Mercer Bears vs Chattanooga Mocs Betting Preview
The Mercer Bears visit the Chattanooga Mocs in a Southern Conference matchup at McKenzie Arena in Chattanooga. Mercer enters with a 15-8 record and looks to build on a dominant win over VMI, while Chattanooga aims to defend its 9-14 overall mark after a close loss to Furman. With the Bears favored by 4.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between Mercer’s offensive firepower and Chattanooga’s perimeter shooting.
Line Movement and Odds
Mercer is favored, but Chattanooga’s home record makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- Mercer Spread: -4.5 (-117)
- Chattanooga Spread: +4.5 (-108)
- Mercer MoneyLine: -239
- Chattanooga MoneyLine: +187
- Total: 155.5 (-110)
Check the college basketball picks for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh Mercer’s scoring pace against Chattanooga’s home-court advantage.
Matchup Breakdown
Mercer Outlook
The Bears average 85.9 points per game, with Baraka Okojie, Armani Mighty, and Jalen Cobb leading the offense. Okojie’s 24 points and 7 assists vs VMI highlighted his consistency, while Mighty’s double-double presence adds balance. Mercer’s efficiency (29th nationally in scoring; 46.8% FG shooting; 95 points vs VMI) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and rebound makes them dangerous favorites.
Chattanooga Outlook
The Mocs average 75.2 points per game, with Brennan Watkins, Teddy Washington Jr., and Jamal Johnson driving production. Watkins’ 19 points vs Furman highlighted his scoring, while Washington’s consistency adds balance. Chattanooga’s efficiency (37th nationally in three-pointers made per game at 10.7; 75.9% FT shooting, 91st nationally; 5-5 at home) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score from the perimeter and capitalize on free throws makes them competitive in Chattanooga.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on tempo and perimeter shooting. Mercer thrives on Okojie’s scoring and Mighty’s rebounding, while Chattanooga must rely on Watkins’ hot hand and Washington’s consistency to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide whether Chattanooga can cover the spread.
Injuries / Availability
Mercer: The Bears report no fresh injury concerns heading into Thursday’s contest.
Chattanooga: The Mocs are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
McKenzie Arena has been a steady venue for Chattanooga, where they’ve gone 5-5 this season. Mercer, however, has shown resilience with 15 wins overall, making this a clash of Bears’ offensive depth versus Mocs’ home grit.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Mercer 86, Chattanooga 76
- Mercer -4.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive pace and scoring efficiency suggest they can cover the spread.
- Under 155.5 → Total play. Both teams’ tempo balance points toward a combined score below the line.
Mercer’s depth and efficient shooting should carry them to victory, while Chattanooga’s perimeter accuracy keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans lower-scoring, with totals landing just under the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Southern Conference 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 Mercer vs Chattanooga, premium insights are also available at Buy Picks, helping bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.


