SharpBetz
NCAAB

Jacksonville State Gamecocks vs Louisiana Tech Bulldogs

Thursday, February 19, 2026

Final Score Jax State 71 - Louisiana Tech 77
Spread: W Total: W

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features Jacksonville State Gamecocks (13-13 (9-6)) traveling to take on Louisiana Tech Bulldogs (15-11 (13-2)) at Thomas Assembly Center, Ruston, LA. 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, Louisiana Tech averages 76.5 points per game, which exceeds what the Jax State defense typically allows (72.5 PPG). That mismatch could give the home side opportunities to exploit. The Jax State offense puts up 75.0 PPG and faces a Louisiana Tech defense allowing 71.3 PPG. The visitors have the offensive firepower to stay in this one. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Louisiana Tech will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model projects Louisiana Tech to win by approximately 5.5 points. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Louisiana Tech winning by 18 to losing by 7. 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

JXST Jax State
Stat
LT Louisiana Tech
13-13 (9-6)
Record
15-11 (13-2)
Last 10
75.0
PPG
76.5
72.5
Opp PPG
71.3

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
JXST Jacksonville State Gamecocks
+120 +2.5 O 132.5
LT Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
-142 -2.5 U 132.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 19, 7:38 PM
Opening line: -3.5 / O/U 132.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
JXST Jacksonville State Gamecocks
+204 +5.5 O 151.5
LT Louisiana Tech Bulldogs
-204 -5.5 U 151.5
Source: Model Updated: Feb 19, 6:56 PM

Our Picks

Spread W
Louisiana Tech (opened at -3.5)
55% Confidence
Total W
Over (opened at 132.5)
62% Confidence

Recent Trends

Louisiana Tech enters at 15-11 (13-2), 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. Jax State sits at 13-13 (9-6) 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

Louisiana Tech

Advantages

  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Strong offense averaging 76.5 PPG
  • Familiarity with home venue and routines

Disadvantages

  • Potential for inconsistency in key moments

Jax State

Advantages

  • Nothing to lose as the visiting team
  • Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure

Disadvantages

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