IU Indy Jaguars vs Youngstown State Penguins Betting Preview
The IU Indy Jaguars travel to Youngstown to face the Youngstown State Penguins in a Horizon League matchup at the Beeghly Center. IU Indy enters with a 6-17 record and looks to rebound after a loss to Robert Morris, while Youngstown State aims to defend its 8-5 home record after a narrow defeat to Milwaukee. With the Penguins favored by 10.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between IU Indy’s fast-paced offense and Youngstown State’s perimeter shooting.
Line Movement and Odds
Youngstown State enters as the favorite, but IU Indy’s scoring pace makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:
- IU Indy Spread: +10.5 (-112)
- Youngstown State Spread: -10.5 (-112)
- IU Indy MoneyLine: +405
- Youngstown State MoneyLine: -621
- Total: 157.5 (-110)
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Matchup Breakdown
IU Indy Outlook
The Jaguars average 84.7 points per game, with Micah Davis, Finley Woodward, and Kyler D’Augustino leading the offense. Davis’ 18 points vs Robert Morris highlighted his consistency, while Woodward and D’Augustino’s 20+ point performances vs Oakland showcased their scoring potential. IU Indy’s efficiency (6-17 overall record; 73.4 possessions per game, 50th nationally; 20.7 assists per game, 3rd nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to play fast and share the ball makes them dangerous despite their record.
Youngstown State Outlook
The Penguins average 79.4 points per game, with Cris Carroll, Rich Rolf, and Bryson Dawkins driving production. Carroll’s 19 points vs Milwaukee highlighted his scoring, while Rolf’s nine rebounds showcased his presence inside. Youngstown State’s efficiency (10-12 overall record; 8-5 at home; 54.4% effective FG; 10.5 made threes per game) underscores their strengths. Their ability to shoot efficiently and defend at home makes them tough to beat in Youngstown.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on pace and perimeter shooting. IU Indy thrives on Davis’ scoring and D’Augustino’s perimeter attack, while Youngstown State must rely on Carroll’s hot hand and Rolf’s rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.
Injuries / Availability
IU Indy: The Jaguars report no fresh injury concerns heading into Friday’s contest.
Youngstown State: The Penguins are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
Beeghly Center has been a reliable venue for Youngstown State, where they’ve gone 8-5 this season. IU Indy, however, has struggled on the road (2-11), making this a clash of home dominance versus visiting urgency.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Youngstown State 82, IU Indy 78
- IU Indy +10.5 → Best Bet. Their fast-paced offense and scoring depth suggest they can cover the spread.
- Over 157.5 → Total play. Both teams’ pace points toward a combined score above the line.
Youngstown State’s depth and shooting should carry them to victory, while IU Indy’s offensive pace keeps the spread in play. Expect a competitive contest with totals landing just over the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Horizon League contests often highlight pace and perimeter shooting battles. Our Best Handicappers spotlight analysts who specialize in mid-major conference trends, while the Leaderboard highlights who’s delivering consistent returns. For IU Indy vs Youngstown State, expert breakdowns in Buy Picks can help bettors identify whether the spread or total offers the sharper angle.


