Texas State vs. North Texas Prediction and Odds (Slowing the Pace is the Name of this Game)

The NIT opening round brings a game between two of the slowest-paced teams in the entire country. Buckle up, folks.

The North Texas Mean Green does pay a bit faster than the Texas State Bobcats, but the difference is minimal. The pair play like cold molasses and each all well outside the top 225 in offensive scoring.

According to KenPom, the Bobcats ranks 357th in adjusted tempo while the Mean Green ranks 337th. With both teams looking to hit the slo-mo button on this game, the UNDER does feel like the play to make. Here are the odds for this NIT matchup, courtesy of WynnBET Sportsbook.

Texas State vs. North Texas Odds, Spread, and Total

Spread:

• Texas State +9 (-110)
• North Texas -9 (-110)

Moneyline:

• Texas State +315
• North Texas -415

Total: 118.5 (Over -110/Under -110)

Texas State vs. North Texas Prediction and Pick

I can’t remember ever seeing an NCAAM total closer to 100 than this game is. But, neither team has all that much to offer and both play strong on defense. However, the Mean Green have a huge advantage over the Bobcats on the defensive side of the ball.

North Texas actually has an advantage over every other NCAAM program and ranks first in defensive scoring. This defense allows just 55.8 points per game and an effective field goal percentage of 46.

And while I do like Texas State to win this game, a spread of nine in a game where the total is this low does scare me a bit. The Bobcats have been playing better on offense lately and the Mean Green scored a combined total of just 86 points in their last two games combined. This includes a horrendous 36 point performance in a loss to Louisiana Tech. Based on these offensive issues, I am leaning toward taking Texas State on the spread along with a lean on the UNDER. 

Pick: Texas State +9 (-110) | Lean: UNDER 118.5 (-110)

Follow all of Matt De Saro’s betting picks HERE

Follow BetSided's March Madness Hub throughout the entirety of the NCAA men's and women's tournaments for full betting previews and picks for every game, updated betting odds , futures for the Final Four and national championship, insights, trends, videos, podcasts and more!