Houston Cougars (19-2) vs. Kansas Jayhawks (17-4)
The NCAA Men’s Basketball is heating up as the Houston Cougars, standing at an impressive 19-2, prepare to face off against the formidable Kansas Jayhawks, with a record of 17-4. This highly anticipated game, scheduled for Saturday, is a pivotal matchup for fans and bettors alike, promising an intense battle on the court. With these teams’ impressive records, this game is undoubtedly a highlight for those engaged in the best online betting, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the potential outcome of this basketball season.
The Cougars have been putting up points at a high clip this season, averaging 74 points per game on 43.6% shooting from the field and 35.2% from three. However, Houston has posted a middling 9-10 record against the spread this year. On the road, they have struggled to cover, going just 2-6 ATS in away contests. The Jayhawks meanwhile are scoring at an even higher rate of 79.2 points per outing, fueled by 50.9% shooting from the floor and 36.2% from deep. But over their last eight home games, Kansas has gone just 3-5 against the number at Allen Fieldhouse.
Houston’s offense runs through guard L.J. Cryer, who is averaging 15.1 points on 40% field goal shooting and nearly 38% from three-point range. His versatile scoring ability and long-range shooting prowess makes him a focal point of opposition game plans. Kansas leans heavily on center Hunter Dickinson, one of the most skilled and dominant big men in the country this season. Dickinson is nearly averaging a double-double with 18.7 points and 11.2 rebounds per game, while anchoring the Jayhawks interior defense with 1.3 blocks per contest. His battle in the post against Houston’s frontcourt athletes could swing the outcome of this high-profile matchup.
Houston Cougars vs. Kansas Jayhawks Game Info
| When: | Saturday, February 3, 2024, at 4:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Allen Fieldhouse |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
L.J. Cryer (Guard) vs. Hunter Dickinson (Center)
Houston sharpshooting guard L.J. Cryer has played in 21 games this season, averaging 31.9 minutes, 15.1 points, 2.6 rebounds, 1.9 assists and 1.1 steals per contest. He’s shooting an efficient 40% from the field, 88.9% from the free throw line and a blistering 37.8% from three-point range. His quick-trigger ability from long range makes him a constant threat to catch fire from deep.
Kansas big man Hunter Dickinson has also played 21 games while averaging a team-high 32.1 minutes. He’s been a double-double machine, putting up gaudy averages of 18.7 points, 11.2 rebounds and shooting 59.2% from the floor. He’s also contributing 2 assists, 1.2 steals and 1.3 blocks each night. His powerful post play and dominance on the glass has been critical for the Jayhawks this season.
When these two clash, Dickinson’s supreme size and skill in the paint could pose major issues for the smaller Cryer. However, if Cryer utilizes his superior quickness to free himself for open 3-point looks, he could pull Dickinson out of the paint which would weaken Kansas’ interior defense. Ultimately, Cryer’s long-range shooting and Dickinson’s low post play could determine which star player impacts this marquee matchup more.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
Betting odds have yet to be set, but given each team’s track record and recent performances, the game should be an intensely contested affair. Bettors should keep tabs on spread and moneyline announcements as these will provide invaluable insight into expected game outcomes.
Houston Cougars Betting Trends
The Cougars are rolling right now, having won 5 straight games. However, Houston has been inconsistent against the spread recently, going 3-2 ATS in their last 5 contests. On the road this season, the Cougars have struggled to cover, with a 2-6 ATS record in away matchups. The over has also hit in 3 of Houston’s previous 5 overall games. In their 13 road games, the over is 6-7, having gone over in 3 of their last 5 road contests.
Kansas Jayhawks Betting Trends
The Jayhawks have won 3 of their last 5 games straight up. Against the spread, Kansas is .500 over that same sample, posting a 3-2 ATS record in their previous 5. On the year, the Jayhawks have posted a losing 3-5 ATS mark on their home court. The over has been a consistent play recently for Kansas games, going over in 3 of their last 5 outings. For the season, the over has hit in 5 of the Jayhawks’ 13 home games in Lawrence.
Houston Cougars vs. Kansas Jayhawks 2/3/24 Betting Picks
Given recent stats and trends, this game promises to be close and high-scoring. Both teams have shown they can score heavily, suggesting an OVER is likely an optimal bet. Houston may hold an edge with regard to their road play against the spread; Kansas could hold advantage due to being at home.
In conclusion, while both teams are strong contenders, the home advantage and the slightly better record against the spread might tilt the balance in favor of Kansas Jayhawks. Bettors looking for NCAAB picks today should consider these factors, along with any prop bets that focus on the performance of key players like Cryer and Dickinson.
