The Howard Bison travel to Dover to face the Delaware State Hornets at Memorial Hall on Monday, February 16th, 2026. Tip-off is set for 7:00 PM ET in a MEAC matchup featuring a sizable spread. Howard enters as a 10.5-point road favorite, with the total sitting at 131.5.
The moneyline tells the story of perceived separation. Howard is listed at -725, while Delaware State returns +500 at home. Oddsmakers are signaling a clear talent gap, but laying double digits on the road in conference play always carries situational risk. The total at 131.5 suggests a slower-paced game, likely driven by half-court possessions and defensive structure.
For bettors, the central question is whether Howard’s defensive consistency and depth can create enough margin to justify laying 10.5 points, or if Delaware State can control tempo and keep this inside two possessions late.
Howard Bison vs Delaware State Hornets Odds
Here are the current betting lines for this MEAC contest. Bettors should monitor the latest college basketball odds prior to tip-off for any market movement.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Howard Bison | -725 | -10.5 (-115) | Over 131.5 (-110) |
| Delaware State Hornets | +500 | +10.5 (-105) | Under 131.5 (-110) |
Howard Bison Betting Form
Howard has built its profile around disciplined defense and efficient half-court offense. They rarely rely on reckless tempo and instead focus on winning the possession battle through controlled sets and solid rebounding.
A review of the Howard Bison stats and results shows a team that performs well when it dictates pace. They are comfortable playing games in the mid-60s and limiting opponents’ scoring opportunities. Their defensive rotations are typically sharp, especially against teams that struggle to create off the dribble.
Before placing a wager, bettors should review the latest Howard Bison injury report. Depth matters when laying double digits, particularly if foul trouble impacts key frontcourt contributors.
From a betting standpoint, Howard -10.5 requires sustained focus. If they build an early lead and maintain defensive pressure, they have the profile to extend separation. Their ability to convert free throws late also increases the likelihood of covering larger spreads.
Delaware State Hornets Betting Form
Delaware State has faced inconsistency this season, particularly on the offensive end. Extended scoring droughts have limited their ability to keep pace with more disciplined conference opponents. At home, they typically try to slow tempo and grind possessions to shorten the game.
Examining the Delaware State Hornets schedule and stats reveals a team that struggles when forced into transition defense or when trailing early. Their offensive efficiency dips significantly when perimeter shots fail to fall.
As always, bettors should check the most recent Delaware State Hornets injury report prior to tip-off. Guard depth and ball-handling stability are critical against a team like Howard that can apply defensive pressure.
From a wagering perspective, Delaware State +10.5 offers value only if they successfully control pace and keep the game in a half-court setting. If they limit turnovers and defend without excessive fouling, they can reduce possessions and make covering more difficult for the favorite.
Howard Bison vs Delaware State Hornets Matchup Breakdown
This matchup centers on tempo and defensive efficiency. Howard prefers structured possessions and strong defensive rebounding. Delaware State’s best chance is to shorten the game and avoid live-ball turnovers.
Key factors include:
- Turnover differential and transition scoring
- Defensive rebounding margin
- Free throw attempts in the final five minutes
With a total of 131.5, the market expects limited possessions. That can make double-digit spreads more challenging to cover if pace slows significantly. If Delaware State keeps this game in the low-60s scoring range, the underdog has a path to staying within the number.
However, if Howard forces early turnovers and builds a 10- to 12-point lead by halftime, Delaware State may be forced to increase tempo. That shift would create additional possessions and open the door for a larger margin.
Late-game dynamics are critical. If Howard leads by eight to nine points inside the final minute, free throw opportunities can stretch the margin beyond 10.5. Conversely, if bench rotations enter early, backdoor potential becomes real.
Howard Bison vs Delaware State Hornets Predictions and Best Bets
Laying 10.5 points on the road requires confidence in consistency and defensive dominance. Howard’s structured approach and rebounding advantage give them the edge. Against a team that struggles with offensive efficiency, that advantage is magnified.
Delaware State’s path to covering relies on tempo control and shot selection. If they limit mistakes and keep this game in a controlled half-court environment, they can remain competitive longer than the spread suggests.
The total at 131.5 feels appropriately priced given both teams’ tendencies. Unless tempo unexpectedly accelerates, this projects as a methodical contest with limited scoring runs.
From a value standpoint, Howard -10.5 (-115) offers the clearer angle. Their defensive reliability and free throw execution provide a path to a double-digit victory, particularly if they dictate pace early.
Best Bet: Howard Bison -10.5 (-115).
NCAAB Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
Bettors looking for additional opportunities should review today’s college basketball picks for expert analysis across the full slate. Conference play often produces valuable situational edges.
Futures markets are also worth tracking. Monitoring John Wooden Award odds and predictions and college basketball championship odds can uncover long-term value as postseason positioning becomes clearer.
Serious bettors should also explore advanced betting strategies to refine bankroll management and maximize long-term profitability. Structured evaluation and disciplined execution remain essential for sustained betting success.



