Alcorn State Braves vs. Florida A&M Rattlers Prediction and Betting Tips

Posted on February 17, 2025 by author in Betting

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The Alcorn State Braves and the Florida A&M Rattlers are set to clash in a thrilling SWAC showdown on February 17, 2025, at the Al Lawson Center in Tallahassee, Florida. Both teams are tied for second place in the conference with identical 8-4 records, making this matchup a pivotal one for their postseason aspirations. With the Braves riding a four-game winning streak and the Rattlers boasting a three-game streak of their own, this game promises to be a competitive battle. In this article, we’ll dive into the key stats, betting trends, and predictions to help you make informed decisions for this exciting college basketball matchup.

Game Overview

Date and Time: February 17, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET
Venue: Al Lawson Center, Tallahassee, Florida
TV: SWAC Digital Network
Betting Odds: Florida A&M -1.5, Total Points: 137.5

Both teams have been impressive in conference play, with Alcorn State improving to 8-17 overall and Florida A&M sitting at 11-12. The Braves are looking to extend their winning streak to five games, while the Rattlers aim to defend their home court and solidify their position in the SWAC standings.

Team Analysis

Alcorn State Braves

The Braves have been on a roll lately, winning four consecutive games, including a 78-74 road victory over Bethune-Cookman. Despite their overall record, Alcorn State has shown resilience in conference play, ranking sixth in the SWAC.

Key Stats:

Offense: 64.6 points per game (352nd in the nation), 39.9% field goal percentage
Defense: 73.0 points allowed per game (222nd in the nation)
Top Performers: Jalyke Gaines-Wyatt (10.8 PPG, 2.8 APG), Djahi Binet (8.5 PPG, 7.3 RPG)

The Braves’ offense has struggled this season, ranking near the bottom of Division I in scoring and field goal percentage. However, their defense has been respectable, and they’ve shown the ability to step up in crucial moments.

Florida A&M Rattlers

The Rattlers have also been in good form, winning three straight games, including a 76-71 victory over Jackson State. Florida A&M’s offense has been more consistent than Alcorn State’s, and they’ll look to capitalize on their home-court advantage.

Key Stats:

Offense: 72.0 points per game (244th in the nation), 43.6% field goal percentage
Defense: 76.0 points allowed per game (294th in the nation)
Top Performers: Sterling Young (16.0 PPG, 2.0 RPG), Milton Matthews (13.7 PPG, 36.5% 3PT)

Florida A&M’s strength lies in their perimeter shooting, as they rank 45th in the nation with 9.4 three-pointers made per game. However, their defense has been a concern, allowing opponents to score at a high rate.

Head-to-Head History

The all-time series between these two teams is closely contested, with Alcorn State holding a slight 5-3 edge. However, Florida A&M won the first meeting this season, edging out the Braves 65-64 on January 25. That game was a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm offensively. The Rattlers will look to replicate that performance, while the Braves aim to even the series.

Betting Trends and Insights

Spread and Moneyline

Spread: Florida A&M -1.5
Moneyline: Florida A&M -121, Alcorn State +101

Florida A&M has been strong against the spread this season, boasting a 17-5-0 record. They’ve also been dominant as favorites, covering the spread in all three games where they were favored by 1.5 points or more. On the other hand, Alcorn State has been a solid underdog, going 14-4-2 against the spread in such scenarios.

Over/Under

Total Points: 137.5

Both teams have struggled offensively this season, ranking in the bottom half of Division I in scoring efficiency. Their previous meeting this season resulted in a combined 129 points, well below the over/under line of 138.5. Given their recent trends, the under might be the safer bet.

Key Factors to Watch

Three-Point Shooting: Florida A&M’s ability to knock down threes could be the difference-maker. They rank 45th in the nation in three-pointers made per game, while Alcorn State struggles to defend the perimeter.
Turnovers: Both teams have been turnover-prone this season, with Florida A&M averaging 13.8 turnovers per game and Alcorn State committing 12.9. The team that takes better care of the ball will likely gain the upper hand.
Home-Court Advantage: Florida A&M has been strong at home, posting a 7-2 record at the Al Lawson Center this season. Alcorn State, on the other hand, has struggled on the road, going 3-15.

Prediction

This game is expected to be a close contest, with both teams fighting for a crucial conference win. Florida A&M’s home-court advantage and superior three-point shooting give them a slight edge, but Alcorn State’s recent form and strong defense make them a dangerous opponent.

Final Score Prediction: Florida A&M 72, Alcorn State 70

Betting Tips:

Spread: Florida A&M -1.5
Total Points: Under 137.5

Conclusion

The Alcorn State Braves vs. Florida A&M Rattlers matchup is shaping up to be one of the most exciting games in SWAC play this season. With both teams tied for second place and riding winning streaks, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Whether you’re a fan or a bettor, this game offers plenty of intrigue and opportunities. Be sure to tune in on February 17 at 7:00 PM ET to catch all the action!

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