NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
The Missouri Valley Conference heating up tonight as the Murray State Racers travel to Normal, Illinois, to face the Illinois State Redbirds. Tip-off is set for 9:00 PM ET at CEFCU Arena, with the game broadcast live on ESPNU. This is the second meeting of the season between these two programs; Illinois State took the first contest in a 70-65 defensive battle back in late January. Currently, Murray State (19-9, 11-6 MVC) sits slightly higher in the standings, but the Redbirds (17-10, 9-7 MVC) have been nearly unbeatable at home.
UP TO $250 BONUS BET
The Best Live In-Game Betting
21+ Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
Murray State vs Illinois State Odds
Illinois State opens as a slight home favorite in what is essentially a “pick ’em” scenario according to many models. You can track the latest college basketball odds to see if the line moves as tip-off approaches.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Murray State | +133 | +3.5 (-118) | O 156.5 (-110) |
| Illinois State | -165 | -3.5 (-107) | U 156.5 (-110) |
Murray State Betting Form
Murray State is looking to recover after an 87-70 loss to Belmont. Despite that setback, the Murray State Racers stats and results show one of the most potent offenses in the MVC, averaging 84.3 points per game (32nd in the nation). Javon Jackson (16.5 PPG) and KJ Tenner (coming off a 21-point game) provide a dynamic backcourt duo that can stretch any defense.
The Murray State injury report is clean for tonight, but their success hinges on their road performance. While the Racers have a winning record away from home (6-5), they struggle when their effective field goal percentage (54.6%) dips. In their previous loss to Illinois State, they were held to just 65 points, significantly below their season average. For Murray State to cover, they must force a faster tempo than the Redbirds typically allow.
Illinois State Betting Form
Illinois State returns home after a disappointing 83-56 road loss to UIC. However, the Illinois State schedule and stats highlight a massive home-court advantage; the Redbirds are 13-2 at CEFCU Arena this year. Johnny Kinziger (11.6 PPG, 2.9 APG) recently joined the 1,000-point club and remains the heart of the Redbirds’ perimeter attack.
The Illinois State injury report is a key area for bettors to watch. Forward Chase Walker (13.7 PPG, 5.7 RPG) and Cameron Barnes are both listed as questionable with undisclosed injuries. Walker’s presence is vital—he scored 21 points in the first matchup against Murray State and is the team’s primary interior scoring threat. If Walker is out, the burden shifts to Kinziger and Brandon Lieb to protect the home floor.
Murray State vs Illinois State Matchup Breakdown
This game is a classic clash of styles: Murray State’s high-octane offense vs. Illinois State’s disciplined defense. The Redbirds rank in the top 50 nationally in scoring defense, allowing only 68.1 points per game. They excel at defensive rebounding, ranking 7th in the nation in offensive rebounding percentage allowed (24.2%).
In their January 28th meeting, Illinois State utilized a 9-0 second-half run to break a tie and never looked back. The key for Illinois State is controlling the pace; they average only 65.7 possessions per game. If they can keep Murray State under 70 points again, their 13-2 home record suggests a win is likely. However, Murray State’s Fred King (1.8 BPG, 8.9 RPG) could have a field day in the paint if Chase Walker is unable to suit up for the Redbirds.
Murray State vs Illinois State Predictions and Best Bets
While Illinois State has the home-court advantage, the injury concerns surrounding Chase Walker make the +3.5 spread for Murray State very attractive. The Racers have shown they can win tough road games (like their recent victory over Indiana State), and their offense is too efficient to be held down two games in a row by the same opponent.
Regarding the total, 156.5 is quite high for an Illinois State home game. The Redbirds have hit the “Under” in 8 of their 13 home games this season, and their slower pace often deflates scoring totals. Our model suggests a 79-77 finish, which falls under the current line.
Best Bet: Murray State +3.5 (-118).
Trusted NCAAB betting insight.
Designed for long-term profit.
NCAAB Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
For more expert analysis on the Missouri Valley Conference, visit today’s college basketball picks. You can also follow our top sports handicappers to see who has the best record in mid-major betting.
Check the handicapper leaderboard to find the experts currently on a winning streak. If you’re looking for a deep dive, you can buy premium NCAAB picks for full logic and unit recommendations. As March approaches, stay updated on the college basketball championship odds to see if any MVC teams are poised for a deep run.
