Eastern Kentucky Colonels vs NC Wilmington Seahawks Point Spread Picks

The odds makers expect a shootout as NC Wilmington takes on Eastern Kentucky. I think it is overdone as NC Wilmington put up 110 vs. Claftin, and Eastern Kentucky went for 97 vs. IUPUI. These teams combined for 22 made 3s, which will be a lot more contested in this contest. Keep in mind there is some history here as these teams met in Game 2 last year, with Eastern Kentucky off a 107 point opener and managed just 59. NC Wilmington also was off a Game 1 that saw them reach the century mark. NC Wilmington is 14-4 to the UNDER following a blowout 20 point or better win, while Eastern Kentucky is 49-31 to the UNDER in their last 80 games outside the conference. Make the play on the UNDER.

Eastern Kentucky has a new coach in Dan McHale, who worked in Minnesota under Richard Pitino. Those teams played all-out defense. In addition, while at Seton Hall, McHale was in charge of the Pirates defensive game planning and spearheaded opponent scouting and game preparation. Eastern Kentucky is on a 4-1-1 run UNDER the total, as well as 7-0-1 UNDER following a win. They head out on the road for this one, and the UNDER is 7-3 in the Colonels last 10 road games. NC Wilmington plays tough defense, too, off a win allowing 62 points. The Seahawks are 14-6 UNDER the total at home and 5-1 UNDER after a straight up win. Look for a lot more defense than oddsmakers anticipate. Play this one to the UNDER.