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Butler Bulldogs vs Providence Friars Betting Preview
Butler Bulldogs (7-2) host the Providence Friars (7-4) on Saturday afternoon in Indianapolis. Both teams rank among the Big East’s top scoring offenses, setting the stage for a high-paced conference opener.
Line Movement and Odds
- Butler Bulldogs Spread: -3.5
- Providence Friars Spread: +3.5
- Butler Bulldogs MoneyLine: -165
- Providence Friars MoneyLine: +138
- Total: 158.5
Butler opened as a slight home favorite, reflecting their rebounding dominance and consistency at Hinkle Fieldhouse. Providence’s explosive offense has kept the line tight, with oddsmakers expecting a competitive, high-scoring contest. The total of 158.5 points underscores expectations for a shootout between two of the Big East’s most potent scoring teams. See updated numbers and market shifts on the College Basketball Odds page.
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Matchup Breakdown
Butler Bulldogs Outlook
The Bulldogs fell 77-68 to Boise State, marking the first time they were outrebounded this season. Butler averages 87.6 points per game and leads the Big East in rebounding (42.7 per game). Finley Bizjack averages 18 points per game, while Michael Ajayi has posted double-doubles in seven of nine contests and ranks third nationally in rebounds (11.6). Coach Thad Matta continues to experiment with rotations, emphasizing balance and defensive consistency.
Providence Friars Outlook
The Friars average a conference-best 90 points per game but allow 82.1, ranking last in the Big East defensively. Jason Edwards leads with 18 points per game and has scored 20+ in five contests. Six Friars average at least nine points, highlighting their depth. Forward Oswin Erhunmwunse anchors the defense with a league-leading 37 blocks. Coach Kim English stressed the need for improved defensive efficiency as Providence enters conference play.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
Butler’s rebounding dominance versus Providence’s offensive firepower is the focal battle. The Bulldogs must control the boards and limit second-chance points, while the Friars rely on Edwards and balanced scoring to push tempo and exploit Butler’s defense.
Injuries / Availability
Butler: Full roster available.
Providence: Full roster available.
Betting Trends
- Butler leads the Big East in rebounding (42.7 per game).
- Providence averages 90 points per game, tops in the conference.
- Bizjack and Edwards both average 18 points per game, second in the Big East.
- Ajayi has posted double-doubles in seven of nine games.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: Butler 82, Providence 78
- Pick: Butler -3.5. The Bulldogs’ rebounding edge and home-court advantage should carry them to victory.
- Total: Over 158.5. Both teams’ offensive pace points to a high-scoring contest that clears the line.
Expect a thrilling Big East opener, with Butler’s rebounding and Ajayi’s dominance proving decisive against Providence’s explosive offense.
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