The Christmas break is officially over, and that means that teams are a step closer towards the start of SEC play.
There are two teams in action on Friday, as both Arkansas and LSU will try to build some momentum entering the new year.
Let’s get to the picks.
Season Predictions Record (straight up): 118-30
Austin Peay at Arkansas – 8 p.m. EST, SEC Network+
The Razorbacks have suffered a few disappointing losses to Western Kentucky and Georgia Tech in recent weeks, but this will be an opportunity for Mike Anderson’s squad to gain some confidence heading into the SEC opener at Texas A&M.
However, it won’t be an easy task as Matt Figger has led the Governors to six straight wins, including a great win over a solid Liberty team.
What the Hogs may be able to exploit is Austin Peay’s 2-point field goal defense, with Figger’s squad allowing teams to shoot 56.2 percent from inside the perimeter (316th nationally).
The Govs are an experienced team that won’t back down from the challenge, but this feels like a game where Daniel Gafford should be able to take over and lead the Hogs to a much-needed win.
Prediction: Arkansas 80, Austin Peay 70
UL Monroe at LSU – 8 p.m. EST, SEC Network+
LSU has secured two good wins in a row, as the Tigers notched a 78-74 victory over Saint Mary’s before blowing out previously unbeaten Furman.
When Will Wade’s team is on a roll and playing to its full potential, the can be extremely difficult to defend given the numerous offensive playmakers on the roster.
But something that will be in the Warhawks’ favor is 3-point shooting. They’re currently making 41.0 percent of their shots from long range (ninth nationally), which isn’t ideal for an LSU defense that ranks 253rd nationally in that category defensively (35.7 percent).
Luckily, the Tigers should be able to find plenty of second-chance opportunities in this one, especially considering that UL Monroe ranks 300th nationally in allowing opponents to grab a 32.7 percent offensive rebounding percentage.
This seems to be a good spot for LSU to gain even more confidence before the start of conference play.
Prediction: LSU 88, UL Monroe 73
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