MAAC: Manhattan/Iona 6:00

The Pick: OVER 146.5 (play up to 149.5)

We cashed the FFP last week with Navy taking care of business in “The Yard” against Bucknell. This week, I am looking for some action in the MAAC. Instead of a side, I am looking at a total in the Manhattan vs. Iona matchup. Our previous total play missed by 3, with a go ahead 3 pointer to send the game into OT falls short by Furman against Miss. St.

The Manhattan Jaspers, led by 11th year Head Coach Steve Masiello, have not played since December 21. The Jasper attack is paced by ex-Marquette guard Jose Perez averaging 14 ppg. A great asset to this Manhattan squad is that they returned all 5 starters from last season, which means this group is very well seasoned and has built in chemistry.

The Iona Gaels, led by coaching legend Rick Pitino, have made headlines early this season with upset wins over ranked Alabama and Belmont. The Gaels Top-50 offensive attack, led by SMU transfer Tyson Jolly (15 ppg), have already shown they can hang with the best and are the favorite to win the conference. Iona will look to keep their Conference record perfect at home, moving to 5-0, cushioning their lead over Monmouth.

Both squads boast a Top 150 Offensive Efficiency rating (per TeamRankings.com) and a Top 130 rating in Possessions Per Game. It also adds an extra feather in the cap that The Gaels have cracked the Top 40 in Effective Possession Ratio, which means they make the most of their possessions count with points. The Gaels are 8-7 overall this season O/U, but it’s the Jaspers record that I am eyeing here. Manhattan is 8-2 to the over this season, 7-0 L7, and 6-0 in The Jaspers L6 road games.

Overall, I see some rust being shaken off here in the first 10 minutes for Manhattan. With this veteran group Masiello has on the court, they will shake off the cobwebs and find their rhythm. I see this total currently set at 146.5, which I feel is low considering the layoff. Iona will not lay off the pedal due to this being a conference game, which Manhattan will very much oblige. I can see this score getting into the 150’s, with FT shooting coming into play late. Masiello will have his troops ready to play and I believe this Jaspers team is just excited to get back playing some ball.

The Play: OVER 146.5 (play up to 149.5)