NC State Wolfpack Betting Preview

The Wolfpack got started on a nice run this year but since November it’s been a very choppy stretch. NC State managed wins in their first five games, then fell to Purdue, BYU and Texas. A 4-3 run came next with wins over Florida State, Coppin State, Rider and Notre Dame alongside losses to Kansas, Virginia and Wake Forest. Since then however, NC State has only beaten Boston College, Wake Forest and Pitt. The losses otherwise have been versus North Carolina, Virginia Tech, Cal, SMU, Duke, Clemson, California again, Stanford, Louisville, North Carolina, Syracuse and Georgia Tech. That gives the Wolfpack a 12-18 overall run through 30 games.

In their home matchup versus Pitt back on Wednesday, the Wolfpack opened the game with a 34-30 advantage. NC State kept it up in the second with a 37-33 run and took the win in the end 71-63. Michael O’Connell was the team’s leading scorer with 15 points, five rebounds and eight assists. Breon Pass added 14 points with three rebounds and three assists, while Dontrez Styles had 13 points with 13 rebounds in 36 minutes for a double-double. Marcus Hill topped the bench scoring with 10 points and two rebounds in 17 minutes of work.

Miami Hurricanes Betting Preview

Over on the Miami side, they similarly opened well but it’s been a long stretch of futility since then. The Hurricanes won their first three games, then fell to Drake, Oklahoma State, VCU, Charleston Southern, Arkansas, Clemson and Tennessee before another win over Presbyterian. Miami lost to Mount St. Mary’s, Boston College, Virginia Tech, Florida State, Wake Forest, Duke, SMU, Stanford, California and Virginia after that, then won two of the next three games versus Notre Dame and Syracuse. Since then it’s been losses to Pitt, Florida State, Virginia Tech, Duke, North Carolina and Georgia Tech. In total that gives the Hurricanes a 6-24 run across 30 games so far this year.

Matched up against Georgia Tech in their Tuesday outing, the Hurricanes were outscored 46-30 in the first half. Miami got better from there on a 44-43 advantage but took the loss in the end 89-74. Matthew Cleveland led the way with his 29 points, seven rebounds, three assists and three steals. Brandon Johnson chipped in a double-double on 16 points with 10 boards, four assists and three steals. Austin Swartz was also in double-figures with 14 points, two rebounds and one assist in 35 minutes of action on the floor.

Why the Miami Hurricanes will win

• NC State has lost each of its last nine road games against the Atlantic Coast Conference.
• The home team has won each of NC State’s last six games.
• The home team has won the first half in each of NC State’s last six games.

Why the NC State Wolfpack will win

• Miami (FL) has lost each of its last 11 day games against the Atlantic Coast Conference.
• NC State has won the first half in each of its last seven games against Miami (FL).

Miami vs NC State Prediction

I’ll lean toward NC State. Probably not touching this one though, as there’s not a lot to get excited about if you’re not a fan of either team. That said, NC State is coming off a decent win despite shooting just 40.7 percent from the field with 11 turnovers. The Wolfpack did pretty well defensively against Pitt, turning their 14 turnovers into 15 points. The 71-point total was also nice after a combined 122 scored across their previous two outings.

As for Miami, they were quite permissive to Georgia Tech in their latest loss, giving up 54.5 percent shooting and getting outmuscled on the boards 43-27. The Hurricanes didn’t shoot terribly themselves though (44.3 percent) and had 19 points off 15 Yellow Jackets turnovers. Still, that makes six straight losses for the Hurricanes, with 74 or more points surrendered in each one—and 81 or more in four straight. NC State should have plenty of offensive opportunities in this one, and if they can take advantage (and control the turnovers) the Wolfpack should be in a good position down the stretch.

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Matchup History

These two teams have yet to square off this season, but Pitt won the last meeting back on March 9^th, 2024, at home by a final score of 81-73. The win gave the Panthers their fourth straight head-to-head win over NC State, both SU and ATS.

Pitt Recap

The Pitt Panthers come into this game looking to bounce back from a 79-68 loss at the hands of Louisville in their last game to fall to 16-13 on the year. After this game, Pitt will close out the season at home with a game against Boston College.

Panthers Lose Three In A Row

Jaland Lowe leads the Panthers in scoring and assists with 16.7 PPG and 5.3 APG along with 4.2 RPG and 1.8 SPG while Ishmael Leggett has 16.3 PPG with 5.8 RPG and 2.7 APG to lead the Panthers in rebounding. Damian Dunn has 10 PPG and Cameron Corhen has 10.8 PPG with 5.3 RPG to cap off the group of double-digit scorers for Pitt up to this point in the year. Zack Austin also has 9.5 PPG with 4.6 RPG and Brandin Cummings also has 6.1 PPG while Guillermo Diaz Graham has 6.4 PPG with 5.1 RPG up to this point in the year. As a team, Pitt is averaging 76.5 PPG on 45.3% shooting from the field, 34.9% from behind the arc, and 78.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the Pittsburgh Panthers will win

• NC State has lost each of its last seven night games.
• Pittsburgh has won each of its last four games against NC State.

NC State Recap

The NC State Wolfpack come into this game looking to bounce back from an 87-62 loss at the hands of Georgia Tech last time out to sit at 11-18 this season. After this game, NC State will head on the road to close out the regular season with a game against Miami.

Wolfpack Drop Back-To-Back Games

Marcus Hill leads the Wolfpack in scoring with 11.7 PPG and 3.8 RPG while Jayden Taylor has 11.1 PPG and 2.9 RPG. Dontrez Styles has 10.9 PPG with 4.8 RPG to round out the trio of double-digit scorers for NC State so far this season. Ben Middlebrooks has 7.6 PPG with 4.3 RPG while Brandon Huntley-Hatfield has 7.2 PPG with a team-high 4.9 RPG to lead the Wolfpack in rebounding so far this season. Michael O’Connell also has 6.1 PPG with 2.8 RPG and a team-high 3.4 APG to lead NC State in the assist department so far this season. As a team, NC State is averaging 69.6 PPG on 42.7% shooting from the field, 32% from behind the arc, and 71.8% from the foul line this season.

Why the NC State Wolfpack will win

• Pittsburgh has lost seven of its last eight road games.
• The home team has won seven of NC State’s last eight games.

Total Points Facts

• Six of Pittsburgh’s last seven road games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 146+ points.
• Four of the last five games between Pittsburgh and NC State have produced a total of 140 or fewer points.

