Match Analysis: Pittsburgh Panthers vs Bucknell Bison – Prediction
Match Details
- Date: 2025-11-18
- Time: 12:00 AM UTC
- Location: Petersen Events Center, Pittsburgh, PA
Game Overview
This matchup features the Pittsburgh Panthers hosting the Bucknell Bison at the Petersen Events Center. Pittsburgh enters the game with a 3-1 record, having won three straight at home, while Bucknell is 2-2 after losses in two of their last three games. Pittsburgh is heavily favored, with a spread of -16.5 and a moneyline of -2500, reflecting their strong home form and Bucknell's struggles on the road against non-conference opponents.
Key Factors to Consider
- Pittsburgh has shown strong offensive and defensive consistency at home, averaging 78 points per game and allowing only 61.7 points. Their last loss was on the road against West Virginia. Bucknell averages 72.8 points per game (274th nationally) and allows 72 points per game (181st). They have struggled away from home, losing six of their last seven road games against non-conference teams. Pittsburgh has won 13 straight home games against non-conference opponents and has covered the spread in 2 of their last 5 games.
- No recent head-to-head data is available for this matchup. Pittsburgh's dominance at home against non-conference teams and Bucknell's poor road record suggest a significant edge for the Panthers.
- Pittsburgh's Dishon Jackson is medically disqualified and will not play. Brandin Cummings is active. Bucknell has no major injuries reported. Jackson's absence could slightly impact Pittsburgh's frontcourt depth, but their recent performances suggest they can compensate.
- The game is being played at Pittsburgh's home venue, which has been a fortress for the Panthers. The crowd support and familiarity with the environment are significant advantages. The matchup is on a Tuesday night, which may affect travel and rest for Bucknell.
- Pittsburgh is motivated to maintain their strong home record and build momentum early in the season. Bucknell is looking to bounce back from recent losses and prove themselves against a higher-level opponent, but their recent road struggles suggest a lack of confidence in such matchups.
Odds and Predictions
| Category | Odds | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | Bucknell Bison: 1100, Pittsburgh Panthers: -2500 | Pittsburgh Panthers | Not available |
| Spread | Bucknell Bison: 16.5 -110, Pittsburgh Panthers: -16.5 -110 | Pittsburgh Panthers -16.5 | Not available |
| Over/under | Over: 143.5 -115, Under: 143.5 -105 | Over 143.5 | Not available |
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
| Market | EV Pick |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | Pittsburgh Panthers 0% |
| Spread | N/A |
| Over/Under | Over 143.5 46% |
π₯ Best Value Pick: Over 143.5 at 46% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 52.7% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Pittsburgh is expected to win comfortably, leveraging their home advantage and Bucknell's road struggles. The Panthers' offense should be able to exploit Bucknell's defensive weaknesses, and their depth should be sufficient despite the absence of Jackson. Bucknell's recent form and lack of success on the road make an upset unlikely.
Predicted Score: Pittsburgh 81 – Bucknell 63