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Game Preview – Chicago State @ Butler
The Butler Bulldogs look to keep their early-season momentum rolling when they host the Chicago State Cougars on Tuesday night at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.
Butler (2-0) is off to a fast start, piling up 112 points in a dominant win over IU Indianapolis. The Bulldogs have scored 100 or more in back-to-back games, marking their most explosive offensive start since 2015. Head coach Thad Matta’s team has shown excellent depth, with all 12 players recording points in Saturday’s victory.
Jalen Jackson led the way with 17 points, while Finley Bizjack and Azavier Robinson added 13 each. Gonzaga transfer Michael Ajayi continued his stellar start, contributing 11 points and 14 rebounds.
“We’ve preached defense from day one,” Matta said. “We still have to improve our transition defense, but I like the way we’re building.”
Ajayi, who earned Big East weekly honors, is averaging 17.5 points and 13 rebounds through two games. He’ll anchor a Butler frontcourt that has been dominant on the boards and efficient around the rim.
Chicago State (0-2) is searching for its first win after losses to DePaul and Saint Louis. The Cougars have competed well offensively but continue to struggle defensively, allowing over 100 points in their most recent outing. Dailliss Cox led the effort with 19 points and 8 rebounds, while Marcus Tankersley and Stephen Byard chipped in 15 apiece.
“Our peers recognize the strides we’ve made,” head coach Landon Bussie said. “We’re hungry to prove ourselves and climb even higher.”
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Line Movement and Odds
Butler opened as a 28.5-point favorite with the total set at 162.5.
| Market | Current Line |
|---|---|
| Spread | Butler -28.5 (-111) / Chicago State +28.5 (-109) |
| Total (O/U) | 162.5 Points |
| Moneyline | Butler -10000 / Chicago State +2500 |
Track live updates on spreads and totals at the college basketball odds board.
Butler Outlook
The Bulldogs have retooled their offense under Matta with immediate success. Butler ranks among the top 10 nationally in scoring (100 points per game) and rebounding (57.5 per game). Their pace and unselfish play have overwhelmed early opponents, and the depth of scoring threats makes them difficult to contain.
Ajayi’s impact has been twofold — scoring efficiency and rebounding dominance — while Jalen Jackson and Bizjack have provided consistent guard production. Defensively, Butler’s half-court sets have been solid, though Matta continues to emphasize transition coverage as an area for improvement.
The Bulldogs are 2-0 against the spread this season and 4-1 in their last five home games versus nonconference opponents.
Butler Injury Report
No major injuries reported.
Chicago State Outlook
The Cougars enter with an 0-2 record but have shown signs of offensive potential. Marcus Tankersley and Dailliss Cox headline the attack, combining for over 34 points per game. Chicago State has been aggressive in attacking the basket, averaging 29 free throw attempts per game while hitting nearly 76% from the line.
Defensively, however, the Cougars have struggled to keep pace, surrendering an average of 100 points through two games. Their 1-19 road record from last season underscores the challenge of competing away from home against elite programs.
To stay competitive, Chicago State will need to hit perimeter shots and limit turnovers against Butler’s ball pressure.
Chicago State Injury Report
No major injuries reported.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
The battle on the glass will define this game. Butler’s rebounding strength, led by Ajayi and Jalen Thomas, gives them a major advantage over Chicago State’s smaller front line.
For the Cougars to stay within the number, they’ll need to control tempo and force Butler into foul trouble. Expect Butler to focus on interior scoring and second-chance opportunities to wear down the Cougars as the game progresses.
For more advanced matchup data, visit the college basketball expert betting guide.
Betting Trends
- Butler is 2-0 ATS this season.
- Butler has gone over in both games this year.
- Chicago State is 1-1 ATS as an underdog.
- The over has hit in both of Chicago State’s games.
- Butler is 5-2 SU in its last seven home games.
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Prediction
Butler’s offensive efficiency and rebounding dominance should continue to drive success. Chicago State can compete early but lacks the depth to match Butler’s pace and physicality for 40 minutes. Expect another high-scoring win for the Bulldogs at home.
Projected Score: Butler 100, Chicago State 74
Best Bet: Chicago State +28.5
Total Lean: Over 162.5
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