Delaware travels to Great Southern Bank Arena in Springfield, Missouri on Saturday, February 14, 2026 for a non-conference showdown against Missouri State. The Bears enter as 7.5-point home favorites, with the total sitting at 133.5, signaling expectations of a slower-paced contest.
Missouri State has built a reputation for defensive discipline at home, while Delaware brings a perimeter-oriented offense that can stretch the floor when shots are falling. The -360 moneyline on the Bears reflects strong confidence in a straight-up victory, but the 7.5-point spread creates an interesting betting decision.
With a relatively low total and a mid-range spread, bettors must determine whether Missouri State’s defensive structure justifies laying more than two possessions or if Delaware can keep this inside the number.
Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens vs Missouri State Bears Odds
Here are the current betting lines for Saturday’s matchup. Always monitor the latest college basketball odds for potential late movement before placing your wager.
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens | +265 | +7.5 (-112) | 133.5 |
| Missouri State Bears | -360 | -7.5 (-113) | 133.5 |
Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens Betting Form
Delaware has leaned on guard play and perimeter scoring this season. The Fightin’ Blue Hens are at their best when spacing the floor and generating clean three-point looks. However, offensive consistency has fluctuated, especially in tougher road environments.
Turnovers have been a concern in games against physical defensive teams. When Delaware struggles to protect the ball, their scoring efficiency drops significantly. Reviewing the full Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens stats and results shows a noticeable decline in output when they are forced into half-court battles.
Defensively, Delaware can compete on the perimeter but has occasionally struggled on the defensive glass. Against a methodical Missouri State team, second-chance opportunities could be costly.
There are no confirmed major injuries at this time, but bettors should verify the updated Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens injury report before tipoff. With a 7.5-point spread, depth and late-game rotations could influence whether they cover.
From a betting perspective, Delaware +7.5 has value if they can control turnovers and hit from beyond the arc.
Missouri State Bears Betting Form
Missouri State has been strong at Great Southern Bank Arena, particularly in defensive-oriented matchups. The Bears are comfortable playing at a slower tempo and forcing opponents into contested shots late in the clock.
Offensively, Missouri State focuses on efficiency rather than pace. They emphasize interior scoring, disciplined ball movement, and rebounding. Reviewing the detailed Missouri State Bears schedule and stats highlights their consistent defensive performances at home.
Rebounding is a key advantage for Missouri State. They limit second-chance opportunities while generating their own on the offensive end. That edge can gradually extend margins in games projected to stay under 140 points.
As always, bettors should confirm the latest Missouri State Bears injury report before placing wagers. Foul trouble in the frontcourt could impact their ability to control the glass.
Laying -7.5 requires Missouri State to maintain defensive intensity and avoid late lapses that open the door for a backdoor cover.
Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens vs Missouri State Bears Matchup Breakdown
This matchup profiles as a half-court battle.
Delaware prefers spacing and perimeter shooting, while Missouri State leans on defense and rebounding. The total of 133.5 suggests the market expects limited possessions and controlled scoring.
Key factors to monitor:
- Turnover margin and ball security
- Rebounding differential and second-chance points
- Three-point efficiency for Delaware
If Missouri State dominates the glass and forces Delaware into contested half-court sets, the Bears can create steady separation. However, if Delaware hits early threes and limits mistakes, they can keep this within two possessions.
In games with totals in the low 130s, every possession carries added weight. A short scoring drought can dramatically shift momentum.
For bettors looking to sharpen their approach to slower-paced matchups, reviewing a comprehensive sports betting strategy guide can help frame decisions around tempo and efficiency.
Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens vs Missouri State Bears Predictions and Best Bets
Missouri State’s defensive profile and home-court advantage give them a clear edge. The -360 moneyline reflects strong confidence in a straight-up win, and their rebounding advantage supports that outlook.
However, laying 7.5 points in a game with a total of just 133.5 introduces risk. Lower totals reduce margin for error, increasing the likelihood of tighter finishes and potential backdoor covers.
The total presents a compelling angle. If Missouri State controls tempo and limits transition opportunities, possessions should remain limited. Delaware’s reliance on perimeter shooting also creates volatility. If shots are not falling, scoring could stagnate.
Given the matchup dynamics and projected pace, the under 133.5 (-110) offers stronger value than laying the points. In a half-court, defensive battle, points should come at a premium.
Best Bet: Under 133.5 (-110).
NCAAB Picks and Handicappers on ScoresAndStats
Before finalizing your wager, compare insights by reviewing today’s college basketball picks. Seeing how multiple experts approach this matchup can help validate your angle.
Futures bettors should also monitor John Wooden Award odds and predictions to track players influencing conference and non-conference performances.
For broader positioning, reviewing updated college basketball championship odds can provide context as March approaches. Pair that with proven advanced betting strategies to maintain a disciplined and structured betting plan.
Saturday’s Delaware vs Missouri State matchup shapes up as a defensive contest with limited possessions. If the Bears control tempo and the glass, they win comfortably. The sharper value lies in projecting pace and targeting the total rather than laying points in a low-scoring environment.


