Idaho Vandals vs Idaho State Bengals Picks & Prediction for Thursday January 15 2026
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The Idaho Vandals head to Reed Gym to take on the Idaho State Bengals in a Big Sky Conference matchup tipping off at 9:00 PM EST on ESPN+. With both teams hovering around .500 and the spread tight, this matchup looks set up for a competitive four quarters. Be ready to take on all the college basketball action with our free college basketball picks.
Idaho Vandals Preview: Efficient Scoring with Solid Balance
Idaho enters this contest with a 10-6 record and has been competitive in recent games, winning three of its last five. The Vandals are coming off a high-scoring win over Montana State and have shown the ability to execute late in close games.
Offensively, Idaho is averaging 81.5 points per game while allowing 73.5 points per game. They shoot 45% from the field, pull down 37.5 rebounds per game, and average 13.9 assists. Defensively, the Vandals contribute 2.1 blocks and 6.4 steals per game, helping them stay competitive even when the pace increases.
Idaho’s ability to score efficiently while controlling the glass has been a key factor in their success this season.
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Idaho State Bengals Preview: Defense and Rim Protection at Home
Idaho State comes in at 9-8 and has been inconsistent, but they remain dangerous at home. The Bengals snapped a skid with a road win over Northern Arizona and will look to build off that momentum.
The Bengals average 77.4 points per game and allow 73.7 points per game. They shoot an efficient 47% from the field, though they are outrebounded often at 33.6 rebounds per game. Idaho State averages 12.9 assists, but their defensive presence stands out with 4.4 blocks per game, giving them strong interior protection, along with 5.6 steals per contest.
That rim protection could be a difference-maker against an Idaho team that likes to attack inside.
Matchup Factors
- Idaho averages 81.5 points per game
- Idaho State shoots 47% from the field
- Idaho holds a +3.9 rebound advantage
- Idaho State averages 4.4 blocks per game
- Both teams are coming off close, high-energy games
Idaho vs Idaho State Prediction
ATS Pick: Idaho +3.5 (-105)
Idaho’s scoring consistency and rebounding edge should allow them to stay within the number. Even if Idaho State controls stretches defensively, Idaho has shown it can score late and keep games tight.
Total Pick: Over 150.5 (-108)
Both teams are capable of pushing the pace, and recent games for each side have leaned higher scoring. With Idaho averaging over 80 points per game, this total feels reachable.
Final Score Prediction
Idaho State 78, Idaho 75
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