College Basketball Betting: Valparaiso at DePaul
Game Details (WIN)
- Matchup: Valparaiso Beacons vs. DePaul Blue Demons
- Location: Chicago, IL
- Pick: DePaul -14.5 (-110)
- Units: 1.0
Analysis
Bruce's Perspective:
Let’s ride with DePaul here! The Blue Demons are off to a 6-0 start under new head coach Chris Holtmann, a feat they haven’t achieved in years. DePaul has been dominant at home, averaging an impressive 88 points per game while shooting 50% from the field and 41% from beyond the arc. Their defense has been just as formidable, holding opponents to 40.8% shooting at home.
The key contributors for DePaul include transfer portal stars like Jacob Meyer (15.2 ppg) from Coastal Carolina and Isaiah Rivera (14.2 ppg) from UIC, who have provided an immediate boost to the team’s offensive firepower. The Blue Demons have won four of their first six games by 14 or more points, boasting a +24.5 point differential at home.
On the other side, Valparaiso enters their first true road game of the season. The Beacons have struggled offensively, shooting less than 44.4% on the year. Losses to teams like Liberty (by 20 points) and Cleveland State highlight their vulnerability, and this matchup against a red-hot DePaul team appears to be a step up in class for Valpo.
Key Metrics
- DePaul's Home Performance: Scoring 88 PPG with a +24.5 point differential.
- Shooting Edge: DePaul is shooting 50% from the field compared to Valpo's 44.4%.
- Transfers Leading the Way: Jacob Meyer and Isaiah Rivera are making a significant impact.
- Valpo Struggles: Losses to Liberty (by 20) and Cleveland State indicate challenges against stronger opponents.
Bet Summary
- Pick: DePaul -14.5 (-110)
- Confidence Level: High
- Projected Score: DePaul 87, Valparaiso 69
DePaul’s superior offense, home dominance, and improved roster under Chris Holtmann should lead to a comfortable win. Valparaiso doesn’t appear equipped to keep this close in their first road game. Let’s play DePaul to cover the spread!