Southeast Missouri State Redhawks vs Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Prediction, Odds, Best Bets - Week 2

Both teams are 2-1, with Southeast Missouri State scoring 81.3 points per game and Middle Tennessee at 78.3 heading into Murfreesboro.

The Matchup

Middle Tennessee hosts Southeast Missouri State at the Murphy Center in Murfreesboro with both teams at 2-1. Middle Tennessee, from Conference USA, has scored 78.3 points per game and allowed 76.7 this season after going 17-15 last season. Southeast Missouri State, from the Ohio Valley Conference, has scored 81.3 per game and allowed 74.0 this season after a 20-13 campaign last season.

The numbers here blend this season with last season because both teams have played fewer than eight games, and for Southeast Missouri State that blend supports a team that won last season and has started with the better defensive numbers this fall, led by Fontaine Williams Jr. at 13.7 points and 3.7 assists per game and Clayton Jewell at 7.0 rebounds per game. Middle Tennessee is led by Quintero Barnett at 15.3 points per game, with Jahvin Carter adding 5.3 assists per game and Ofri Naveh pulling 6.3 rebounds per game. Williams, Barnett and Carter carry no injury designations.

Key Factors

Southeast Missouri State holds small edges in scoring and defense this season, and Williams gives the Redhawks a guard who both scores and distributes. Middle Tennessee has home court and the best individual scorer in Barnett, but the Blue Raiders have not defended at a level that suggests separation against a veteran visitor.

The counterpoint is Middle Tennessee at home with Carter organizing the offense. If Carter controls tempo and Barnett gets efficient looks, the Blue Raiders can build a working margin and force Southeast Missouri State to chase late. The Redhawks also need Jewell to hold his own on the glass against Naveh and company. If the rebounding battle is even, this game stays within one or two possessions throughout, which is all the visitor needs.

Every pick is published with its line before the game. Odds via consensus sportsbooks at time of writing and move constantly. Must be 21+. If gambling is a problem, call or text 1-800-GAMBLER.