prediction 

Georgia comes into this matchup after picking up a massive win against Tennessee last time out, but I don’t know how motivated they will be for this game. The Bulldogs are a massive favorite and should have no issues winning easily, but they will also want to rest some players and prepare for next week’s rivalry game. Massachusetts has dropped five of their last six games and they just fired their head coach on Monday. We saw Missouri beat UMass by a score of 45-3, while Mississippi State won 45-20, and I think we will see a game closer to Mississippi State. Take Massachusetts with the points here. 

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Liberty Recap

The Liberty Flames come into this one looking to build on their 37-17 win over Middle Tennessee last time out. After this game, Liberty will head home for a matchup with Western Kentucky.

Flames Looking To Get Back On Track

Kaidon Salter leads the Flames with 1,581 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions on 60.3% passing while Quinton Cooley has rushed for 851 yards and 8 touchdowns. Salter’s added 440 rushing yards with 3 scores and Billy Lucas has added 378 rushing yards with 4 TDs as well. Treon Sibley has a team-high 414 receiving yards with 2 touchdowns while Elijah Cannon has 308 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns. Tyson Mobley also has 237 receiving yards on the year for Liberty as well. On defense, Joseph Carter leads the Flames with 57 total tackles while TJ Bush Jr. has a team-high 5.5 sacks on the year. Dexter Ricks Jr. also has a pair of interceptions. As a unit, Liberty’s defense has combined for 17 sacks and 4 interceptions so far this season.

Why the Liberty Flames will win

• Massachusetts has lost 20 of its last 21 games in November.
• The favorite has won each of Massachusetts’ last eight games.
• Massachusetts has failed to cover the spread in seven of its last eight November home games against non-AP-ranked teams.
• The favorite has covered the spread in each of Massachusetts’ last three games.

UMass Recap

The UMass Minutemen come into this one looking to bounce back from a 45-20 loss at the hands of Mississippi State last time out, prior to their bye week last week. After this game, UMass will square off against Georgia on the road.

Minutemen Looking For Home Upset

Taisun Phommachanh has thrown for 1,590 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions on 56.4% passing while also rushing for 317 yards and 3 scores. CJ Hester has 349 rushing yards and 2 TDs while Jalen John and Brandon Campbell each have 200+ rushing yards as well on the year. Jakobie Keeney-Kames has a team-high 36 receptions for 595 yards and 4 touchdowns while T.Y. Harding and Jacquon Gibson each have 200+ receiving yards with Harding logging 258 receiving yards and 4 touchdowns. Three more Minutemen have 100+ receiving yards as well on the year. On defense, Jalen Stewart has a team-high 59 total tackles while the UMass defense as a whole has combined for 11 sacks and 4 interceptions so far this season.

Why the Massachusetts Minutemen will win

• The home team has won seven of Massachusetts’ last eight games.
• Massachusetts has covered the spread in each of its last four games against opponents from the Conference USA.

UMass vs Liberty Prediction

I’m leaning towards UMass, though there are much better games on the board. I’ve thought Liberty was slightly overrated since the start of the year and this is basically a sandwich-nothing game for the Flames as they’re bowl eligible, and this game does not affect their standing or help them stay in the C-USA title race. UMass hasn’t had much to be excited about this year, but I think the Flames give out a maximum effort here and get the cover with a shot at the outright upset.

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Umass Minutemen Betting Preview

The Umass Minutemen lost to Missouri, beat Wagner, and play Liberty next. Massachusetts has lost 5 straight road games. Taisun Phommachanh is completing 57 percent of his passes for 1,541 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. Jakobie Keeney-James and TY Harding have combined for 813 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns, while Jacquon Gibson has 17 receptions.

The Umass Minutemen ground game is averaging 136.3 yards per contest, and CJ Hester leads the way with 287 yards and 2 touchdowns. Defensively, Umass is allowing 30 points and 328 yards per game. Jalen Stewart leads the Umass Minutemen with 52 tackles, Louce Julien has 2 sacks and Ryan Barnes has 1 interception.

Mississippi State Bulldogs Betting Preview

The Mississippi State Bulldogs lost to Texas A&M and Arkansas, and they play Tennessee next. Mississippi State has lost 4 straight home games. Michael Van Buren Jr. is completing 57.2 percent of his passes for 1,101 yards, 8 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions. Kevin Coleman Jr. and Mario Craver have combined for 991 receiving yards and 8 touchdowns, while Seydou Traore has 26 receptions.

