Tennessee State vs Iowa State Picks and Predictions for Friday March 20 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 03/20/2026, 12:35 AM ET

The Tennessee State Tigers and Iowa State Cyclones meet on Friday, March 20, 2026, at the Enterprise Center in St. Louis, Missouri. Tip-off is scheduled for 2:50 PM ET with television coverage on CBS. Iowa State enters this matchup as a heavy -8000 favorite with a total set at 148.5 and a spread of Iowa State -24.5. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more expert predictions and daily betting insights.

Tigers Bring Winning Form into a Steep Challenge

Tennessee State comes into this game with a 23-9 overall record and has been competitive away from home this season. In their last five games, the Tigers have recently won over Morehead State, UT Martin twice, Southeast Missouri State, and SIUE, entering the tournament on a strong winning streak.

Offensively, Tennessee State averages 80.5 points per game while allowing 73.3 points per contest. They shoot 46% from the field and collect 38.0 rebounds per game while adding 13.2 assists per contest. Defensively, they are active with 9.4 steals per game and contribute 3.6 blocks per contest.

The Tigers’ biggest strength is their defensive pressure, particularly their ability to generate turnovers. Their aggressive style can disrupt opponents, but they will need to be efficient offensively to keep pace in this matchup.

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

Cyclones Bring Elite Defense and Balance

Iowa State enters this matchup with a 27-7 record and has been strong across all settings this season. In their last five games, the Cyclones have recently lost to Arizona but secured wins over Texas Tech and Arizona State twice, along with another dominant win over Arizona State, showing strong form overall.

The Cyclones average 81.8 points per game while allowing just 65.1 points per contest. They shoot 49% from the field and add 35.6 rebounds per game along with 17.2 assists per contest. Defensively, they force turnovers at a high rate with 9.0 steals per game.

Iowa State’s biggest strength is their defensive efficiency combined with balanced scoring. They can control games on both ends of the floor, making them a difficult matchup for most opponents.

Tennessee State vs Iowa State Pick

Tennessee State vs Iowa State Spread Pick

Iowa State -24.5

Iowa State’s defensive strength and overall talent advantage should allow them to control this game from start to finish. Their ability to force turnovers and convert offensively should create separation early and often.

Tennessee State vs Iowa State Total Pick

Under 148.5

I like the under in this game because Iowa State’s defense is strong enough to limit Tennessee State’s scoring opportunities. If the Cyclones control the tempo, this game could stay under the total.

Final Score Prediction: Iowa State 82, Tennessee State 54

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