Pitt vs. NC State Prediction

I’m on NC State here. I just have little faith in Pitt right now and this is not the same Pitt team that we have become accustomed to seeing from years past that can just be trusted to take care of business on the road blindly. The Wolfpack have not been a very good team if we’re being honest, but they at least do their best work at home and I think they take care of business in their home finale as it might be the last win they see this season given their form away from home. Give me NC State and the free bucket here.

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NC State Wolfpack Betting Preview

The NC State Wolfpack lost to Syracuse, beat Wake Forest, and they play Pitt and Miami next. NC State is still looking for its first road win of the season.

The NC State Wolfpack are averaging 69.8 points on 42.9 percent shooting and allowing 70.1 points on 45.4 percent shooting. Marcus Hill is averaging 11.9 points and 3.9 rebounds, while Jayden Taylor is averaging 11.4 points and 2.9 rebounds. Dontrez Styles is the third double-digit scorer and Ben Middlebrooks is grabbing 4.2 rebounds. The NC State Wolfpack are shooting 32 percent from beyond the arc and 71.8 percent from the free throw line. The NC State Wolfpack are allowing 33.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29.6 rebounds per game.

Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Betting Preview

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets lost to Boston College, beat Pitt, and they play Miami and Wake Forest next. Georgia Tech looks to get above a .500 record for the first time since January 7.

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are averaging 73.8 points on 44.1 percent shooting and allowing 73.1 points on 42.1 percent shooting. Lance Terry is averaging 14.8 points and 2.8 rebounds, while Naithan George is averaging 13 points and 4 rebounds. Baye Ndongo is the third double-digit scorer and Javian McCollum is grabbing 2.7 rebounds. The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are shooting 34.1 percent from beyond the arc and 67.9 percent from the free throw line. The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets are allowing 35.4 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.6 rebounds per game.

Georgia Tech vs NC State Injury Report

Mike James remains out for NC State. Georgia Tech will be without Luke O’Brien, while Doryan Onwuchekwa, Kowacie Reeves Jr., Javian McCollum, and Ibrahim Souare are questionable.

Georgia Tech vs NC State Prediction

NC State just hasn’t been ale to string together success to be worth a look in the betting market, and its blowout loss to Syracuse just elevates that. NC State has yet to win a game on the road this season. Georgia Tech has a couple of nice wins lately and is at home, where 12 of its 14 wins have come. You can argue Georgia Tech should be an even larger favorite than this. The line is more than reasonable to either back Georgia Tech or fade NC State. Whatever you want to call it. Give me Georgia Tech and the small number.

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NC State Wolfpack Betting Preview

The NC State Wolfpack lost to North Carolina, beat Wake Forest, and they play Georgia Tech, Pitt, and Miami next. NC State has a chance to win two straight games for the first time since December.

The NC State Wolfpack are averaging 70.2 points on 43.2 percent shooting and allowing 69.9 points on 45 percent shooting. Marcus Hill is averaging 12.1 points and 4 rebounds, while Jayden Taylor is averaging 11.8 points and 2.9 rebounds. Dontrez Styles is the third double-digit scorer and Ben Middlebrooks is grabbing 4.2 rebounds. The NC State Wolfpack are shooting 32.1 percent from beyond the arc and 71.7 percent from the free throw line. The NC State Wolfpack are allowing 33.8 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29.6 rebounds per game.

Syracuse Orange Betting Preview

The Syracuse Orange lost to North Carolina and Pitt, and they play Virginia Tech, SMU, and Virginia next. Syracuse hopes to avoid four straight losses for the first time this season.

The Syracuse Orange are averaging 74.7 points on 44.9 percent shooting and allowing 78.7 points on 45.8 percent shooting. JJ Starling is averaging 18.5 points and 3.9 rebounds, while Donnie Freeman is averaging 13.4 points and 1.4 assists. Eddie Lampkin Jr. is the third double-digit scorer and Chris Bell is dishing 0.5 assists. The Syracuse Orange are shooting 32.7 percent from beyond the arc and 70.5 percent from the free throw line. The Syracuse Orange are allowing 34.7 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 34.1 rebounds per game.

Syracuse vs NC State Injury Report

Syracuse is without Donnie Freeman, while Elijah Moore and Chance Westry are questionable. NC State will be without Mike James due to a knee injury.

Syracuse vs NC State Prediction

I don’t want to get behind Syracuse as much as the next guy, but at least the Orange are at home. Syracuse has seen nine of its 11 wins this season come at home. NC State is in poor form and has yet to win a road game. NC State is also 9-18 ATS on the season. With a cover percentage of 33.3 percent, only 11 teams in college basketball are worse at cashing tickets than NC State. Even with Syracuse not playing well, you can argue this line should be steeper. Give me Syracuse in this ACC showdown on Wednesday night. 

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Wake Forest Demon Deacons Betting Preview

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons (19-7, 12-13-1 ATS) bounced back from a two-game losing skid against Duke and Louisville with three straight victories. Although that positive run ended with a narrow defeat to FSU, Wake Forest responded with a 77-66 away victory over SMU. In the ACC, Wake Forest is currently tied for fourth place and has tie-breakers in its favor against SMU, which occupies the same position. Furthermore, the Demon Deacons maintain tie-breakers with the teams ranked sixth, seventh, and eighth in the ACC tournament hierarchy.

Wake Forest averages 70.6 PPG (294th) and allows 66.7 PPG (47th). The Demon Deacons are 345th in rebounds (33.2) and 374th in assists (11.7). Hunter Sallis leads the team with 18.5 PPG. He also has 5.1 RPG, 2.8 APG, and 1.3 SPG. Cameron Hildreth follows him with 14.7 PPG, 3.8 RPG, 3.0 APG, and a team-high 1.6 SPG, while Tre’Von Spillers contributes 10.0 PPG, a team-high 7.8 RPG, and a team-high 1.3 BPG.

NC State Wolfpack Betting Preview

The NC State Wolfpack (10-16, 8-18 ATS) snapped a catastrophic nine-game losing streak with a win over Boston College but returned to losing ways with a 97-73 loss to North Carolina. North Carolina State currently occupies one of the lowest positions in the ACC standings and faces the risk of exclusion from the conference tournament.

NC State is averaging 69.6 PPG (309th) and is allowing 69.8 PPG (120th). The Wolfpack are grabbing 31.9 RPG (391st) and are dishing 12.2 APG (331st). Marcus Hill is the team’s top scorer with 12.2 PPG, along with 4.1 RPG. Jayden Taylor adds 12.0 PPG with 3.0 RPG, and a team-high 1.5 SPG, while Dontrez Styles has 10.1 PPG and 4.7 RPG.