The Mississippi State Bulldogs ground game is averaging 131.1 yards per contest, and Davon Booth leads the way with 396 yards and 2 touchdowns. Defensively, Mississippi State is allowing 36.4 points and 477.6 yards per game. Isaac Smith leads the Mississippi State Bulldogs with 74 tackles, Branden Jennings has 1.5 sacks and Elijah Cannon has 1 interception.

Why the Mississippi State Bulldogs will win

• Massachusetts has lost each of its last 12 road games in November.
• Mississippi State has won each of its last 10 November games as a favorite against non-AP-ranked teams.
• Mississippi State has covered the spread in eight of its last 10 November games as a favorite against non-AP-ranked teams.
• Massachusetts has failed to cover the spread in each of its last three November games against non-AP-ranked teams.
• Mississippi State has won the first quarter in 29 of its last 33 games against non-conference opponents at Davis Wade Stadium.
• Mississippi State has won the first half in 10 of its last 11 home games against non-conference opponents.

Mississippi State vs Massachusetts Prediction

The Mississippi State Bulldogs are a bad football team that I’m not eager to back in my favorite role, especially the big favorite role. However, Mississippi State is 8-4-1 ATS in its last 13 games as double-digit favorites. Despite how poorly Miss State has looked, there’s a massive talent gap between the Bulldogs and Massachusetts. UMass is 113th in total offense and 122nd in scoring offense. UMass is also 104th in scoring defense. If Mississippi State doesn’t win this game comfortably at home, it’s time to reevaluate the entire program.

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Missouri Tigers Betting Preview

The Missouri Tigers beat Vanderbilt, lost to Texas A&M, and they play Auburn next. The Missouri Tigers have lost 6 of their last 10 road games. Brady Cook is completing 63.6 percent of his passes for 1,132 yards, 5 touchdowns, and 1 interception. Theo Wease Jr. and Luther Burden III have combined for 698 receiving yards and 5 touchdowns, while Mookie Cooper has 9 receptions.

The Missouri Tigers ground game is averaging 178.8 yards per contest, and Nate Noel leads the way with 471 yards and 2 touchdowns. Defensively, Missouri is allowing 17.8 points and 277.6 yards per game. Corey Flagg Jr. leads the Missouri Tigers with 26 tackles, Khalil Jacobs has 2 sacks and Dreyden Norwood has 1 interception.

Umass Minutemen Betting Preview

The Umass Minutemen lost to Miami (OH) and Northern Illinois, and they play Wagner next. Massachusetts has lost 6 of its last 8 home games. Taisun Phommachanh is completing 57.5 percent of his passes for 1,280 yards, 7 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. Jakobie Keeney-James and Jacquon Gibson have combined for 686 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns, while TY Harding has 7 receptions.

The Umass Minutemen ground game is averaging 133 yards per contest, and Phommachanh leads the way with 253 yards and 1 touchdown. Defensively, Umass is allowing 31.3 points and 324.2 yards per game. Jalen Stewart leads the Umass Minutemen with 37 tackles, Sahnai Swain-Price has 1 sack and Ryan Barnes has 1 interception.

Massachusetts vs Missouri Prediction

It’s hard to see the Missouri Tigers play last week and then lay four touchdowns with them on the road. With that said, I’m willing to shoot Missouri some bail and say they’re not that bad. Missouri should also be motivated to take out some frustration. The Massachusetts Minutemen are 117th in scoring offense and 106th in scoring defense. Missouri is easily the best team Massachusetts will see up to this point. This should get ugly, and Missouri needs it to get folks to forget about last week. I’ll lay the points.

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Umass Minutemen Betting Preview

The Umass Minutemen lost to Buffalo, beat Central Connecticut, and they play Northern Illinois next. Massachusetts has lost 3 straight road games. Taisun Phommachanh is completing 62 percent of his passes for 844 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. Jakobie Keeney-James and Jacquon Gibson have combined for 449 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns, while Sterling Galban has 12 receptions.

The Umass Minutemen ground game is averaging 128 yards per contest, and Jalen John leads the way with 183 yards and 1 touchdown. Defensively, Umass is allowing 32.8 points and 298.5 yards per game. Derrieon Craig leads the Umass Minutemen with 19 tackles, Sahnai Swain-Price has 1 sack and Ryan Barnes has 1 interception.

