Auburn (18-1) at LSU (12-7)
- When: Jan 29 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Pete Maravich Assembly Center, Baton Rouge, LA, USA
- Where to watch: SECN
Game Preview
Top-ranked Auburn looks to extend its 11-game winning streak as it travels to Baton Rouge to face LSU in an SEC showdown. Auburn has battled through close contests lately, but they remain undefeated in conference play. Meanwhile, LSU has struggled, sitting near the bottom of the SEC, but they showed fight in a recent loss to Alabama. With Auburn favored by 12 points and the total set at 148.5, let’s break down the best betting angles for this matchup.
Auburn Tigers Analysis
Auburn has been tested in recent weeks, winning four of its last six games by a single possession. The Tigers are coming off a hard-fought 53-51 win over Tennessee, where they closed the game on a 6-0 run to secure the victory. Even in tight matchups, Auburn continues to prove why they are the unanimous No. 1 team in the country.
Johni Broome returned from an ankle injury in that win and was a game-changer, posting 16 points, 14 rebounds, and four blocks in 33 minutes. Broome’s ability to dominate inside gives Auburn a significant edge, especially against an LSU team that has struggled with consistency on both ends of the floor.
Head coach Bruce Pearl has emphasized the need for continued improvement, stating that Auburn can’t afford to get complacent. Given their recent trend of close games, covering the 12-point spread may not be as easy as it looks, especially on the road.
LSU Tigers Analysis
LSU may be near the bottom of the SEC standings, but they nearly pulled off a major upset against No. 4 Alabama, ultimately falling 80-73. Head coach Matt McMahon praised his team’s physicality and competitive mindset in that game, and if they bring that same energy against Auburn, they could make this a closer-than-expected contest.
One bright spot for LSU has been forward Corey Chest, who grabbed an incredible 15 rebounds in the first half against Alabama and finished with 18 boards overall. However, LSU’s shooting has been a major concern—they went just 3-for-23 from beyond the arc in that loss, including a brutal 1-for-11 in the second half. If they don’t find a way to improve their outside shooting, it will be difficult to keep pace with Auburn.
LSU’s biggest issue has been turnovers, averaging 4.2 more giveaways per game than their SEC opponents. They did show improvement against Alabama, forcing 14 turnovers and scoring 17 points off those mistakes, but Auburn’s pressure defense could force them back into their old habits.
Key Matchups & Betting Trends
Auburn’s Late-Game Execution: The Tigers have shown they can close out tough games, which is crucial if LSU keeps it competitive early.
LSU’s Turnover Issues: If LSU falls back into their turnover-prone ways, Auburn will take full advantage in transition.
LSU’s Shooting Woes: Auburn’s defense could make it another tough night for LSU’s perimeter shooting, keeping the game lower-scoring than expected.
Betting Predictions
Auburn’s track record suggests they will win, but their tendency to play close games raises some concerns about covering the 12-point spread. LSU has been feisty in recent matchups, and if they can limit turnovers and improve their shooting, they could stay within striking distance. The total at 148.5 feels a bit high, given Auburn’s defensive ability and LSU’s scoring struggles.
Best Bets:
LSU +12.0 (Auburn should win, but LSU’s recent competitiveness makes them a strong underdog play.)
Under 148.5 (Auburn’s defense and LSU’s shooting struggles could keep the scoring lower than expected.)
Final Score Prediction: Auburn 74, LSU 68
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
