The BYU Cougars (4-3) clash against the Virginia Tech Hokies (6-1) in the Maui Invitational at Lahaina Civic Center. The game will air on ESPN2 at 11:30 p.m. ET on Wednesday, November 27, 2019.
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. BYU Cougars Free Prediction
The Hokies are trying to rebound after their 89-62 loss to the Dayton Flyers in their last game. Dayton’s 32.0 offensive rebounding percentage was their biggest strength over Virginia Tech, who had a rate of 11.8. The Flyers’ mark was below their season average of 32.5, while the Hokies’ was below their season average of 25.1. Landers Nolley II was Virginia Tech’s leading scorer with 15 points on 5-for-13 shooting.
The last time the Cougars took the court, they fell to the No. 4 Kansas Jayhawks, 71-56. Kansas’ 0.148 free throw rate was their largest advantage over BYU, who had a mark of 0.056. The Jayhawks’ mark was below their season average of 0.232, while the Cougars’ was below their season average of 0.156. BYU’s TJ Haws had a good performance, leading both teams in scoring with 16 points on 6-for-14 shooting.
Based on each team’s statistical profile, ball security could play an integral role in this showdown. Dating back to the 2018-19 season, BYU has committed the 28th-fewest miscues in the country (turnover percentage of 16.1 percent), while the disruptive defense of Virginia Tech has forced the 46th-most (opponents’ turnover percentage of 21.6 percent).
Virginia Tech Hokies vs. BYU Cougars Free Pick
Prediction: ATS Winner – BYU, O/U – Under
Betting Trends
Virginia Tech ranks 12th in rebounds allowed per game (31.1) while BYU ranks 240th (36.5).
The Cougars rank 93rd in three pointers allowed per game (20.9) while the Hokies rank 316th (26.6).
Virginia Tech averages 15.6 assists per game, which ranks 31st in the nation. BYU ranks 173rd in assists allowed per game (13.1).
The Hokies rank 15th in steals allowed per game (4.9) while the Cougars rank 113th (5.9).
BYU ranks 190th in blocks per game (2.9) while Virginia Tech ranks 229th (2.5).
