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Richmond vs. VCU Prediction and Odds (Ride the Over in the A-10 Rematch)

By Ben Heisler

The VCU Rams players celebrate after their victory against the in-town rival Richmond Spiders back on January 29th.
The VCU Rams players celebrate after their victory against the in-town rival Richmond Spiders back on January 29th. / Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
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The Richmond Rivalry plays its second act tonight as the VCU Rams host the Richmond Spiders at the Stuart C. Siegel Center in Atlantic 10 action.

The Rams clung on in a tight defensive battle back on January 29 for a 65-62 victory, and are projected to sweep the series by the same amount of points this evening.

Both teams have been red-hot over their last five games, with VCU riding a four-game win streak and Richmond grabbing victories in four of their last five. The lone loss? An 87-84 overtime loss at George Madson back on February 9th.

Here are the latest odds, spread and total information over at WynnBET Sportsbook:

Richmond vs. VCU Odds, Spread and Total

Spread:

  • Richmond +3 (-110)
  • VCU -3 (-110)

Moneyline:

  • Richmond +127
  • VCU -155

Total:

  • 133 (OVER -110 | UNDER -110)

Richmond vs. VCU Prediction and Pick

The last time out, the defensive intensity was palpable. Tonight, however, I think we'll see both offenses open up a tad bit more, leaning me to lean on the over.

Since the start of March, the Spiders' offense has become a more efficient unit, led by Junior forward Tyler Burton (16.8 PPG, 7.4 RPG) and Senior forward Grant Golden (15.9 PPG, 6.5 RPG). Senior point guard Jacob Gilyard has also been terrific distributing the basketball with just under seven assists per game over his last four.

Meanwhile, VCU has also picked up their offensive production over the last four games; averaging just under 74 points per game.

While the Rams are known for their hellacious defense, ranking fifth in the country in adjusted defensive efficiency, the over has hit in six of the last seven games at home. Richmond's main group of starters are all seniors and juniors who have played against Mike Rhoades coached teams for the last several seasons. They won't be shell-shocked with then the pressure comes, and will look to push the pace and get out in transition.

I expect a more loose performance on offense from both teams in Round 2, leading the over to be the right side the second time around.

LEAN: OVER 133 (-110)

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