Northern Illinois at Central Michigan odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Northern Illinois at Central Michigan odds and lines, with college football expert picks and predictions.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3011″ ]

The Northern Illinois Huskies (4-4, 3-1 MAC) and Central Michigan Chippewas (4-4, 2-2) tangle Tuesday. Kickoff at Kelly/Shorts Stadium is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPNU). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Northern Illinois vs. Central Michigan odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Northern Illinois last played Oct. 21, defeating Eastern Michigan 20-13 as a -11.5 home favorite. A Huskies team that has allowed a combined 40 points over its last 3 games is allowing just 310.4 yards per contest (2nd in MAC). NIU has won 3 straight against the spread (ATS).

The Chippewas failed to cover as 5-point favorites in their last game, a 24-17 loss Oct. 21 at Ball State, and they have lost 4 in a row against the number. Central Michigan is undefeated at home this season (3-0).

Rankings: US LBM Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Northern Illinois at Central Michigan
odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 7:08 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline: Northern Illinois -210 (bet $210 to win $100) | Central Michigan +175 (bet $100 to win $175)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Northern Illinois -5.5 (-110) | Central Michigan +5.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 44.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”3012″ ]

Northern Illinois at Central Michigan
picks and predictions

Prediction

Northern Illinois 28, Central Michigan 17

Moneyline

Fair prices here, offering little-to-no leverage. PASS.

Against the spread

Northern Illinois is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road. Central Michigan is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games overall and 1-7-1 ATS in its last 9 games at home.

NIU won 39-38 at CMU 2 years ago but then lost at home to the Chippewas last fall (35-22 Nov. 2). With the much better defense in this match-up, look for the Huskies to take care of business by a touchdown or more on Tuesday.

The Northern Illinois pass defense is a difference-maker in this match-up. On what will be a cold night in Michigan, expect a versatile (enough) Huskies offense to give the visitors a lead. Factors like NIU’s penchant for pickoffs (9 in 8 games), CMU’s porous red-zone defense and recent-game analytic scores are green check marks backing up a prognosis for a late-game 7-to-10-point cushion.

Several models’ win expectancy figures point to the Chippewas having a couple wins under their belt being way-less-than-wholly earned.

The line has steamed from 1.5 or 2.5 in some markets, so BACK THE HUSKIES -5.5 (-110) and perhaps get in quick and guard against a move to -6. And enough leverage has been lost that a partial-unit play may be in order.

Over/Under

No lean on the total as priced. PASS.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”5″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:
Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / Iowa / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / USC / Wisconsin / Recruiting / Transfer portal / College Football Playoffs / College Sports Wire

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

MAC Tournament: Northern Illinois vs. Kent State odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Northern Illinois vs. Kent State odds, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Northern Illinois Huskies (13-18, 9-9) and Kent State Golden Flashes (25-6, 15-3) meet Thursday in a 1st-round matchup in the Mid-American  Tournament. Tip from Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland is approximately 4 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Northern Illinois vs. Kent State odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and bets.

Kent State enters the tournament as a 2-seed after winning 15 conference games. The Golden Flashes pushed past Akron 89-84 in overtime in the regular-season finale, and Kent State won 7 of its last 8 games overall.

Northern Illinois blasted non-tournament team Eastern Michigan in the finale by an 85-66 count as 4.5-point favorites, cashing the Over for a 3rd straight outing. NIU is a very solid 10-4 ATS in its last 14 games.

These teams met once in the regular season, with NIU posting a surprising 86-76 win in DeKalb as a 12-point underdog with the Over cashing. The underdog has cashed in 5 of the past 6 meetings overall.

Check out: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll.

THE BRACKETS ARE BACK! The USA TODAY Sports Bracket Challenge is back! $1 MILLION grand prize for a perfect bracket, $25,000 prize for top bracket. Free to enter, 21+. Terms apply, void where prohibited by law. See Official Rules. Play now!

[betwidget_tipico]

[betwidget_gambbetmgmsb]

[betwidget_gambfanduelsb]

Northern Illinois vs. Kent State odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:28 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Northern Ilinois +525 (bet $100 to win $525) | Miami -850 (bet $850 to win $100)
  • Against the spread: Northern Illinois +12.5 (-115) | Kent State -12.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 141.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Can you survive? USA TODAY Sports’ Men and Women’s Basketball Tournament Survivor Pools are here with a $5,000 prize for each contest! Free to enter, 21+. Terms apply, void where prohibited by law. See Official Rules. Play now!

