ALBANY GREAT DANES @ HOLY CROSS CRUSADERS

Albany needs a better opening stretch

Albany trailed Dartmouth 49-36 at halftime and still lost 85-76 after outscoring the Big Green in the second half; avoiding another early deficit will matter on the road.

Engen and Jones anchor the scoring

Engen and Jones average 18.0 and 16.8 points, respectively, through Albany's first four games; their offense will be central against a Holy Cross defense that has struggled early.

Perimeter shooting remains a concern for Albany

Albany has made 21 of 76 three-pointers (27.6%) through four games; better outside accuracy could help keep the Crusaders from packing the paint.

Rebounding could favor the visitors

Albany averages 38.0 rebounds per game, while Holy Cross opponents average 45.3 through three games; Albany's frontcourt could make second chances matter.

Holy Cross is still searching for its first win

Holy Cross is 0-3 after losses to Rhode Island, Villanova and Furman, most recently an 80-67 home defeat to Furman.

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.

Albany moneyline only at plus money

Consider Albany outright only at plus money; otherwise wait for a spread, since no widely posted sportsbook line was available.

Holy Cross team total under 72.5

Lean under 72.5 on Holy Cross's team total, which has averaged 64.0 points through three games; keep the stake modest given the small sample.

Ollie Engen assists over 4.5, if offered

Engen averages 5.5 assists, supporting an over 4.5 look if offered; confirm the posted line before betting.