Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles vs Eastern Illinois Panthers
Saturday, February 21, 2026
Final Score So Indiana 70 - E Illinois 68
Spread:
Total:
Matchup Analysis
This NCAAB matchup features Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles (6-21 (3-10)) traveling to take on Eastern Illinois Panthers (11-17 (9-5)) at Groniger Arena, Charleston, IL. 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.
E Illinois averages 67.3 points per game, but they face a So Indiana defense that holds opponents to 73.7 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. Meanwhile, So Indiana scores 68.8 PPG but faces a E Illinois defense that limits opponents to 70.4 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker.
Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and E Illinois will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model projects E Illinois to win by approximately 4.6 points. The 68% confidence interval ranges from E Illinois winning by 18 to losing by 9.
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
USI So Indiana
Stat
EIU E Illinois
6-21 (3-10)
Record
11-17 (9-5)
Last 10
68.8
PPG
67.3
73.7
Opp PPG
70.4
Current Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| USI Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles | +170 | +4.5 | O 135.5 |
| EIU Eastern Illinois Panthers | -205 | -4.5 | U 135.5 |
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 22, 9:05 PM
Opening line: -4.5 / O/U 134.5
Model Projection
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| USI Southern Indiana Screaming Eagles | +236 | +4.6 | O 136.1 |
| EIU Eastern Illinois Panthers | -236 | -4.6 | U 136.1 |
Source: Model Updated: Feb 21, 5:08 PM
Our Picks
Spread
Pass
Model: -4.6 | Edge below threshold
Total
Pass
Model: 136.1 | Edge below threshold
Recent Trends
E Illinois has struggled this season at 11-17 (9-5). 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.
It's been a difficult season for So Indiana at 6-21 (3-10). Traveling to face E Illinois presents a significant challenge, though every game is a chance to build for the future.
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
E Illinois
Advantages
- Home court advantage and crowd support
- Familiarity with home venue and routines
Disadvantages
- Sub-.500 record at 11-17 (9-5) raises concerns
- Potential for inconsistency in key moments
So Indiana
Advantages
- Nothing to lose as the visiting team
- Road underdog motivation — play with less pressure
Disadvantages
- Playing on the road without home crowd support
- Struggling with a 6-21 (3-10) record this season