UMES vs Howard: Odds, Predictions & Key Insights | February 17, 2025

Monday’s matchup between UMES and Howard presents an intriguing rematch after the Bison’s dominant 77 to 57 victory last week. Howard covered the spread with ease, and the total fell well under 150, yet the oddsmakers have set the exact same total for this game. With both teams bringing contrasting trends to the table, this showdown sets up for an exciting betting opportunity.

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UMES vs Howard Odds

Can Howard dominate UMES for the second straight week?

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Spread

UMES: +13 (-110)

Howard: -13 (-110)

Total

Over: 151 (-110)

Under: 151 (-110)

UMES vs Howard Best Bet

One of the more interesting matchups on Monday’s slate is UMES vs. Howard, a rematch from a week ago in which the Bison won 77 to 57. Howard covered the seven point spread, and the total went under 150. As of Sunday evening, the line opened at 12.5 points in favor of the Bison, and the total opened at the exact same number as last week.

Why is this game so intriguing? Let us dive in.

UMES has been one of the biggest under teams in conference play this season, going under in seven of their eight conference matchups. Meanwhile, Howard has been an over machine, going over in seven of their eight games. These teams have already faced each other, and the total has not moved a single full digit despite the previous matchup going under by 16 points. I love the over in this spot.

Howard’s Over Trends

Howard has several compelling trends that support this play. Here are a few worth noting

Overs are 5 and 0 when Howard is a home favorite
Overs are 7 and 1 when Howard is at home
Overs are 7 and 2 when Howard is a favorite
Overs are 10 and 1 after a Howard loss they were just blown out by Delaware State 90 to 69

The Bison should be pushing their extremely fast tempo in this matchup as they are ranked 14th in tempo at home this season. Howard’s offense ranks fourth in effective field goal percentage, 28th in free throw rate, and they knock down nearly 80 percent of their free throws. They are also lethal from deep, ranking first in three point percentage despite being just 206th in three point rate. This high powered offense is paired with one of the worst defenses in the country, ranked 317th in adjusted defensive efficiency. They struggle with interior defense, frequently send teams to the free throw line, and rebounding.

They will face a similarly weak defense as UMES ranks 319th in adjusted defensive efficiency. The Hawks are one of the worst rebounding teams in the nation, ranking 14th worst. They offer little resistance inside, ranking ninth worst in two point defense.

On the road this season, UMES is allowing opponents to score around 86 points per game. Their 326th ranked offense averages just 61.7 points per game away from home. Meanwhile, Howard allows around 82 points per game at home but has thrived offensively, averaging 83.3 points per game on their home floor.

With Howard forcing a much faster pace than in the previous matchup where UMES played at the 40th slowest pace scoring will not be at a premium this time around. So far this season, the Hawks have played up to their opponents’ pace, shifting from the 25th slowest overall to 146th in pace on the road. With two terrible defenses facing off, this game should go over the 150 total the second time around.