Northern Illinois vs. Kent State picks and predictions

Prediction

Kent State 77, Northern Illinois 68

Moneyline

Kent State is far too expensive and isn’t very good option for a standalone bet.

AVOID, and focus on the spread instead.

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Against the spread

The lean is to NORTHERN ILLINOIS +12.5 (-115) plus double-digit points.

The Huskies won outright against Kent State -12.5 (-105) in the only regular-season meeting as a double-digit underdog at NIU. The Huskies are unlikely to run it back and win this game outright, but they won’t go quietly into the night, either.

Kent State is 0-3-1 ATS in the last 4 games overall, while NIU has cashed in 10 of the last 14. The underdog has hit in 5 of the last 6 meetings, too.

Over/Under

OVER 141.5 (-110) is the best play on the board in this MAC battle.

The Over is 10-4 in the last 14 games overall for NIU, while going 11-4 in the last 15 games against teams with a winning overall record. The Over is 8-1 in the last 9 games for the Huskies after a cover, while going a 7-0 in the last 7 outings following a straight-up win.

For Kent State, the Over has hit in 3 of the last 4 games, and it easily cashed in the 1st meeting with NIU, too.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

For sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Plus, try out the USA TODAY Parlay Calculator and please gamble responsibly.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / Iowa / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Northern Illinois at Ohio odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Northern Illinois at Ohio odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Northern Illinois Huskies (11-16, 7-7 MAC) visit the Ohio Bobcats (16-11, 8-6) on Tuesday. Tip from Convocation Center is set for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Northern Illinois vs. Ohio odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and bets.

Northern Illinois lost to Miami (Ohio) 66-65 in overtime at home Saturday, failing to cover as a 4.5-point favorite. It has now lost back-to-back games but is still 6-4 in its last 10. The Huskies are 7-3 against the spread (ATS) in that same span to improve to 13-11 ATS on the season.

Ohio destroyed Central Michigan 76-59 on the road on Saturday to cover ass 9.5-point favorites. It has now won 5 games in a row and 7 of its last 10. In that span, the Bobcats are 6-4 ATS to improve to 14-12 ATS this season.

Ohio beat Northern Illinois 82-76 on the road to cover as 5-point favorites as the Over (149.5) connected the last time these teams faced off on Feb. 7.

Check out: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll

Can you survive? New pro and college basketball survivor pools are here at USA TODAY Sports! Free to play; terms and conditions apply. Join now!

Northern Illinois at Ohio odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 9:43 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Northern Illinois +475 (bet $100 to win $475) | Ohio -750 (bet $750 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Northern Illinois +11.5 (-110) | Ohio -11.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 150.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Catch the excitement and bet with Tipico

Double Down, Ohio! Deposit $200, Get $250. Bet now!

In Colorado and New Jersey, claim your 100% Deposit Match up to $250 now. Bet now! 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions.

Northern Illinois at Ohio picks and predictions

Prediction

Ohio 84, Northern Illinois 69

Moneyline

PASS.

The moneyline odds are not playable in this matchup, focus on the spread and/or total.

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Against the spread

LEAN OHIO -11.5 (-110).

Ohio has played well at home this season with a 12-1 home record while Northern Illinois is 6-9 on the road.

The Bobcats’ offense has been their strong suit this season, ranking 35th in the nation in points per game (78.7) while the Huskies’ defense has struggled, ranking 298th in opponent points per game (74.7).

The Bobcats are 5-2 ATS in their previous 7 games as the favorite and 4-1 ATS in their last 5 home games. They’re also 3-1 ATS this season when favored by 10-14.5 points while the Huskies are 3-5 ATS as 10-14.5 point underdogs.

Over/Under

BET OVER 150.5 (-105).

Northern Illinois has a 13-11 O/U record this season while the Bobcats have a 16-10 O/U record.

For Northern Illinois, the Over is 7-3 in its last 10 games including 4-1 in its last 5 road games.

For Ohio, the Over is also 7-3 in its last 10 games including 3-1 in its last 5 home games.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Want action on this basketball game or any other sports contest? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in OH, CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @seth_orlemann on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / Iowa / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Kent State at Northern Illinois odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Kent State at Northern Illinois odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Kent State Golden Flashes (16-3, 6-0 MAC) battle the Northern Illinois Huskies (7-12, 3-3) on Tuesday. Tip from NIU Convocation Center is scheduled for 8 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Kent State vs. Northern Illinois odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and bets.