Why Wake Forest will beat NC State

• Wake Forest has won each of its last nine day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• NC State has lost 10 of its last 11 games.
• NC State has lost the first half in six of its last seven home games against the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Wake Forest vs NC State Prediction

Wake Forest won four of the previous seven H2H meetings, including the last two. They faced in January this year and the Demon Deacons won 77-59, but NC State secured six victories in seven H2Hs played at Lenovo Center. The Wolfpack need to secure victories in at least two of their remaining five regular-season games, and likely more, to have a chance at qualifying for the 15-team field in the conference, but I am not sure they will do it against Wake Forest. It’s going to be a tight affair, but Wake Forest’s conference record proves they have been a better team this season, and I am backing the Demon Deacons to snatch a W on Saturday.

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NC State Wolfpack Betting Preview

The NC State Wolfpack lost to Louisville, beat Boston College, and they play Wake Forest, Syracuse, and Georgia Tech next. The NC State Wolfpack are averaging 69.5 points on 42.9 percent shooting and allowing 68.7 points on 44.6 percent shooting. Marcus Hill is averaging 12.6 points and 4.2 rebounds, while Jayden Taylor is averaging 11.8 points and 3 rebounds. Dontrez Styles is dishing 0.4 assists and Ben Middlebrooks is grabbing 4.2 rebounds. The NC State Wolfpack are shooting 31.5 percent from beyond the arc and 71.4 percent from the free throw line. The NC State Wolfpack are allowing 33.8 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29.8 rebounds per game.

North Carolina Tar Heels Betting Preview

The North Carolina Tar Heels beat Syracuse, lost to Clemson, and they play Virginia, Florida State, and Miami next. The North Carolina Tar Heels are averaging 80.3 points on 47 percent shooting and allowing 76.8 points on 43.1 percent shooting. RJ Davis is averaging 17.3 points and 3.8 rebounds, while Ian Jackson is averaging 13.7 points and 3.3 rebounds. Seth Trimble is the third double-digit scorer and Elliot Cadeau is grabbing 3.1 rebounds. The North Carolina Tar Heels are shooting 33 percent from beyond the arc and 73.4 percent from the free throw line. The North Carolina Tar Heels are allowing 34.2 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 33.5 rebounds per game.

North Carolina vs NC State Injury Report

North Carolina doesn’t have a player listed on its injury report. NC State will continue to be without Mike James due to a knee injury.

North Carolina vs NC State Prediction

It’s hard to make a case for NC State, a team that’s lost nine of its last 10 games. However, I’m not sure what North Carolina has done to be a near double-digit favorite. This has been an underachieving season for the Tar Heels, and they’re 7-18-1 ATS on the season. NC State is coming off a respectable performance against Boston College, and we can’t ignore this is a rivalry game where you’re going to get the best effort from both sides. The meeting a month ago was decided by two points. The underdog has covered the last three games between North Carolina and NC State. Give me the points with the Wolfpack.

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Boston College Eagles Betting Preview

The Boston College Eagles lost to Notre Dame and Syracuse, and they play Virginia Tech, Georgia Tech, and Stanford next. The Boston College Eagles are averaging 72.1 points on 43.8 percent shooting and allowing 77.5 points on 46.3 percent shooting. Donald Hand Jr. is averaging 16.3 points and 6.5 rebounds, while Chad Venning is averaging 13 points and 3.9 rebounds. Elijah Strong is the third double-digit scorer and Fred Payne is dishing 1.1 assists. The Boston College Eagles are shooting 36.3 percent from beyond the arc and 71.8 percent from the free throw line. The Boston College Eagles are allowing 36.4 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 31.3 rebounds per game.

NC State Wolfpack Betting Preview

The NC State Wolfpack lost to Stanford and Louisville, and they play North Carolina, Wake Forest, and Syracuse next. The NC State Wolfpack are averaging 69.5 points on 43 percent shooting and allowing 69 points on 44.9 percent shooting. Marcus Hill is averaging 12.8 points and 4.1 rebounds, while Jayden Taylor is averaging 11.5 points and 3 rebounds. Dontrez Styles is the third double-digit scorer and Ben Middlebrooks is grabbing 4.2 rebounds. The NC State Wolfpack are shooting 32 percent from beyond the arc and 71.6 percent from the free throw line. The NC State Wolfpack are allowing 34 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 29.8 rebounds per game.

NC State vs Boston College Injury Report

NC State will be without Mike James due to a knee injury. Many Tchanda is questionable for Boston College with an illness.

NC State vs Boston College Prediction

The NC State Wolfpack should be favored because they’re at home, where all nine of their wins this season have come. However, this is a thick line for a NC State team that’s lost nine of its last 10 games and 8-16 ATS on the season. NC State has scored 66 or fewer points in eight of its last 10 games, which makes it hard to lay big numbers. Yes, Boston College isn’t much better, but we’re also not being asked to lay nearly nine points. Also, Boston College is coming off a decent performance where it almost upset Notre Dame. It’s BC and the points or pass for me. 

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Louisville Recap

The Louisville Cardinals come into this game looking to build on an 88-78 win over Miami last time out to improve to 18-6 on the year. After this game, Louisville will head on the road for a matchup with Notre Dame.

Cardinals Win Back-To-Back Games

Chucky Hepburn leads the Cardinals in scoring and assists with 15 PPG and 6.2 APG along with 3.4 RPG and 2.3 SPG while Reyne Smith has 14.2 PPG with 3.2 RPG and Kasean Pryor has 12 PPG with 6.1 RPG but is expected to miss the rest of the season with an injury. Terrence Edwards Jr. has 14.6 PPG with 4 RPG and 2.7 APG and J’Vonne Hadley also has 12.3 PPG with a team-high 7.1 RPG to lead the Cardinals on the glass, also rounding out the group of double-digit scorers for Louisville so far this season. As a team, Louisville is averaging 79.2 PPG on 44.2% shooting from the field, 32.2% from three, and 73.5% from the foul line this season.

Why the Louisville Cardinals will win

• NC State has lost each of its last eight games.
• Louisville has won each of its last seven night games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

NC State Recap

The NC State Wolfpack come into this game looking to bounce back from a 74-73 loss to Stanford last time out to slip to 9-14 on the year. After this game, NC State will welcome Boston College to town.

Wolfpack Lost 8^th In A Row

Marcus Hill leads the Wolfpack in scoring with 12.9 PPG and 4.1 RPG while Jayden Taylor has 11.8 PPG and 3.1 RPG. Dontrez Styles has 10.3 PPG with 4.7 RPG to round out the trio of double-digit scorers for NC State so far this season. Ben Middlebrooks has 7.9 PPG with 4.3 RPG while Brandon Huntley-Hatfield has 8.2 PPG with a team-high 4.9 RPG to lead the Wolfpack in rebounding so far this season. Michael O’Connell also has 6.1 PPG with 2.7 RPG and a team-high 3.2 APG to lead NC State in the assist department so far this season. As a team, NC State is averaging 69.6 PPG on 43.4% shooting from the field, 31.9% from behind the arc, and 71.9% from the foul line this season.

