NCAAB: Iowa State vs. Houston Predictions – Monday, Feb. 19

Feb 17, 2024; Houston, Texas, USA; Houston Cougars forward J'Wan Roberts (13) reacts after a play during the second half against the Texas Longhorns at Fertitta Center.
Image Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

The No. 3 Houston Cougars (22-3) are set to host the No. 10 Iowa State Cyclones (20-5) in a high-stakes showdown. With both teams riding impressive winning streaks, this matchup is poised to be a clash of Big 12 titans. Let’s run through the Iowa State vs. Houston predictions and picks below.

Iowa State vs. Houston Odds

Game Info

  • Date: Monday, Feb. 19
  • Time: 09:00 PM ET
  • Location: Fertitta Center – Houston, TX
  • TV: ESPN

Iowa State Cyclones Betting Trends

  • On the road, Iowa State Cyclones are 4 and 3 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Iowa State Cyclones are 18 and 7.
  • Against the spread on the road, Iowa State Cyclones are 5 and 4.

Houston Cougars Betting Trends

  • At home, Houston Cougars are 14 and 0 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Houston Cougars are 12 and 11.
  • Against the spread at home, Houston Cougars are 10 and 4.

Iowa State Cyclones vs. Houston Cougars Predictions

The Houston Cougars, boasting a perfect 14-0 home record, are looking to extend their five-game winning streak. The Cougars are led by guard L.J. Cryer, who is averaging 15.3 points per game, and forward J’Wan Roberts, pulling down 7.1 rebounds per game. Houston’s defense has been a cornerstone of their success, holding opponents to an average of just 73.9 points per game, ranking them 207th in the nation. Their offense, while not as dominant, has been efficient enough to secure wins, with a field goal percentage of 43.4%.

On the other side, the Iowa State Cyclones come into the game on a six-game winning streak, undefeated at home but with a 4-3 record on the road. Guard Keshon Gilbert leads the team with 14.2 points per game, and forward Tre King is the top rebounder, averaging 5.0 boards per game. The Cyclones have been more prolific offensively, scoring an average of 78.7 points per game, which is the 74th highest in the nation. They also boast a higher field goal percentage than Houston at 47.6%, ranking them 42nd overall.

This game will likely come down to a battle of Houston’s defense against Iowa State’s offense. Key matchups to watch include Houston’s Jamal Shead, who leads the team with 5.8 assists per game, going head-to-head with Iowa State’s Tamin Lipsey, who averages 5.5 assists per game. The outcome could hinge on which team can impose their style of play on the other, making for an exciting contest between two of the Big 12’s best teams.

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Iowa State Cyclones vs. Houston Cougars Pick

The under is the more compelling pick for this matchup, considering the defensive prowess of the Houston Cougars and the recent trends in over/under for both teams. Houston’s defense has been formidable, especially at home where they are undefeated and have held opponents to an average of 73.9 points per game. The Cougars’ ability to limit scoring opportunities for their opponents will be crucial against an Iowa State team that has been efficient offensively. Moreover, the Cyclones have seen the under hit in four of their last five games, indicating a trend towards lower-scoring affairs when they are involved.

While Iowa State’s offense is not to be underestimated, Houston’s home court advantage and defensive statistics suggest they will be able to control the pace of the game. The total line is set at 127.5, and with both teams emphasizing defense in recent games, scoring will likely be at a premium. Additionally, the under has been the result in 15 of Houston’s games this season, further supporting the expectation of a lower-scoring game. Therefore, the under is the prudent pick for this highly anticipated Big 12 showdown.

The Pick: Under 127.5 (FanDuel)

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