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BYU vs Villanova Week 1 Betting Preview
No. 8 BYU meets Villanova on Monday, Nov 3 at 9:30 p.m. ET at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. It’s a high-profile opener between a Big 12 contender and a program searching for footing in the Big East.
Kevin Young’s Cougars return key scorers and add blue-chip freshman AJ Dybantsa plus point guard Robert Wright III. Villanova begins a new era under coach Kevin Willard with eight transfers learning a new system.
You can explore all early-season matchups on our NCAA basketball previews
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Line Movement and Odds
BYU opened around -7.5 and has climbed toward -9 at most books. The total moved slightly from 153.5 to 152.5, signaling some respect for Villanova’s slower tempo. Moneyline pricing hovers near BYU -400 / Villanova +330.
Sharp bettors are backing the Cougars, while the public is also leaning their way. Check live updates on our college basketball odds board
Matchup Breakdown
BYU Outlook. The Cougars return three double-figure scorers, led by Richie Saunders and Keba Keita. With improved guard play and size on the glass, BYU projects again as a top-15 offense. The team went 26-10 last season and covered 19 times. See how they stack up with other programs on the NCAA basketball teams page
Villanova Outlook. Willard’s first roster brings length and athleticism, but chemistry will take time. The Wildcats averaged only 69 points last season and must find consistent perimeter shooting to stay within the number.
Key Battle. BYU’s ball movement and rebounding versus Villanova’s rebuilt frontcourt. If BYU controls tempo and second-chance looks, the gap widens.
For strategy insight before wagering, review our Bettors Handbook
Injuries and Conditions
BYU
- Guard Dawson Baker – questionable (foot)
- No other reported issues from exhibition play
Villanova
- Forward Tafara Gapare – probable (ankle)
- Guard Devin Askew – out indefinitely
Get live roster info on each team injury page
Weather: Indoor arena, no external impact.
Best Bets and Prediction
BYU has covered in five of its last seven openers and brings more continuity. Villanova’s defense will test early but may lack scoring depth to keep pace.
Projected Score: BYU 80, Villanova 70
Best Bet: BYU -8.5
Secondary Lean: Over 152 if total drops further
Check more expert selections on our Free NCAA Picks page, and compare against current Service Plays
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