SharpBetz
NCAAB

Georgia Bulldogs vs Kentucky Wildcats

Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Final Score Georgia 86 - Kentucky 78
Spread: L Total: L

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features Georgia Bulldogs (18-8 (11-4)) traveling to take on Kentucky Wildcats (17-9 (13-3)) at Rupp Arena, Lexington, KY. These two teams are closely matched, with both squads posting similar scoring differentials this season. This projects as a competitive contest that could go either way. On offense, Kentucky averages 78.1 points per game, which exceeds what the Georgia defense typically allows (69.6 PPG). That mismatch could give the home side opportunities to exploit. The Georgia offense puts up 78.8 PPG and faces a Kentucky defense allowing 70.2 PPG. The visitors have the offensive firepower to stay in this one. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Kentucky will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model sees this as essentially a coin-flip game, projecting just a 2.9-point margin. Expect a tight finish. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Kentucky winning by 16 to losing by 10. Our model aligns closely with the market on this one, suggesting the oddsmakers have priced this game efficiently. Look for small edges in the total and moneyline markets to capitalize on any remaining value.

Team Comparison

UGA Georgia
Stat
UK Kentucky
18-8 (11-4)
Record
17-9 (13-3)
Last 10
78.8
PPG
78.1
69.6
Opp PPG
70.2

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
UGA Georgia Bulldogs
+240 +6.5 O 161.5
UK Kentucky Wildcats
-298 -6.5 U 161.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 19, 7:39 PM
Opening line: -8.5 / O/U 164.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
UGA Georgia Bulldogs
+146 +2.9 O 156.9
UK Kentucky Wildcats
-146 -2.9 U 156.9
Source: Model Updated: Feb 19, 6:59 PM

Our Picks

Spread L
Kentucky (opened at -8.5)
55% Confidence
Total L
Over (opened at 164.5)
65% Confidence

Recent Trends

Kentucky enters at 17-9 (13-3), hovering around the .500 mark. They've shown flashes of strong play but haven't been able to sustain consistency. At home, they'll look to put together a complete performance and build momentum. Georgia sits at 18-8 (11-4) on the season. They've been competitive in most outings but have had their share of inconsistent performances. On the road, they'll need to bring their best effort to come away with a win. When these teams meet, the home team typically has the edge given the crowd advantage and familiarity factor. The team that controls tempo and limits turnovers will likely dictate the outcome of this matchup.

Matchup Edges

Kentucky

Advantages

  • Strong 17-9 (13-3) overall record this season
  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Strong offense averaging 78.1 PPG

Disadvantages

  • Potential for inconsistency in key moments

Georgia

Advantages

  • Strong 18-8 (11-4) overall record this season
  • Potent offense averaging 78.8 PPG
  • Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure

Disadvantages

  • Playing on the road without home crowd support
  • Road fatigue and travel can impact energy levels