McNeese State Cowboys vs Lamar Cardinals Picks and Predictions January 31st 2026

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McNeese State Cowboys vs Lamar Cardinals Betting Preview

The McNeese State Cowboys head to Beaumont to face the Lamar Cardinals in a Southland Conference matchup at the Montagne Center. McNeese enters with a 17-4 record and confidence from a win over Southeastern Louisiana, while Lamar aims to defend its 6-5 home mark after beating East Texas A&M. With the Cowboys favored by 10.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between McNeese’s offensive efficiency and Lamar’s rebounding strength.

Line Movement and Odds

McNeese is favored, but Lamar’s home record makes this line worth tracking. Current market:

  • McNeese State Spread: -10.5 (-109)
  • Lamar Spread: +10.5 (-111)
  • McNeese State MoneyLine: -600
  • Lamar MoneyLine: +425
  • Total: 144.5 (-110)

Check the college basketball odds feed for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh McNeese’s scoring pace against Lamar’s home-court resilience.

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Matchup Breakdown

McNeese State Outlook

The Cowboys average 83.1 points per game, with Larry Johnson, Javohn Garcia, and Garwey Dual leading the offense. Johnson’s 20 points vs Southeastern Louisiana highlighted his consistency, while Garcia and Dual’s double-digit scoring showcased their balance. McNeese’s efficiency (17-4 overall record; 48% FG shooting, 52nd nationally; 77.1% FT shooting) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and dominate at the line makes them dangerous even on the road.

Lamar Outlook

The Cardinals average 74.2 points per game, with Rob Lee Jr., Braden East, and Chris Pryor driving production. Lee’s 28 points vs East Texas A&M highlighted his dominance, while East’s 12 points and 11 rebounds showcased his balance. Lamar’s efficiency (11-10 overall record; 6-5 at home; 37.5 rebounds per game, 119th nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to rebound and defend at home makes them competitive despite being underdogs.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on offensive tempo and rebounding. McNeese thrives on Johnson’s scoring and Garcia’s consistency, while Lamar must rely on Lee’s hot hand and East’s rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.

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Injuries / Availability

McNeese State: The Cowboys report no fresh injury concerns heading into Saturday’s contest.

Lamar: The Cardinals are expected to have their full rotation available.

Environment

The Montagne Center has been a steady venue for Lamar, where they’ve gone 6-5 this season. McNeese, however, has shown dominance with an unbeaten 11-0 home record and six road wins, making this a clash of Cowboys’ offensive firepower versus Cardinals’ home grit.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: McNeese State 85, Lamar 70

  • McNeese State -10.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive pace and shooting efficiency suggest they can cover the spread.
  • Over 144.5 → Total play. Both teams’ scoring potential points toward a combined score above the line.

McNeese’s depth and perimeter shooting should carry them to victory, while Lamar’s home-court energy keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans higher-scoring, with totals landing comfortably over the posted number.

Handicappers and Service Plays

Southland games often spotlight tempo mismatches and rebounding duels. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in mid-major conference trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For McNeese State vs Lamar, expert breakdowns in Buy Picks can help bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.

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