Vanderbilt vs Lipscomb Betting Preview
Two Nashville programs separated by three miles meet Monday night when the Lipscomb Bisons visit the Vanderbilt Commodores. It’s their first meeting since 2014, and both enter with very different expectations.
Vanderbilt, coming off a 20-13 season and an NCAA Tournament berth, looks to push tempo again under second-year coach Mark Byington. The Commodores ranked 25th nationally in steals per game (8.9) last year and will lean on TCU transfer Frankie Collins to drive that pace.
Lipscomb opens a new era under head coach Kevin Carroll after a 25-10 campaign and an Atlantic Sun title run. The Bisons return limited experience, with 6-10 center Charlie Williams the lone returning starter.
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Line Movement and Odds
Vanderbilt opened as a heavy favorite at around -25.5 with a total of 153.5. The line has held steady on most boards, showing little sharp resistance. Public money leans to Vanderbilt, but early bettors are watching if Lipscomb can slow the tempo enough to cover.
See updated numbers anytime on the college basketball odds page
Matchup Breakdown
Vanderbilt’s perimeter pressure remains the key. Guards Tyler Tanner and Frankie Collins can disrupt any backcourt, and Byington’s squad added length up front with Mason Nicholson and Jalen Washington. Expect the Commodores to push pace and test Lipscomb’s transition defense early.
For the Bisons, Carroll’s system will try to control tempo through Mateo Esmeraldo at the point. But Lipscomb’s size inside may not match Vanderbilt’s improved front line. If the Bisons can’t hold their ground on the glass, second-chance points will pile up.
New bettors can get a primer on reading these matchup edges inside the Bettors Handbook
Injuries and Conditions
Vanderbilt Commodores
- No reported injuries ahead of Monday’s opener.
- Full roster expected, including transfers Jalen Washington and Mason Nicholson.
Lipscomb Bisons
- No significant injuries reported from preseason.
Check each team’s official updates through the Vanderbilt injury page and Lipscomb injury page
Best Bets and Prediction
Vanderbilt’s athleticism and defensive pressure give it a major edge, but early-season shooting can be inconsistent. Lipscomb’s backcourt lacks depth to handle a sustained press.
Projected Score: Vanderbilt 80, Lipscomb 55
Best Bet: Vanderbilt -25.5
Secondary Lean: Under 153.5
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Good luck with your action tonight.