Miami (OH) RedHawks Betting Preview

The Miami (OH) RedHawks lost to Cincinnati and Notre Dame, and they play Toledo next. The Miami (OH) RedHawks hope to avoid their first 0-4 start since the 2016 season. Brett Gabbert is completing 55.1 percent of his passes for 685 yards, 5 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. Cade McDonald and Reggie Virgil have combined for 413 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns, while Kevin Davis has 11 receptions.

The Miami (OH) RedHawks ground game is averaging 58 yards per contest, and Jordan Brunson leads the way with 67 yards on 18 carries. Defensively, Miami (OH) is allowing 22.7 points and 385.7 yards per game. Matt Salopek leads the Miami (OH) RedHawks with 26 tackles, Ty Wise has 1 sack and Raion Strader has 3 pass deflections.

Why the Miami (OH) RedHawks will win

• Massachusetts has lost each of its last 11 games against opponents from the Mid-American Conference.
• Miami (OH) has won each of its last 10 games as a favorite.
• The favorite has covered the spread in each of Miami (OH)’s last six games at Fred C. Yager Stadium.
• Massachusetts has failed to cover the spread in 12 of its last 14 road games in September.
• Massachusetts has lost the first half in 29 of its last 31 road games against non-conference opponents.
• Miami (OH) has won the first quarter in four of its last five games against non-conference opponents at Fred C. Yager Stadium.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Miami (OH)’s last eight games have gone UNDER the total points line.
• Four of Massachusetts’ last five September games against non-AP-ranked teams have gone OVER the total points line.

Matchup/League Facts

• Miami (OH) ranks 134th among FBS teams for points per game this season (8.3).
• Miami (OH) ranks 133rd among FBS teams for H1 points per game this season (3.0).
• Massachusetts ranks T129th among FBS teams for Q1 points per game this season (1.8).
• Massachusetts ranks 124th among FBS teams for H2 opponent points per game this season (17.3).

Miami-OH vs Massachusetts Prediction

The Miami-OH RedHawks may be the worst offensive team in college football, but they also haven’t had the easiest schedule, so I’m not sure how good or bad this team is. Oddsmakers clearly believe Miami-OH is better than what it’s shown up to this point. The Massachusetts Minutemen are the lesser talented team, obviously, but this line feels a bit off. Massachusetts has covered three straight games as a double-digit underdog, and one of those covers was an outright win. There’s much better ways to spend your Saturday, but if forced to pick, give me the points with the Minutemen.

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Umass Minutemen Betting Preview

The Umass Minutemen lost to Eastern Michigan and Toledo, and they play Central Connecticut next. Massachusetts hopes to avoid its first 0-3 start since 2021. Taisun Phommachanh is completing 65.7 percent of his passes for 436 yards, 1 touchdown, and 1 interception. Jakobie Keeney-James and Jacquon Gibson have combined for 223 receiving yards and 1 touchdown, while Jalen John has 6 receptions.

The Umass Minutemen ground game is averaging 138.5 yards per contest, and Phommachanh leads the way with 101 yards and 1 touchdown. Defensively, Umass is allowing 33 points and 316.5 yards per game. Derrieon Craig leads the Umass Minutemen with 10 tackles, Jalen Stewart has 2 pass deflections and Tim Grant-Randall has 2 pass deflections.

Buffalo Bulls Betting Preview

The Buffalo Bulls beat Lafayette, lost to Missouri, and they play Northern Illinois next. Buffalo has lost 5 of its last 7 home games. CJ Ogbonna is completing 45.5 percent of his passes for 250 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception. Nik McMillan and Victor Snow have combined for 151 receiving yards and 1 touchdown, while Taji Johnson has 2 receptions.

The Buffalo Bulls ground game is averaging 161 yards per contest, and Jacqez Barksdale leads the way with 166 yards and 1 touchdown. Defensively, Buffalo is allowing 25.5 points and 370.5 yards per game. Shaun Dolac leads the Buffalo Bulls with 27 tackles, Kobe Stewart has 2 sacks and Charles McCartherens has 1 interception.

