BALL STATE CARDINALS @ SMU

SMU’s fast start has come with progress on both ends

The Mustangs are 3-0, and their scoring has climbed while points allowed have dropped in each game, giving them momentum entering their fourth game of the homestand.

Toombs provides a productive interior presence

Jaden Toombs had 18 points, nine rebounds and three steals against Prairie View A&M and is averaging 12.3 points and seven rebounds through three games.

SMU’s offense creates chances at the line

The Mustangs are averaging 23 assists and 25 made free throws per game, ranking among Division I’s leaders in both categories; that ball movement and free-throw volume will test Ball State’s defensive discipline.

Blake enters after back-to-back 20-point games

Sean Blake scored 20 points and added five assists in Ball State’s win over Brescia, matching his previous game’s scoring total.

McGrew has supplied early rebounding

Freshman forward Kai McGrew is averaging 6.3 rebounds through three games, including a 10-board performance against Brescia, which could help Ball State limit SMU’s second-chance opportunities.

Pick Ideas

Angles drawn from the matchup analysis above and refreshed as the news changes. They are a separate read from the LineCrush pick for this matchup, so the two can land on different sides.

Ball State plus the points

Consider Ball State +23.5 or better; the large spread leaves room for a competitive finish to cash even if SMU controls most of the game.

Under, but shop for the number

A cautious under lean makes more sense at 154.5 than at a lower total, so compare prices and pass if the number falls too far.