Virginia Cavaliers vs SMU Mustangs Betting Trends

The upcoming clash on January 17, 2026, between the Virginia Cavaliers and SMU Mustangs at Moody Coliseum in Dallas, TX, promises an exciting chapter in the 2025-26 NCAAB season. Virginia enters with a strong 15-2 record and an impressive 11-6 against the spread, showcasing their ability to control games defensively, allowing just 68.2 points per game. The Cavaliers shoot 37% from beyond the arc and average 84.7 points per game, highlighting their offensive efficiency. Meanwhile, SMU holds a solid 13-4 record, boasting an undefeated 11-0 home record, but they split evenly ATS at 8-8-1. They average 88.4 points per game with a 35.7% 3-point shooting percentage, indicating a slightly higher scoring pace.

Key starters for Virginia include their core lineup known for balanced scoring and stout defense, with no major injury concerns reported, ensuring a full-strength squad. SMU’s starting five is also intact, with a questionable player likely to participate, which should maintain their offensive threat. The betting trends suggest Virginia is favored by -1.5 points with odds at -115 at BetOnline, while the total point line sits at 152.5, favoring the over at -110.

Comparing the teams, Virginia's superior defensive rating (98.18) versus SMU’s 103.92 and higher 3-point shooting percentage gives them an edge in controlling the game tempo. However, SMU's home dominance and slightly higher scoring average make this a finely balanced contest. These betting insights combined with game stats, including recent performances and player availability, provide valuable information for making a smart wager. The game will be broadcast on ESPN2, allowing fans and bettors to catch all the action live.

For more context, check out their last encounter on January 15, 2025, where SMU edged out Virginia 54-52 in a tight contest. The Cavaliers’ strong away ATS record and SMU's home prowess are detailed in our NCAAB standings page, which can help bettors evaluate trends and place informed bets. Don’t miss the chance to leverage these betting trends and game insights for your next wager.