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Butler vs Southern Indiana Week 1 Betting Preview
The Butler Bulldogs open their season on Wednesday, Nov. 5 2025, at 7 p.m. ET against the Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. You can follow all college basketball previews on our NCAA basketball preview page
Thad Matta begins another year looking to lift Butler after being picked 10th in the Big East preseason poll. The Bulldogs were last in the league in scoring defense, allowing 74.9 points per game. Meanwhile, Southern Indiana continues its transition into Division I with 12 newcomers and hopes to exceed its ninth-place preseason projection in the Ohio Valley Conference.
Both teams enter with something to prove. Butler hasn’t had consecutive winning seasons under Matta’s current tenure, and Southern Indiana, now tournament-eligible, aims to build stability behind guard Trey Thomas.
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Line Movement and Odds
Butler opened as a 6-point favorite, total around 145. The current board shows the Bulldogs at -6.5, with the moneyline near -250. Sharp bettors have nudged the line slightly toward Butler, while public action leans heavily to the favorite.
You can monitor real-time updates on the NCAA odds page and compare how spreads shift before tip-off.
Matchup Breakdown
Butler outlook: The Bulldogs return Finley Bizjack (10.3 ppg) and add key transfer Jalen Jackson, who averaged 19.2 points at Purdue Fort Wayne. Their challenge remains defense and shot selection. If Butler’s newcomers adjust quickly, the Bulldogs can dictate tempo.
Southern Indiana outlook: The Screaming Eagles finished 10-20 last year and allowed over 73 points per game. Coach Stan Gouard likes his team’s improved speed and perimeter play, but early chemistry will be tested.
For bettors comparing matchups and recent line performance, the college basketball picks section offers daily angles and value opportunities.
Injuries and Conditions
Butler Bulldogs
- No significant injuries reported.
- Expect early rotation adjustments with five freshmen and five transfers.
See the Butler injury report for updates before tip.
Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles
- No major injuries entering Wednesday’s matchup.
- Team still defining minutes among its 12 new players.
Check the Southern Indiana injury report for late roster notes.
Indoor game, so weather is not a factor.
Best Bets and Prediction
Against the spread, Butler has covered only once in its last five games dating back to last season. Southern Indiana, meanwhile, stayed within single digits in eight of its last ten losses.
Projected score: Butler 76, Southern Indiana 68.
Best bet: Butler -6.5.
Secondary lean: Under 145.
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ScoresAndStats Handicappers and Picks
Stay updated with top cappers on our Handicapper Leaderboard and browse premium Service Plays for expert selections. If you prefer free daily angles, head to our college basketball picks page for analysis and predictions.
