The Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) takes the spotlight this Monday as the South Carolina State Bulldogs head to Dover to face the Delaware State Hornets. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:00 PM ET at Memorial Hall, with the game streaming live on ESPN+. Both teams are looking to salvage a tough season, but with the Bulldogs entering as 2.5-point underdogs, this matchup offers some intriguing value for bettors looking at the bottom of the conference standings.
South Carolina State (7-21) has struggled significantly on the road, posting a 1-16 away record. However, they face a Delaware State (6-21) squad that, while favored at home, has struggled to find consistency and is currently on a multi-game losing streak. With both teams averaging under 67 points per game, expect a grit-and-grind battle where every possession counts.
South Carolina State vs Delaware State Odds
Bettors should keep an eye on the latest college basketball odds as tipoff approaches, as MEAC lines can be volatile depending on late-breaking news.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| South Carolina State | +116 | +2.5 (-115) | O 137.5 (-110) |
| Delaware State | -138 | -2.5 (-108) | U 137.5 (-110) |
South Carolina State Betting Form
The Bulldogs enter this contest following a 69-57 loss to Maryland Eastern Shore. Jayden Johnson has been the bright spot for South Carolina State, averaging 13.1 points and 3.5 assists per game. He is supported by Owen Bronston Jr. (10.6 PPG) and Noah Treadwell, who recently dropped 13 points and has shown high-volume scoring potential.
One of the Bulldogs’ sneaky advantages is their ability to get to the free-throw line, ranking 202nd nationally with 14.7 makes per game. If they can draw fouls against a thin Hornets rotation, they could neutralize Delaware State’s home-court advantage. While their road record is poor, they have covered the spread in 39.1% of their games as underdogs and have seen the “Over” hit in two of their last three. Check the South Carolina State stats and results for more on their recent ATS performance.
Delaware State Betting Form
The Hornets are looking to protect their home court, where they have secured five of their six wins this season. They are led by Ponce James, a dynamic guard averaging 13.8 points and 3.3 assists. Rahmir Moore is coming off a strong 20-point performance, and big man Miles Webb (9.5 PPG, 6.0 RPG) will be essential in controlling the glass against a Bulldog team that struggles with rebounding.
Despite being favored, the Hornets have only covered the spread in 2 of their last 12 games, a worrying trend for those backing the favorite. However, their 5-7 home record is significantly better than their road splits, suggesting Memorial Hall provides a much-needed boost. Before placing your wagers, be sure to view the Delaware State schedule and stats to see if Ponce James is officially cleared to play heavy minutes.
South Carolina State vs Delaware State Matchup Breakdown
This game will likely be won in the paint and at the stripe. South Carolina State scores more points per game (66.3 vs. 61.2), but Delaware State has been much more disciplined defensively, allowing nearly 9 points fewer per game than the Bulldogs.
The Bulldogs’ path to victory involves pushing the pace and getting Jayden Johnson into the lane to create foul trouble. For the Hornets, the goal will be to slow the game down and rely on their home shooting percentages. For more help with conference-specific betting strategies, check out our college basketball betting guide.
South Carolina State vs Delaware State Predictions and Best Bets
For the point-spread pick, I’m leaning toward South Carolina State +2.5. While their road record is a major red flag, Delaware State’s inability to cover spreads recently (2-10 in their last 12) is even more concerning. Our model projects a 67-65 upset win for the Bulldogs, meaning the 2.5 points provide a nice safety net in what should be a one-possession game.
For the total, the play is Under 137.5. Both teams rank near the bottom of the country in offensive efficiency and points per game. With a projected total of 132 points, the Under offers significant value.
For more expert insights, check our sports betting strategy guide for tips on betting MEAC underdogs.
Best Bet: South Carolina State +2.5 & Under 137.5.
NCAAB Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
Looking for more than just the “Lean”? At ScoresAndStats, we feature today’s college basketball picks for every game on the schedule.
Check out the handicapper leaderboard to see who has the best ROI in the MEAC this season. You can follow our top sports handicappers or even buy expert picks to get the edge you need for the road to the tournament.