Why the NC State Wolfpack will win

• NC State has won each of its last four games against Louisville.

NC State vs Louisville Prediction

I’m with Louisville here. I think the non-cover for Louisville was just a going-through-the-motions type spot where they didn’t really have much focus on Miami, but this Louisville team has serious intent to challenge for the ACC title this season and I think they have a good chance. They’ll need to keep picking up wins to stay in the hunt and this is a great spot to do so against a reeling NC State team that has lost a few close games this season but has also taken a few bumps like losing to Clemson by double-digits. Louisville has had no problems beating up on the low end of the ACC table and I think they do so again here. Give me Louisville.

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When these two teams faced off on January 18th, it was Cal that ended up with the 65-62 victory. 

What a Disappointing Year for NC State

It has been nothing but a disappointing year this season, and if they want to make the NCAA tournament, the only chance they have at this point is to make a run in the ACC tournament again. NC State has lost six games in a row and the last loss came almost a month ago against Notre Dame. They have been competitive in a lot of the games, they just haven’t made the winning plays late. They lost to North Carolina by two, against Virginia Tech by three, but in the last game it was a bit worse and they ended up losing 68-58. In the second half, they only scored 27 points and that led to the defeat. NC State only made 23 shots and eight of those were from deep. 

NC State sits with a 9-12 record overall and they have gone 7-14 against the spread. Away from home, they are also 0-5 straight up. NC State is averaging 69.8 points while their defense is giving up 67.4 points per game. The offense is ranked 288th in the league while the defense is ranked 61st. The statistics on paper aren’t all that bad; they have just had issues closing out games. Marcus Hill is averaging 12.1 points per game. They have three different players that are averaging at least 10.2 points per game. 

Has California Lost Confidence?

There has to be at least a little bit of concern about the confidence as Cal as they have suddenly lost two games in a row. Cal was favored in the last game against Syracuse, but they really struggled. They got out to a slow start, and by halftime, they were down 17 points. They tried to put up a fight in the second half, but it was too little too late and they ended up losing 75-66. Cal shot only 28.6 percent from the field and 17.1 percent from deep. If they want a chance in this game they are going to need to hit more shots, especially early. 

The Golden Bears sit with an 11-11 record, and they have gone 11-10-1 against the spread. At home this season they have gone 9-4 straight up. California is averaging 75.3 points while their defense is giving up 75.5 points per game. The offense is ranked 159th in the league while the defense is ranked 293rd in the league. Andrej Stojakovic has been the top player for the team averaging 18.9 points while shooting 44 percent from the field and 32.1 percent from behind the three-point line. 

California vs NC State Prediction

This total is too high. California and NC State are going to be involved in a lower-scoring game. NC State’s defense is ranked 61st in the league, and their defense is going to step up in a big way here. California’s defense isn’t elite, but the first time they held NC State to only 60 points and they are going to step up again here. There were only 123 points scored the last time between these two teams and that’s around where this game will finish. It’s going to be a lower-scoring game with the under cashing. 

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NC State Wolfpack Betting Preview

The NC State Wolfpack are 9-11 (2-7) this year after they lost to Duke by a score of 74-64 in their last game. NC State led 37-33 at halftime, but they were outscored 41-27 in the second half in the loss. The Wolfpack shot 40.7% from the field, 45.5% on three pointers, and 85.7% on free throws in the game. Dontrez Styles led NC State with 18 points and three rebounds, while Trey Parker added 15 points and one steal in the game. 

Prior to that loss, the Wolfpack lost to SMU by a score of 63-57 and California by a score of 65-62. NC State has lost five games in a row and they are currently near the bottom of the ACC standings. NC State has scored 70.4 points per game and they have allowed 67.4 points against per game, while also averaging 32.3 rebounds and 12.8 assists per game this season. Marcus Hill is averaging 12.8 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game, while Jayden Taylor is averaging 12.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game this year. NC State is shooting 44.2% from the field, 71.3% on free throws, and 31.4% on three pointers this season. 

Clemson Tigers Betting Preview

The Clemson Tigers are 17-4 (9-1) this season after they defeated Virginia Tech by a score of 72-57 in their last game. Clemson led 41-29 at halftime and was able to maintain that lead in the second half for the win. The Tigers shot 48.3% from the field, 33.3% on three pointers, and 69.2% off free throws in the game. Chauncey Wiggins led Clemson with 16 points and five rebounds, while Del Jones added 13 points and five rebounds in the win. 

Prior to that game, the Tigers defeated Syracuse by a score of 86-72 and Pittsburgh by a score of 78-75. Clemson has won five games in a row and they are currently tied for second in the ACC standings. Clemson has scored 77.4 points per game and they have allowed 66.5 points against per game, while also averaging 34.9 rebounds and 14.6 assists per game this season. Chase Hunter is averaging 17.1 points, 2.7 rebounds, and 2.4 assists per game, while Ian Schieffelin is averaging 12.6 points, 9.7 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game this year. Clemson is shooting 46.8% from the field, 77.4% on free throws, and 38.9% on three pointers this season. 

Why NC State will beat Clemson

• NC State has won seven of its last eight games at Lenovo Center when playing with a rest disadvantage.
• NC State has won the first half in 39 of its last 50 day games at Lenovo Center against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Why Clemson will beat NC State

• Clemson has won each of its last seven day games against the Atlantic Coast Conference.
• NC State has lost seven of its last eight games.
• Clemson has won the first half in each of its last seven day games against the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Total Points Facts

• Each of the last seven games between Clemson and NC State have produced a total of 134+ points.
• Five of Clemson’s last six day games have produced a total of 134+ points.

NC State vs Clemson Prediction 

Clemson comes into this matchup with a 9-1 conference record and they have won five games in a row, but they will be on the road for this contest. The Tigers are shooting 46.8% from the field this year and they have allowed 59 points or fewer in three of their last five games. NC State has lost five games in a row, but they did play decently well at Duke last time out. The Wolfpack have lost those five games by margins of 10, 6, 3, 3, and 2, so they have had numerous chances to snap the streak. NC State has also been pretty strong defensively this year and I think we are going to see a lower scoring game, so take the under here. 

