Loyola Chicago Ramblers vs Davidson Wildcats Picks and Predictions for Thursday March 12 2026
Use Code PPWC
The Loyola Chicago Ramblers and Davidson Wildcats meet in the Atlantic 10 Championship 2nd Round on Thursday, March 12, 2026, at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:30 PM ET with television coverage on USA Network. Davidson enters the matchup as a -6.5 favorite, while Loyola Chicago is listed at +6.5, and the total for the game is 132.5 according to DraftKings. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more daily predictions and betting insights.
Ramblers Carry Confidence After Opening Round Upset
The Loyola Chicago Ramblers enter this matchup with a 9-23 overall record and a 4-14 mark in Atlantic 10 play this season. Loyola Chicago advanced to the second round of the Atlantic 10 Championship after defeating Richmond 75-67 in the first round. Over their last five games, the Ramblers have recently won over Richmond twice and George Washington, while also recently losing to Saint Louis and Saint Joseph’s.
Loyola Chicago averages 66.8 points per game while allowing 76.1 points per game this season. The Ramblers shoot 42% from the field, collect 33.8 rebounds per game, and average 13.8 assists per contest. Defensively, Loyola Chicago contributes 3.8 blocks and 4.1 steals per game, often relying on interior defense and rebounding to stay competitive.
In their first-round victory over Richmond, Joshua Ola-Joseph delivered a huge performance with 26 points and also grabbed 7 rebounds, leading Loyola Chicago on both ends of the floor. The Ramblers shot an impressive 53% from the field and 39% from three-point range, showing strong offensive efficiency in the win. However, Loyola Chicago now faces a short turnaround against a rested Davidson team after playing the night before.
Sign Up Get $30 Premium Picks Credit + Exclusive Offers
Subscribe Now
Wildcats Enter Tournament With Defensive Edge
The Davidson Wildcats enter this matchup with a 19-12 overall record and a 10-8 mark in Atlantic 10 play, earning a bye into the second round of the conference tournament. Over their last five games, Davidson has recently won over St. Bonaventure, La Salle, and Duquesne, while also recently losing to Saint Joseph’s and Fordham.
Davidson averages 72.4 points per game while allowing 67.6 points per game this season. The Wildcats shoot 46% from the field, collect 33.3 rebounds per game, and average 13.8 assists per contest. Defensively, Davidson contributes 4.2 blocks and 6.6 steals per game, often using disciplined half-court defense to limit opponents.
In their most recent game, Davidson defeated St. Bonaventure 68-63 behind a balanced effort. Sam Brown led the Wildcats with 15 points, while Hunter Adam led the team with 7 rebounds. Davidson held St. Bonaventure to just 37% shooting from the field, showcasing their defensive discipline. With the rest advantage and strong defensive metrics, Davidson will aim to control the tempo in this matchup.
Loyola Chicago Ramblers vs Davidson Wildcats Pick
Loyola Chicago Ramblers vs Davidson Wildcats Spread Pick
- Pick: Davidson Wildcats -6.5
Davidson enters this matchup with the rest advantage and one of the stronger defenses in the Atlantic 10. Loyola Chicago played well in the opening round but now faces a more disciplined opponent after a quick turnaround. With Davidson’s ability to limit scoring opportunities and control the pace, the Wildcats should be able to create separation late.
Loyola Chicago Ramblers vs Davidson Wildcats Total Pick
- Pick: Under 132.5
I like the under in this matchup because Davidson prefers a slower tempo and consistently holds opponents to under 70 points per game. Loyola Chicago has struggled offensively throughout the season and may have difficulty sustaining the shooting efficiency it showed in the first round. With both teams leaning toward half-court basketball, the total could stay under the number.
Final Score Prediction: Davidson 68, Loyola Chicago 59
Betting on College Basketball?
- Join Picks and Parlays premium for free and get a free $30 coupon with code FREE30
- Get started and wager on college hoops today with our favorite online sportsbooks
- Claim a CBB betting bonus offer with the best sportsbook promos
Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win
New Users – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days
New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $200 in Bonuses Instantly!