Kent State steamrolled Ball State 86-65 on Friday to cover as 8-point home favorites. It has now covered 4 straight games and is 6-3 against the spread (ATS) in its last 9 lined games. The Golden Flashes sit atop the MAC and have been money-makers this season with a 14-3 ATS record. Their defense has carried the load this season, holding opponents to an average of 62.4 points per game (ppg), good for 29th in the nation.

Northern Illinois toppled Eastern Michigan 88-67 on Saturday, covering as 3-point road underdogs. It has now covered the spread in 3 of its last 4 games and is 5-5 ATS in its last 10 and 8-8 ATS on the season. The Huskies have struggled defensively, giving up an average of 75.2 ppg (T-309th).

Check out: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Kent State at Northern Illinois odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Kent State -850 (bet $850 to win $100) | Northern Illinois +525 (bet $100 to win $525)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Kent State -12.5 (-110) | Northern Illinois +12.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 137.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Catch the excitement and bet with Tipico

Double Down, Ohio! Deposit $200, Get $250. Bet now!

In Colorado and New Jersey, claim your 100% Deposit Match up to $250 now. Bet now! 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions.

Kent State at Northern Illinois picks and predictions

Prediction

Kent State 75, Northern Illinois 60

Moneyline

PASS.

Kent State is 16-3 overall this season and defending exceptionally well while Northern Illinois is 7-12 and struggling on both ends of the court making the moneyline odds justifiable, just not playable.

Against the spread

LEAN KENT STATE -12.5 (-110).

Kent State looks to be in top form even though 12.5 points is a lot — especially for a road team. The Golden Flashes have won 10 in a row and their most recent loss came on the road at Gonzaga on Dec. 5. The Golden Flashes should easily handle the Huskies.

The Golden Flashes have covered the spread 4 straight times, including a 13.5-point spread on the road against Eastern Michigan.

The Huskies are 3-3 ATS in their last 6 games and in each of the 3 losses, they were double-digit underdogs playing conference opponents.

Over/Under

BET UNDER 137.5 (-115).

The Under is 8-2 in Kent State’s last 10 games and 5-1 in its last 6 games following an ATS win. The Under is also 4-1 in the Golden Flashes’ last 5 games against a team with a losing straight-up record.

The Under is 5-1 in the Huskies’ last 6 home games and 8-1 in their last 9 home games against a team with a winning road record.

Kent State’s O/U record this season is 4-12-1 while Northern Illinois’ is 8-8.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Want action on this basketball game or any other sports contest? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in OH, CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @seth_orlemann on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / Iowa / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Northern Illinois at Miami (Ohio) odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Northern Illinois at Miami (Ohio) odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Northern Illinois Huskies (5-12, 1-3 MAC) and Miami (Ohio) Redhawks (7-10, 1-3) meet Millett Hall in Oxford, Ohio. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Northern Illinois vs. Miami (Ohio) odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and bets.

The Huskies were dusted at home 84-67 Saturday against the Toledo Rockets as 12.5-point underdogs. NIU has won just twice in the last 9 tries, going 3-6 ATS across the span. The Under has hit in 5 straight for the Huskies.

The Redhawks lost 75-61 at Ball State Saturday, failing to cash as 11-point ‘dogs. Miami has tasted victory a little more frequently than its counterparts, going a respectable 6-6 SU in the last 12 outings. It has also covered in 2 of the last 3 games, while cashing the Under in 3 of the previous 4 contests.

Check out: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll.

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Northern Illinois at Miami odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:31 a.m. ET.

  • Moneyline (ML): Northern Illinois +200 (bet $100 to win $200) | Miami (Ohio) -260 (bet $260 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Northern Illinois +5.5 (-105) | Miami (Ohio) -5.5 (-115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 143.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Catch the excitement and bet with Tipico

Double Down, Ohio! Deposit $200, Get $250. Bet now!

In Colorado and New Jersey, claim your 100% Deposit Match up to $250 now. Bet now! 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions.

Northern Illinois at Miami picks and predictions

Prediction

Miami (Ohio) 74, Northern Illinois 66

Moneyline

Miami (Ohio) will cost you more than 2 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s quite expensive anytime, let alone for a sub-.500 team.

AVOID.

Against the spread

MIAMI -5.5 (-115) is the lean, ever so slightly.