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NC State Wolfpack Betting Preview

The NC State Wolfpack lost to Cal and SMU, and they play Clemson, Cal, and Stanford next. The NC State Wolfpack are averaging 70.8 points on 44.4 percent shooting and allowing 67.1 points on 44 percent shooting. Marcus Hill is averaging 13.2 points and 3.9 rebounds, while Jayden Taylor is averaging 12.7 points and 2.8 rebounds. Dontrez Styles is dishing 0.4 assists and Ben Middlebrooks is grabbing 4.6 rebounds. The NC State Wolfpack are shooting 30.5 percent from beyond the arc and 71.1 percent from the free throw line. The NC State Wolfpack are allowing 33 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 30 rebounds per game.

Duke Blue Devils Betting Preview

The Duke Blue Devils beat Boston College and Wake Forest, and they play North Carolina, Syracuse, and Clemson next. The Duke Blue Devils are averaging 80.4 points on 47.9 percent shooting and allowing 59.4 points on 37 percent shooting. Cooper Flagg is averaging 19.5 points and 8 rebounds, while Kon Knueppel is averaging 12.8 points and 3.6 rebounds. Tyrese Proctor is the third double-digit scorer and Khaman Maluach is grabbing 6.1 rebounds. The Duke Blue Devils are shooting 37 percent from beyond the arc and 75.8 percent from the free throw line. The Duke Blue Devils are allowing 30.3 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 37.2 rebounds per game.

Duke vs NC State Injury Report

Duke will continue to be without Maliq Brown due to a knee injury. NC State will continue to be without Mike James due to a knee injury.

Duke vs NC State Prediction

The Duke Blue Devils are more than capable of blowing the doors off thanks to the talent gap. NC State has also failed to cover six of its last seven games. NC State is an average at best team and just doesn’t have the offensive depth to give a Duke team with NBA prospects problems this season. However, Duke did allow Wake Forest to hang around in its last effort, and this is a look-ahead spot with North Carolina on deck. NC State also hasn’t been an underdog of 20 or more points since a 2009 game against North Carolina. NC State just doesn’t find itself in these spots often, to say the least. I’ll take a shot with the Wolfpack and the points.

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SMU Recap

The SMU Mustangs come into this game looking to bounce back from a 98-73 loss at home to Louisville last time out to fall to 14-5 on the year. After this game, SMU will head home for a matchup with Cal.

Mustangs Looking To Rebound

Boopie Miller leads the Mustangs in scoring and assists with 14.3 PPG and 5.7 APG while Chuck Harris has 12.2 PPG and Matt Cross has 11 PPG with a team-high 8 RPG to lead the Mustangs on the glass up to this point in the year. B.J. Edwards has 10.7 PPG with 3.7 RPG and 3.4 APG along with 2.4 SPG as well on the year to cap off the scoring in double figures for SMU so far this season. Samet Yigitoglu has 9.7 PPG with 6.5 RPG and Yohan Traore has 7.9 PPG with 4.3 RPG while Karlo Oquendo has 9.6 PPG with 2.8 RPG. As a team, SMU is averaging 84.2 PPG on 48.2% shooting from the field, 38.3% from three and 73.2% from the foul line this season.

Why the SMU Mustangs will win

• SMU has won each of its last six day games against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• NC State has lost five of its last six games.

NC State Recap

The NC State Wolfpack enter this game looking to rebound after another close loss, this one coming against Cal by a final score of 65-62. After this game, NC State will head on the road for a headline road game against Duke.

Wolfpack Lose Third Straight One Possession Game

Marcus Hill leads the Wolfpack in scoring with 13.2 PPG and 4 RPG while Jayden Taylor has 12.8 PPG as the lone pair of double-digit scorers for NC State so far this season. Ben Middlebrooks has 9.5 PPG with 4.6 RPG and Dontrez Styles has 8.9 PPG with 4.5 RPG while Brandon Huntley-Hatfield has 8.5 PPG with a team-high 5.1 RPG to lead the Wolfpack in rebounding so far this season. Michael O’Connell also has 6.6 PPG with 2.7 RPG and a team-high 3.6 APG to lead NC State in the assist department so far this season. As a team, NC State is averaging 71.5 PPG on 45.3% shooting from the field, 31.5% from behind the arc and 70.4% from the foul line this season.

Why the NC State Wolfpack will win

• NC State has won 10 of its last 11 games at Lenovo Center when playing with a rest advantage.

Total Points Facts

• Seven of SMU’s last eight games have produced a total of 149+ points.
• Five of NC State’s last six games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 137 or fewer points.

NC State vs SMU Prediction

I’m on SMU here. I know it could be tempting to take the free bucket with NC State as a home dog considering the close losses they’ve taken as of late, but the Mustangs are still the better team here and at a certain point, you have to wonder how many of those close losses NC State can endure before it really affects their performance. SMU is the better team by a fair margin here and I think the Mustangs take out the Wolfpack here. Give me SMU.

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California Golden Bears Betting Preview

The Golden Bears opened up the 2024-25 campaign with a nice run, but since late November it’s been a choppy experience in the record columns. California lost to only Vanderbilt in their first seven outings, otherwise taking wins over Cal State Bakersfield, Cal Poly, USC, Air Force, Sacramento State and Mercyhurst. Since then it’s been a 2-8 stretch over the last 10 games. The Golden Bears have beaten only Northwestern State and Virginia during that time. Otherwise it’s been losses to Missouri, Stanford, Cornell, San Diego State, Pittsburgh, Clemson, Virginia Tech and North Carolina for an 8-9 overall record through 17 games so far.

Matched up against North Carolina in their Wednesday game, the Golden Bears came out of the break with a 39-29 deficit. California didn’t get any closer than that, getting pummeled in the second half on a 40-24 run for an eventual loss 79-53 in the end. Tops in scoring was Mady Sissoko, who was the only starter on the team to finish in double-figures with 16 points, eight boards and two assists. Joshua Ola-Joseph came off the bench to contribute 10 points with three boards, while both Andrej Stojakovic and DJ Campbell mustered six points apiece along with a combined seven rebounds, four steals and four assists in the defeat.

North Carolina State Wolfpack Betting Preview

Over on the North Carolina State side, they also kicked off their campaign on a steady stretch but have since had issues posting consistent periods of wins. The Wolfpack beat South Carolina Upstate, Presbyterian, Coastal Carolina, Colgate and William & Mary in their first five games of the year, then fell to Purdue, BYU and Texas in succession over the next trio of outings. A 3-1 stretch came next with wins over Florida State, Coppin State and Rider (and a loss to Kansas mixed in). Since then North Carolina State is just 1-4. The lone win in that time came over Notre Dame. Otherwise it was losses to Virginia, Wake Forest, North Carolina and Virginia Tech during that time, resulting in a 9-8 overall run so far this year for the Wolfpack.

