Dayton Flyers vs Saint Louis Billikens Betting Preview
The Dayton Flyers travel to St. Louis to face the No. 21 Saint Louis Billikens in an Atlantic 10 showdown at Chaifetz Arena. Dayton enters with a 14-7 record and looks to rebound after a close loss to Rhode Island, while Saint Louis aims to extend its dominant season with a 20-1 record. With the Billikens favored by 11.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between Dayton’s defensive pressure and Saint Louis’ high-powered offense.
Line Movement and Odds
Saint Louis enters as the heavy favorite, but Dayton’s ability to draw fouls makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:
- Dayton Spread: +11.5 (-110)
- Saint Louis Spread: -11.5 (-112)
- Dayton MoneyLine: +450
- Saint Louis MoneyLine: -658
- Total: 152.5 (-110)
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Matchup Breakdown
Dayton Outlook
The Flyers average 76.7 points per game, with De’Shayne Montgomery, Bryce Heard, and Kobe Elvis leading the offense. Montgomery’s 14 points vs Rhode Island highlighted his efficiency, while Heard’s 15 points and four rebounds showcased his versatility. Dayton’s efficiency (14-7 overall record; 15th nationally in free throws made per game; 9.5 steals per game) underscores their strengths. Their ability to pressure defenses and capitalize at the line makes them dangerous as underdogs.
Saint Louis Outlook
The Billikens average 90.9 points per game, with Robbie Avila, Trey Green, and Terrence Hargrove Jr. driving production. Avila’s 22 points vs George Washington highlighted his scoring, while Green’s 23 points showcased his consistency. Saint Louis’ efficiency (20-1 overall record; 14-1 at home; 51.7% FG, 4th nationally; 43 rebounds per game, 9th nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score consistently and dominate the boards makes them one of the nation’s toughest teams.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on pace and rebounding. Dayton thrives on Montgomery’s scoring and defensive pressure, while Saint Louis must rely on Avila’s hot hand and Green’s perimeter shooting to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide whether Saint Louis covers the spread.
Injuries / Availability
Dayton: The Flyers report no fresh injury concerns heading into Friday’s contest.
Saint Louis: The Billikens are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
Chaifetz Arena has been a fortress for Saint Louis, where they’ve gone 14-1 this season. Dayton, however, has shown resilience with a balanced 5-5 road record, making this a clash of home dominance versus visiting urgency.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Saint Louis 88, Dayton 65
- Saint Louis -11.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive firepower and rebounding edge suggest they can cover the spread.
- Over 152.5 → Total play. Both teams’ scoring ability points toward a combined score above the line.
Saint Louis’ depth and shooting should carry them to victory, while Dayton’s defensive pressure keeps the spread in play. Expect a competitive contest early before Saint Louis pulls away late, with totals landing just over the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Atlantic 10 previews often highlight scoring pace and defensive mismatches. Our Best Handicappers showcase analysts who specialize in conference play, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For Dayton vs Saint Louis, expert insights in Buy Picks can help bettors determine whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.


