Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs vs South Carolina Upstate Spartans

This NCAAB matchup features Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs (3-27 (3-10)) traveling to take on South Carolina Upstate Spartans (12-18 (9-5)) at G.B. Hodge Center, Spartanburg, SC. The SC Upstate hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the Gardner-Webb by 18.4 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup. SC Upstate averages 74.7 points per game, but they face a Gardner-Webb defense that holds opponents to 86.8 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. Meanwhile, Gardner-Webb scores 68.8 PPG but faces a SC Upstate defense that limits opponents to 74.4 PPG. The home team's defensive effort could be the difference-maker. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and SC Upstate will look to leverage their home crowd. The SC Upstate are heavy favorites in this one, with our model projecting a 11.5-point advantage. The 68% confidence interval ranges from SC Upstate winning by 24 to losing by 1. 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.

SC Upstate has struggled this season at 12-18 (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 Gardner-Webb at 3-27 (3-10). Traveling to face SC Upstate 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.