Northern Illinois vs Eastern Illinois Picks and Prediction – 11/29/2024

The Northern Illinois Huskies (2-5) travel to Groniger Arena to face the Eastern Illinois Panthers (1-5). Both teams come into this matchup looking to end four-game losing streaks. The Huskies are coming off a tight 87-82 loss to Valparaiso, while the Panthers suffered an 81-53 defeat at Valparaiso. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Northern Illinois has struggled offensively this season, averaging 70.1 points per game while allowing 74.1 points. Guard Quentin Jones leads the team in scoring with 15.4 points per game, shooting 46.9% from the field. James Dent Jr. provides key contributions, averaging 5.6 rebounds and 3.0 assists per game. The Huskies’ offense relies heavily on Jones, but 41.8% field goal shooting and 34.9 rebounds per game reveal problems in scoring and second-chance opportunities.

Defensively, the Huskies have been inconsistent, allowing opponents to shoot effectively and failing to protect the rim despite Ethan Butler’s 1.8 blocks per game. They generate 6.6 steals per game, showcasing occasional defensive tenacity, but the inability to control tempo has led to struggles in close games. If the Huskies hope to win, they must tighten up defensively and limit turnovers.

Eastern Illinois is averaging 66.5 points per game but has struggled mightily on defense, allowing 81.5 points per game. Guard Nakyel Shelton leads the Panthers with 17.2 points per game, shooting 43.3% from the field and 85.7% from the free throw line. Forward Kooper Jacobi adds interior strength, averaging 8.3 rebounds per game. The Panthers, however, have faced offensive problems, with only 41.7% shooting from the field and limited ball movement, evident in only 11.2 assists per game.

Defensively, the Panthers have been vulnerable, particularly against high-paced offenses. They average 8.7 steals per game, led by Artese Stapleton with 2.2, but the interior defense lacks stability, allowing opponents to dominate the paint. For Eastern Illinois to secure a win, they must improve defensive structure and capitalize on Northern Illinois’ offensive vulnerabilities.

While both teams have struggled, Northern Illinois has a slight edge in scoring and rebounding, along with Quentin Jones’ consistent performance. Eastern Illinois’ defensive woes make them vulnerable in this matchup. Final Score Prediction: Northern Illinois wins 72-66.