New Haven Chargers vs Chicago State Cougars Picks and Predictions January 19th 2026

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New Haven Chargers vs Chicago State Cougars Betting Preview

The New Haven Chargers look to improve their road record, while the Chicago State Cougars aim to defend their home floor in this NEC clash at the Jones Convocation Center.

Line Movement and Odds

New Haven enters as the slight favorite, but Chicago State’s free-throw efficiency makes this line competitive. Current market:

  • New Haven Spread: -1.5 (-102)
  • Chicago State Spread: +1.5 (-118)
  • New Haven MoneyLine: -119
  • Chicago State MoneyLine: -101
  • Total: 129.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

New Haven Outlook

The Chargers average 65.3 points per game, with Najimi George, Kheni Briggs, and Jabri Fitzpatrick leading the offense. George’s 21 points vs Wagner highlighted his consistency, while Briggs and Fitzpatrick’s contributions showcased their versatility. New Haven’s shooting efficiency (44.3% FG) and ball movement (12.8 assists per game) underscore their strengths. Their 8-10 record and 2-8 road mark show struggles, but their ability to close games makes them a dangerous favorite.

Chicago State Outlook

The Cougars average 66.1 points per game, with Marcus Tankersley, Doyel Cockrill III, and Braelon Bush driving production. Tankersley’s 20 points vs Le Moyne highlighted his consistency, while Bush’s 10 assists and 7 rebounds showcased his impact. Chicago State’s shooting efficiency (75.7% FT, 95th nationally) and home record (1-4) underscore their strengths. Their 2-16 record shows struggles, but their ability to score efficiently from the line makes them tough at home.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on free throws and pace. New Haven thrives on balanced scoring and ball movement, while Chicago State must rely on foul shooting and home-court energy to tilt the game. Turnovers and late-game execution will likely decide the margin.

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Injuries / Availability

New Haven: No injuries reported.

Chicago State: No notable injuries listed.

Environment

The Jones Convocation Center has been a balanced venue for Chicago State, where they’ve gone 1-4 this season. New Haven enters with confidence from strong offensive performances, making this a clash of home strength vs road-tested resilience.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Chicago State 67, New Haven 65

  • Chicago State +1.5 → Best Bet. Their free-throw efficiency and balanced scoring suggest they can stay within the number and win outright.
  • Under 129.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.

Chicago State’s depth and home-court advantage should carry them to victory, while New Haven’s offense keeps the game competitive. Expect a moderately low-scoring contest with totals landing just under the posted number.

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