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UAB Blazers vs Florida Atlantic Owls: Prediction and Betting Tips

The UAB Blazers will face off against the Florida Atlantic Owls on Sunday, January 12th, at the CU Eleanor R. Baldwin Arena. This highly anticipated matchup in the American Athletic Conference (AAC) presents an exciting opportunity for bettors to assess team form, key statistics, and recent trends. Here’s our detailed breakdown to help you make informed betting decisions.

Florida Atlantic Owls: Team Overview and Performance

The Florida Atlantic Owls enter this game with a 9-7 record, sitting in 6th place in the AAC. Coming off a solid 75-64 win over Charlotte, the Owls have been inconsistent against the spread (7-8) but have shown promise in high-scoring games, going 9-6 in over/under. Their 3-2 home record underscores the challenge they pose to visiting teams.

Offensive and Defensive Metrics

• Points Per Game (PPG): 82.3 (43rd in the nation)

• Points Allowed Per Game: 77.4 (319th)

• Field Goal Percentage (FG%): 46.7% (105th)

• Three-Point Percentage (3P%): 34.9% (128th)

• Free Throw Percentage (FT%): 69.7% (245th)

• Rebounds Per Game (RPG): 36.4 (174th)

Key Players

• Kaleb Grenn: 11.9 PPG, 4.3 RPG

• Tre Caroll: 11.9 PPG, 4.6 RPG

The Owls rely on their offensive prowess but have struggled defensively, particularly against teams with strong inside scoring. Grenn and Caroll have been consistent contributors but will need to step up against UAB’s formidable lineup.

UAB Blazers: Team Overview and Performance

The UAB Blazers also hold a 9-7 record but sit higher in the standings at 4th place in the AAC. Fresh off an 81-69 victory over Tulane, the Blazers have been efficient on offense, boasting a 9-6 record in over/under. Their Achilles’ heel has been their 0-2 road record, which could play a pivotal role in this matchup.

Offensive and Defensive Metrics

• Points Per Game (PPG): 84.8 (17th in the nation)

• Points Allowed Per Game: 74.6 (271st)

• Field Goal Percentage (FG%): 46.9% (88th)

• Three-Point Percentage (3P%): 32.8% (232nd)

• Free Throw Percentage (FT%): 76.1% (54th)

• Rebounds Per Game (RPG): 41.1 (16th)

Key Players

• Yaxel Lendeborg: 17.4 PPG, 10.1 RPG

• Christian Coleman: 11.9 PPG, 7.4 RPG

UAB’s offense ranks among the best nationally, driven by Lendeborg’s dominance in the paint and Coleman’s versatility. However, their road struggles and defensive lapses could be critical factors against a strong home team like Florida Atlantic.

Betting Trends to Watch

Florida Atlantic Owls

• The Owls have won their last 12 day games at Abessinio Court.

• Florida Atlantic has won the first half in their last nine home games against non-AP-ranked opponents.

• They are 4-1 in their last five games as home favorites.

UAB Blazers

• UAB has won seven of their last eight games against AAC opponents.

• The Blazers are 7-3 against the spread in their last 10 meetings with Florida Atlantic.

• UAB has covered the spread in their last two games as road underdogs.

Head-to-Head Trends

• UAB holds a 6-4 advantage in their last 10 meetings with Florida Atlantic.

• The Over is 4-2 in their last six matchups.

• Their most recent meeting saw UAB secure a 76-73 overtime victory, covering the spread as the game went under the total.

Prediction: UAB Blazers vs Florida Atlantic Owls

Both teams boast top-50 offenses, combining for an impressive 167.1 points per game. However, their defensive inefficiencies suggest a high-scoring affair. Florida Atlantic’s home-court advantage and UAB’s road woes tilt the scales slightly in favor of the Owls. Still, UAB’s strong performance against AAC rivals and recent success against Florida Atlantic make this a tightly contested matchup.

Best Bet: Take the Over

With both teams’ scoring capabilities and defensive struggles, betting on the Over presents a favorable option. The line is expected to be set around 160 points, making this a prime opportunity for bettors.

Insights

What makes Florida Atlantic a strong home team?

Florida Atlantic has excelled at Abessinio Court, winning their last 12 day games there. Their ability to dominate the first half against non-AP-ranked opponents showcases their early-game focus and tactical preparation.

How can UAB overcome their road struggles?

UAB needs to leverage their rebounding advantage (41.1 RPG, 16th nationally) and free-throw efficiency (76.1%, 54th) to counter Florida Atlantic’s home momentum. Controlling the paint and limiting turnovers will be crucial.

Are there key matchups to watch? 

The battle between UAB’s Yaxel Lendeborg and Florida Atlantic’s Kaleb Grenn will be pivotal. Both players’ ability to dominate the boards and score consistently could determine their team’s success.

What are the implications of this game for AAC standings? 

With both teams sitting in the top six of the AAC, this game has significant implications for playoff seeding. A win for either team could provide crucial momentum heading into the latter half of the season.

By focusing on these key aspects, bettors can make informed decisions while enjoying a thrilling AAC matchup.