The home team is 4-1-1 ATS in the last 6 meetings in this series. More importantly, the RedHawks are 5-1 ATS in the last 6 tries against teams with a losing overall record. The Huskies are a dismal 2-5 ATS in the last 7 games overall, too.

Over/Under

UNDER 143.5 (-105) is the lean in this MAC tussle.

The Under has cashed in 5 in a row for NIU, while going 4-1 in the last 5 games against teams with a losing overall mark.

The Under is also 4-1 in the last 5 for Miami against teams with a winning percentage under .400, while going 4-1 in the last 5 following a non-cover, too.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Want action on this basketball game or any other sports contest? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in OH, CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / Iowa / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Northern Illinois at Akron odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Northern Illinois at Akron odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Northern Illinois Huskies (4-9) and Akron Zips (8-5) meet Tuesday. Tip at James A. Rhodes Arena is at 7 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Northern Illinois vs. Akron odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and bets.

This game marks the MAC opener for both schools.

Northern Illinois returns to action after an 11-day layoff. The Huskies last played on Dec. 22, when they won 67-57 as 17.5-point underdogs at Indiana State. NIU had yielded 86.3 points per game in losing 4 straight before that road win.

The Zips had a Dec. 30 tune-up triumph (84-58) over NCAA-II Concord. Akron is 5-1 straight up and 2-2 against the spread over its last 6 games. Over the last 2 seasons, UA is 15-3 on its home floor.

Check out: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Northern Illinois at Akron odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 12:34 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline: Northern Illinois +825 (bet $100 to win $825) | Akron -1900 (bet $1,900 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Northern Illinois +14.5 (-105) | Akron -14.5 (-115)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 133.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Catch the excitement and bet with Tipico

Double Down, Ohio! Deposit $200, Get $250. Bet now!

In Colorado and New Jersey, claim your 100% Deposit Match up to $250 now. Bet now! 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions.

Northern Illinois at Akron picks and predictions

Prediction

Akron 73, Northern Illinois 57

Moneyline

PASS. I have no interest in either side here.

Against the spread

Akron is on a nice roll and is a solid play to take this game by 13-18 points. There just isn’t any value of a line higher than -13.5. PASS.

Over/Under

The Under is 7-4 across 11 lined UA games. In recent games against fast teams, which NIU is, the Under has gone 2-1 (games against Wright State, Jackson State and Marshall).

The Huskies coming off a holiday layoff, with no major pressure in score-spiral areas like transition and 2nd-chance points, and Akron coming off a very slow game add to the fuel for an Under wager.

BACK THE UNDER 133.5 (-105).

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Want action on this basketball game or any other sports contest? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in OH, CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / Iowa / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Northern Illinois at Gonzaga odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Monday’s Northern Illinois at Gonzaga odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Northern Illinois Huskies (3-6) visit No. 18 Gonzaga Bulldogs (7-3) in Spokane Monday night. The opening tip at the McCarthey Athletic Center will be at 9 p.m. ET. Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook’s lines around the Northern Illinois vs. Gonzaga odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and bets.

Rankings courtesy of the Dec. 5 USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll.

Northern Illinois last played 10 days ago when the Huskies were favored by 2 points at Idaho, but were decimated 84-47 as they shot just 33.3% from the field. NIU has shot under 41% in 5 of its 6 losses.

The Bulldogs have played twice since NIU’s last game and since their last loss — to Baylor 64-63 on Dec. 2. Gonzaga’s 2 recent games were wins — vs. Kent State Dec. 5 and Washington Friday — but non-covers (loss, push) of spreads in the mid-teens. GU’s shooting percentage and pace are down a couple of clicks from last season when the Bulldogs’ scoring average of 87.2 points per game led NCAA-I.

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Northern Illinois at Gonzaga odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1::01 p.m. ET.

  • Moneyline: Northern Illinois +1500 (bet $100 to win $1500) | Gonzaga -10000 (bet $10,000 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Northern Illinois +32.5 (-110) | Gonzaga -32.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 152.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Claim your risk-free bet up to $350. Catch the excitement and start betting with Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Northern Illinois at Gonzaga picks and predictions

Prediction

Gonzaga 94, Northern Illinois 61

Moneyline

PASS on this offering; the true odds are very likely buried in the middle.

Against the spread

Gonzaga has not covered a spread since Nov. 20. The Bulldogs should have a solid chance of dominating every facet of a track meet in this game. NIU inadequacies on defense, in rebounding, and in turnover frequency get thrown into the mix with some likely rust here after the significant layoff.

