Illinois Chicago Flames vs SMU Mustangs Point Spread Picks

The SMU Mustangs have an experienced team, and have started the season at 6-3. Illinois Chicago played three games without their leading scorer Jay Harris, and they have certainly been better with him. The Flames boast nine players that have drained at least one three-pointer, and could find some openings outside the arc here. Illinois Chicago has a huge advantage from the line with three of their top five scorers all connecting on 80% or more, and their top five scorers all hit 72% or more. This game has a long line, and knocking down free throws at a high rate will hold them inside the number. The Flames played SMU tough last year, losing by just 8. Play on Illinois Chicago.

The Illinois Chicago Flames had a few moments in the sun. Several years ago, as they made a nice NCAA Tournament run, but getting back to that level has been burdensome. The Flames aren't going to be there this year either, and at 3-4 they have suffered losses of 20, 35, and 25 points to the likes of Louisiana Tech, Northwestern, and Eastern Illinois - certainly not power teams. SMU is 7-2 and owns wins vs. TCU and Texas A&M and certainly has the talent to pin another big loss on the Flames. The Mustangs show up to take down a losing team where they are 6-1 ATS in their last seven. The Flames have become easy prey at home where they are 0-4 ATS in their last four. Go with SMU.