Florida vs LSU Picks and Prediction – 2/22/2025

The Florida Gators (23-3, 10-3 SEC) take on the LSU Tigers (14-12, 3-10 SEC) at the Pete Maravich Assembly Center on February 22. Florida comes in hot, riding a five-game winning streak, most recently dominating Oklahoma 85-63. LSU has won two straight, beating South Carolina 81-67 in the last outing. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Florida has been dominant offensively, averaging 83.8 points per game while shooting 47.0% from the field. Walter Clayton Jr. leads the scoring with 17.2 points per game, shooting 45.6% from the floor and 87.5% at the line. The Gators control the boards, averaging 42.0 rebounds per game, led by Alex Condon with 7.8 rebounds. They also move the ball well with 15.9 assists per game.

Defensively, Florida has been tough, allowing only 66.4 points per game. The Gators excel at forcing turnovers, averaging 7.8 steals per game, with Will Richard leading at 1.8 per contest. They also average 4.8 blocks per game, anchored by Alex Condon’s 1.4. The ability to control the paint and limit second-chance opportunities will be key against LSU’s attack.

LSU has had an up-and-down season but enters this matchup with momentum after back-to-back wins. The Tigers average 76.6 points per game while shooting 45.7% from the field. Cam Carter leads the way offensively, averaging 17.3 points per game on 44.3% shooting. They struggle on the glass, pulling in only 36.8 rebounds per game, but have improved offensive output in recent outings.

Defensively, LSU allows 72.2 points per game and will need to tighten up against Florida’s high-powered offense. They generate 7.2 steals per game, with Jordan Sears leading at 1.5 per game. Daimion Collins provides rim protection with 1.7 blocks per contest, but the Tigers' interior defense will be tested against Florida’s rebounding advantage.

Florida’s combination of offensive firepower and defensive strengths gives them a clear edge. They hold a significant rebounding advantage (42.0 RPG vs. 36.8 RPG) and score at a higher rate (83.8 PPG vs. 76.6 PPG). LSU’s defense has struggled against top teams, and with Florida’s scoring and ball movement, it’s hard to see LSU keeping pace. Final Score Prediction: Florida Gators win and covers 84-72.