SharpBetz
NCAAB

Richmond Spiders vs Loyola Chicago Ramblers

Saturday, February 28, 2026

Matchup Analysis

This NCAAB matchup features Richmond Spiders (15-13 (11-6)) traveling to take on Loyola Chicago Ramblers (6-22 (4-10)) at Gentile Arena, Chicago, IL. The Richmond hold a clear statistical edge this season, outperforming the Loyola Chicago by 14.3 points per game in scoring margin. That differential will be a key factor in this matchup. Loyola Chicago averages 66.7 points per game, but they face a Richmond defense that holds opponents to 74.2 PPG. The visitors' defensive prowess could limit the home team's scoring output. The Richmond offense puts up 78.0 PPG and faces a Loyola Chicago defense allowing 77.2 PPG. The visitors have the offensive firepower to stay in this one. Home court advantage is worth approximately 3.5 points in NCAAB, and Loyola Chicago will look to leverage their home crowd. Our model projects Richmond to win by approximately 5.6 points. The 68% confidence interval ranges from Loyola Chicago winning by 7 to losing by 18. 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

RICH Richmond
Stat
LUC Loyola Chicago
15-13 (11-6)
Record
6-22 (4-10)
Last 10
78.0
PPG
66.7
74.2
Opp PPG
77.2

Current Odds

Team Moneyline Spread Total
RICH Richmond Spiders
-198 -4.5 O 146.5
LUC Loyola Chicago Ramblers
+164 +4.5 U 146.5
Source: Draft Kings Updated: Feb 28, 5:43 AM
Opening line: +4.5 / O/U 146.5

Model Projection

Team Moneyline Spread Total
RICH Richmond Spiders
-189 -5.6 O 144.8
LUC Loyola Chicago Ramblers
+189 +5.6 U 144.8
Source: Model Updated: Feb 28, 5:04 AM

Our Picks

Spread
Pass
Model: 5.6 | Edge below threshold
Total
Pass
Model: 144.8 | Edge below threshold

Recent Trends

Loyola Chicago has struggled this season at 6-22 (4-10). 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. Richmond sits at 15-13 (11-6) 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

Loyola Chicago

Advantages

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

Disadvantages

  • Sub-.500 record at 6-22 (4-10) raises concerns
  • Defense allows 77.2 PPG — a vulnerability

Richmond

Advantages

  • Potent offense averaging 78.0 PPG
  • 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

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