Louisiana Tech Bulldogs vs Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Picks and Predictions for Friday, January 2, 2026

By: David Anicetti Published 01/02/2026, 12:45 AM ET

Louisiana Tech is 8-4 overall and 1-0 in Conference USA entering Friday’s matchup versus Middle Tennessee. The Bulldogs are coming off a 75-63 home win over UTEP. Middle Tennessee is 7-5 overall and also 1-0 in CUSA, but the Blue Raiders are coming off a 69-60 road loss at Houston. Cash a winning ticket with our free college basketball picks.

Louisiana Tech vs Middle Tennessee Game Information

Date: Friday, January 2
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Location: Murphy Center, Murfreesboro, TN
TV: ESPN+

Louisiana Tech Bulldogs Outlook

Louisiana Tech scores 71.8 points per game and relies on steady guard play to keep the offense organized. AJ Bates leads the Bulldogs with 12.1 points per game and also runs the offense with 6.3 assists per game. DJ Dudley also averages 12.1 points per game, while Kaden Cooper provides inside production with 11.4 points and a team-high 8.7 rebounds per game. Louisiana Tech shoots 46% from the field and limits turnovers with controlled offensive sets.

Defensively, Louisiana Tech is the strength of this matchup, allowing just 56.1 points per game. The Bulldogs protect the rim with 4.7 blocks per game and create pressure with 7.6 steals per game. Rebounding is another advantage, as Louisiana Tech pulls down 42.2 rebounds per game. Turnovers could improve at 12.5 per game.

Key Stats Per Game

Points: 71.8
Points Allowed: 56.1
Rebounds: 42.2
Assists: 13.3
Steals: 7.6
Blocks: 4.7
Turnovers: 12.5

Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Outlook

Middle Tennessee averages 76.5 points per game and spreads scoring across several players. Kamari Lands leads the team at 13.0 points per game, while Torey Alston anchors the interior with 12.3 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. Sean Smith averages 10.3 points per game and leads the team in assists at 3.5, giving the Blue Raiders a steady option in half-court offense. Middle Tennessee shoots 44% from the field and looks to score early in possessions.

Subscribe Now

I authorize Picks And Parlays to send me promotional emails

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.

Terms & Conditions

On defense, Middle Tennessee allows 71.2 points per game and has struggled to keep opponents off the glass. The Blue Raiders average 5.1 blocks per game, but rebounding has been an issue at 38.0 boards per game. Turnovers sit at 11.8 per game.

Key Stats Per Game

Points: 76.5
Points Allowed: 71.2
Rebounds: 38.0
Assists: 14.2
Steals: 6.4
Blocks: 5.1
Turnovers: 11.8

Louisiana Tech Bulldogs vs Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders Prediction

Louisiana Tech wins this matchup by controlling the tempo and limiting Middle Tennessee’s scoring opportunities with disciplined half-court defense. The Bulldogs’ rebounding edge and lower points allowed per game will create a late lead. Middle Tennessee will struggle to generate consistent offense against pressure and give up too many second chances inside. Final Score Prediction: Louisiana Tech Bulldogs win and cover ATS, 72-66. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for Louisiana Tech with the Thrillz promo code. Make the most of your bets on Middle Tennessee by using the sportsbook promos. Make sure when you place your Middle Tennessee vs Louisiana Tech bet you are using the bet365 bonus code.

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