Dayton Flyers vs VCU Rams Betting Preview
The Dayton Flyers visit the VCU Rams in an Atlantic 10 Conference matchup at Stuart C. Siegel Center in Richmond. Dayton enters with a 15-8 record and looks to build on a win over St. Bonaventure, while VCU aims to defend its 17-6 overall mark after a victory against Fordham. With the Rams favored by 7.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between Dayton’s free-throw efficiency and VCU’s offensive depth.
Line Movement and Odds
VCU is favored, but Dayton’s offensive balance makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- Dayton Spread: +7.5 (-118)
- VCU Spread: -7.5 (-108)
- Dayton MoneyLine: +252
- VCU MoneyLine: -345
- Total: 149.5 (-110)
Check the college basketball picks for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh VCU’s home dominance against Dayton’s ability to cover spreads.
Matchup Breakdown
Dayton Outlook
The Flyers average 76.2 points per game, with Javon Bennett, Jordan Derkack, and Amaël L’Etang leading the offense. Bennett’s 20 points vs St. Bonaventure highlighted his consistency, while Derkack and L’Etang’s scoring adds balance. Dayton’s efficiency (15th nationally in free throws made per game; 15-8 overall record; 65.2% win rate) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently from the line makes them dangerous underdogs.
VCU Outlook
The Rams average 83.3 points per game, with Lazar Djokovic, Barry Evans, and Sean Bairstow driving production. Djokovic’s 17 points vs Fordham highlighted his efficiency, while Evans’ rebounding adds balance. VCU’s efficiency (17-6 overall record; 12-4 at home; 16th nationally in free throws made per game; five straight wins) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and defend at home makes them tough to beat in Richmond.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on tempo and free-throw shooting. Dayton thrives on Bennett’s scoring and Derkack’s consistency, while VCU must rely on Djokovic’s inside presence and Evans’ rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide whether Dayton can cover the spread.
Injuries / Availability
Dayton: The Flyers report no fresh injury concerns heading into Friday’s contest.
VCU: The Rams are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
Stuart C. Siegel Center has been a fortress for VCU, where they’ve gone 12-4 this season. Dayton, however, has shown resilience with recent wins, making this a clash of Rams’ home dominance versus Flyers’ offensive grit.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: VCU 81, Dayton 75
- Dayton +7.5 → Best Bet. Their free-throw efficiency and offensive balance suggest they can keep the game closer than expected.
- Over 149.5 → Total play. Both teams’ scoring averages point toward a combined score above the line.
VCU’s depth and efficient shooting should carry them to victory, while Dayton’s offensive 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 free-throw battles. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in conference efficiency trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For Dayton vs VCU, premium insights are also available at Buy Picks, helping bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.



