Arkansas (15-10) at Auburn (23-2)
- When: Feb 19 2025, 9:00 PM
- Where: Neville Arena, Auburn, AL, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Preview
Spread: Auburn -15.5
Total: 152.5
Auburn remains at the top of the national rankings following a statement win over then-No. 2 Alabama on the road. The Tigers now look to avoid a post-victory letdown when they return home to take on an Arkansas team that is fighting for its NCAA Tournament hopes. The Razorbacks have been inconsistent in SEC play and face a daunting challenge against a dominant Auburn squad.
Auburn Tigers – Betting Breakdown
Record: 23-2 (11-1 SEC)
ATS: 16-9
O/U: 14-11
Key Trends:
Won 7 straight games
10-1 ATS at home this season
Covered the spread in 4 of their last 5 games
Auburn comes into this matchup playing some of its best basketball of the season after securing a massive 94-85 victory over Alabama in a No. 1 vs. No. 2 showdown. The Tigers executed their game plan to perfection and showed why they are one of the most complete teams in the country.
While Auburn’s offense continues to roll, their defense has also been a force, especially when it comes to locking down elite scorers. Against Alabama, they held one of the nation’s top guards, Mark Sears, to just 4-of-17 shooting, thanks in large part to defensive standout Denver Jones.
One concern heading into this game is the health of Johni Broome, who suffered an ankle injury in the second half against Alabama. While he played through it, it remains to be seen how effective he’ll be against Arkansas. If Broome is at full strength, Auburn should dominate inside.
Betting Insight: Auburn is one of the best home teams in the country, both straight up and against the spread. With their defensive intensity and offensive firepower, they should have little trouble covering the spread against an inconsistent Arkansas team.
Arkansas Razorbacks – Betting Breakdown
Record: 15-10 (4-8 SEC)
ATS: 9-16
O/U: 13-12
Key Trends:
Lost 3 of their last 5 games
Just 3-7 ATS in road games
Only 1 win over a ranked opponent in SEC play
Arkansas faces a must-win situation as they continue to hover on the NCAA Tournament bubble. The Razorbacks can’t afford many more losses, making this game crucial for their postseason aspirations. However, going into Auburn Arena and stealing a win will be a tall order.
Their last game against Texas A&M was another missed opportunity, as Arkansas struggled offensively in a 69-61 loss. Frustration boiled over for head coach John Calipari, who voiced his displeasure with his team’s inability to close out big games.
While Arkansas does have some talented scorers, including Adou Thiero, their offensive inconsistency and defensive lapses have cost them in SEC play. Against a locked-in Auburn squad, the Razorbacks will need to play near-perfect basketball to stay competitive.
Betting Insight: Arkansas has struggled against elite teams and has been terrible against the spread on the road. Facing a dominant Auburn squad on their home floor, it’s hard to see the Razorbacks keeping this one close.
Betting Predictions
Against the Spread: Auburn -15.5 – The Tigers are dominant at home and should control this game from start to finish.
Over/Under: Under 152.5 – Arkansas’ offensive struggles could lead to a lower-scoring affair, especially if Auburn locks down defensively.
Final Score Prediction: Auburn 84, Arkansas 65 – Auburn overwhelms Arkansas with their defensive pressure and efficient scoring, pulling away in the second half to cover the spread comfortably.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
