Texas Southern Tigers vs. Southern Jaguars Prediction and Betting Tips

The Texas Southern Tigers and Southern Jaguars are set to face off in a highly anticipated college basketball matchup on Monday, February 17, 2025, at the F.G. Clark Activity Center in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. This game promises to be a thrilling contest between two competitive teams in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Whether you’re a fan, a bettor, or just a casual observer, this article will provide you with everything you need to know about the game, including predictions, betting tips, and key insights.

Game Overview

The Southern Jaguars (16-9, 11-1 SWAC) are riding a nine-game home winning streak and are looking to solidify their position at the top of the conference standings. Meanwhile, the Texas Southern Tigers (11-14, 8-4 SWAC) are aiming to bounce back from a mixed season and prove their mettle against a strong opponent.

• Date and Time: February 17, 2025, at 9:00 PM ET
• Venue: F.G. Clark Activity Center, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
• TV Channel: ESPNU
• Live Stream: Fubo (regional restrictions may apply).

Betting Odds and Lines

Here’s a breakdown of the latest betting odds for the game:

• Spread: Southern Jaguars -7.5
• Total Points (Over/Under): 141.5
• Moneyline: Southern -295, Texas Southern +230.

The Jaguars are the clear favorites, but the Tigers have shown resilience in recent games, making this a potentially close contest.

Team Analysis

Southern Jaguars

The Jaguars have been dominant at home, boasting a 16-9 overall record and an impressive 11-1 in conference play. They average 76.6 points per game (ranked 108th nationally) and allow 69.4 points per game (ranked 105th). Key players to watch include:

• Michael Jacobs: 9.9 points per game, 1.1 steals per game.
• Damariee Jones: 8.1 points per game, shooting 64.2% from the field.
• Jordan Johnson: 9.2 points per game, 1.1 steals per game.

Southern’s strength lies in their defense and ability to control the pace of the game. They’ve also been effective in rebounding, averaging 35.4 rebounds per game (ranked 48th nationally).

Texas Southern Tigers

The Tigers have struggled this season with an 11-14 record but have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in conference play (8-4). They average 72.9 points per game (ranked 220th) and allow 74.8 points per game (ranked 267th). Key players include:

• Kavion McClain: 15 points per game, 1.8 steals per game.
• Kenny Hunter: 8.9 points per game, 1.2 blocks per game.
• Kolby Granger: 6.5 points per game, shooting 50% from the field.

Texas Southern’s offense has been inconsistent, but their ability to force turnovers (8.7 steals per game) could be a game-changer.

Head-to-Head History

The Jaguars and Tigers have a storied rivalry, with Southern holding a slight edge in recent matchups. In their last meeting on January 4, 2025, Southern defeated Texas Southern 67-58. However, the Tigers have historically performed well in head-to-head games, especially when playing at home.

Betting Insights and Trends

Against the Spread (ATS)

• Southern has a 10-12-0 ATS record this season, covering the spread in just 45.5% of their games.
• Texas Southern has a 9-14-0 ATS record, covering the spread in 39.1% of their games.

Over/Under Trends

• Southern’s games have gone over the total in 10 of 22 games this season.
• Texas Southern’s games have gone over the total in 12 of 22 games.

Moneyline Performance

• Southern has an 11-2 record as the moneyline favorite this season, with a 74.6% implied win probability in this matchup.
• Texas Southern has won just 2 of 13 games as underdogs, with a 30.0% implied win probability.

Key Factors to Consider

1. Home-Court Advantage: Southern’s nine-game home winning streak cannot be overlooked. Playing at the F.G. Clark Activity Center gives them a significant edge.
2. Defensive Matchup: Southern’s defense allows fewer points per game (69.4) compared to Texas Southern’s (74.8). This could be a deciding factor in a close game.
3. Recent Form: Southern has won 9 of their last 10 games, while Texas Southern has gone 7-3 in their last 10. Both teams are in decent form, but Southern’s consistency stands out.

Prediction

Based on the analysis, the Southern Jaguars are the stronger team and should win this matchup. However, the Tigers’ ability to compete in close games makes them a dangerous opponent.

• Final Score Prediction: Southern 76, Texas Southern 68.
• ATS Pick: Southern -7.5
• Over/Under Pick: Over 141.5

Betting Tips

1. Take Southern on the Moneyline: With a 74.6% implied win probability, Southern is a safe bet to win outright.
2. Consider the Over: Both teams have a combined average of 149.5 points per game, which is higher than the total of 141.5.
3. Watch for Live Betting Opportunities: If Texas Southern starts strong, consider live betting on them to cover the spread.

Conclusion

The Texas Southern Tigers vs. Southern Jaguars game is shaping up to be an exciting clash between two SWAC rivals. With Southern’s home-court advantage and strong recent form, they are the favorites to win. However, Texas Southern’s resilience and ability to compete in close games make them a team to watch. Whether you’re betting or just enjoying the game, this matchup promises to deliver plenty of action and drama.

For more insights and updates, stay tuned to ESPNU or stream the game live on Fubo. Happy betting!