This is an 8* PLAY on Texas Arlington.

I think that the 1-5 UTA Mavericks will comfortably sneak in through the back door with the large spread that they've been afforded in this one.

The Mavericks are averaging 63.2 PPG, while allowing 75.8. David Azore has been a bright spot, averaging 13.2 points and 3.7 boards per game.

The UC Santa Barbara Gauchos are 3-1. They're averaging 87.8 points and allowing 61.5. Amadou Sow is averaging 20.8 points and 7.8 boards per night.

The Gauchos are loaded with talent and experience, but I think they get caught flat-footed and complacent here vs. their lowly opponent.

UTA is 7-1 ATS in its last eight after a SU/ATS road loss in which it conceded 80 or more points in (lost 80-61 at USU.)

With Pepperdine coming to town in a couple of days, look for the home side to take the foot off the gas in the second half.

No outright, but closer than expected.

Grab the points, the play is TEXAS ARLINGTON.

Good luck, NP