The TCU Horned Frogs, currently holding an 11-5 record and a 1-2 standing in the Big 12, are set to clash with the No. 11 BYU Cougars, who boast an impressive 15-1 record and are undefeated in conference play at 3-0. The game will take place on Wednesday at 11 p.m. ET at the Marriott Center in Provo, Utah. Sports fans can catch the action live on ESPN2.
Historically, these two teams have faced off twice since TCU joined the Big 12, each time with the home team emerging victorious. In their last encounter on January 11 last year, BYU defeated TCU 87-75 as a 6.5-point favorite, surpassing the over/under mark of 155. TCU’s recent performances have included a tough defeat against No. 1 ranked Arizona, where they lost 86-73, breaking their three-game streak of covering the spread. Despite this setback, TCU saw Tanner Toolson lead with 20 points off the bench, and the game ended with the over hitting as well.
BYU, on the other hand, is riding high after a thrilling 89-84 victory over rival Utah, where they had three players score over 20 points, showcasing their offensive strength. The Cougars have demonstrated consistent performance, winning their last 12 games since their only loss to then-No. 3 UConn back on November 15, although they have struggled against the spread lately, going 2-3 in their last five.
BetMGM Sportsbook has set the odds for this matchup, marking TCU at +650 on the moneyline (which means a $100 bet would yield a $650 return if they win) and BYU at -1000 (requiring a $1,000 bet for a $100 win). The point spread favors BYU by 13.5 points, with an over/under set at 158.5.
Expert predictions suggest a likely score of BYU 89, TCU 74, indicating confidence in BYU’s continued success at home. However, a bet on BYU as a heavy favorite carries significant risk, making it a less advisable option for risk-averse bettors. The recommendation leans towards backing BYU at -13.5, especially considering their strong home court performance earlier in the season.
A notable betting angle is the over/under at 158.5, which may present the best opportunity for punters, given that both teams have shown a pattern of high-scoring games. TCU’s recent outings have featured considerable offensive output, and BYU has consistently exceeded 83 points in their last seven games, further supporting the idea that the over might be a sound wager in this upcoming clash.
As both teams prepare for this important matchup, fans are hopeful that TCU can turn around their recent misfortunes while BYU seeks to maintain their momentum in the Big 12. This matchup promises to be an exciting contest with implications for both teams in the conference standings.