New Mexico Lobos (19-5) vs. San Diego State Aztecs (18-6)
The New Mexico Lobos (19-5) vs. the San Diego State Aztecs (18-6) face off in a Mountain West Conference clash on Friday night. Both teams have been playing well lately and come into this matchup looking to continue building momentum with some winning NCAAB picks.
The Lobos’ high-powered offense has propelled the team to a 19-5 record this season and an average of 83.9 points per game. New Mexico is shooting 46.8% from the field as a team and making 7 three-pointers per contest. This efficient scoring has resulted in the totals going OVER in 4 of their last 5 matchups. On the road, the Lobos are averaging 39.3 total rebounds along with 15.1 assists per game. They have also forced opponents into 10.2 turnovers per game with aggressive defense, fueling their transition scoring.
The Aztecs have compiled an 18-6 overall mark this year largely thanks to a balanced attack featuring 26.1 field goals and 16.4 free throws per game. For the season, San Diego State is shooting 45% overall while holding opponents to just 36.8 rebounds per contest. The Aztecs have shown defensive weaknesses lately though, allowing 75.8 points over their last 5 outings. Scoring has increased as a result, with 4 of those games finishing OVER the total. At home, San Diego State permits nearly the same 75.8 points per game on 45% shooting this season. Their defensive struggles at Viejas Arena recently have led to high-scoring affairs.
New Mexico Lobos vs. San Diego State Aztecs Game Info
| When: | Friday, February 16, 2024, at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Viejas Arena at Aztec Bowl |
| TV: | FS1 |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Donovan Dent (Guard) vs. Jaedon LeDee (Forward)
Donovan Dent has been the catalyst for the Lobos offense, averaging 15.9 points and 5.7 assists per game this season. The junior guard is shooting an efficient 52.7% from the field and 38.2% from three-point range. Dent excels at getting into the lane and finishing at the rim or kicking out to open shooters. His quickness and playmaking ability could give the Aztecs defenders some issues. However, at just 6’0, Dent could struggle against San Diego State’s bigger, more athletic guards.
For the Aztecs, Jaedon LeDee has burst onto the scene in his first year with the program after transferring from Ohio State. The 6’9 forward leads SDSU in both scoring (20 PPG) and rebounding (8.6 RPG). LeDee is a versatile big man who can stretch the floor with his three-point shooting or bang down low in the post. He will have a significant size advantage over New Mexico’s guards and wings. But LeDee has also proven prone to foul trouble at times this season, which could limit his production.
This individual matchup will be one of contrasting styles and skill sets. If Dent can use his quickness to get by LeDee, it could lead to open looks for himself and teammates. However, if LeDee overpowers Dent down low while avoiding foul issues, it could be a long night for the New Mexico defense.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are highly anticipated, given the competitive nature of both teams. While the spreads and moneylines are still to be determined, bettors should closely monitor these as the game approaches, considering the potential impact of home-court advantage for the Aztecs and the Lobos’ offensive firepower.
New Mexico Lobos Betting Trends
The Lobos are 3-2 in their last 5 games. New Mexico is also 3-2 against the spread over that span. On the road this season, the team has posted a 5-4 record against the number. The totals have finished OVER in 4 of the Lobos’ previous 5 matchups. And in their last 14 games away from home, New Mexico has seen 8 contests go OVER the projected total.
San Diego State Aztecs Betting Trends
The Aztecs have gone 3-2 straight up in their last 5 contests. However, San Diego State has struggled against the spread recently, posting a 2-3 ATS record over that same sample. For the entire season, the Aztecs have been dismal against the number at home, with a 3-8 ATS mark in their 11 games at Viejas Arena. Much like the Lobos though, high-scoring games have been the norm for SDSU of late, with 4 of the team’s last 5 finishing above the total. That trend also holds true at home, where 6 of San Diego State’s last 11 at Viejas Arena have gone OVER.
New Mexico Lobos vs. San Diego State Aztecs 2/16/24 Betting Picks
By looking at stats, trends, and key player matchups this game promises to be closely contested. However, the Lobos may have an edge due to their offensive power and ability to perform under pressure on the road. Bettors should keep an eye out for over/under markets given both teams’ propensity for high scoring games.
Given the strengths and potential vulnerabilities of both teams, our prediction leans towards a high-scoring affair with the Lobos narrowly securing a win in a tightly contested match.
The prediction is based on current trends and statistics, providing insight for those looking to place bets with the best sportsbooks. As always, bettors are advised to consider the latest odds, team news, and player conditions before placing their bets.
