Fla. International Golden Panthers vs
UTEP MinersPredictions & Preview

UTEP Miners Favored to Defeat FIU Panthers in Conference USA Matchup

In this upcoming Conference USA matchup, the FIU Panthers will face off against the UTEP Miners in Texas. The Panthers have struggled this season with an 8-16 record, putting them out of contention for the postseason. On the other hand, the Miners hold a strong 16-7 record and are in the running for a postseason appearance. The game is set to tip off at 9:00 pm EST, with UTEP as the favored team with a -9 point spread that has remained unchanged. Keep reading for more information on this FIU at UTEP prediction.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Golden Panthers +335 | Miners -440
• Spread: Golden Panthers +9 (-110) | Miners -9 (-110)
• Total: Over/Under 142.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that UTEP will win straight-up is 81%.

Fla. International vs UTEP Stats

Fla. International Golden Panthers

The FIU Panthers suffered a loss to Louisiana Tech at home, dropping their season record to 8-16 overall. Despite a late rally, the Panthers couldn't overcome a 15-point halftime deficit. Jayden Brewer led the team in scoring with 15 points, while Jonathan Aybar, Dashon Gittens, and Ashton Williamson also contributed double-digit points. The Panthers struggled defensively, allowing the Bulldogs to shoot over 60 percent from the floor and outrebounding them 29-26. In terms of conference rankings, the Panthers are ninth in points per game and fifth in field goal shooting, but struggle defensively, ranking 10th in points allowed per game. Fla. International is ranked 243 in offense and 218 in defense, and holds a power ranking of 278. The team's shooting percentages and defensive metrics place them in the bottom half of the conference. Injuries continue to be a factor, with F Okechukwu Okeke out.

UTEP Miners Analysis

The UTEP Miners secured a 66-63 road win over New Mexico State, breaking a two-game losing streak and earning their first win at New Mexico State in 14 years. Head coach Joe Golding praised the team's performance, highlighting their fearless and united play. Devon Barnes led with 18 points, supported by Otis Frazier III with 16 points and nine rebounds. UTEP's strong defense held the Aggies to low shooting percentages and secured a slight rebounding advantage. With a 16-7 overall record and 6-4 in Conference USA, the Miners are on track for a postseason invitation. Offensively, the Miners rank eighth in the conference for points per game and are solid in field goal and three-point shooting. Defensively, they rank second in points allowed per game and perform well in field goal and three-point defense. Key player Ahamad Bynum is currently out due to injury. Overall, the Miners have a power ranking of 132 and are #227 for offense and #91 for defense. Their offensive stats include efficient shooting percentages and solid assist and turnover averages. Defensively, the Miners have strong rebounding and three-point defense. In their upcoming game against Fla. International, the Miners will look to continue their success on both ends of the court.

UTEP Poised for Victory Over Struggling FIU in Thursday Night Matchup

The University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) has demonstrated superiority in recent head-to-head meetings, emerging victorious in eight out of the last ten encounters. UTEP secured a notable eight-point victory in their first matchup against Florida International University (FIU) this season. This upcoming game holds significant importance for the Miners, who strive to enhance their chances of receiving an invitation to the NCAA Tournament or the NIT. FIU, on the other hand, has faced defeat in eight of their last ten games and has struggled defensively, especially against perimeter shots. With UTEP's strong 3-point shooting ranking and FIU's weak 3-point defense, the Miners are well-positioned to exploit this matchup. Additionally, FIU's poor performance on the road (1-8) combined with UTEP's motivated playing style makes a victory for the Miners likely. Based on these factors, UTEP, currently boasting an 11-9 Against The Spread (ATS) record, is a recommendable pick to improve to 12-9 ATS. The suggestion is to take UTEP in this Thursday night game.

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