The Creighton Bluejays (7-2) look to lengthen their seven-game home winning streak in a matchup against the UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros (4-5) at CHI Health Center Omaha. The game begins at 8 p.m. ET on Friday, December 13, 2019.
UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros vs. Creighton Bluejays ATS Prediction
The Vaqueros come in on a high note after dismantling the Mid-America Christian Evangels in their last contest, 92-50. The Vaqueros had a much better turnover percentage (7.3 vs. 31.9) and had a much better free throw rate (0.231 vs. 0.109). Jordan Jackson was a key piece for UT Rio Grande Valley with 17 points, six rebounds and five assists.
The last time the Bluejays were in action, they easily got past the Nebraska Cornhuskers, 95-76. Creighton’s effective field goal percentage was their largest advantage over Nebraska. The Bluejays had a rate of 0.629 (above their season average of 0.539), while the Cornhuskers posted a mark of 0.485. Marcus Zegarowski was the game’s leading scorer with 30 points on 13-for-19 shooting from the field.
Based on historical performance heading into this one, ball security could play a key role in this meeting. Since last season, Creighton has committed the 41st-fewest miscues in the NCAA (turnover percentage of 18.4 percent), while the disruptive defense of UT Rio Grande Valley has forced the 13th-most (opponents’ turnover percentage of 25.4 percent). Also, the Vaqueros, who rank 33rd in free throw attempt (FTA) rate (0.281), will face a tough test against the Bluejays, who rank 49th in opponents’ FTA rate (0.183).
UT Rio Grande Valley Vaqueros vs. Creighton Bluejays Free Pick
College Basketball Pick: ATS Winner – Creighton, O/U – Over
Betting Trends
Creighton ranks 52nd in three pointers attempted per game (27.1) while UT Rio Grande Valley ranks 249th (17.5).
The Bluejays rank 60th in assists per game (15.8) while the Vaqueros rank 163rd in assists allowed per game (13.5).
Creighton ranks 160th in rebounds allowed per game (34.3) while UT Rio Grande Valley ranks 233rd (38.5).
The Bluejays rank 21st in steals allowed per game (6.1) while the Vaqueros rank 80th (6.1).
Creighton ranks 44th in blocks allowed per game (3.2) while UT Rio Grande Valley ranks 81st (3.2).
