Central Michigan Chippewas vs Buffalo Bulls
Saturday, February 28, 2026
Matchup Analysis
This NCAAB matchup features Central Michigan Chippewas (9-19 (8-4)) traveling to take on Buffalo Bulls (16-12 (6-7)) at Alumni Arena, Buffalo, NY. The Buffalo hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the C Michigan by 6.0 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup.
On offense, Buffalo averages 78.8 points per game, which exceeds what the C Michigan defense typically allows (76.9 PPG). That mismatch could give the home side opportunities to exploit. Meanwhile, C Michigan scores 73.8 PPG but faces a Buffalo defense that limits opponents to 75.9 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker.
Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Buffalo will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model projects Buffalo to win by approximately 4.2 points. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Buffalo winning by 17 to losing by 8.
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
CMU C Michigan
Stat
BUF Buffalo
9-19 (8-4)
Record
16-12 (6-7)
Last 10
73.8
PPG
78.8
76.9
Opp PPG
75.9
Current Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMU Central Michigan Chippewas | +215 | +5.5 | O 150.5 |
| BUF Buffalo Bulls | -265 | -5.5 | U 150.5 |
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 28, 5:43 AM
Opening line: -5.5 / O/U 150.5
Model Projection
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| CMU Central Michigan Chippewas | +232 | +4.2 | O 152.6 |
| BUF Buffalo Bulls | -232 | -4.2 | U 152.6 |
Source: Model Updated: Feb 28, 5:03 AM
Our Picks
Spread
Pass
Model: -4.2 | Edge below threshold
Total
Pass
Model: 152.6 | Edge below threshold
Recent Trends
Buffalo enters at 16-12 (6-7), 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.
It's been a difficult season for C Michigan at 9-19 (8-4). Traveling to face Buffalo 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
Buffalo
Advantages
- Home court advantage and crowd support
- Strong offense averaging 78.8 PPG
- Familiarity with home venue and routines
Disadvantages
- Defense allows 75.9 PPG — a vulnerability
- Potential for inconsistency in key moments
C Michigan
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 9-19 (8-4) record this season