We like the College of Charleston Cougars to defeat the Southern Illinois Salukis on Monday at 12:00pm ET for a number of reasons. Here are some of the more important ones:

Charleston won the CAA conference tournament for the second time in as many years last season.

Returning zero starters, Southern Illinois might need some time to get used to playing with each other.

The Cougars will once again be a dominant force in the front court with Ante Brzovic back for another year after winning the CAA player of the year a year ago.

The Salukis have not fared well against the spread vs CAA opponents recently as they are 0-5 ATS in their last five.

Before losing in March Madness, Charleston had won 12 straight games. They'll be eager to start strong on Monday to open the year.

This line isn't respecting the B2B CAA champs one bit. Lay the small number.

AAA Sports