Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs vs Charleston Southern Buccaneers Betting Preview
The Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs head to Charleston to face the Charleston Southern Buccaneers in a Big South Conference matchup at Buccaneer Fieldhouse. Gardner-Webb enters with a 3-20 record and looks to snap its road losing streak, while Charleston Southern aims to defend its 7-3 home mark after falling to Radford. With the Buccaneers favored by 17.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between Gardner-Webb’s defensive grit and Charleston Southern’s offensive firepower.
Line Movement and Odds
Charleston Southern is favored, but Gardner-Webb’s ability to slow pace makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- Gardner-Webb Spread: +17.5 (-110)
- Charleston Southern Spread: -17.5 (-110)
- Gardner-Webb MoneyLine: +1200
- Charleston Southern MoneyLine: -2200
- Total: 158.5 (-110)
Check the college basketball odds for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh Charleston Southern’s scoring pace against Gardner-Webb’s defensive resilience.
Matchup Breakdown
Gardner-Webb Outlook
The Bulldogs average 67.7 points per game, with Spence Sims, Jacob Hogarth, and Anthony Selden leading the offense. Sims’ 13 points vs UNC Asheville highlighted his consistency, while Hogarth’s rebounding adds balance. Gardner-Webb’s efficiency (3-20 overall record; 0-14 on the road; 404th nationally in scoring) underscores their struggles. Their ability to capitalize on free throws and slow tempo makes them dangerous against the spread.
Charleston Southern Outlook
The Buccaneers average 83.8 points per game, with A’Lahn Sumler, Brycen Blaine, and Taje Kelly driving production. Sumler’s 26 points vs Radford highlighted his scoring, while Blaine’s 14 points showcased his balance. Charleston Southern’s efficiency (11-12 overall record; 7-3 at home; 12.2 made threes per game, top 25 nationally; 43.1 rebounds per game, 8th nationally) underscores their strengths. Their ability to rebound and score efficiently at home makes them tough to beat in Charleston.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on rebounding and tempo. Gardner-Webb thrives on Sims’ scoring and Hogarth’s rebounding, while Charleston Southern must rely on Sumler’s hot hand and Blaine’s consistency to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide whether Gardner-Webb can cover the spread.
Injuries / Availability
Gardner-Webb: The Bulldogs report no fresh injury concerns heading into Monday’s contest.
Charleston Southern: The Buccaneers are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
Buccaneer Fieldhouse has been a stronghold for Charleston Southern, where they’ve gone 7-3 this season. Gardner-Webb, however, has struggled on the road with a 0-14 record, making this a clash of Buccaneers’ offensive firepower versus Bulldogs’ defensive grit.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Charleston Southern 82, Gardner-Webb 68
- Gardner-Webb +17.5 → Best Bet. Their slower pace and ability to draw fouls suggest they can keep the game closer than expected.
- Under 158.5 → Total play. Both teams’ tempo points toward a combined score below the line.
Charleston Southern’s depth and rebounding should carry them to victory, while Gardner-Webb’s defensive resilience keeps the spread competitive. Expect a contest that leans lower-scoring, with totals landing just under the posted number.
Handicappers and Service Plays
Big South games often spotlight tempo mismatches and rebounding battles. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in mid-major conference trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For Gardner-Webb vs Charleston Southern, expert breakdowns in Buy Picks can help bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.


