Southeast Missouri State Redhawks vs Western Illinois Leathernecks Picks and Predictions January 29th 2026

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Southeast Missouri State Redhawks vs Western Illinois Leathernecks Betting Preview

The Southeast Missouri State Redhawks head to Macomb to face the Western Illinois Leathernecks in an Ohio Valley Conference matchup. Southeast Missouri State enters with an 11-10 record and momentum from a win over Little Rock, while Western Illinois looks to defend its home court despite a tough season. With the Redhawks favored by 8.5 points, this contest highlights a battle between SEMO’s offensive efficiency and Western Illinois’ free-throw consistency.

Line Movement and Odds

Southeast Missouri State enters as the favorite, but Western Illinois’ home-court presence makes this line worth monitoring. Current market:

  • Southeast Missouri State Spread: -8.5 (-112)
  • Western Illinois Spread: +8.5 (-112)
  • Southeast Missouri State MoneyLine: -412
  • Western Illinois MoneyLine: +304
  • Total: 140.5 (-110)

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Matchup Breakdown

Southeast Missouri State Outlook

The Redhawks average 75.7 points per game, with Luke Almodovar, Brendan Terry, and Landren Blocker leading the offense. Almodovar’s 13 points and 10 rebounds vs Little Rock highlighted his versatility, while Terry and Blocker provide balance. SEMO’s efficiency (11-10 overall record; 45.7% FG; 14.4 made free throws per game) underscores their strengths. Their ability to score efficiently and capitalize at the line makes them dangerous on the road.

Western Illinois Outlook

The Leathernecks average 68.2 points per game, with Lucas Lorenzen, Isaiah Griffin, and Goanar Biliew driving production. Lorenzen’s 26 points vs Morehead State highlighted his scoring, while Griffin and Biliew add depth. Western Illinois’ efficiency (4-17 overall record; 3-5 at home; 14.1 made free throws per game) underscores their strengths. Their ability to draw fouls and convert at the line makes them competitive at Western Hall.

Key Factors

This matchup may hinge on free-throw shooting and perimeter defense. SEMO thrives on Almodovar’s scoring and Blocker’s consistency, while Western Illinois must rely on Lorenzen’s hot hand and Griffin’s playmaking to tilt the game. Execution in the final minutes will likely decide the margin.

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Injuries / Availability

Southeast Missouri State: The Redhawks report no fresh injury concerns heading into Thursday’s contest.

Western Illinois: The Leathernecks are expected to have their full rotation available.

Environment

Western Hall has been a steady venue for Western Illinois, where they’ve gone 3-5 this season. SEMO, however, has shown resilience on the road, making this a clash of home steadiness versus visiting momentum.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Projected Final Score: Southeast Missouri State 78, Western Illinois 66

  • Southeast Missouri State -8.5 → Best Bet. Their offensive efficiency and scoring depth suggest they can cover the spread.
  • Over 140.5 → Total play. Both teams’ pace points toward a combined score above the line.

Southeast Missouri State’s depth and shooting should carry them to victory, while Western Illinois’ home-court energy keeps the spread in play. Expect a competitive contest with totals landing just over the posted number.

Handicappers and Service Plays

OVC games often create unique betting opportunities. Our Best Handicappers spotlight experts who consistently read market trends, while the Leaderboard highlights who’s riding hot streaks. Premium insights in Buy Picks provide deeper reasoning behind each wager. For contests like Southeast Missouri State vs Western Illinois, expert perspectives can help identify sharp angles in spreads and totals.

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