VMI Keydets vs Samford Bulldogs Picks and Predictions January 1st 2026

Samford Bulldogs vs VMI Keydets Betting Preview

Samford opens Southern Conference play on the road, heading to Cameron Hall to face VMI. The Bulldogs sit at 7-6 and have played their best basketball at home, but this matchup asks them to translate offensive efficiency away from Birmingham. You can track live numbers and movement throughout the day on the NCAA basketball odds page.

VMI enters at 5-8 but has been a different team at Cameron Hall, where the Keydets own a 4-1 record. This is a classic contrast of road inconsistency versus home comfort, and the market reflects that with a modest spread.

Line Movement and Odds

Samford opened as a 4.5-point favorite, with the total set at 150.5. Early pricing shows respect for VMI’s home shooting profile, while still leaning toward Samford’s scoring balance and free throw volume.

Both teams favor perimeter offense, which keeps totals elevated. For conference-wide context and additional matchups, the college basketball previews page helps frame the slate.

Matchup Breakdown

Samford’s offense is built around spacing. The Bulldogs average nearly 10 made three-pointers per game and generate consistent trips to the free throw line. Jadin Booth remains the focal point, averaging 18.6 points per game and creating pressure late in possessions. Dylan Faulkner and Judson Bjornstad give Samford interior balance, which matters if perimeter shots cool off.

VMI counters with volume shooting and pace. The Keydets rank among the national leaders in made threes and are comfortable turning games into track meets. TJ Johnson anchors the offense with nearly 19 points and eight rebounds per game, while Tan Yildizoglu adds playmaking to keep shooters active.

If Samford controls fouls and limits clean perimeter looks, the Bulldogs can manage the margin. If VMI hits early threes, the home crowd becomes a real factor. For comparison against daily projections, the free college basketball picks page adds context.

Injuries and Conditions

Samford

No major injuries reported entering conference play.
Full details: Samford team page

VMI

No significant absences reported. Rotation stability has helped at home.
Full details: VMI team page

Indoor matchup, no external conditions.

Best Bets and Prediction

This profiles as a high-scoring Southern Conference game. Samford’s ability to generate free throws and secondary scoring gives them a slight edge, even on the road.

Projected Score: Samford 82, VMI 76
Best Bet: Samford −4.5
Secondary Lean: Over 150.5, driven by pace and three-point volume

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ScoresAndStats Handicappers and Picks

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Conference pace creates opportunity.-scoring game.