NFL Previews 
MLB Previews 
NBA Previews 
NHL Previews 
Soccer Previews 
Murray State Racers vs Southern Illinois Salukis Betting Preview
The Murray State Racers visit the Southern Illinois Salukis in a Missouri Valley Conference matchup at Banterra Center in Carbondale. Murray State enters with a 17-7 record and looks to build on a win over UIC, while Southern Illinois aims to defend its 10-13 overall mark after a victory against Illinois State. With the Salukis favored by 0.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between Racers’ offensive firepower and Salukis’ defensive resilience.
Line Movement and Odds
Southern Illinois is favored, but Murray State’s scoring pace makes this line worth tracking. Current market:
- Southern Illinois Spread: -0.5 (-113)
- Murray State Spread: +0.5 (-110)
- Southern Illinois MoneyLine: -112
- Murray State MoneyLine: -110
- Total: 158.5 (-110)
Check the college basketball picks for real-time updates, especially as bettors weigh Southern Illinois’ home dominance against Murray State’s ability to cover spreads.
Every Sharp Move, Every Capper, All Sports
Track professional picks, line steam, and market swings in real time.
Matchup Breakdown
Murray State Outlook
The Racers average 86.1 points per game, with Fred King, Roman Domon, and Ja’Shon Thomas leading the offense. King’s 16 points and 14 rebounds vs UIC highlighted his dominance, while Domon’s 18 points added balance. Murray State’s efficiency (47.0% FG shooting; 9.7 made threes per game; 27th nationally in scoring) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and rebound makes them dangerous underdogs.
Southern Illinois Outlook
The Salukis average 73.7 points per game, with Quel’Ron House, Rolyns Aligbe, and Xavier Johnson driving production. House’s 22 points vs Illinois State highlighted his consistency, while Aligbe’s double-double showcased his rebounding. Southern Illinois’ efficiency (10-13 overall record; 7-4 at home; 38 rebounds per game; strong defensive performances allowing 50 points in two of last three games) underscores their strengths. Their ability to defend and rebound makes them tough to beat in Carbondale.
Key Factors
This matchup may hinge on tempo and rebounding. Murray State thrives on King’s inside presence and Domon’s scoring, while Southern Illinois must rely on House’s hot hand and Aligbe’s rebounding to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide whether Murray State can cover the spread.
Injuries / Availability
Murray State: The Racers report no fresh injury concerns heading into Friday’s contest.
Southern Illinois: The Salukis are expected to have their full rotation available.
Environment
Banterra Center has been a steady venue for Southern Illinois, where they’ve gone 7-4 this season. Murray State, however, has shown resilience with 17 wins overall, making this a clash of Salukis’ home dominance versus Racers’ offensive grit.
The Home of Verified Handicappers
3,000+ monthly plays tracked live across all sports.
Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Murray State 78, Southern Illinois 77
- Murray State +0.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive pace and scoring efficiency suggest they can keep the game closer than expected.
- Under 158.5 → Total play. Both teams’ tempo balance points toward a combined score below the line.
Murray State’s depth and efficient shooting should carry them to a narrow victory, while Southern Illinois’ 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
MVC games often spotlight tempo mismatches and rebounding battles. Our Best Handicappers highlight analysts who specialize in conference efficiency trends, while the Leaderboard tracks who’s delivering consistent returns. For Murray State vs Southern Illinois, premium insights are also available at Buy Picks, helping bettors decide whether the spread or total offers the sharper edge.
