Bulldogs vs. Cougars – As the NCAA Men’s Basketball tournament heats up, a captivating matchup is on the horizon between the Drake Bulldogs (28-6) and the Washington State Cougars (24-9). Both teams have shown remarkable tenacity throughout the season, and their impending clash on Thursday, promises to be a showcase of collegiate basketball at its finest. Fans and bettors alike are eagerly anticipating what is expected to be a closely contested affair. As we delve into this encounter, it’s crucial to highlight that it serves as a pivotal moment for enthusiasts engaged in the best sports betting online, offering a prime opportunity to analyze trends, odds, and performances.
Drake Bulldogs vs. Washington State Cougars 3/21/24
| When: | Thursday, March 21, 2024, at 10:05 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | CHI Health Center Omaha |
| TV: | TRU |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
Tucker DeVries (Guard) vs. Isaac Jones (Forward)
Tucker DeVries has shown above and beyond for the Drake Bulldogs this season. For all 33 games, the player made 35.5 minutes on the court on average, contributing to the team with 21.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. Additionally, not to be ignored is his defensive ability, as he averages 1.6 steals per game. The three statistics DeVries has maintained, 44.8% field goal percentage, 81.7% free throw efficiency and 36.4% three-point accuracy represent his versatility and dependability as a key player.
On the other hand, Isaac Jones shoulders for the Washington State Cougars with the combination of his power and skill. In 33 games, the guy has averaged 15.4 points and 7.4 rebounds playing 31.8 minutes per game. Interestingly, his good field goal efficiency is at 58.2%. However, his three-point shooting is not the highest, 7.1%. Jones being an imposing physical presence in the paint and also having an average of 1 block per game shall play a key role in jamming the Bulldogs’ offense.
The DeVries-Jones match is the one showcasing a unique blend of precision and ingenuity. DeVries’ scoring range, with which he will be matched by Jones’ defensive capabilities and rebounding prowess, will in fact determine the dynamics and the result of the game. This personal combat, in a way, is a representation of the larger confrontation and the different game tactics that would be required.
Drake Bulldogs – A Statistical Overview
The Bulldogs’ offense averages 80.5 points per game and has a shooting accuracy of 47.9% from the field and 36.7% from beyond the arc. The fact that they are also shooting free throws at a 76% rate and enjoying rebounds (8 per game) for offence, are factors that could be critical to go for the second chance points. On the other hand, their 9.6 turnovers per game could be the problem in order to stop Cougars’ best tactic – taking advantage of their opponents’ mistakes.
Washington State Cougars – Analyzing the Competition
The Cougars, who earn 74.3 points per game, but are slightly less direct compared to the Bulldogs, are well appraised when it comes to defending, they average 4.8 blocks and 11.2 offensive rebounds per game. Their squad performance, whether it be from the 46.6% in field goal percentage or the 34% at the three-point line, positioned this team quite well on both sides of the court.
NCAAB Betting Odds: Washington State Cougars -110, Over/Under: 138
The betting odds slightly favor the Washington State Cougars, reflecting the anticipated tight contest. With the spread at a narrow 1.5 points, the game is expected to be closely contested, and the over/under of 138 points suggests a moderately high-scoring affair.
Drake Bulldogs Betting Trends
Drake are 5-0 in their last 5 games.
Drake are 4-1 in their last 5 games against the spread
Drake are 6-8 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 3 of Drake’ last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 9 of Drake’ 19 last games at home
Washington State Cougars Betting Trends
Washington State are 3-2 in their last 5 games.
Washington State are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread
Washington State are 6-5 in their road games against the spread
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Washington State last 5 games
The totals have gone OVER in 11 of Washington State 21 last games at home
Drake Bulldogs vs. Washington State Cougars Betting Picks
Consequently, this game provides a wide range of opportunities and challenges that most sports bettors are willing to seize. The main weapon of the Bulldogs, namely, Tucker DeVries, will probably push into the defensive protection of the Cougars. Yet, the balanced performance of Washington State and their not as bad performance on the road give them the chances of winning a few more games although it’s still not enough to be confident.
One justification for the March Madness free pick is the Cowboys’ -110 moneyline being better owing to their defensive prowess and the likelihood of them dominating the rebounding battle. The Over/ Under is set at 138, and both teams are normally the ones that engage in high-scoring games. Therefore, consider this as one of your prudent choices especially when there will be the ongoing intensity of March Madness.
