Central Michigan at Louisiana Tech

Both of these schools had a great season with the Chippewas garnering 23 wins, while LA tech logged 25. They find themselves a step below where they had hoped to be playing, as they square off in the opening round of the NIT. Central Michigan may benefit from the increased pace here with the NIT using an experimental 30 second shot clock. The Chippewas' top two scorers are both connecting at 50% or better from the field. LA tech has a pair of 15 point scorers, but the difference is they both shoot 43% or less, and in an increased tempo game, I think the edge goes to CMU as they have better shooters at the top. The Bulldogs have been 0-4 ATS in their last four at home, have been a bit over rated, and the Chips have gone 4-0 ATS in their last four after a spread loss. Take Central Michigan in this one.