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LSU Tigers vs SMU Mustangs Betting Preview
LSU Tigers (8-1) face the SMU Mustangs (9-1) on Saturday night at the Compete 4 Cause Classic in New Orleans. LSU looks to bounce back from its first loss of the season, while SMU continues its strong run against SEC competition.
Line Movement and Odds
- LSU Tigers Spread: -4.5
- SMU Mustangs Spread: +4.5
- LSU Tigers MoneyLine: -190
- SMU Mustangs MoneyLine: +160
- Total: 152.5
LSU opened as a modest favorite despite their blowout loss to Texas Tech. SMU’s recent success against SEC opponents has kept the line tight, with bettors expecting a competitive matchup. The total of 152.5 points suggests expectations for a high-scoring contest, driven by SMU’s offensive firepower and LSU’s bounce-back potential. See updated numbers and market shifts on the College Basketball Odds page.
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Matchup Breakdown
LSU Tigers Outlook
The Tigers were humbled 82-58 by Texas Tech, shooting just 33% from the field. Mike Nwoko (16.0 ppg) and Dedan Thomas Jr. (15.2 ppg) struggled, combining for 9-of-22 shooting. LSU had dominated weaker opponents before that setback, averaging 78.5 points per game and relying on balanced scoring. Coach Matt McMahon emphasized fatigue and execution as areas to improve, noting the team must regain rhythm and confidence against SMU.
SMU Mustangs Outlook
The Mustangs defeated Texas A&M 93-80 in overtime, outscoring the Aggies 16-3 in the extra session. Jaron Pierre Jr. scored 35 points on 13-of-21 shooting, raising his average to 19.5. Boopie Miller leads the team with 20.6 points per game, giving SMU one of the nation’s most dynamic backcourts. Coach Andy Enfield praised Pierre’s shot-making and leadership, noting the team’s resilience after losing three double-figure scorers from last season. SMU ranks No. 31 in the NET and averages 84.1 points per game.
Key Matchup / Path to Victory
LSU’s ability to rebound from its first loss versus SMU’s explosive backcourt is the focal battle. The Tigers must improve shooting efficiency and defensive intensity, while the Mustangs rely on Pierre and Miller to generate offense and push tempo.
Injuries / Availability
LSU: Full roster available.
SMU: Full roster available.
Betting Trends
- LSU is 8-1 overall but 0-1 against ranked opponents.
- SMU is 2-1 against SEC teams this season.
- The Tigers average 78.5 points per game.
- The Mustangs average 84.1 points per game.
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Best Bets and Prediction
Projected Final Score: SMU 79, LSU 75
- Pick: SMU +4.5. The Mustangs’ backcourt scoring and SEC-tested resilience make them strong to cover and potentially win outright.
- Total: Over 152.5. Both teams’ offensive pace points to a high-scoring contest that clears the line.
Expect a competitive clash, with SMU’s dynamic guards giving them the edge against an LSU team still adjusting after its first setback.
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