James Madison vs. Virginia Prediction and Odds for Tuesday, December 6 (How to Bet Total in In-State Showdown)

Last season, James Madison had one of the biggest wins in program history, knocking off Virginia at home.

Now, looking like a Final Four contender once again, the Cavaliers play host to the Dukes in a non-conference showdown. Virginia has wins over the likes of Baylor and Illinois already this season, but James Madison figures to be a contender in the Sun Belt conference this season, a competitive showing on Tuesday night will help that cause.

Here are the odds for this rivalry showdown:

James Madison vs. Virginia Odds, Spread and Total

James Madison vs. Virginia Prediction and Pick

I'm sure UVA head coach Tony Bennett would love nothing more than some sweet revenge against James Madison after losing last season, and this UVA team should be able to hold off the Dukes and their up-tempo attack. JMU plays at a top 20 pace this season, according to KenPom, the polar opposite of Virginia's pack line defense and ball control offense that is bottom 10 natoinally.

Both teams are shooting the cover off the ball, each over 41% on the season and fifth and sixth in the country, respectively. However, I think we see the Dukes struggle to keep pace with the Woos on offense. James Madison is turning the ball over on 20% of their possessions, 235th in the country, which could spell trouble against the active hands of the Virginia defense (73rd in turnover rate).

I expect we see this game played on Virginia's terms, slow and methodical, but also more of a defensive struggle considering each team is due to come down from their insane three-point shooting clip. Ultimately, I'm siding with the under in this one as this is the highest total Virginia has played at this season. We have seen this team score into the 80's, but I believe they want to slow this down and not get into a track meet with the Dukes.

Track all of Reed's bets at Betstamp HERE!

Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.