Saturday’s College Basketball Predictions: February 7 Picks
Saturday’s college basketball predictions focus on key matchups, featuring thorough analyses from expert handicapper Greg Peterson. These games hold significant betting implications, and fans will be keen to track the outcomes.
Key Matchups and Predictions for February 7
Eastern Michigan Eagles vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers
This matchup kicks off at 1:00 PM Eastern. Eastern Michigan is favored due to Appalachian State’s struggles, particularly in free-throw shooting, where they rank last nationally at 63.2%. Eastern Michigan’s defense excels inside, ranking 152nd against opponent two-point shooting, making them a solid pick.
- Prediction: Eastern Michigan +6.5
Butler Bulldogs vs. Marquette Golden Eagles
Scheduled for 2:00 PM Eastern, this game sees Butler’s rebounding strength match up against Marquette’s defensive weaknesses. Marquette ranks poorly in both three-point shooting and free-throw percentage, giving Butler a critical advantage.
- Prediction: Butler +2.5
St. Bonaventure Bonnies vs. Fordham Rams
Both teams prefer slow-tempo basketball, but Fordham has the edge on rebounding. St. Bonaventure shows better defensive stats in road games, adding an interesting dynamic to this encounter.
- Prediction: Fordham Moneyline and Under 139.5
North Texas Mean Green vs. UT San Antonio Roadrunners
With the game starting at 3:00 PM Eastern, North Texas has shown strong defensive capabilities. UT San Antonio has the lowest points-per-possession ranking in Division I, which could lead to a lower scoring game.
- Prediction: Under 139.5
Florida Gulf Coast Eagles vs. Bellarmine Knights
This high-paced match at 4:00 PM Eastern will spotlight Florida Gulf Coast’s fast tempo against Bellarmine’s defensive deficiencies. Bellarmine’s highly efficient two-point shooting could make for an exciting scoring contest.
- Prediction: Over 153.5
Utah Utes vs. Kansas Jayhawks
As the clock strikes 2:30 PM Eastern, both teams will benefit from improved offensive performances. Kansas has excelled with Darryn Peterson on the roster, making this matchup intriguing.
- Prediction: Over 149
Bowling Green Falcons vs. Arkansas State Red Wolves
This 3:00 PM Eastern matchup highlights Bowling Green’s defensive strength against Arkansas State’s offensive struggles. Expect a low-scoring affair based on overall stats.
- Prediction: Bowling Green +2 and Under 155.5
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Auburn Tigers
At 4:00 PM Eastern, both Alabama and Auburn feature competent offenses. With Alabama scoring extensively from beyond the arc, and Auburn’s three-point defense under scrutiny, this matchup could lead to a strategic battle.
- Prediction: Alabama +3 and Under 176.5
Matchup Insights for Other Games
- SIU Edwardsville Cougars vs. Little Rock Trojans: SIU’s defense shines, leading to a strong prediction for them at +1.5.
- Grand Canyon Antelopes vs. UNLV Runnin’ Rebels: Grand Canyon favored, predicting success despite their shooting issues.
- Seton Hall Pirates vs. Creighton Blue Jays: Expect a lower scoring game, led by Seton Hall’s strong defensive stats.
- Duke Blue Devils vs. North Carolina Tar Heels: An exciting rivalry. North Carolina holds the edge in turnovers.
- Clemson Tigers vs. California Golden Bears: California favored for their perimeter shooting ability.
- Utah State Aggies vs. Wyoming Cowboys: A strategic under game predicted with Utah State favored.
- Arizona State Sun Devils vs. Colorado Buffaloes: Both teams have poor defensive stats against threes, expect a higher score game.
- Houston Cougars vs. BYU Cougars: Houston predicted to control the pace, with a defensive edge leading to a lower total.
The matchups on February 7 promise a mix of strategies and predictions as teams vie for victory. As the games unfold, fans and bettors alike will keep an eye on these crucial moments.
