Central Michigan Chippewas vs Western Michigan Broncos Picks and Predictions for Saturday January 24 2026
Use Code WWWC The Central Michigan Chippewas head to Kalamazoo to face the Western Michigan Broncos on Saturday, January 24, 2026, with tipoff scheduled for 6:00 PM ET at University Arena. This Mid-American Conference matchup will be streamed on ESPN+. Western Michigan opens as the home favorite at -192 on the moneyline, while Central Michigan is priced at +160. The Broncos are laying 4.5 points on the spread, and the total is set at 150.5 points with both the Over and Under priced at -110. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more MAC betting coverage and daily analysis.
Central Michigan Searching for Answers on the Road
Central Michigan enters this rivalry matchup with a 5-14 overall record and has endured a difficult stretch of conference play. The Chippewas have recently lost to Ball State, Miami (OH), Akron, and Toledo, while also recently winning over Kent State. That lone win shows Central Michigan is capable of competing, but consistency has been hard to find, especially away from home where defensive issues have been magnified.
Statistically, Central Michigan averages 71.8 points per game while allowing 79.3, a margin that explains many of their recent losses. The Chippewas shoot a respectable 45% from the field and average 15.0 assists per game, indicating that ball movement is not a major issue. However, defensive lapses and poor transition defense have often erased any offensive progress they make.
One area where Central Michigan does show some promise is rim protection. The Chippewas average 4.3 blocks per game, which has helped them stay competitive in spurts. They also average 6.3 steals per contest, though that pressure has not consistently translated into fast-break points. Against a Western Michigan team that prefers to play with pace, Central Michigan’s defensive efficiency—or lack thereof—will be tested throughout the game.
Get Free $30 Credit for Premium Picks + Exclusive Discounts
Subscribe Now
Western Michigan Looking to Capitalize at Home
Western Michigan comes into Saturday’s matchup with a 7-12 overall record and has also struggled to string together positive results. The Broncos have recently lost to Bowling Green, Akron, Massachusetts, and Miami (OH), while their lone recent win came against Eastern Michigan. Despite the recent losses, Western Michigan has been more competitive at home, where their offensive tempo tends to increase.
Offensively, the Broncos average 75.9 points per game while allowing 79.6. Like Central Michigan, Western Michigan shoots 45% from the field but holds an advantage on the glass with 37.4 rebounds per game. That rebounding edge can be critical in a matchup where both teams struggle defensively and second-chance points could swing momentum.
Western Michigan’s offensive identity is built around balance rather than efficiency. The Broncos average 14.1 assists per game and prefer to spread the floor, though defensive pressure has been an issue. With just 2.7 blocks and 5.2 steals per game, Western Michigan often relies on scoring rather than stops to stay in games. Against a Central Michigan team that allows nearly 80 points per game, that approach could prove effective.
Central Michigan Chippewas vs Western Michigan Broncos Pick
Central Michigan Chippewas vs Western Michigan Broncos Spread Pick
- Western Michigan -4.5 (-115)
Western Michigan’s rebounding advantage and home-court edge make the Broncos the preferred side in this matchup. Both teams struggle defensively, but Western Michigan’s ability to generate extra possessions on the glass gives them a clear path to covering a modest number. Central Michigan’s road issues and inconsistent defensive execution further support laying the points with the home team.
Central Michigan Chippewas vs Western Michigan Broncos Total Pick
- Over 150.5 (-110)
I’m backing the Over in this matchup because both teams allow nearly 80 points per game and play at a pace that encourages scoring runs. Neither side consistently generates stops, and both are comfortable pushing the ball in transition. With limited defensive resistance expected, this game profiles as a back-and-forth contest that pushes the total past the number.
Final Score Prediction: Western Michigan 78, Central Michigan 72
Betting on College Basketball?
- Join Winners and Whiners 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
