The reason why it feels like we recently had a game is because we did. The upcoming matchup between WVU and TCU on Thursday is a rescheduled game, providing the Mountaineers men’s basketball team with an additional home game before the conclusion of the 2020-21 regular season.
The odds for West Virginia sports betting apps, such as DraftKings Sportsbook WV, have undergone some changes compared to the markets on Feb. 23, when these two teams faced off in Fort Worth. The outcomes of both teams in the last 10 days have contributed to a suitable storyline.
The WVU vs. TCU spread for Thursday
The Mountaineers are listed as a 13-point favorite over the Horned Frogs by DraftKings for their upcoming game on Thursday. This is a significant increase from the previous matchup between these teams on TCU’s home court, where the spread was set at 7.5 points. Clearly, the location of the game plays a crucial role in shaping the predictions of oddsmakers.
At the WVU Coliseum, WVU performs better with an average of 78.6 points per game compared to 76.4 points in their away games this season. Notably, in their recent home games, WVU has scored a minimum of 89 points in three out of four matches. The only instance where they did not achieve this was during a comfortable 22-point victory against Kansas State, where there was no need for West Virginia to intensify their pace.
The Mountaineers were able to cover the spread in their previous encounter with a win of eight points, which took place 10 days ago. Now, the question arises whether they can achieve a similar outcome with a larger margin. Both sides of the argument have valid points.
As the Big 12 men’s basketball tournament and March Madness draw near, West Virginia is in need of a convincing victory to solidify their position. It would reflect poorly on the Mountaineers if they face difficulties dominating a team with a weak conference record, especially after comfortably defeating them on their own turf just a short while ago.
Simultaneously, a 13-point difference in men’s college basketball betting is quite significant. Instead of focusing on trouncing TCU, the main concern is ensuring the players are in good health and well-rested for the upcoming tournament games. Once West Virginia University (WVU) manages to secure a three-possession lead, it could be more favorable to simply maintain that advantage comfortably.
The total set at 142.5 by WV FanDuel Sportsbook for this game indicates some movement based on the numbers. However, the difference compared to the previous total for the game between these two teams is not as significant.
Could the under be the smart move?
When examining West Virginia’s matchups against comparable opponents (Big 12 teams with conference records at or below .500), the team has consistently showcased its defensive prowess. A prime illustration of this is seen in the two games against K-State, where the Mountaineers only conceded a total of 90 points. Additionally, on February 23rd, they limited TCU to a mere 66 points.
The combined scores of the three games did not exceed 140 points. Similarly, the home game between West Virginia and Iowa State resulted in only 135 points. Therefore, the bettors at West Virginia sportsbooks must consider the significance of this game to coach Bob Huggins’ team.
If the Mountaineers accelerate their efforts, they have a good chance of covering and the over could easily be achieved in this game. However, if WVU is more focused on upcoming games and future prospects, Thursday might result in a loss for those who placed bets on those particular outcomes.
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