Why the Buffalo Bulls will win

• Massachusetts has lost each of its last 10 games against opponents from the Mid-American Conference.
• The home team has won three of Buffalo’s last four games.
• The favorite has covered the spread in six of Buffalo’s last seven games.
• Massachusetts has failed to cover the spread in 11 of its last 13 road games in September.
• Massachusetts has lost the first half in 28 of its last 30 road games against non-conference opponents.
• Buffalo has won the first quarter in five of its last six games against non-conference opponents at UB Stadium.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Buffalo’s last 10 games has gone UNDER the total points line.
• Five of Massachusetts’ last six road games against non-conference opponents have gone OVER the total points line.

Matchup/League Facts

• Buffalo ranks T29th among FBS teams for Q1 opponent points per game this season (1.5).
• Buffalo has won the MAC East Division in two of the last six seasons.

Buffalo vs Massachusetts Prediction

The Buffalo Bulls are the better team at home, and a game against Missouri should toughen them up for lesser competition like this game. The Massachusetts Minutemen haven’t had the toughest schedule through 2 games but have looked rough defensively. With that said Massachusetts does have a playmaker at quarterback and could be sneaky decent with more reps.

Massachusetts has also covered 5 of its last 6 games when an underdog of 3 or more points. Buffalo is 5-9 ATS in its last 14 games when a favorite of 3 or more points. I’ll take a shot with the Minutemen and the free points on the road.

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Toledo Rockets Betting Preview

The Toledo Rockets are 1-0 this year after they defeated Duquesne by a score of 49-10 in their first game. Toledo had their lead cut to 21-10 in the second quarter, but they scored the final 28 points in the game for an easy win. The Rockets outgained Duquesne by a total of 446-284 and forced three turnovers in the game. Toledo went 6-12 on third down and 3-3 on fourth down in the win. Tucker Gleason threw for 202 yards and three touchdowns, while Willie Shaw III rushed for 50 yards and one score on seven carries. 

Toledo started the season with a strong offensive showing in their first game, while the defense was able to create three turnovers as well. The Rockets played a very easy opponent, but they took care of business and rolled to an easy victory. Toledo will play against Mississippi State following this game.

Massachusetts Minutemen Betting Preview

The Massachusetts Minutemen are 0-1 this season after they lost to Eastern Michigan by a score of 28-14 in their first game. Massachusetts failed to score in the first half and they were down 14-0 at halftime. The Minutemen scored early in the third to cut the deficit to 14-7, but EMU came back with the next 14 points to put the game away. Massachusetts was outgained by a total of 375-329 and went 10-17 on third downs, while also going 1-3 on fourth down in the loss. Taisun Phommachanh threw for 177 yards, while also rushing for 57 yards in the game. 

Massachusetts played decently well on the defensive side of the ball against EMU, but they struggled to get much going on offense. I expected the Minutemen to generate some offense against a bad Eastern Michigan defense, so their struggles are definitely a concern. 

Toledo vs Massachusetts Prediction 

Toledo comes into this matchup as a big favorite to win and they will look for their second straight easy win to start the season. The Rockets dominated Duquesne in their season opener, while Massachusetts dropped a home game to Eastern Michigan. The Minutemen are going to struggle on the offensive side of the ball, while I expect the Toledo offense to have another very solid performance. Take the Rockets to win big at home. 

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Eastern Michigan Eagles Betting Preview

The Eagles had some mixed results in 2023, a season that ended on a down note. Eastern Michigan ended up going 6-7 overall and 4-4 in the Mid-American Conference for a third-place finish in the West Division. The Eagles made it to the 68 Ventures Bowl, where they lost to South Alabama 59-10 in a blowout.

Chris Creighton will return to the sideline as EMU’s head coach this year. He’ll head a team that ranked sixth in the MAC by the coaches poll, which would likely be an improvement. The big issue that needs attention is the offense. Eastern Michigan ranked dead last in the conference last year with 264.1 yards per game.

UMass Minutemen Betting Preview

Over on the Minutemen’s side, they made it through last season at just 3-9 overall. That was last among the four independents behind Notre Dame, Army and UConn. The Minutemen did get a couple of late victories over Army and Merrimack in November but finished off with two more losses to Liberty and UConn in the final two games.

Heading into 2024, head coach Don Brown (eighth season) will get a new offensive coordinator in Shane Montgomery. UMass’ offense produced a reasonable 356.3 yards per game last season. That said, the Minutemen were gouged for 428.0 yards per game on the other side, leading to some big points totals for their opponents (37.8 PPG allowed).

