The McNeese State Cowboys and the Alabama Crimson Tide meet Monday in college basketball action from Coleman Coliseum. Here’s an Alabama vs McNeese State prediction. We will look at this from a betting perspective and determine the best Alabama vs McNeese State pick.
McNeese State Cowboys Betting Preview
The Cowboys kicked off the year with a matchup versus South Dakota State. McNeese State kept the pace in the first half but faded later on during an 80-73 loss. The top in scoring was Alyn Breed with 18 points. Javohn Garcia added 15 points and three rebounds.
In game two versus the College of Biblical Studies, McNeese State got into the win column with a blowout. The Cowboys hit a 63-33 run in the second half to finish off a 111-57 result. Garcia had 21 points this time, and Sincere Parker got in on the action with 20 points and six boards.
Alabama Crimson Tide Betting Preview
Over on the Alabama side, they got started with a pretty routine win over UNC Asheville. The Tide scored 50 points in the first half and 60 in the second during a 110-54 victory. Six players were in double-figures, including Mark Sears with 20 points and three boards.
In game two the Tide faced off against Arkansas State. Alabama held a slim three-point lead at the break but ultimately went on to secure an 88-79 victory. Sears had 19 points this time, while Clifford Omoruyi, Labaron Philon, and Grant Nelson each chipped in 12 points. Alabama will face Purdue, Illinois, Houston, and Rutgers following this one.
Why the Alabama Crimson Tide will win
- Alabama has won each of its last 10 games at Coleman Coliseum against non-AP-ranked opponents.
- McNeese State has lost each of its last four games against the Southeastern Conference.
- Alabama has won the first half in 18 of its last 19 games against non-conference opponents at Coleman Coliseum.
Why the McNeese State Cowboys will win
- McNeese State has won 18 of its last 19 night games.
- McNeese State has won the first half in 12 of its last 15 night games.
Alabama vs McNeese State Prediction
I’ll lean toward Alabama. The Tide were able to fend off a persistent Arkansas State team in their last outing despite shooting a rough 19.4 percent (6-of-31) from 3-point range and 63.6 percent (28-of-44) from the line alongside their 12 turnovers. Alabama had a decisive edge in rebounding 50-41 (14-8 offensive) which will be key in this matchup.
As for McNeese State, this will obviously be their toughest game so far. The Cowboys are coming off a soft opponent and a sizable win, but there won’t be too many scoring opportunities against the Tide. I don’t see the Cowboys staying anywhere close.