Kansas vs Iona Prediction and Odds (Gaels Keep Things Close)

Kansas has some explaining to do. Iona isn't likely the measuring bar with which to assess the Jayhawks's ability to win it all. But it will be a good litmus test after the Jayhawks lost on a buzzer beater against a mediocre Dayton squad a few days ago.

With the exception of an impressive 13-point win over Michigan State to open the year, Kansas has played a bunch of overmatched teams, yet it's only covered in one of those matchups. Iona is another team that Kansas should cream. But will they?

Here's our prediction for the game and odds coming from WynnBET.

Iona vs. Kansas Odds, Spread and Total

Spread

• Kansas -13.5 (-115)
• Iona +13.5 (-105)

Moneyline:

• -1000
• +660

Total:

• 142.0 (Over -105/Under -115)

Kansas vs Iona Prediction and Pick

Was I a little harsh on Kansas earlier? Maybe that's because they've been an annoying team to bet on this year with a 2-3 against the spread record. The one area they've been consistent? The over, where they have a 4-0-1 record. Iona is 3-3 on the over/under and is 5-2 ATS.

Kansas is one of the most efficient offensive teams in the nation, ranked fifth in KenPom's adjusted offensive efficiency index. But they don't take a lot of 3s. They also don't give up a lot of fast-break points, which Iona is likely going to need to keep this game close.

Iona already upset Alabama this season. I don't see them beating a motivated Kansas team. But I could see this being a tight contest. 14.5 is a lot of points. With Kansas not taking a ton of 3s, I like the Jayhawks to pull away late but only win by 8-10 points. I'll take the points and side with Iona.

Pick: Iona +14.5.