COLLEGE BASKETBALL

Gonzaga has opened the season in strong form, winning both games while posting elite shooting numbers and holding opponents to 70.0 points per game. The Bulldogs’ efficiency profile is the main reason they remain attractive in this spot: they score efficiently, defend well enough to control pace, and do not need a high-possession game to create separation. LSU’s early results have been mixed, but the Tigers’ offensive output has been boosted by volume and rebounding rather than perimeter efficiency. Their field goal percentage is solid at 54.6%, yet the three-point mark of 27.0% is a concern against a top-tier opponent. LSU’s defense has been excellent in the small sample, allowing 52.7 points per game, but that has come against a lighter early slate and is less persuasive than Gonzaga’s proven efficiency edge.
Gonzaga should control this matchup at home and turn its shooting and efficiency advantage into a comfortable win. LSU has enough size and rebounding to stay competitive for stretches, but the Tigers’ perimeter shooting and weaker offensive efficiency make it hard to project them keeping pace for forty minutes. Final score projection: Gonzaga Bulldogs 84, LSU Tigers 78.