In the Virginia Tech matchup on Wednesday, North Carolina State entered the second half sporting a 45-34 edge. The Wolfpack were outscored 45-31 the rest of the way in an eventual 79-76 loss, however. Jayden Taylor topped the team in the losing effort, totaling 17 points with three assists, two rebounds and a steal. Ben Middlebrooks added 13 options with three steals and two rebounds, while Marcus Hill also finished in double-figures with 12 points, five rebounds and two assists. Dontrez Styles chipped in nine points with five rebounds as well.

Why the NC State Wolfpack will win

• California has lost 10 of its last 11 games against the Atlantic Coast Conference.
• The home team has won eight of NC State’s last nine games.
• NC State has won the first half in 10 of its last 12 night games.

Why the California Golden Bears will win

• NC State has lost four of its last five games.
• NC State has lost the first half in seven of its last eight night games against the Atlantic Coast Conference at Lenovo Center.

NC State vs California Prediction

I’ll just stay with NC State here. Both teams could use a good showing (and a win) here, though. The Wolfpack had a pretty rough second half in their loss to Virginia Tech this week, falling despite 50 percent shooting from the field and only eight turnovers. The 35-24 rebounding deficit (15-8 offensive) was the most glaring stat discrepancy in that one. If there’s good news, NC State’s 76 points in that game broke a string of sub-par offensive efforts featuring fewer than 68 points in four straight outings.

As for California, they were pummeled in most facets during the loss to the Tar Heels, shooting a rough 34.8 percent from the field and an abysmal 3-of-25 (12 percent) from outside with a 45-33 rebounding deficit and 13 turnovers. The Bears have given up 71 or more points in all nine of their losses this year, so if NC State can hit that threshold the Wolfpack should be in good shape overall.

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NC State Continues to be in Close Games

NC State has continued to play in close games and it has been mixed results. Two games ago against Notre Dame, NC State was able to secure a 66-65 victory but in the last game against North Carolina, they ended up losing 63-61. Against North Carolina, they were down 26-20 at halftime, and in the second half they scored 41 points, but they still ended up falling just short. Guard Marcus Hill put up 20 points, nine rebounds, and one assist. 

NC State is averaging 71.8 points while their defense is giving up 66.7 points per game. The offense is ranked 260th in the league while the defense is ranked 59th. They are averaging 18.81 three-point attempts per game which is 336th in the league. Guard Marcus Hill is averaging 13.2 points while shooting 50.9 percent from the field and 25 percent from behind the three-point line.

Virginia Tech looks to Build on the Last Game

Virginia Tech has not found a whole lot of success at times, but they are coming off a big victory in the last game. The Hokies faced off against the California Golden Bears and they were able to secure the 71-68 victory. Jaydon Young put up 14 points, four rebounds, and three assists. There were four different players that put up at least 11 points. Two games ago against Stanford, they gave up only 59 points and that led to the 11-point defeat. 

Virginia Tech is averaging 70.4 points while their defense is giving up 72.9 points per game. The offense is ranked 284th in the league while the defense is ranked 231st in the league. They are shooting 48.8 percent from the field which 192nd in the league. Tobi Lawal is averaging 12 points while shooting 62.5 percent from the field. 

Why Virginia Tech Will Beat NC State

• The home team has won seven of NC State’s last eight games.
• NC State has lost three of its last four games.
• NC State has lost the first half in each of its last three games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

Total Points Facts

• Twelve of Virginia Tech’s last 13 night games against the Atlantic Coast Conference at Cassell Coliseum have produced a total of 133+ points.
• Nine of NC State’s last 10 night games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 138+ points.

Virginia Tech vs NC State Prediction

NC State is going to have no issue getting the job done in this game. NC State’s defense is giving up 66.7 points per game and they are going to step up in this game. Virginia Tech’s offense has been inconsistent at best and they are going to really struggle to get the offense going here. Virginia Tech’s offense will have another big game, and they will end up cruising here. 

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North Carolina Tar Heels Betting Preview

The North Carolina Tar Heels beat Notre Dame and SMU, and they play Cal, Stanford, and Wake Forest next. The North Carolina Tar Heels are averaging 84.5 points on 47.4 percent shooting and allowing 78.5 points on 42.4 percent shooting. RJ Davis is averaging 18.2 points and 4.1 rebounds, while Ian Jackson is averaging 15.1 points and 3.6 rebounds. Seth Trimble is the third double-digit scorer and Elliot Cadeau is grabbing 3 rebounds. The North Carolina Tar Heels are shooting 32.5 percent from beyond the arc and 74.5 percent from the free throw line. The North Carolina Tar Heels are allowing 33.9 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 34.4 rebounds per game.

NC State Wolfpack Betting Preview

The NC State Wolfpack lost to Wake Forest, beat Notre Dame, and they play Virginia Tech, Cal, and SMU next. The NC State Wolfpack are averaging 73 points on 45.8 percent shooting and allowing 67.1 points on 43.9 percent shooting. Marcus Hill is averaging 12.8 points and 3.5 rebounds, while Jayden Taylor is averaging 12.2 points and 2.5 rebounds. Dontrez Styles is dishing 0.4 assists and Ben Middlebrooks is grabbing 4.2 rebounds. The NC State Wolfpack are shooting 32.6 percent from beyond the arc and 69.6 percent from the free throw line. The NC State Wolfpack are allowing 31 percent shooting from deep and are grabbing 32.3 rebounds per game.

NC State vs North Carolina Injury Report

The North Carolina Tar Heels don’t have a player listed on their injury report. The NC State Wolfpack will be without Mike James.

NC State vs North Carolina Prediction

I’m not excited to back either of these teams, as North Carolina is 3-7 ATS in its last 10 games and NC State is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games. However, somebody has to win. The North Carolina Tar Heels have found their form as of late with wins in six of their last eight games and the offense has picked up. NC State has lost three of its last five games and almost lost to a subpar Notre Dame squad. Usually I want the points in a rivalry game, and a home dog in a rivalry game is even better. The problem is, the favorite has covered seven of the last 10 games between UNC and NC State. I’ll lay the points with the Tar Heels on the road.

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Notre Dame Recap

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish come into this game looking to bounce back from a 74-73 loss at the hands of the North Carolina Tar Heels last time out to fall to 7-7 on the year. After this game, Notre Dame will take on Duke, Boston College, Syracuse, and Virginia.