The BULLDOGS -32.5 (-110) is a lean. More so is an alternate 1st-half line of GONZAGA -18.5 (-110). In earlier games against North Florida (Nov. 7) and Portland State (Nov. 24) — both teams rated higher by KenPom than NIU — Gonzaga opened up halftime leads of 30 and 24 points, respectively.

Over/Under

Both teams play an up-tempo pace, and Gonzaga could well race-and-triple this total into the mid-150s, even in a rout. But the total has climbed a bit since a more profitable open of around 150. PASS.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Want action on this basketball game or any other sports contest? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / Iowa / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Northern Illinois at Kentucky odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Northern Illinois at Kentucky odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Kentucky Wildcats (3-0) welcome the Northern Illinois Huskies (1-2) to Kroger Field Saturday. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN2). Below, we analyze Tipico Sportsbook‘s lines around the Northern Illinois vs. Kentucky odds, and make our expert college football picks and predictions.

Kentucky is coming into this game with high expectations and an even loftier spread. It kicked off the season with a 37-13 win over Miami (Ohio) and then took down Florida on the road as underdogs.

It most recently beat up on Youngstown State 31-0. The Wildcats are led by star QB Will Levis, who transferred in from Penn State and immediately started a season ago.

Northern Illinois, on the other hand, opened the season up with what’s been its only win so far, a 34-27 victory over Eastern Illinois. The Huskies lost to Tulsa 38-35 in a shootout and also succumbed to Vanderbilt 38-28.

QB Rocky Lombardi, who spent three seasons at Michigan State, captains the team and has totaled 5 TDs and 1 INT to go along with 530 passing yards.

Kentucky is No. 9 in the AFCA Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports.

Stream select live college football games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Northern Illinois at Kentucky odds

Provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 5:02 p.m. ET.

  • Money line (ML): Northern Illinois +1100 (bet $100 to win $1,100) | Kentucky -3000 (bet $3,000 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Northern Illinois +26.5 (-112) | Kentucky -26.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 53.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

Claim your risk-free bet up to $350. Catch the excitement and start betting with Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Bet now!

Northern Illinois at Kentucky picks and predictions

Prediction

Kentucky 38, Northern Illinois 10

Money line

PASS.

A +1100 underdog on the road isn’t worth consideration. Neither is a a -3000 favorite at home.

Against the spread

BET KENTUCKY -26.5 (-110).

Kentucky is one of a handful of teams to have covered every game through the first 3 weeks of the season. It did start off slow against Miami (Ohio), but since then the Wildcats have looked every bit of a CFP contender.

It took care of a 2-1 Youngtown State team quickly, entering the 4th quarter with a 28-0 win. The Huskies likely aren’t even at the level the Penguins were, having lost by 10 to Vanderbilt which is one of the worst SEC teams.

Northern Illinois is just 1-2 against the spread this season. With Lombardi uncertain to play after dislocating his leg against Vandy, the Huskies’ misfortune should continue in Lexington Saturday.

Over/Under

LEAN UNDER  53.5 (-110).

The likely absence of Lombardi is key. The Huskies have had a competent offense with the majority of their struggles defensively. They’ve scored at least 28 in every game.

QB Ethan Hampton will get the start if Lombardi is out, and he had 2 touchdowns and a pick against Vandy.

A far superior Wildcats defense will be awaiting him. Kentucky is 0-3 O/U and has held opponents to under 10 points per game. Expect a similar result on Saturday.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Want action on this game or any other NCAA football matchup? Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, SportsbookWire’s official sportsbook partner in CO and NJ. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW, or try out our USA TODAY Parlay Calculator. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / Iowa / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Ohio at Northern Illinois odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Ohio at Northern Illinois odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Ohio Bobcats (23-7, 14-5 MAC) meet the Northern Illinois Huskies (8-21, 5-14) Friday. Tip-off at the NIU Convocation Center in Dekalb, Ill., is slated for 8 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Ohio vs. Northern Illinois odds and lines, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and bets.

Ohio is coming off a key 80-77 loss to the MAC East’s last-placed team Bowling Green Tuesday. OU has dropped three of its last four games. Two of those recent losses — at Kent State and at BGSU — were on the road. The Bobcats shot a combined 29.5% from the floor in those setbacks away from home.