Why the Massachusetts Minutemen will win

• Eastern Michigan has lost each of its last four road openers.
• The favorite has won 12 of Eastern Michigan’s last 13 games.
• Eastern Michigan has failed to cover the spread in seven of its last eight games against opponents from the FBS Independents.
• Eastern Michigan has lost the first half in three of its last four games against non-conference opponents.

Why the Eastern Michigan Eagles will win

• Massachusetts has lost each of its last eight games against opponents from the Mid-American Conference.
• Eastern Michigan has won seven of its last eight season openers.
• Massachusetts has failed to cover the spread in eight of its last nine games at Warren McGuirk Alumni Stadium.
• The underdog has covered the spread in eight of Massachusetts’ last nine games.
• Massachusetts has lost the first half in 28 of its last 33 games against non-conference opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Massachusetts’ last four August games against non-AP-ranked teams have gone OVER the total points line.
• Six of Eastern Michigan’s last seven road openers have gone UNDER the total points line.

Matchup/League Facts

• Massachusetts ranked 19th among FBS teams for Q4 points per game last season (9.1).
• Massachusetts was one of only 22 FBS teams with a better road winning percentage (.333) than home winning percentage (.167) last season (min. 8 games).
• Eastern Michigan was one of only 22 FBS teams to lose 2+ games when leading after Q3 last season.
• Eastern Michigan ranked T35th among FBS teams for Q4 points allowed per game last season (5.3).

UMass vs Eastern Michigan Prediction

I’ll probably just stick with UMass. Also probably not touching this one. This will be the Minutemen’s last season as an independent. They’re set to go back to the MAC next year, so any sort of step forward in 2024 will be seen as positive momentum. On paper, the offense looks pretty good once again. Anthony Simpson is back following his 57 catches last year which led the team. Frank Ladson and Dominick Mazotti should serve as capable targets as well.

On defense is where UMass really needs to make some strides, and there are a few new pieces that could help immensely. OLB Gerrell Johnson will be a leader on that side of the ball, and his unit should see some improvements if they can get the pass rush moving.

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-The VCU Rams recent form and recent player performance

-The UMass Minutemen’s recent form and recent player performance

-A summary that ties it all together and produces a favorable betting outcome for today’s game between VCU vs UMass. 

VCU Get it Done on Wednesday

VCU faced off against Fordham on Wednesday and they were able to secure the 69-62 victory. At halftime they were down by a point but in the second half the defense stepped up to pick up the win. Max Shulga had a strong game putting up 14 points, seven rebounds, and four assists. VCU on the season is averaging 72.3 points while their defense is giving up 67.4 points per game. Max Shulga has been the best player and he is averaging 15 points while shooting 44.3 percent from the field and 41.8 percent from behind the three point line. 

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Umass Has Won three Straight Games

UMass is playing well heading into this game and they have won three games in a row. In the last game against Fordham, UMass only scored 66 points, but they ended up winning by two points. Two games ago against Davidson, UMass won by only two points. UMass is averaging 78.1 points while their defense is giving up 70.7 points per game. Josh Cohen has bee tne tho player averaging 16 points while shooting 54.3 percent from the field and 34.4 percent from behind the three point line. 

VCU vs UMass Betting Prediction 

The last two wins for UMass have been by only two points, and they aren’t going to be great again in thai game. UMass is giving up 70.7 points per game and their defense is going to really struggle again in this game. Look for VCU to run up the score and that is going to be the difference here as VCU is going to keep this game close. Back VCU to cover the spread here with ease. 

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Fordham Rams Betting Preview

The Fordham Rams recently beat George Mason and lost to Saint Joseph’s. The Fordham Rams are averaging 71.7 points on 40.8 percent shooting and allowing 73.6 points on 45.2 percent shooting. Kyle Rose is averaging 10.8 points and 4.9 rebounds, while Japhet Medor is averaging 10.3 points and 2.4 assists. Will Richardson is dishing 2.1 assists and Elijah Gray is grabbing 4 rebounds. The Fordham Rams are shooting 32.1 percent from beyond the arc and 66.2 percent from the free throw line. The Fordham Rams are allowing 36.6 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.8 rebounds per game.

