San Francisco vs Loyola-Chicago Prediction and Odds: Back Dons on Neutral Floor

Two of the best mid major teams in the country have scheduled a one-off non conference matchup after several games were cancelled of late leading us to a Thursday afternoon showdown between San Francisco and Loyola-Chicago in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Both teams have had COVID-19 issues of late, but the Ramblers have struggled more, not playing since December 10th.

San Francisco had to cancel games against conference foes St. Mary's and Gonzaga recently, so both of these teams will be itching to grab a strong NCAA Tournament resume worthy win.

Here are the odds from WynnBET Sportsbook.

San Francisco vs. Loyola-Chicago Odds, Spread and Total

Spread:

• San Francisco: +2.5 (-110)
• Loyola-Chicago: -2.5 (-110)

Moneyline:

• San Francisco: +125
• Loyola-Chicago: -145

Total: 130.5 (Over -115/Under -105)

San Francisco vs. Loyola-Chicago Prediction and Pick

This is an interesting matchup considering they are two mid major darlings, but also the set up of it all. We haven't seen Loyola-Chicago in a bit since they were hit by COVID-19 Protocols throughout the team, but this is one of the best offensive teams in the country, posting a national best 59.8 effective field goal percentage.

However, how will they respond playing at altitude in Salt Lake City, which San Francisco is a bit more accustomed too given they play in a local conference (WCC). On the court, the Dons must protect the ball, they turn the ball over on more than 22% of their possessions, but outside of that they are an efficient offensive club, shooting nearly 57% on two-point shots and over 36% from three.

On defense, USF does a fantastic job of limiting ball movement and forcing opponents to beat them in isolation situations, allowing assists on just 37% of opponents made field goals, third lowest in the country, while the Ramblers are top 20 in assist rate.

I'm going to lean with San Francisco in this matchup given the context of the matchup, on a neutral site off a long lay off for Loyola Chicago, but this number feels right with the Ramblers being slightly favored.

LEAN: San Francisco +2.5