Butler vs. Xavier Prediction and Odds for Big East Tournament First Round

Butler and Xavier both struggled to end the regular season in the Big East, as Butler has lost five straight games and Xavier lost five of its last six games. 

The Musketeers may have played themselves out of the NCAA Tournament, but can they make a run in the Big East Tourney to salvage this season?

Let’s get into the odds for Wednesday afternoon’s matchup via WynnBET:  

Butler vs. Xavier Odds, Spread and Total

Spread:

• Butler +6.5 (-110)
• Xavier -6.5 (-110)

Moneyline:

• Butler: +185
• Xavier: -230

Total:

• 131 (Over -110/Under -110)

Butler vs. Xavier Prediction and Pick

Butler has gotten blown out in a few games down the stretch of this season, but can we count out the Bulldogs against a struggling Xavier team? 

The numbers would tell us too, as Butler is dead last in the Big East in offensive efficiency and second to last in defensive efficiency at KenPom, ahead of only the Georgetown Hoyas who have lost 20 games in a row. 

Xavier is middle of the pack in both numbers, but it does lead the conference in turnover percentage which gives me faith that it can turn things around today. 

The Musketeers have really stumbled into the tournament, but they can re-make their case for the NCAA Tournament with a run at Madison Square Garden. 

I’d prefer taking Xavier on the moneyline simply because of its struggles, but I’ll lean with the Musketeers with how poorly Butler has played. 

Lean: Xavier -6.5 (-110)

Find Peter Dewey’s full betting record here.