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Dayton Flyers vs Loyola Chicago Ramblers Picks and Predictions January 3rd 2026
The Dayton Flyers head to Chicago on Saturday, January 3rd, 2026, for an Atlantic 10 clash with the Loyola Chicago Ramblers. Tipoff is set for 2:00 PM ET at Joseph J. Gentile Arena. Dayton enters this one as a firm road favorite, laying 8.5 points, with the total set at 141.5.
This is a key spot for both sides in league play. Dayton is trying to solidify its place as a top contender in the A-10, while Loyola is still trying to find consistent form after some up-and-down non-conference results. The Ramblers are feisty at home, but the gap in efficiency and talent between these teams is real — and reflected in the spread.
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Dayton vs Loyola Chicago Odds
Below are the current betting odds. Always check the latest college basketball odds before tip for market movement or lineup news.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dayton Flyers | -460 | -8.5 (-112) | O 141.5 (-110) |
| Loyola Chicago Ramblers | +327 | +8.5 (-111) | U 141.5 (-110) |
Dayton Betting Form
The Dayton Flyers are rolling behind one of the most efficient offenses in the conference. Their shot selection is excellent — mostly inside the arc and from clean spot-up threes. They rarely take bad shots, and their half-court offense continues to improve as roles settle in.
Defensively, Dayton plays with length and discipline. They’re excellent in help-side rotations and don’t give up many second chances. Their pace is deliberate — bottom third nationally — which limits overall possession count and often drives games toward the Under.
They don’t foul much, and they defend without overcommitting. When they get out in transition, it’s usually off rebounds, not turnovers. That slow-paced, high-efficiency style has made them a tough cover, especially against weaker offensive teams like Loyola.
Rotation-wise, Dayton’s starting five has great continuity, but depth is a minor concern. Any late injury news could impact betting value, so be sure to check the Dayton injury report ahead of tipoff.
Loyola Chicago Betting Form
The Loyola Chicago Ramblers are still searching for their identity. They play with effort, especially at home, but the offensive inconsistency has been a major issue this season. Scoring droughts have plagued them, particularly against physical defenses — which is a big concern vs Dayton.
They like to push pace more than Dayton, but they don’t have the personnel to run for 40 minutes. Their best games come when they knock down early threes and play from in front. If they’re forced to grind out possessions, their offense can bog down.
Defensively, Loyola applies decent ball pressure but struggles in the post and on the glass. Opponents are shooting efficiently around the rim against them, and they rank below average in defensive rebounding rate — not ideal against a Dayton team that lives on clean looks and second chances.
The home environment will help, but for Loyola to stay within the number, they’ll need to shoot efficiently early and limit Dayton’s paint touches. Keep an eye on the Loyola Chicago injury report to confirm all key rotation players are available.
Dayton vs Loyola Chicago Matchup Breakdown
This matchup tilts heavily in Dayton’s favor from a statistical perspective. They’re better in offensive execution, rebounding, interior defense, and free-throw shooting. Loyola’s only real edge is playing at home — but even that may not be enough if Dayton takes control early.
- Tempo Edge: Dayton plays slow, which limits volatility. Loyola may try to speed it up, but that favors the Flyers’ transition defense.
- Interior Efficiency: Dayton dominates the paint. Loyola allows high-percentage looks inside.
- Free Throws: Dayton draws more contact and converts consistently from the line.
- Rebounding Margin: Flyers have a sizable edge on the boards.
If Loyola can’t shoot close to 40% from three and force a few early turnovers, they could fall behind quickly. Dayton’s ability to control tempo and minimize mistakes makes them a strong favorite, even on the road.
For more matchup strategies like this, read our college basketball betting guide.
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Dayton vs Loyola Chicago Predictions and Best Bets
There’s no question who the better team is — and the market reflects it. Dayton laying 8.5 on the road would normally be a red flag, but in this matchup, it feels justified. Loyola simply doesn’t have the scoring options to consistently threaten Dayton’s defense, and unless they shoot well above average, they’ll struggle to cover.
As for the total, 141.5 feels about right. Dayton games trend Under due to pace, but Loyola’s defensive holes could push this one slightly over if the Flyers are efficient. Still, the total isn’t the sharpest angle here.
The spread is the cleanest edge. Dayton’s offensive structure and rebounding edge should carry them to a double-digit win unless they completely fall asleep. Road favorites are risky, but this is a case where the matchup overrides the spot.
Best Bet: Dayton -8.5 (-112)
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