Mississippi State Bulldogs vs Long Island University Sharks Picks and Predictions December 16th 2025

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Mississippi State Bulldogs (5-5) host the LIU Sharks (6-4) on Tuesday night in Starkville. Mississippi State looks to build momentum before SEC play, while LIU seeks to sharpen its form ahead of NEC competition.

Line Movement and Odds

  • Mississippi State Bulldogs Spread: -15.5
  • LIU Sharks Spread: +15.5
  • Mississippi State Bulldogs MoneyLine: -1200
  • LIU Sharks MoneyLine: +725
  • Total: 144.5

Mississippi State opened as a strong favorite, reflecting their SEC-level talent and home-court advantage. LIU’s NEC title aspirations and recent win over LaSalle have kept bettors intrigued, but oddsmakers expect the Bulldogs’ physicality to prevail. The total of 144.5 points suggests expectations for a moderately paced contest, shaped by Mississippi State’s defensive adjustments and LIU’s balanced scoring. See updated numbers and market shifts on the College Basketball Odds page.

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Matchup Breakdown

Mississippi State Bulldogs Outlook

The Bulldogs rallied from a 17-point deficit to defeat Utah 82-74, fueled by a 15-0 second-half run. Coach Chris Jans emphasized effort and togetherness, noting the comeback as a bonding moment. Mississippi State averages 72.6 points per game, with Nick Martinelli and Josh Hubbard providing scoring balance. The Bulldogs’ defense remains a focal point, as Jans pushes for consistency before SEC play. Playing three straight at home offers a chance to reset and build momentum.

LIU Sharks Outlook

The Sharks defeated LaSalle 70-60 last Saturday, led by balanced scoring and defensive intensity. Coach Rod Strickland emphasized raising the program’s standard, with LIU unanimously picked to win the NEC. Trent Mosquera leads with 15.1 points per game, while Shilo Jackson adds rebounding and interior presence. LIU has faced power opponents Notre Dame and Illinois, gaining valuable experience. The Sharks average 71.8 points per game and enter a tough three-game road stretch before NEC play begins.

Key Matchup / Path to Victory

Mississippi State’s defensive focus versus LIU’s balanced scoring is the focal battle. The Bulldogs must impose physicality and control tempo, while the Sharks rely on Mosquera’s scoring and disciplined play to stay competitive.

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Injuries / Availability

Mississippi State: Full roster available.
LIU: Full roster available.

  • Mississippi State is 5-5 overall, coming off a comeback win vs. Utah.
  • The Bulldogs play three straight home games before SEC play.
  • LIU is 6-4, with two losses to power-conference opponents.
  • The Sharks were unanimously picked to win the NEC.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Mississippi State 78, LIU 63

  • Pick: Mississippi State -15.5. The Bulldogs’ depth and home-court edge should allow them to cover.
  • Total: Under 144.5. Mississippi State’s defensive emphasis points to a lower-scoring outcome.

Expect Mississippi State to continue building momentum at home, with defensive intensity and balanced scoring leading the way, while LIU gains valuable experience against SEC competition.

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