Miami (OH) RedHawks vs Akron Zips Prediction – 3/15/2025

The Mid-American Conference (MAC) Championship game is set for Saturday, March 15, 2025, at 7:30 PM, featuring the top-seeded Akron Zips (27-6, 17-1 MAC) against the second-seeded Miami (OH) RedHawks (25-8, 14-4 MAC). This highly anticipated contest will take place at Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio, with the winner securing an automatic bid to the NCAA Tournament.

Miami (OH) RedHawks vs. Akron Zips Game Preview

Both teams enter the championship game on impressive winning streaks. The RedHawks have won four consecutive games, including a 72-64 victory over Kent State in the semifinals. In that game, Peter Suder led with 23 points and 11 rebounds, while Kam Craft added 17 points. Miami (OH) has been effective offensively, averaging 81.1 points per game, shooting 48.3% from the field, and 39.5% from three-point range. Defensively, they allow 72.9 points per game.

The Zips are on a six-game winning streak, most recently defeating Toledo 100-90 in the semifinals. Nate Johnson was instrumental, scoring 31 points and dishing out six assists. Akron boasts a potent offense, averaging 84.4 points per game, with a 47.1% field goal percentage and 36.2% from beyond the arc. Their defense concedes 74.1 points per game.

In their regular-season meeting on January 25, 2025, Akron dominated Miami (OH) with a 102-75 victory. The Zips' offense was firing on all cylinders, and they will look to replicate that performance in the championship game.

Betting Insights

As of the latest reports, the betting odds for the MAC Championship game are as follows:

• Point Spread: Akron -5.5
• Over/Under: 158.5 points

These odds suggest that Akron is favored to win by approximately 5.5 points, with expectations of a high-scoring game. Bettors should consider the following factors:

• Offensive Prowess: Both teams have high-scoring offenses, with Akron averaging 84.4 points per game and Miami (OH) 81.1 points. This trend supports the over on the total points line.
• Recent Performance: Akron's recent form, including their decisive win over Miami (OH) earlier in the season, positions them as the favorites. However, Miami (OH)'s recent defensive improvements could influence the game's outcome.
• Head-to-Head Record: Akron has won 22 of its last 23 games against conference opponents, indicating a strong track record in the MAC.

Miami (OH) RedHawks vs. Akron Zips Prediction

Considering the teams' current form, offensive capabilities, and previous encounters, this championship game is poised to be a high-scoring affair. Akron's offensive efficiency and depth give them an edge, but Miami (OH)'s resilience and recent defensive improvements cannot be overlooked.

Given these factors, the prediction for the game is:

• Point Spread: Miami (OH) to cover the +5.5 spread.
• Total Points: Over 158.5 points.

While Akron is likely to secure the victory, Miami (OH) is expected to keep the game competitive, making the +5.5 spread appealing for bettors. Additionally, the offensive strengths of both teams suggest that the total points will exceed 158.5, aligning with the over bet.

As always, bettors should consider all factors and conduct thorough research before placing any wagers.