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Ole Miss vs Southeastern Louisiana Week 1 Betting Preview
After their first Sweet 16 appearance in more than 20 years, the Ole Miss Rebels tip off the new season at home Monday night against the Southeastern Louisiana Lions
Ole Miss went 24-12 last year, taking down North Carolina and Iowa State before a narrow 73-70 loss to Michigan State. Coach Chris Beard returns four players and adds a dozen transfers, including AJ Storr from Wisconsin, who averaged 16.8 points in the Big Ten. Forward Malik Dia, a preseason All-SEC pick, anchors the frontcourt.
Southeastern Louisiana finished 18-14 and 12-8 in the Southland Conference. Coach David Kiefer likes the blend of returners such as Jeremy Elyzee (10.4 points, 5.0 rebounds) and new faces like Ethan Pickett and Isaiah Gaines.
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Line Movement and Odds
The latest college basketball odds show Ole Miss opening around -12, now up to -13.5, with a total near 154. Early sharp money has leaned toward the Rebels, while public tickets are more evenly split.
Ole Miss went 16-4 straight-up at home last season and 13-9 against the spread. Southeastern Louisiana covered only once in its final five non-conference games.
Compare spreads and totals anytime through the ScoresAndStats odds board to see live market movement before tip-off.
Matchup Breakdown
Ole Miss Outlook
Beard’s team brings elite depth and size. They averaged 77 points per game last season and added multiple high-usage scorers through the portal. Expect a fast tempo and aggressive defensive pressure led by Storr and Jaylen Murray in the backcourt.
Southeastern Louisiana Outlook
The Lions rely on athleticism and transition play. They’ll need consistent three-point shooting to hang close. Their bench scoring should test the Rebels’ rotations but interior defense remains a concern after ranking near the bottom of the Southland in rebound rate.
For more betting insight, review the Expert Betting Guide section, where key pace and matchup data are updated daily.
Injuries and Conditions
Ole Miss
- AJ Storr – Cleared, expected to start.
- Malik Dia – Fully healthy.
Southeastern Louisiana
- Jeremy Elyzee – Active, no restrictions.
- Jaiden Lawrence – Expected to start at guard.
Both teams report clean injury sheets heading into the opener.
Weather in Oxford calls for mild 60°F temperatures Monday, but the indoor setting eliminates any external impact.
Track player updates using the college basketball picks feed throughout the season.
Best Bets and Prediction
Ole Miss’ depth and shot creation should overwhelm early. The Rebels have covered four of their last five openers, and the Lions struggle defensively against high-major speed.
Projected Score: Ole Miss 82, Southeastern Louisiana 66
Best Bet: Ole Miss -13.5
Lean: Over 154
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