An excellent SEC showdown awaits as the LSU Tigers (12-9) aim to shock the sixth-ranked Tennessee Volunteers (16-5) on Wednesday, February 7 at 7:00 PM ET. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook has the Volunteers as heavy favorites, currently sitting with a point spread at -14.0 (-112).

When: February 8, 2024 at 7:00 PM ET

Where: Thompson-Boling Arena in Knoxville, Tennessee

Watch: SECN

LSU Tigers Preview

The Tigers were finally able to put an end to their three-game losing skid when they defeated the Arkansas Razorbacks 95-74. Their success was driven by Will Baker, who accumulated 25 points and made nine out of 11 shots from the field.

Jordan Wright is crucial to their success each game, as he leads them in several key categories that could make an impact. These include 15.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game.

The Tigers score an average of 77.5 points per game, placing them 94th nationally. While their ball movement could improve with 12.5 assists per game, they create solid scoring opportunities. Their overall offensive efficiency stands at 147th, boasting a rating of 108.2.

Defensively, they rank 202nd nationally, allowing opponents 72.2 points per game. This showcases a slight margin of error compared to their offense each game. With 4.0 blocks and 9.0 steals, they may pose challenges for the Vols since their defensive efficiency ranks 130th and holds a rating of 100.8.

Tennessee Volunteers Preview

The Volunteers have been successful in four of their last five games. They were able to get back on track after a loss to the South Carolina Gamecocks, with a recent 103-92 victory over the (previously) 10th-ranked Kentucky Wildcats, with Josiah-Jordan James leading them with 26 points.

Dalton Knecht is in the driver’s seat for their offense, averaging 19.9 points per game and holding the 32nd spot nationally for his performance. He boasts a 48.2 percent success rate on shots and a 79.1 percent accuracy from the foul line.

The Vols score 79.6 points per game, ranking 56th nationally. Their offense showcases excellent ball movement with 17.0 assists per game, providing a greater chance for quality shots. They hold the 54th position in offensive efficiency with a rating of 112.8.

On the defensive end, they limit opponents to 67.1 points per game, securing the 64th spot nationally. With 4.7 blocks and 7.9 steals per game, their defensive efficiency is evident, boasting a rating of 95.1 and a 24th national ranking. Compared to their offense, they have a quality margin of safety to win each game.

Betting Odds

In this SEC showdown, ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook provides optimal odds for Tennessee sports bettors. The Tennessee Volunteers are strong favorites with a 93.0 percent winning probability at home, as per market analysis.

LSU Tigers: +690

Spread: +14.0 (-113)

Tennessee Volunteers: -1408

Spread: -14.0 (-112)

Total Points: Over 152.0 (-115), Under 152.0 (-110)

Photo Credit: © Jordan Prather-USA TODAY Sports