UMass Minutemen Betting Preview

The UMass Minutemen are coming off wins over George Washington and Davidson. The UMass Minutemen are averaging 78.5 points on 45.5 percent shooting and allowing 70.9 points on 42.2 percent shooting. Josh Cohen is averaging 15.9 points and 6.8 rebounds, while Matt Cross is averaging 15.6 points and 8.2 rebounds. Rahsool Diggins is the third double-digit scorer and Keon Thompson is grabbing 3.8 rebounds. The UMass Minutemen are shooting 31.2 percent from beyond the arc and 70.1 percent from the free throw line. The UMass Minutemen are allowing 33.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 35.2 rebounds per game.

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Massachusetts Minutemen Team Facts

• The home team has won each of the last four games between Fordham and Massachusetts.
• Each of Massachusetts’ last four games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 142 or fewer points.
• Massachusetts has won the first half in each of its last seven night games at William D. Mullins Memorial Center.

Fordham Rams Team Facts

• The home team has won each of Fordham’s last five games.
• Seventeen of Fordham’s last 21 road night games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 141 or fewer points.
• Fordham has lost the first half in six of its last seven games against the Atlantic 10 Conference.

Fordham Rams vs UMass Minutemen prediction

The Fordham Rams have had issues all year whenever playing the better teams in the A10, and it’s likely going to be no different here. The UMass Minutemen are 12-3 SU at home this season, and they’re playing some of their best ball of the season right now. UMass is also 18-11 ATS on the season, while Fordham is 12-16-1 ATS on the season. Just two teams heading in different directions. The line is thick, but I have to side with UMass. Fordham has had issues in games like this all season long.

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VCU Preview

The VCU Rams are 17-8 (9-3) this season after they defeated Saint Louis by a score of 95-85 in their last game. VCU led 42-35 at halftime and they were able to score 53 second half points in the win. The Rams shot 49.1% from the field and made 12 three pointers in the game. VCU has won nine of their last ten games, with the lone loss coming on the road against St. Bonaventure. The Rams are scoring 72.4 points per game with 36 rebounds per game and 14.1 assists per game, while allowing 65.9 points against per game this year. Max Shulga is averaging 15 points per game, 4.8 rebounds per game, and 3.7 assists per game. VCU is shooting 44.7% from the field, 78.6% on free throws, and 36.2% on three pointers this season. 

UMass Preview

The UMass Minutemen are 16-9 (7-6) this year after they lost to La Salle by a score of 82-81 in their last game. UMass trailed 51-41 at halftime, but they did out score La Salle 40-31 in the second half in the narrow loss. The Minutemen shot 42.4% from the field and were -2 in rebounding margin in the game. UMass defeated Richmond by a score of 69-59 and Rhode Island by a score of 81-79 in the two games prior to La Salle. The Minutemen are scoring 79.9 points per game with 38.8 rebounds per game and 16.1 assists per game, while giving up 72.2 points against per game this season. Josh Cohen is averaging 16.1 points per game, 7.0 rebounds per game, and 1.6 assists per game. UMass is shooting 45.7% from the field, 70.4% on free throws, and 31.7% on three pointers this year. UMass will meet Davidson after this game.

VCU vs UMass Betting Prediction

VCU comes into this game on a four game winning streak and they are fourth in the A-10 standings, but they are slight underdogs on the road here. UMass has won two of their last three games and they have played very well at home this season. The Minutemen are the better scoring team here, but VCU is one of the best defensive teams in the A-10, allowing just 65.9 points against per game. The Rams are 5-1 in their last six conference road games and they are playing great basketball right now. Take VCU to get the road win in this game. 

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Rhode Island Looks to Move Back to .500 

Rhode Island has had their issues at times this season but a win here puts them back at the .500 mark. In the last game against George Washington, the offense scored 88 points and that led the 23 point victory. Rhode Island is averaging 73.9 points while their defnese is giving up 75.7 points per game. The offense has been fine overall, but the defense hasn’t been good. Jaden Houst is averaging 15 points while shooting 49 percent from the field and 55.9 percent from behind the three point line. 

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How Does UMass Bounce Back?

UMass in the last game faced off against St. Bonaventure, and the defense gave up 79 points on the way to the defeat. UMass was led by Matt Cross who finished with 19 points, six rebounds, and five assists. UMass on the season is averaging 80.3 points while their defense is giving up 72 points per game. The offense is ranked 49th in the league while the defense is ranked 187th. Josh Cohen has been the top player for UMass averaging 16.3 points while shooting 54.7 percent from the field. In this game UMass is going to need to get the offense going early and they need to put the pressure one. 

