Brigham Young University Cougars (byu) vs Arizona Wildcats Picks and Predictions January 26th 2026

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BYU Cougars vs BYU Cougars Betting Preview

The Arizona Wildcats, the nation’s top-ranked team, put their perfect record on the line as they travel to Provo to face the BYU Cougars, ranked No. 13. This Big 12 clash features two programs powered by standout freshmen — Arizona’s Brayden Burries and Koa Peat against BYU’s AJ Dybantsa — making it one of the most anticipated matchups of the season. With Arizona unbeaten at 20-0 and BYU nearly flawless at home (13-1), fans can expect a high-energy showdown at the Marriott Center.

Line Movement and Odds

Arizona enters as the favorite, but BYU’s home dominance makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:

  • Arizona Spread: -1.5 (-112)
  • BYU Spread: +1.5 (-111)
  • Arizona MoneyLine: -131
  • BYU MoneyLine: +104
  • Total: 164.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

Arizona Outlook

The Wildcats average 89.8 points per game, with Brayden Burries, Koa Peat, and Motiejus Krivas leading the offense. Burries’ 22 points vs West Virginia highlighted his consistency, while Peat’s 17 points showcased his versatility. Arizona’s efficiency (51.5% FG, 7th nationally; 43.4 rebounds per game; 20-0 overall record; 7-0 road record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and control the boards makes them a dangerous favorite.

BYU Outlook

The Cougars average 86.8 points per game, with AJ Dybantsa, Robert Wright III, and Richie Saunders driving production. Dybantsa’s 43 points vs Utah highlighted his dominance, while Wright’s 21 points showcased his consistency. BYU’s efficiency (49.1% FG, 31st nationally; 13-1 home record; 17-2 overall record) underscores their strengths. Their ability to dominate at the Marriott Center makes them tough at home.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on freshman star power and rebounding. Arizona thrives on balanced scoring and offensive depth, while BYU must rely on Dybantsa’s firepower and Wright’s playmaking to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.

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Arizona Wildcats
BYU Cougars

Injuries / Availability

Arizona: The Wildcats report no fresh injury concerns heading into Monday’s contest.

BYU: The Cougars are expected to have their full rotation available.

Environment

The Marriott Center has been a fortress for BYU, where they’ve gone 13-1 this season. Arizona, however, has proven it can win anywhere, making this a clash of home dominance versus the nation’s top-ranked road-tested team.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Arizona 84, BYU 81

  • Arizona -1.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive efficiency and rebounding edge suggest they can cover the spread.
  • Under 164.5 → Total play. Both teams’ pace points toward a combined score below the line.

Arizona’s depth and unbeaten record should carry them to victory, while BYU’s offense keeps the spread in play. Expect a competitive contest with totals landing just under the posted number.

Handicappers and Service Plays

Big 12 games often create unique betting opportunities. Our Best Handicappers spotlight experts who consistently read market trends, while the Leaderboard highlights who’s riding hot streaks. Premium insights in Buy Picks provide deeper reasoning behind each wager. For contests like Arizona vs BYU, expert perspectives can help identify sharp angles in spreads and totals.