Score Predictions for West Virginia vs. SMU

Our staff picks tonight's winner between the Mountaineers and Mustangs.

The West Virginia Mountaineers (2-1) open the Ft. Myers Tip-Off against the SMU Mustangs (3-1) Monday night at 8:30 and broadcasting on FS1. 

Schuyler Callihan: SMU 68, West Virginia 64

This is a very winnable game for the Mountaineers, especially if they can avoid multiple offensive droughts and foul trouble. However, I don't have a whole lot of confidence in this group beating a competitive mid-major on a neutral floor. It's a thin team that is still learning how to play to each others strengths and Eilert is still trying to find the best lineups. I expect WVU to only get better as the season moves along and they get additional help from Kriisa and potentially Battle. It's a toss-up game, but I'll go SMU.

Christopher Hall: SMU 72, West Virginia 63

It's no secret the Mountaineers lack depth, and the Mustangs will bring five off the bench. 

Butler transfer guard Chuck Harris leads the Mustangs, averaging 14.3 ppg, including coming off a 21-point performance against nationally ranked Texas A&M, and at six-foot-four, he is a tough matchup. 

West Virginia is led by Quinn Slazinki's 17.3 ppg followed by center Jesse Edwards' 14.3 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. 

The Mountaineers have the talent to win the game, but the key will be finishing the final minutes of the game which I believe they will not have the legs to make the plays at the end of the game. West Virginia has installed the 2-3 zone to help but it must be effective, which Harris is capable of shooting over the defense with Harris shooting 44.3% from three-point range. 

I have the mustangs pulling away late 72-63.

Spread & Over/Under Predictions for WVU vs. SMU

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