The Huskies lost 74-62 at OU Jan. 25. That loss is one of 13 in the team’s last 16 games. Northern Illinois has coughed up 74.5 points per game over that stretch.

See alsoFerris Mowers Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports

Ohio at Northern Illinois odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:51 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Ohio -550 (bet $550 to win $100) | Northern Illinois +400 (bet $100 to win $400)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Ohio -9.5 (-120) | Northern Illinois +9.5 (-105)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 137.5 (O: -107 | U: -115)

Exclusive USA TODAY Network offer: Deposit $10 or more, get $200 in instant bet credits at Tipico Sportsbook! New customer offer in CO and NJ. 21+, see Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. Place your legal, online sports bets at Tipico. Let’s make this interesting. Bet now!

Ohio at Northern Illinois odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Ohio 75, Northern Illinois 65

Money line

PASS. A fair price in the 400s is well bottled up.

Against the spread

NIU is listing as it approaches the finish line. The Huskies simply don’t have the offense to hang in this one.

Peg the Bowling Green loss as a pre-tourney wake-up call for the Bobcats.

The lean is s slight one: consider a partial-unit play on OHIO -9.5 (-120).

Over/Under

Some turnover/transition action and a decent number of projected foul shots get this one to 140 more times than not.

BACK THE OVER 137.5 (-107).

Bet legally online with a trusted partner: Tipico Sportsbook, Sportsbook Wire’s official sportsbook partner in CO, NJ and soon IA. Bet now!

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]

Cure Bowl: Northern Illinois vs. Coastal Carolina odds, picks and prediction

Analyzing Friday’s Northern Illinois at Coastal Carolina odds and lines, with college football expert picks, predictions and best bets.

The Northern Illinois Huskies (9-4) will take on the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (10-2) Friday in the Cure Bowl. Kickoff from Exploria Stadium in Orlando, Fla., is scheduled for 6 p.m. ET. Below, we look at the Northern Illinois vs. Coastal Carolina odds and lines, and make our expert college football picks, predictions and bets.

Coastal Carolina, a team that was expected to be among the best non-Power 5 programs, had a terrific season. However, they lost two of their last six games to Georgia State and Appalachian State.

Senior RB Shermari James has been a workhorse and ranks 50th in the nation in rushing yards with 988 yards on just 151 carries.

He’ll be going against one of the worst rush defenses in the NCAA. Northern Illinois ranks 120th out of 130 programs with 215.8 rushing yards allowed per game.

The Huskies had seven of their last nine games end within a one-score margin, so they’ve been competitive with teams in the MAC, typically coming out on top. They average 31.5 points per game and have had five ball carriers go for over 400 yards, so they’ll be working with a committee in this one.

Northern Illinois vs. Coastal Carolina odds, spread and lines

Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:26 p.m. ET.

  • Money line: Northern Illinois +330 (bet $100 to win $330) | Coastal Carolina -450 (bet $450 to win $100)
  • Against the spread (ATS): Northern Illinois +11.5 (-108) | Coastal Carolina -11.5 (-112)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 62.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

PLAY: Free, daily sports pick’em contests. Play now!

Northern Illinois vs. Coastal Carolina odds, lines, picks and predictions

Prediction

Coastal Carolina 42, Northern Illinois 24

Money line

PASS on the money line. I like Coastal Carolina to win but betting a -450 favorite typically isn’t a smart play.

Against the spread

BET on COASTAL CAROLINA -11.5 (-112) as they have one of the most dynamic offenses in the nation and should be looking to absolutely dominate the ground game.

With Northern Illinois having been throttled by Western Michigan just a few weeks ago, the faith in them just isn’t here.

Coastal has shown a dominant run attack and is taking on a side that has an inability to stop the run. Coastal should win this game by at least two touchdowns.

Over/Under

BET on the OVER 62.5 (-110) as who doesn’t love some bowl game magic.

Both teams have terrific offenses and lackluster defenses. Northern Illinois scored more than 30 points per game but gives up more than 32 points per game.

Similarly, Coastal is averaging more than 40 points per game. This should be a game filled with points as two high-octane offenses are going against two poor defenses.

If you’re looking for more sports betting picks and tips, access all of our content at SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Colorado / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin / College Football News

Gannett may earn revenue from Tipico for audience referrals to betting services. Tipico has no influence over nor are any such revenues in any way dependent on or linked to the newsrooms or news coverage. See Tipico.com for Terms and Conditions. 21+ only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (NJ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA).

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1622]