The UNLV Runnin’ Rebels and the Air Force Falcons meet Thursday in college basketball action from Clune Arena. UNLV is currently 10-7 on the year. The Rebels beat San Jose State in their last game. as for Air Force, they’re 8-7 and coming off a loss to Boise State. Check back all season long for free college basketball picks at Sports Chat Place.
UNLV hit a rough 4-5 stretch to begin the year, then won four straight over Seattle U, Hartford, Omaha and San Diego. Since then it’s been a 2-2 run with losses to San Diego State and Fresno State mixed with wins over New Mexico and San Diego State.
Back on Monday versus San Jose State, the Rebels posted 44 points in the first half and 37 more from there for a nice 81-56 blowout win. Tops in scoring for UNLV was Donovan Williams with his 20 points, three assists, two steals and one rebound.
Over on the Air Force side, they hit a 7-1 run to begin the season with a lone opener loss to South Dakota. The Falcons have gone just 1-6 since then however, losing to Montana, Arkansas State, Tarleton, Colorado State, Nevada and Boise State.
On Tuesday versus Boise State, the Falcons were within three points at halftime but didn’t end up any closer in a 62-56 loss. The only Air Force player in double-figures was Nikc Jackson with 17 points, six rebounds and two steals.
The Falcons are 2-7 ATS in their last nine Thursday games and 4-0 ATS in their last four at home. Air Force is 4-0 ATS in their last four overall.
Meanwhile, the Rebels are 1-5 ATS in their last six road games and 1-4-1 ATS in their last six Thursday games. UNLV is 10-21 in their last 31 overall.
PICK: I’m going to stay with UNLV. The Rebels have posted some nice offensive outings during this 6-2 run. They’ve hit 68 or more points in seven of those eight games, and 76 or more in six of them. Compare that with Air Force, who’s been sketchy over their 1-6 run. The Falcons have scored fewer than 60 points in six of those seven. UNLV should have plenty of opportunities to stay in front here.