In a compelling Pacific-12 vs Southwestern Athletic face-off, the Grambling State Tigers look to claw back into contention against the high-flying Washington State Cougars. Set in the backdrop of Friel Court at Beasley Coliseum, this matchup brings contrasting tales: Grambling's struggle for form and Washington State's soaring confidence. Slam dunk your bets with our College Basketball picks.

Starting on a shaky note, the Grambling State Tigers hold a 2-6 record. Grambling’s offensive struggles are evident, with a dismal 43.2% field goal percentage and a lower-tier 3-point percentage at 22.1%. Defensively, the situation isn't rosier. Allowing an average of 80.0 points per game, the Tigers rank at the bottom in points allowed, a glaring concern that must be addressed. Rebounds are another area of concern, with an average of 25.9 rebounds per game, showcasing a lack of dominance in the paint.

Key players like Kintavious Dozier, leading with 11.9 points per game, and Jonathan Aku, the top rebounder with 6.9 rebounds per game, will need to step up. Dozier's scoring prowess and Aku's efficiency in rebounding and shot-blocking (0.9 blocks per game) might be pivotal in Grambling's pursuit of an upset. However, recent form, including a hefty 30-point loss against Dayton, suggests the Tigers face an uphill battle.

Washington State, with a 7-1 record, presents a formidable challenge to Grambling. Offensive output is impressive, averaging 80.1 points per game, significantly higher than the national average. This efficiency is backed by 50.1% field goal shooting and a formidable presence in the paint, averaging 38.8 rebounds per game. However, 3-point shooting accuracy (33.3%) and free throw percentage (65.8%) are areas that could use improvement.

Defensively, the Cougars have been hard to beat, allowing just 61.5 points per game. With a strong defensive field goal percentage of 36.2% and limiting opponents to 26.5% from the 3-point line, the Cougars have effectively stifled opposing offenses. Myles Rice, leading the team with scoring average of 16.2 points per game, and Isaac Jones, the top rebounder with 7.4 rebounds per game, have been instrumental in the Cougars' success. Rice's scoring ability and Jones' dominance in rebounds, combined with Rueben Chinyelu's shot-blocking prowess (1.6 blocks per game), make Washington State a well-rounded and formidable opponent.

Craig's 5 Free Expert Picks - Saturday 12/3/22

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