SharpBetz
NCAAB

Central Connecticut Blue Devils vs Chicago State Cougars

Saturday, February 21, 2026

Final Score C Connecticut 51 - Chicago St 70
Spread: Total:

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features Central Connecticut Blue Devils (16-10 (8-3)) traveling to take on Chicago State Cougars (6-22 (4-6)) at Jones Convocation Center, Chicago, IL. The C Connecticut hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the Chicago St by 15.2 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup. Chicago St averages 65.8 points per game, but they face a C Connecticut defense that holds opponents to 71.0 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. Meanwhile, C Connecticut scores 75.2 PPG but faces a Chicago St defense that limits opponents to 76.8 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Chicago St will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model projects C Connecticut to win by approximately 6.1 points. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Chicago St winning by 7 to losing by 20. 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

CCSU C Connecticut
Stat
CHST Chicago St
16-10 (8-3)
Record
6-22 (4-6)
Last 10
75.2
PPG
65.8
71.0
Opp PPG
76.8

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
CCSU Central Connecticut Blue Devils
-180 -3.5 O 138.5
CHST Chicago State Cougars
+150 +3.5 U 138.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 21, 10:43 PM
Opening line: +4.5 / O/U 138.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
CCSU Central Connecticut Blue Devils
-268 -6.1 O 141
CHST Chicago State Cougars
+268 +6.1 U 141
Source: Model Updated: Feb 21, 5:08 PM

Our Picks

Spread
Pass
Model: 6.1 | Edge below threshold
Total
Pass
Model: 141 | Edge below threshold

Recent Trends

Chicago St has struggled this season at 6-22 (4-6). The wins have been hard to come by, and the team is looking for answers on both ends of the floor. Home court advantage will be critical for any chance at pulling off an upset. C Connecticut sits at 16-10 (8-3) 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

Chicago St

Advantages

  • Home court advantage and crowd support
  • Familiarity with home venue and routines

Disadvantages

  • Sub-.500 record at 6-22 (4-6) raises concerns
  • Defense allows 76.8 PPG — a vulnerability

C Connecticut

Advantages

  • Strong 16-10 (8-3) overall record this season
  • Potent offense averaging 75.2 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

More NCAAB Picks for Saturday, February 21, 2026