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Cincinnati Bearcats vs Dayton Flyers Betting Preview
The Cincinnati Bearcats host the Dayton Flyers on Tuesday night at Fifth Third Arena in the 93rd all-time meeting between these Ohio rivals. Both teams enter 2-0 and bring momentum into the first on-campus edition of the series since 2010. Baba Miller headlines Cincinnati’s fast start, while Dayton counters with balanced scoring and efficient shooting.
Line Movement and Odds
- Cincinnati Spread: -6.5 (-112)
- Dayton Spread: +6.5 (-109)
- Cincinnati MoneyLine: -340
- Dayton MoneyLine: +270
- Total: 146.5
Cincinnati opened as a 6.5-point home favorite, reflecting their size and pace edge. The total sits at 146.5, with both teams averaging over 80 points per game. See full college basketball picks for market movement.
Matchup Breakdown
Dayton Flyers Outlook
Dayton is 2-0 and averaging 82.5 points per game. Javon Bennett leads with 18.0 PPG, while De’Shayne Montgomery adds 13.5 points and 5 rebounds. The Flyers shoot 52% from the field and rank 11th nationally in two-point percentage (69.5%). All five starters scored in double figures in their win over UMBC, and senior transfer Keonte Jones added 12 points on perfect shooting with five steals. Dayton’s offensive efficiency and defensive activity make them a live underdog.
Cincinnati Bearcats Outlook
Cincinnati is also 2-0, led by Baba Miller’s back-to-back double-doubles. He’s averaging 21.0 points and 10.5 rebounds while shooting 88.9% from the field. The Bearcats average 84.0 points per game and push pace with 38.3 possessions per contest. They’ve won both games as favorites and are 2-0 at home. Coach Wes Miller views Dayton as a “Power Four” caliber opponent, and the Bearcats will need to match the Flyers’ execution in the halfcourt.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Dayton must control tempo and limit second-chance points. If Bennett and Montgomery can generate offense and Jones disrupts defensively, they can stay within striking distance. Cincinnati will look to dominate the paint with Miller and push transition off turnovers. Their depth and rebounding could tilt the game late.
Injuries / Availability
No major injuries reported for either team.
Environment
The game tips off at Fifth Third Arena, marking the first on-campus meeting between these teams since 2010. Expect a packed house and intense atmosphere as both teams look to stay unbeaten and claim bragging rights in Ohio.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Cincinnati 81, Dayton 77
- Best Bet: Dayton +6.5
Dayton’s offensive efficiency and defensive versatility make them a strong candidate to cover in a rivalry game. - Total: Under 146.5
Despite high scoring averages, Dayton’s pace and Cincinnati’s physicality could keep the total just below the line.
Expect a competitive, physical game with NCAA Tournament implications. Cincinnati’s size and home-court edge give them the nod, but Dayton’s cohesion and shot-making keep it close.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Looking for sharper angles on this matchup? Our Best Handicappers analyze rivalry trends, tempo splits, and matchup data to deliver high-conviction plays. Browse the Leaderboard to see who’s trending, and visit the Buy Picks page for premium selections. Whether you’re betting spreads, totals, or props, our experts offer matchup-specific insights designed to maximize your edge.


