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It’s a bottom-half Ohio Valley battle as Eastern Illinois hosts Southeast Missouri State on Thursday, January 31. These two teams are struggling to climb the standings, but there’s still betting value to be had — especially with both offenses trending in opposite directions.
Eastern Illinois (8–14, 2–8 OVC) is trying to stop the bleeding after losing four of five. SEMO (10–12, 4–6 OVC) has been up and down but owns one of the better scoring attacks in the league. Tip-off is set for the afternoon at Lantz Arena.
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Eastern Illinois Panthers vs Southeast Missouri State Redhawks Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| SEMO Redhawks | -132 | -2.5 (-110) | O 142.5 (-110) |
| Eastern Illinois Panthers | +108 | +2.5 (-110) | U 142.5 (-110) |
SEMO Redhawks Betting Form
Southeast Missouri pushes the pace and relies on spacing, transition scoring, and slashing guards to create offense. They average 75+ points per game in conference play and get to the line at a high rate. But when they’re cold from three, they can fall behind quickly — especially if their defense doesn’t hold.
They’re 3–2 ATS in their last five and have improved on the glass lately, with their bigs contributing more second-chance opportunities. The Redhawks tend to fare better in higher-tempo matchups, which this one could become.
For injury news, monitor the Southeast Missouri State Redhawks injury report. For a deeper look at team splits and trends, visit the SEMO Redhawks stats and results.
Eastern Illinois Panthers Betting Form
Eastern Illinois has major scoring issues. They rank near the bottom of the OVC in field goal percentage and are averaging under 65 points in league play. Their tempo is moderate, and they don’t have much perimeter firepower — meaning they rely on interior scoring and mid-range jumpers.
Defensively, they compete and stay in games with physicality and rebounding. But they’ve struggled with fouls and rarely force turnovers. When they fall behind early, they lack the tools to come back efficiently.
To stay up to date on lineup news, check the Eastern Illinois Panthers injury report. You can also follow their numbers and form at the Eastern Illinois Panthers schedule and stats.
SEMO vs Eastern Illinois Matchup Breakdown
This is a pace-versus-efficiency game. SEMO wants to run, Eastern Illinois wants to grind. But even at slower tempos, SEMO has a better shot profile and more dynamic guard play.
Matchup angles to watch:
- SEMO ranks top 3 in OVC in FT rate
- EIU ranks dead last in effective FG%
- Redhawks are 4–1 ATS when scoring 75+
- Panthers are 1–5 SU as home underdogs
If SEMO hits early from the arc, the Panthers don’t have the firepower to trade baskets.
SEMO vs Eastern Illinois Predictions and Best Bets
I’m taking SEMO -2.5. The line is short enough to back the better offense, even on the road. Eastern Illinois just doesn’t score consistently enough to be trusted, especially against a team that attacks the rim and shoots confidently.
The total leans Over 142.5, mainly because SEMO dictates pace and Eastern Illinois may need to speed up to keep up. But SEMO -2.5 is the stronger edge.
Best Bet: SEMO Redhawks -2.5 (-110).
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