Fairfield vs Yale Picks and Prediction – 12/7/2023

In a clash of Metro Atlantic Athletic and Ivy League members, the Fairfield Stags face off against the Yale Bulldogs at John J. Lee Amphitheater. With Fairfield's struggle to find form and Yale's slightly steadier performance this season, this matchup promises an intriguing battle on the hardwood. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Fairfield carries a 2-6 record into this game. A recent triumph over Rider indicates potential, yet overall performance has been inconsistent. Fairfield's offense averages 73.4 points per game, but the defense surrenders 75.4, highlighting a crucial vulnerability. 

The team struggles with field goals, shooting only 42.9%, while the three-point percentage sits at a modest 33.6%. Key players include Brycen Goodine averaging 14.4 points, Jasper Floyd leading with 4.8 assists, and Peyton Smith commanding the boards with 5.6 rebounds per game. However, Fairfield's Achilles' heel is a porous defense, which may struggle against Yale's more efficient offense.

The Bulldogs, with a 5-4 record, have shown a more balanced approach. Yale averages 75.1 points offensively and allows 69.7. Yale’s field goal percentage at 45.7% and three-point percentage at 35.6% are notably better than Fairfield's. 

Bez Mbeng, with an average of 15.0 points and 3.0 assists per game, leads Yale, supported by Danny Wolf's strong presence under the basket, pulling down 9.0 rebounds per game. Yale's more efficient shooting and stronger defensive stats give the Bulldogs an edge, especially when playing at home.