Idaho State Bengals vs Montana State Bobcats Picks and Predictions January 22nd 2026

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Idaho State Bengals vs Montana State Bobcats Betting Preview

The Idaho State Bengals look to pull off a road upset, while the Montana State Bobcats aim to protect their home floor in this Big Sky clash at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse.

Line Movement and Odds

Montana State enters as the favorite, but Idaho State’s scoring ability makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:

  • Idaho State Spread: +5.5 (-109)
  • Montana State Spread: -5.5 (-112)
  • Idaho State MoneyLine: +206
  • Montana State MoneyLine: -270
  • Total: 144.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

Idaho State Outlook

The Bengals average 76.9 points per game, with Jamison Guerra, Caleb Van De Griend, and Evan Otten leading the offense. Guerra’s 24 points and 6 assists vs Northern Arizona highlighted his consistency, while Van De Griend’s rebounding presence showcased his impact. Idaho State’s shooting efficiency (54.0% effective FG, 102nd nationally; 16.8 free throws made per game, 103rd nationally) underscores their strengths. Their 10-9 record and ability to win close contests highlight resilience, making them a dangerous underdog.

Montana State Outlook

The Bobcats average 78.8 points per game, with Davian Brown, Jed Miller, and Christian King driving production. Brown’s 16 points vs Northern Colorado highlighted his consistency, while Miller’s scoring versatility showcased his impact. Montana State’s shooting efficiency (47.1% FG, 97th nationally; 55.4% effective FG, 59th nationally; 9.8 threes per game, 71st nationally) underscores their strengths. Their 11-8 record and ability to dominate at home (7-1) highlight resilience, making them tough at Brick Breeden Fieldhouse.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on pace and perimeter shooting. Idaho State thrives on free throws and balanced scoring, while Montana State must rely on Brown’s offensive firepower and home-court energy to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.

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Injuries / Availability

Idaho State: The Bengals report no new injury concerns heading into Thursday’s contest.

Montana State: The Bobcats are expected to have their full rotation available.

Environment

Brick Breeden Fieldhouse has been a fortress for Montana State, where they’ve gone 7-1 this season. Idaho State enters with confidence from recent competitive performances, making this a clash of home strength vs road-tested resilience.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Montana State 78, Idaho State 74

  • Idaho State +5.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive efficiency and ability to keep games close suggest they can stay within the number.
  • Under 144.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower pace points toward a combined score below the line.

Montana State’s depth and shooting rhythm should carry them to victory, while Idaho State’s offense keeps the spread in play. Expect a moderately high-scoring contest with totals landing just under the posted number.

Handicappers and Service Plays

Big Sky games often create unique betting opportunities. Our Best Handicappers spotlight experts who consistently read market trends, while the Leaderboard highlights who’s riding hot streaks. Premium insights in Buy Picks provide deeper reasoning behind each wager. For contests like Idaho State vs Montana State, expert perspectives can help identify sharp angles in spreads and totals.