Vanderbilt vs. Xavier Prediction and Odds (Bet Vandy as Short Road Underdogs)
By Reed Wallach
Xavier has responded nicely after falling out of the NCAA Tournament picture with a run to the NIT quarterfinals. Now, the Musketeers host a Vanderbilt team that is playing some of its best ball at the right time, thanks to Scotty Pippen Jr.
The Vanderbilt Commodores struggled in the crowded SEC, but will look to make an impact in the NIT against a Xavier team that had NCAA Tournament hopes out of the Big East this season.
Here are the odds from WynnBET Sportsbook as well as our best bet:
Vanderbilt vs. Xavier Odds, Spread and Total
Spread:
- Vanderbilt: +2.5 (-110)
- Xavier: -2.5 (-110)
Moneyline:
- Vanderbilt: +125
- Xavier: -145
Total: 143.5
Vanderbilt vs. Xavier Prediction and Pick
Let's start with injuries, as Xavier's highest usage player, guard Paul Scruggs is a game-time decision with a knee injury.
Xavier interim head coach Jonas Hayes had no update on PG Paul Scruggs' knee injury during his press availablity Monday afternoon. Paul was meeting w/ the medical staff. His playing status is a question mark. XU hosts Vanderbilt Tuesday night at Cintas( 9 PM-ESPN) in NIT Quarter
— Andy Mac (@mm_andymac) March 22, 2022
If Scruggs is out, that of course changes the line and some external factors. Even if he does go, I'm leaning towards Pippen and co. to advance to the semis. The 'Dores do a great job of generating quality looks both from the perimeter and at the free throw line (top 10 in the country in free throw rate).
They have the size to match the likes of Jack Nunge down low with big man Liam Robbins and I like Vandy's ability to force turnovers and slow this game down when it possesses the ball. Jerry Stackhouse's team is top 50 in the country in turnovers and a potentially hobbled Scruggs can free up the Vandy defense to apply even more pressure.
I think we see Vanderbilt advance to Madison Square Garden behind another big outing from Pippen, who scored 32 in the team's win over Dayton.
LEAN: Vanderbilt +2.5