Rhode Island vs UMass Betting Prediction

Rhode Island could move back to .500 with a game here, but they aren’t going to get the job done here. UMass is 80.3 points and they are going to have no issue running up the score here. Rhode Island’s defense is giving up 75.7 points and it’s not going to get any better in this game. Look for this to be a very comfortable victory by UMass. Back the Minutemen to cover the spread here. 

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UMass Minutemen Betting Preview

The UMass Minutemen recently lost to Dayton and Rhode Island, while beating La Salle. The UMass Minutemen are averaging 81.7 points on 46.3 percent shooting and allowing 71.5 points on 41.3 percent shooting. Josh Cohen is averaging 17.5 points and 7 rebounds, while Matt Cross is averaging 15.9 points and 8.3 rebounds. Rahsool Diggins is the third double-digit scorer and Keon Thompson is grabbing 3.6 rebounds. The UMass Minutemen are shooting 31.1 percent from beyond the arc and 68.6 percent from the free throw line. The UMass Minutemen are allowing 33.1 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 35.6 rebounds per game. UMass is 11-5 in the A-10 standings.

Loyola-Chicago Ramblers Betting Preview

The Loyola-Chicago Ramblers are coming off wins over Duquesne and Saint Joes while losing to Richmond. The Loyola-Chicago Ramblers are averaging 73.6 points on 46.3 percent shooting and allowing 67.1 points on 39.8 percent shooting. Phillip Alston is averaging 13.9 points and 1.1 assists, while Desmond Watson is averaging 12.4 points and 4.1 rebounds. Jayden Dawson is grabbing 2.9 rebounds and Braden Norris is grabbing 3.5 rebounds. The Loyola-Chicago Ramblers are shooting 35.7 percent from beyond the arc and 67.3 percent from the free throw line. The Loyola-Chicago Ramblers are allowing 35.6 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.1 rebounds per game.

UMass Minutemen vs Loyola-Chicago Ramblers prediction

The Loyola-Chicago Ramblers are getting the benefit of the doubt because they’re at home, and I respect it. Loyola-Chicago is the better coached team and solid defensively. With all that said, the UMass Minutemen have more than held their own this season, and they’ve been in a lot of close games. UMass is also 11-5 ATS on the season. UMass is more than capable of stealing this game outright with how feisty it is. Give me the road dog.

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La Salle Team Preview

The La Salle Explorers come into this one looking to build on an 81-76 win over Fordham in their last matchup. Khalil Brantley leads the Explorers in scoring with 15.9 PPG along with 4.9 RPG and 4.2 APG while Jhamir Brickus has 14.5 PPG with 3.1 RPG and a team-high 5.1 APG to lead La Salle in assists up to this point in the year. Anwar Gill has 10.9 PPG with 3.9 RPG and 3.4 APG and Daeshon Sheppard has 10.6 PPG with a team-high 6.2 RPG to lead La Salle on the glass and round out the group of double-digit scorers for La Salle up to this point in the year. As a team, La Salle is averaging 77 PPG on 44.5% shooting from the field, 35.4% from three and 73.7% from the foul line this season. La Salle will face VCU and Saint Joseph’s after this game.

UMass Team Preview

The UMass Minutemen come into this game looking to rebound from a 64-60 loss at the hands of Dayton in their last matchup. Josh Cohen leads the Minutemen in scoring with 16.6 PPG along with 6.5 RPG while Matt Cross has 16.6 PPG with a team-high 8.6 RPG and 3.2 APG to lead UMass on the glass this season. Rahsool Diggins has 11.6 PPG with 2.1 APG to cap off the scoring in double figures for UMass while Keon Thompson also has 9.8 PPG with 3.9 RPG and a team-high 3.4 APG to lead the Minutemen in the assist department as well this season. As a team, UMass is averaging 82.1 PPG on 46.5% shooting from the field, 31.3% from three and 68.5% from the foul line this season.

La Salle vs. UMass Prediction

I’m rolling with La Salle and the points. I think this is simply a case of too many points as La Salle can hold their own in this matchup as they have in years past. The Minutemen have had some strong offensive showings here, but the Explorers are no slouch and should be able to keep this one reasonably close. Give me La Salle and the points.

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