Irish Lose Back-To-Back Games

Markus Burton has posted 18.9 PPG with 3.9 RPG and 4 APG in 7 games played so far this season while Tae Davis has 16.6 PPG with 5.5 RPG. Braeden Shrewsberry has 16.1 PPG with 2.7 RPG and Matt Allocco has 10 PPG with 4.4 RPG and 3.6 APG to cap off the trio of double-digit scorers for Notre Dame up to this point in the year. Kebba Njie also has 6.4 PPG with a team-high 5.8 RPG to lead the Fighting Irish in rebounding as well on the year. As a team, Notre Dame is averaging 75.6 PPG on 46.9% shooting from the field, 35.6% from three-point range, and 75.1% from the foul line this season.

Why the Notre Dame Fighting Irish will win

• Notre Dame has won five of its last six night games against the Atlantic Coast Conference.
• NC State has lost each of its last three night games against the Atlantic Coast Conference at Lenovo Center.

NC State Recap

The NC State Wolfpack come into this game looking to bounce back from a 77-59 loss to Wake Forest last time out to fall to 8-6 on the year. After this game, NC State will meet North Carolina and Virginia Tech.

Wolfpack Drop Back-To-Back Outings As Well

Marcus Hill leads the Wolfpack in scoring with 12.6 PPG and 3.6 RPG while Jayden Taylor has 12.1 PPG as the lone pair of double-digit scorers for NC State so far this season. Ben Middlebrooks has 9.4 PPG with 4.2 RPG and Dontrez Styles has 9.6 PPG with 4.3 RPG while Brandon Huntley-Hatfield has 9.2 PPG with a team-high 5.2 RPG to lead the Wolfpack in rebounding so far this season. Michael O’Connell also has 6.8 PPG with 3.1 RPG and a team-high 3.9 APG to lead NC State in the assist department so far this season. As a team, NC State is averaging 73 PPG on 45.9% shooting from the field, 32.2% from behind the arc, and 69.5% from the foul line this season.

Why the NC State Wolfpack will win

• NC State has won 13 of its last 14 night games.
• Notre Dame has lost three of its last four games at Lenovo Center.

Total Points Facts

• Each of Notre Dame’s last six road night games against Conference opponents have produced a total of 135 or fewer points.
• Eight of NC State’s last nine night games against the Atlantic Coast Conference have produced a total of 143+ points.

NC State vs Notre Dame Prediction

I’m on NC State here. I just think that Notre Dame is a team that plays well against bad teams and struggles when they have to make the step up in competition. We’ve only seen Notre Dame beat Georgetown (A win that’s aging well) and Syracuse as their lone power conference wins this season. NC State is more battle-tested and I think they get the bounce-back win getting back home here. Give me NC State in this one.

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NC State Recap

The NC State Wolfpack come into this game looking to bounce back after a narrow 70-67 loss to the Virginia Cavaliers on the road to fall to 8-5 on the year. After this game NC State will head home for a two-game home stand, starting with a game against the Notre Dame Fighting Irish.

Wolfpack Looking For Consistency

Jayden Taylor and Marcus Hill share the team lead in scoring with 12.5 PPG as the lone pair of double-digit scorers for NC State so far this season with Hill logging 3.6 RPG while Taylor has 2.7 RPG. Ben Middlebrooks has 9.8 PPG with 4.5 RPG and Dontrez Styles has 9.5 PPG with 3.8 RPG while Brandon Huntley-Hatfield has 9.2 PPG with a team-high 5.4 RPG to lead the Wolfpack in rebounding so far this season. Michael O’Connell also has 6.5 PPG with 3 RPG and a team-high 4 APG to lead NC State in the assist department so far this season. As a team, NC State is averaging 74.1 PPG on 46.4% shooting from the field, 32.2% from behind the arc, and 69.3% from the foul line this season.

Why the NC State Wolfpack will win

• NC State has won seven of its last eight games against the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Wake Forest Recap

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons come into this one hoping to add to their win over Syracuse by a final score of 81-71. After this game, Wake Forest will head on the road for a matchup with the Miami Hurricanes.

Demon Deacons Win Third Game In Four Tries

Hunter Sallis leads the Demon Deacons in scoring with 18.2 PPG along with 4 RPG and 3.1 APG while Cameron Hildreth has 12.7 PPG with 4.4 RPG and a team-high 3.4 APG to lead the Demon Deacons in assists as the only other double-digit scorer for Wake Forest up to this point in the year. Tre’Von Spillers also has 9.6 PPG with a team-high 9.4 RPG to lead the Demon Deacons on the glass up to this point in the year and Efton Reid III has 7.7 PPG with 6.1 RPG as well this season. As a team, Wake Forest is averaging 68.5 PPG on 42.9% shooting from the field, 27.7% from three, and 73.4% from the foul line this season.

Why the Wake Forest Demon Deacons will win

• Wake Forest has won each of its last eight day games against the Atlantic Coast Conference at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum.

Total Points Facts

• Each of the last 12 games between NC State and Wake Forest at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum has produced a total of 138+ points.
• Each of NC State’s last 12 games at Lawrence Joel Veterans Memorial Coliseum has produced a total of 138+ points.

Wake Forest vs NC State Prediction

I’m with Wake Forest here. I think that the Demon Deacons are likely a better team than what they’ve shown up to this point in the year, which still hasn’t been terrible, but we definitely saw flashes of it in the win over Syracuse. NC State is a team that I’ve had a hard time trusting this season, and I just don’t think that they have the scoring depth to go toe-to-toe with Wake for a full 40 minutes here. Give me Wake Forest.

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Can NC State Create Enough Offense?

In two of the last three games NC State’s offense hasn’t been all that good, and they are going to need the offense to be better here. Three games ago against Coppin State, NC State scored 66 points and even though they won, it wasn’t the best offensive day. The following game, NC State faced off against Kansas and they ended up losing 75-60. The last game against Rider was much a better game and they scored 89 points on the way to the 25-point victory. Guard Jayden Taylor had a strong game putting up 16 points, two rebounds, and two assists. There were four different players that put up at least 11 points. NC State shot 55.8 percent from the field and 35 percent from behind the three-point line. They shot 34 free throws making 24 of them. 

NC State on the season is averaging 74.7 points while their defense is giving up 64 points per game. The offense is ranked 211th while the defense is ranked 57th. They are averaging 57.2 shot attempts per game which is 275th in the league. Guard Marcus Hill has been the top player averaging 12.6 points while shooting 50.5 percent from the field but only 23.5 percent from behind the three-point line. NC State will meet Wake Forest and Notre Dame after this game. 

Why NC State Will Beat Virginia

• NC State has won each of its last seven games against Conference opponents.
• Virginia has lost the first half in each of its last three day games against Conference opponents.

