Gold Standard on Texas Tech
It has been a great run for coach Calipari and Arkansas, but they will meet their match here against Texas Tech. The Red Raiders are the complete package and will utilize their physicality in the paint to continue to get points close to the basket. Yes, Adou Thiero is back for the Razorbacks, but Calipari admits his time could very well be limited though they need him to counter the Red Raiders attack. Importantly, the announcement didn’t move the line. The biggest edge will be on the offensive boards where Tech has been tough all season and will take advantage of Arkansas who allows 9.3 offensive boards a game. Texas Tech averages 80.8 points per game while allowing 67.6 for a 14.2 positive margin. The team shoots 47% from the field and features four double-digit scorers led by the 18.1 from sophomore forward J.T. Toppin. The team is strong on the glass with 36.7 boards including 10 offensively. Additionally, they are one of the most efficient teams with a 16.7 assist to 9.7 turnover ratio and hit their freebies 76.4% of the time. The Raiders finished 8th on KenPom with an adjusted efficiency margin of +28.31 and a deliberate pace of 66 possessions per 40 minutes. Additionally, Tech is great from the line where they hit 76.4% of their shots which matters for a cover if the game is within reach for Arkansas. Lay the 5 here with Texas Tech.