Offense meets defense when the No. 22 Houston Cougars (21-6, 11-3 AAC) travel to Memphis to take on the Tigers (18-8, 7-6 AAC). The game starts at 2 p.m. ET on Saturday, February 22, 2020, and will air on ESPN2.
Houston Cougars at Memphis Tigers Free Prediction
In the Cougars’ last contest, they blew out the Tulsa Golden Hurricane, 76-43. The Cougars made 21 of their 24 free throws (87.5 percent), while the Golden Hurricane had a turnover percentage of 22.7 (above their season average of 17.3). Houston was lifted by Caleb Mills, who was the top scorer from either team with 27 points on 9-for-16 shooting.
The Tigers beat the East Carolina Pirates in their last matchup, 77-73. The Tigers forced 15 turnovers and held the Pirates to an offensive rebounding percentage of 17.1 (below their season average of 28.2). Precious Achiuwa was the top scorer from either team with 24 points on 9-for-13 shooting from the field.
After the Cougars won both meetings against the Tigers last season, this will be the first matchup of the year between these two teams. In the last contest, Houston won 61-58. Houston had a much better effective field goal percentage (0.412 vs. 0.265). Memphis, on the other hand, had a much better turnover percentage (10.2 vs. 16.9).
Points could be at a premium in this showdown between two of the NCAA’s best defenses. Memphis ranks ninth in defensive efficiency (89.1) and Houston is 39th (93.8).
Houston Cougars vs. Memphis Tigers Betting Pick
Basketball Tip: ATS Winner – Memphis, O/U – Under
Betting Trends
Memphis ranks 32nd in steals per game (8.1) while Houston ranks 224th (5.0).
The Cougars average 41.3 rebounds per game, which ranks sixth in the NCAA. The Tigers rank 184th in rebounds allowed per game (35.9).
Houston ranks sixth in blocks allowed per game (2.1) while Memphis ranks 80th (3.1).
The Cougars’ average margin of victory in their last five games has been 16.4, up from 10.8 for the season.
During their last five games, the Tigers have scored an average of 75.2 points per game (1.4 above their season average) and allowed an average of 73.8 points per game (8.3 above their season average).