Disappointing Year for Virginia

It’s not all that shocking that when your head coach retires a few weeks before the season starts, the season might not go exactly according to plan and that has been the case with Virginia. Virginia comes into this game with a 7-5 record and they have gone 4-8 against the spread. Even in the last game against an American team that isn’t good, they only won by five points. The defense was good giving up only 58 points, but the offense only managed 63 points and that led to the defeat. Elijah Sanders had a strong game putting up 21 points, eight rebounds, and two assists. There were three difeffernet players that put up at least 11 points. Virginia shot 46 percent from the field and 42.1 percent from behind the three-point line 

Virginia on the season is averaging 61.6 points while their defense is giving up 61.3 points per game. The offense is ranked 357th in the league while the defense is ranked 11th. As a team, they are shooting 37.9 percent from behind the three-point line which is 41st in the league. Guard Christian Bliss is dealing with a foot injury and has been ruled out for the season. Carter Lang has also decided to take a redshirt year this season. Virginia wants to keep the pace slow, but the offense needs to start being more consistent. If the offense isn’t consistent going forward, this is going to be a very bad season. 

Why Virginia Will Beat NC State

• Virginia has won 34 of its last 35 games at John Paul Jones Arena against non-AP-ranked opponents.
• NC State has lost the first half in eight of its last nine Tuesday games against Conference opponents.

Virginia vs NC State Prediction

This total is too low. In two of the last three games the NC State offense hasn’t been good enough and their offense is going to really struggle to get the offense going here. NC State is averaging 74.7 points per game but they aren’t going to get even close to that number here. Virginia is giving up only 61.3 points per game and their defense is going to step up in a major way here. They will really slow down the pace and that will lead to this game staying under the total. Back the under. 

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Before we dive into the North Carolina State Wolfpack vs. Virgina Cavaliers game let’s review the rules for Draftkings single game showdown contest.

Draftkings Single Game Showdown Contest Rules

You have $50,000 to utilize on five players from either team. However, one of those players will be designated as your team captain. The captain accumulates 1.5 times the standard fantasy points. Additionally, the captain is 1.5 times the standard cost of the flex position.

The remaining four players in your lineup will receive the standard fantasy points. Having stated that, it is highly important for you to identify the correct player for your captain position if you hope to win a large field DFS GPP (guaranteed prize pool) showdown contest.

If you have additional questions regarding the rules for the single game showdown contest, I recommend that you check out the Draftkings website for more details.

*I recommend that all readers review the starting lineups for both teams prior to setting your DFS lineup for this one game slate.

Here are my Draftkings picks for tomorrow afternoon’s North Carolina State vs. Virgina Cavaliers matchup.

Draftkings NCAA College Basketball Showdown Picks

Captain-Elijah Saunders, Forward, Virgina Cavaliers $8,000

Talented forward Elijah Saunders has quickly established himself as one of the best players on the Virgina Cavaliers roster this season. With that said, how has Saunders performed from a statistical perspective in 2024? Let’s review Saunders game data from the 2024 NCAA regular season to answer that question.

In the 12 games that guard Elijah Saunders has played for the Virgina Cavaliers in the 2024 NCAA regular season, Saunders is averaging 11.3 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.8 assists, and 1.1 assists a game.

Looking closer ay the data just presented, in the 12 games that Elijah Saunders has played for the Virginia Cavaliers this season, Saunders has compiled a field goal percentage of 45.7%, a three-point percentage of 38.7%, and a free throw percentage of 87.5%.

More recently, in the Virigina Cavaliers 63-58 win over the American University Eagles, Elijah Saunders certainly played at a high level. Let me be more specific. Saunders tallied a massive 21 points, eight rebounds and two assists in the Virginia Cavaliers victory over the American University Eagles.

Examining the data just presented more closely, in the Cavaliers win over the Eagles, Elijah Saunders accumulated a robust 33 Draftkings points.

As I noted in the rules section above, selecting the correct player at the captain position for a Draftkings NCAA showdown lineup is absolutely vital if you hope to win a large field GPP (guaranteed prize pool) DFS contest. Keep that in mind as you construct your lineups for this one game Draftkings slate.

In my view, Elijah Saunders is the most likely player to post the most Draftkings points in tomorrow afternoon’s NCAA regular season game. Having stated that, I am rolling with Virginia Cavaliers forward Elijah Saunders at the captain position for this one game Draftkings NCAA Showdown contest.

Flex Plays

Jacob Cofie, Forward, Virginia Cavaliers $9,000

In addition to forward Elijah Saunders, forward Jacob Cofie has been a key contributor to the Virginia Cavaliers lineup this season.

In the ten games that Jacob Cofie has played for the Virginia Cavaliers in the 2024 NCAA regular season, Jacob Cofie is averaging a respectable 20.1 Draftkings points a game.

Additional flex plays I like to perform well in this game (Draftkings price noted): Marcus Hill, Guard (North Carolina State) $9,200: Ben Middlebrooks, Forward (North Carolina State) $8,400.

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East Carolina Struggled in the Last Game

East Carolina in the last game faced off against Navy and they struggled The offense scored 20 points, but the defense gave up 34 points and that led to the defeat. Katin Houser completed 20 of his 36 passes for 219 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. The defense couldn’t slow down the running game and that led to the defeat. Two games ago, East Carolina scored 40 points but the defense gave up 28 points and that led to the defeat. East Carolina is averaging 32.5 points while their defense is giving up 27.8 points per game. The offense is ranked 33rd while the defense is ranked 85th. 

Why East Carolina Will beat NC State

• NC State has lost each of its last five games at neutral venues.
• East Carolina has won four of its last five games against non-AP-ranked teams.
• NC State has failed to cover the spread in each of its last five games against non-conference opponents.
• The underdog has covered the spread in each of NC State’s last three games.

NC State Looks for Seventh Win

NC State comes into this game with a 6-6 record and they are looking for their seventh win here. In the last game against North Carolina, NC State scored 35 points and they ended up winning by five. CJ Bailey had a strong game completing 14 of his 20 passes for 242 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. Daylan Smothers finished with 13 carries for 83 yards and two touchdowns. Two games ago against Georgia Tech, they were competitive but they ended up losing 30-29. The Wolfpack are averaging 29.2 points while their defense is giving up 30.5 points per game. 

NC State vs East Carolina Prediction

East Carolina struggled in the last game, but they are going to bounce back here. East Carolina on the season is averaging 32.5 points per game and they are going to have no issue getting the offense out to a fast start. C State’s offense has been fine, but their defense is giving up 30.5 points per game and they are going to really struggle here. East Carolina will keep it within a field goal. Back East Carolina against the spread here. 

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