Loyola Chicago Ramblers vs Davidson Wildcats Betting Preview
The Loyola Chicago Ramblers visit the Davidson Wildcats in an Atlantic 10 Conference matchup at John M. Belk Arena in Davidson. Loyola Chicago enters with a 6-18 record and looks to build on a win over La Salle, while Davidson aims to defend its 13-9 overall mark after a defeat against Saint Louis. With the Wildcats favored by 12.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between Ramblers’ resilience and Wildcats’ perimeter shooting.
Line Movement and Odds
Davidson is favored, but Loyola Chicago’s recent ATS competitiveness makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- Loyola Chicago Spread: +12.5 (-120)
- Davidson Spread: -12.5 (-106)
- Loyola Chicago MoneyLine: +550
- Davidson MoneyLine: -920
- Total: 139.5 (-110)
Check the college basketball picks for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh Davidson’s home advantage against Loyola Chicago’s ability to cover spreads.
Matchup Breakdown
Loyola Chicago Outlook
The Ramblers average 67.7 points per game, with Justin Moore, Miles Rubin, and Des Watson leading the offense. Moore’s 12 points vs La Salle highlighted his consistency, while Rubin’s 11 rebounds showcased his presence inside. Loyola Chicago’s efficiency (31.0% three-point shooting; 8.1 made threes per game, 187th nationally; 2-1 ATS in last three games) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score from long range and defend makes them dangerous underdogs.
Davidson Outlook
The Wildcats average 72.3 points per game, with Josh Scovens, Roberts Blums, and Reed Bailey driving production. Scovens’ 17 points and 10 rebounds vs Saint Louis highlighted his consistency, while Blums’ 23 points vs Richmond showcased his scoring. Davidson’s efficiency (13-9 overall record; 7-7 at home; 36.9% three-point shooting, 56th nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently from the perimeter makes them tough to beat in Davidson.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on tempo and perimeter shooting. Loyola Chicago thrives on Moore’s scoring and Rubin’s rebounding, while Davidson must rely on Scovens’ inside presence and Blums’ perimeter accuracy to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide whether Loyola Chicago can cover the spread.
Injuries / Availability
Loyola Chicago: The Ramblers report no fresh injury concerns heading into Friday’s contest.
Davidson: The Wildcats are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
John M. Belk Arena has been a steady venue for Davidson, where they’ve gone 7-7 this season. Loyola Chicago, however, has shown resilience with recent wins, making this a clash of Wildcats’ home dominance versus Ramblers’ offensive grit.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Davidson 74, Loyola Chicago 61
- Davidson -12.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive pace and shooting efficiency suggest they can cover the spread.
- Under 139.5 → Total play. Both teams’ slower tempo points toward a combined score below the line.
Davidson’s depth and efficient shooting should carry them to victory, while Loyola Chicago’s offensive resilience keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans lower-scoring, with totals landing just under 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 Loyola Chicago vs Davidson, premium insights are also available at Buy Picks, helping bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.



