Thursday’s College Hoops Bets Bring Drama Before Feast Week Madness

A quieter Thursday slate still delivers betting value as teams across the country gear up for next week’s nonstop college basketball action.
Miami Hurricanes head coach Jai Lucas
Miami Hurricanes head coach Jai Lucas | Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

Well, we move to Thursday in the world of college basketball. It is a bit of a calm before the major storm next week, when action will be happening all over the country.

A Brief Pause Before the Madness

Wednesday saw plenty of movement on the betting board. We took a step back on Wednesday and went 1-4. That was a -3.9 unit loss. Not great.

On the season, we are 45-5. We are +3 units on the season. It's a long season and as always, every play is tracked in real time on BetStamp.

Memphis Looks to Bounce Back

Purdue Boilermakers vs. Memphis Tigers

The Tigers are coming off a loss at home and will be desperate to get back on track. It will not be easy, though, as Purdue feels like it plays a marquee opponent every time out. The Boilermakers have more big games coming, but this matchup means even more to Memphis. That is too many points to lay. Take the Tigers to cover.

Betting Pick: Memphis Tigers +16.5 over Purdue Boilermakers

Final Score Prediction: Purdue 82, Memphis 67

A Volunteer State Clash

Tennessee State Tigers vs. Tennessee Volunteers

This is an intriguing in-state battle. Tennessee is one of the best rebounding teams in college basketball, while Tennessee State holds its own on the glass but battles turnover issues. If the Tigers can limit their giveaways, they can stay inside the number. The spread feels inflated. Take Tennessee State to cover.

Betting Pick: Tennessee State Tigers +33 over Tennessee Volunteers

Final Score Prediction: Tennessee 88, Tennessee State 60

Miami’s Defense Takes Center Stage

Elon Phoenix vs. Miami Hurricanes

Jai Lucas has Miami playing strong basketball early in the season, especially defensively. Elon has topped 80 points in every game so far, but they have yet to be challenged by a team close to Miami’s level. This is a major step up. Miami should control the game from the start.

Betting Pick: Miami Hurricanes -20 over Elon Phoenix

Final Score Prediction: Miami 86, Elon 59

Points Should Pile Up in Houston

Rider Broncs vs. Houston Cougars

Houston is as tough as ever on defense, but their offense does not get enough credit. The Cougars are one of the most effective scoring teams in the country despite shooting the three poorly so far. Rider’s defense is consistently leaky and often gives up 80 or more. Houston should push this game over the total.

Betting Pick: Rider Broncs/Houston Cougars Over 131.5

Final Score Prediction: Houston 82, Rider 52

Trouble in Vegas for the Rebels

St. Joseph’s Hawks vs. UNLV Rebels

The late night matchup features a UNLV team struggling out of the gate with two home losses in games they were expected to win. Their defense has not found its footing. St. Joseph’s can shoot and gets to the free throw line, which should keep them competitive throughout. The Hawks will have a real chance to steal this one late.

Betting Pick: St. Joseph’s Hawks +9.5 UNLV Rebels

Final Score Prediction: UNLV 66, St. Joseph’s 64

Fade or follow as you wish. Best of luck with all your college basketball betting, and be sure to check out our BetStamp account for every pick all season long.

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