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Vanderbilt (16-2) vs Arkansas (13-5)
- When: Jan 20 2026, 9:00 PM
- Where: Bud Walton Arena, Fayetteville, AR, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN
(15) Vanderbilt vs (20) Arkansas Preview & Prediction
Spread: Arkansas -1.5
Moneyline: Arkansas (-127)
Total: 172.5
Vanderbilt Commodores Betting Breakdown
Vanderbilt heads to Fayetteville looking to steady itself after a rare stumble. The Commodores opened the season on a historic tear, but the last two games have reminded them how thin the margin can be in SEC play. Their most recent loss was especially painful, letting a late lead slip away at home after one defensive breakdown and a couple of empty possessions.
Offensively, Vanderbilt remains dangerous. The ball moves well, spacing is strong, and this team can score quickly when shots start falling. Tyler Tanner has emerged as a reliable engine, consistently attacking defenses and creating scoring opportunities. The Commodores have enough firepower to trade baskets with anyone, but late game execution has been the difference during this mini slide.
Depth is still a concern with the rotation shortened, which puts more pressure on the starters to play clean basketball. On the road against an aggressive Arkansas team, Vanderbilt will need to value possessions and avoid turnovers if it wants to hang around.
Vanderbilt Player Prop Pick: Tyler Tanner over 17.5 points – Tanner carries a heavy offensive load and should see plenty of usage in a fast paced matchup with a high total.
Arkansas Razorbacks Betting Breakdown
Arkansas returns home after a frustrating road loss that featured both extremes. The Razorbacks were buried early, staged a furious comeback, then watched momentum disappear just as quickly. Despite the loss, the rally showed the ceiling this group can reach when the right combinations are on the floor.
Darius Acuff Jr. continues to look like one of the most impactful freshmen in the country. He plays with confidence, controls tempo, and is not afraid of big moments. Arkansas has leaned more into lineups that emphasize energy and length, and that approach has sparked runs on both ends of the floor.
At home, the Razorbacks play with more edge and defensive intensity. They are slightly favored in this spot at minus 1.5, reflecting both home court advantage and Vanderbilt’s recent struggles closing games. If Arkansas limits slow starts, they are well positioned to dictate pace.
Arkansas Player Prop Pick: Darius Acuff Jr. over 19.5 points – Acuff’s usage and shot volume continue to rise, especially in competitive SEC games where Arkansas needs offense.
Betting Outlook and Prediction
Arkansas is favored by 1.5 with the total set at 172.5, signaling a high scoring and competitive contest. Vanderbilt can score enough to stay close, but Arkansas’s depth, energy, and home environment give them a slight edge late.
Expect momentum swings, quick runs, and plenty of offense. In a game that likely comes down to the final minutes, Arkansas’s ability to attack downhill should be the difference.
Final Score: Arkansas 87, Vanderbilt 83
Lean: Arkansas -1.5
Total: Under 172.5
- NCAAB Odds source: MyBookie Sportsbook
