Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders vs. Tennessee Volunteers 12/23/24 – On Monday, fans will be entertained by college basketball action as Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders face undefeated Tennessee Volunteers. Both teams come into this fierce matchup with the motivation of maintaining their win records. This action filled encounter will surely posses all the crucial moments one would expect from such high caliber game, as the two squads will share the court at Thompson-Boling Arena at 7:00 PM ET.
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders vs. Tennessee Volunteers 12/23/24
| When: | Monday, December 23, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
|---|---|
| Where: | Thompson-Boling Arena |
| TV: | SECN |
| Stream: | SofaScore |
| Team | SP/RL | TOTAL | ML | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Raiders | +25 (-110) | Over 142 (-110) | +3000 |  |
| Volunteers | -25 (-110) | Under 142 (-110) | -10000 | |
| ||||
merry christmas eve eve game day
🆚 tennessee
⏰ 6:00 p.m. ct
📍 thompson-boling arena
📺 https://t.co/InIzhtpQsD
📻 https://t.co/1awsG9uDUh
📊 https://t.co/dx3F8q2u56 pic.twitter.com/wtrUgqNHnR— Middle Tennessee Men's Basketball (@MT_MBB) December 23, 2024
The Volunteers have a perfect season pit against them in this game while their home record has been dominating too which is why they come into this game as heavy favorites. The spread set at -25 indicates the prediction of a rather easy win for Tennessee considering their form. The Blue Raiders have had a few good games lately although they enter this match with long odds. The total has been set at 142 which would imply that a high score is expected from both of the teams given the attack levels they possess.
Jestin Porter (Guard) vs. Chaz Lanier (Guard)
Jestin Porter has proven to be a great constant for the Blue Raiders as he averages a team high 15.8 points per game. His quickness and ability to shoot the ball well from the three point line have proved to be important factors, however his 2.3 turnovers per game may be a weakness against the defensively solid Volunteers. Middle Tennessee’s chances of springing an upset will greatly depend on Porter’s game.
On the other hand, Chaz Lanier did not just keep the tempo of his team; he was able to add 18.9 points per game for Tennessee. A perimeter threat posing with a three-point percentage of 47.1% makes him a significant offensive threat. Lanier is not only a reliable scorer but a great source of effective plays that can potentially be important against the opposing team.
Porter and Lanier squaring off in the game will not only be a point scoring contest but a highly tactical match where every single possession can change how a game appears. This will be the first test of Lanier’s defensive skill: how he prevents someone like Porter from dismantling the defense. Lanier dominating offensively will also be one of the reasons for Porter to try and defend better. Their face off will hugely impact how the game is played and possibly which team wins and loses.
Blue Raiders’ Battle Strategy
Middle Tennessee has recently shown they can pull through in tight games, as seen in their narrow victory against Lipscomb (67-65) and a more comfortable win over California Baptist (75-64). These performances highlight their resilience and ability to execute under pressure, critical against a top-tier team like Tennessee.
Tennessee’s Winning Formula
The Volunteers have been nothing short of spectacular, especially at home. Decimating Western Carolina (84-36) and edging out Illinois (66-64) showcases their ability to dominate and adapt. Their home court has been a fortress, and maintaining this stronghold will be essential as they aim to extend their unbeaten run.
Trends
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Betting Trends
Middle Tennessee are 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games.
Middle Tennessee are 4-1 SU in their last 5 games.
Middle Tennessee are 1-5 ATS in their last 6 games against Tennessee.
Middle Tennessee are 1-8 SU in their last 9 games against Tennessee.
Middle Tennessee are 3-17 SU in their last 20 games on the road.
Tennessee Volunteers Betting Trends
Tennessee are 9-1 ATS in their last 10 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Tennessee’s last 7 games.
Tennessee are 10-0 SU in their last 10 games.
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Tennessee’s last 6 games against Middle Tennessee.
Tennessee are 5-0 ATS in their last 5 games at home.
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders vs. Tennessee Volunteers Betting Prediction
Taking into account their current form along with the historical matchups, it seems likely that Tennessee will also have a winning streak going forward. Still, the tough effort that Blue Raiders have recently displayed could also make them able to cover the spread; hence there are bets lines that will provide value. All things considered, the match should be competitive, but Tennessee’s overall depth and home advantage should win out in the end.
From the looks of it, the Volunteers would make an effort, but they are most likely to win. On the contrary, Middle Tennessee seems to have a decent opportunity of winning the +25 spread and could, therefore, be the winning team. If the total number of shots is below 142, that will not be a surprise, as Tennessee is known to have great defense.
Score Prediction: Tennessee 78, Middle Tennessee 55
