Rhode Island Rams vs Duquesne Dukes Betting Preview
The Rhode Island Rams head to Pittsburgh to face the Duquesne Dukes in an Atlantic 10 Conference matchup at UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse. Rhode Island enters with a 13-8 record and confidence from a win over Dayton, while Duquesne aims to defend its 8-5 home mark after falling to St. Bonaventure. With the Dukes favored by 2.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between Rhode Island’s road resilience and Duquesne’s offensive firepower.
Line Movement and Odds
Duquesne is favored, but Rhode Island’s recent form makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- Rhode Island Spread: +2.5 (-115)
- Duquesne Spread: -2.5 (-110)
- Rhode Island MoneyLine: +113
- Duquesne MoneyLine: -141
- Total: 144.5 (-110)
Check the college basketball picks for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh Duquesne’s scoring pace against Rhode Island’s ability to grind out road wins.
Matchup Breakdown
Rhode Island Outlook
The Rams average 72.6 points per game, with Jahmere Tripp, Tyler Cochran, and David Green leading the offense. Tripp’s 24 points vs Dayton highlighted his consistency, while Cochran’s 21 points showcased his balance. Rhode Island’s efficiency (13-8 overall record; 6-3 on the road; 52.1% effective FG shooting) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and perform under pressure makes them dangerous even as underdogs.
Duquesne Outlook
The Dukes average 83.2 points per game, with Tarence Guinyard, Jimmie Williams, and John Hugley IV driving production. Guinyard’s 12 assists vs St. Bonaventure highlighted his playmaking, while Hugley’s inside presence adds balance. Duquesne’s efficiency (11-10 overall record; 8-5 at home; 47.8% FG shooting, 54th nationally; 17.1 assists per game, 48th nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and defend at home makes them tough to beat in Pittsburgh.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on tempo and perimeter shooting. Rhode Island thrives on Tripp’s scoring and Cochran’s consistency, while Duquesne must rely on Guinyard’s playmaking and Hugley’s rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.
Injuries / Availability
Rhode Island: The Rams report no fresh injury concerns heading into Sunday’s contest.
Duquesne: The Dukes are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
UPMC Cooper Fieldhouse has been a stronghold for Duquesne, where they’ve gone 8-5 this season. Rhode Island, however, has shown resilience with six road wins, making this a clash of Dukes’ offensive pace versus Rams’ road grit.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Duquesne 80, Rhode Island 74
- Duquesne -2.5 → 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.
Duquesne’s depth and home-court advantage should carry them to victory, while Rhode Island’s road resilience keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans higher-scoring, with totals landing comfortably over the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Atlantic 10 games often spotlight tempo mismatches and perimeter battles. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in conference efficiency trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For Rhode Island vs Duquesne, expert breakdowns in Buy Picks can help bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.


