Saint Joseph’s vs Colorado State: Expert Predictions & Odds for NIT Matchup

Colorado State will host Saint Joseph’s in the first round of the NIT at Moby Arena in Fort Collins. Tip-off is Wednesday, March 18, 2026, at 11:00 p.m. ET on ESPNU.

Betting analyst Jason Ence updated his preview on Mar. 18, 2026. He predicts a low-scoring game and favors the Under 145 (-110) as his top play.

Defenses set the tone

Saint Joseph’s has built its season identity on defense. The Hawks rank 34th in opponent effective field-goal percentage.

They also protect the paint well. Opponents shoot just 53.8% near the rim against Saint Joseph’s.

Colorado State counters with strong interior defense. The Rams sit 43rd in block rate and 42nd in adjusted defensive efficiency.

Offensive profiles and matchups

Colorado State features a balanced scoring group. Seven players average between 12.2 and 8.1 points per game.

Its perimeter shooting is a major weapon. The Rams rank among the leaders in three-point rate and accuracy.

Saint Joseph’s, however, has struggled against top-tier opponents. The Hawks are 0-4 versus Quad-1 teams this season.

How that impacts the NIT matchup

The Hawks limit opponent efficiency but they lack consistent offense. Saint Joseph’s has trouble getting to the free-throw line and shooting from deep.

Colorado State has been competitive against quality opponents, going 3-5 vs. Quad-1 and Quad-2 teams. Still, the Rams play at a very slow adjusted tempo.

Why the under is the recommended bet

Saint Joseph’s has seen the Under hit frequently. The Under is 16-9 in the Hawks’ last 25 games.

Combined defensive strengths and a slow pace point to fewer possessions. That supports Ence’s Under 145 pick for the NIT matchup.

Same-game parlay and player props

• Same-game parlay: Under 145 and Colorado State -6.5.
• Player three-point props included Carey Booth over 0.5, Jase Butler over 1.5.
• Also in the SGP: Jevin Muniz over 0.5 and Brandon Rechsteiner over 2.5 threes.

Odds and viewing information

At publication, the lines showed Colorado State favored by 5.5 points. The listed moneyline was Colorado State -260 and Saint Joseph’s +210.

The market posted an over/under near 143.5. Odds were subject to change after publishing.

Notable betting trends

Saint Joseph’s has covered the first-half spread in 22 of its last 25 games. That trend has produced +18.40 units and a 64% return on investment.

Filmogaz.com will monitor injury news and line movement before puck drop. Check updated odds and injury reports before placing a wager.