Middle Tenn State at UTEP

The Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders head to UTEP tonight for a pivotal Conference USA clash. Both the Miners and Blue Raiders have identical 5-3 marks in conference play, and the winner here keeps hopes alive for a conference title, while the loser will likely see that hope come to an end. UTEP has run hot and cold and suffered three straight losses early in the season, and now have lost three of their last six, including two of the last three. They have lost their commitment to the defensive end, as after holding four straight opponents to 58 points or less, they have allowed 73 points per game in their last three. Middle Tennessee does not have a double-digit scorer on the roster, but are a deep team with 11 players getting 10 minutes or more of time on the court, compared to just seven for UTEP, and the wear and tear may be affecting the level of play of the miners as we get deep into the season. Middle Tennessee fits a 90-43 ATS situation for this one, and the Miners, although 8-2 at home, are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 here. Go with the points on Middle Tennessee.