Valparaiso @ Oakland
Recommendation: Valparaiso -4.5
We have a situation in this game where the market hasn’t caught up to just how good Valparaiso is. This spread provides us with tremendous value and should be an easy winner. Valparaiso is coming off of a demolishing win over James Madison, a game in which they took a 40-16 lead by halftime. That was the Crusader’s 5th win in a row. This offense is dynamic, with the ability to shoot the 3 (8 3’s made per game) and distribute the basketball. Valpo is ranked 66th in RPI and has been getting it done on the defensive side as well. They’re currently ranked 40th in the country in opponents points per game and will have a hefty advantage on the boards tonight as well.
Oakland has played a tough non-conference schedule so they’re not necessarily as bad as their record indicates. However, they have lost 5 straight after a loss to Maryland on Saturday. The Grizzlies have shown the ability to score at times but their real liability comes on the defensive end. Oakland’s opponents average 78.7 ppg which is ranked 339th in the country. They also struggle mightily on the glass, ranking 250th in rpg.
The Crusaders come in with offensive firepower, the ability to play defense, and a significant advantage on the boards. Lay the chalk and take Valparaiso.
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