George Mason vs VCU Prediction and Odds (Back Patriots to Continue Hot Streak as Underdogs)

The 18-7 VCU Rams hope to extend their winning streak to six when they host the 13-12 George Mason Patriots tonight at 7:00 PM EST.

VCU toppled the Patriots 85-70 last week and get a quick turnaround for this rematch. Does value lie with the Rams to complete the season-sweep or will George Mason keep this one close?

Here are the odds via WynnBET:

George Mason vs VCU Odds, Spread and Total

Spread

• George Mason +6.5 (-110)
• VCU -6.5 (-110)

Moneyline:

• George Mason: +220
• VCU: -280

Total:

• 131.5 (Over -110/Under -110)

George Mason vs VCU Prediction and Pick

VCU must be feeling some leftover Rams magic from the Super Bowl because it is rolling. The Rams have won eight of nine and are 6-3 against the spread (ATS) in that stretch. With the third-best adjusted defensive efficiency behind the fourth-highest defensive turnover rate in the country, they are a menace for opposing offenses.

But their offense is starting to play well too. They shot 9/20 from beyond the arc against George Mason in the first matchup and have scored over 70 points in three of their last four games. This offensive improvement has helped the over hit in six straight VCU contests, including going over by 25 points in that first bout with the Patriots.

George Mason has a poor perimeter defense, allowing opponents to shoot 35% from beyond the arc, so VCU's strong shooting performance may be replicable. But the Patriots are likely to play better too. They boast the 29th-highest effective field goal percentage nationally at 54.2% but shot just 43% against VCU the first time.

Kim English's bunch have been a great spread bet all season. They've covered in seven straight as an underdog and I think oddsmakers are overreacting a bit. Just eleven days ago, George Mason was a two-point home favorite over the Rams, and while VCU smacked 'em a bit I don't think they should now be 6.5-point underdogs without any major roster changes. Sometimes the other team hits shots and you don't and I think that's what happened here.

I like the Patriots to cover the modest number today. First, I think they'll shoot better. Second, VCU has the 340th-ranked offensive turnover rate, the 333rd-highest defensive rebounding rate, and the 317th-best defensive free throw rate. So they'll give George Mason opportunities for fast-break points, second-chance points and freebies at the charity stripe. Those are the ingredients for an underdog cover.

Give me George Mason to cover their eighth straight as an underdog and get some revenge on the Rams.

Pick: George Mason +6.5 (-110)