Both VCU and Richmond are enjoying strong seasons in the Atlantic 10. VCU is 5-1 in league play, tied for first with Dayton and Saint Louis. Richmond is a game back at 4-2 in the Atlantic 10.

This is an in-state rivalry with each team ranking among the top 57 defensively. Points should be hard to come by. I was a bit surprised to see Richmond open as a home 'dog. Early marketplace activity has nudged the Rams a little higher. So I'm going to stick with my power ratings and back the Spiders.

Richmond defeated VCU, 75-64, in the Atlantic 10 Tournament when the teams last met this past March.

The Spiders are tough at home winning nine of 10 times. Their lone loss was a three-point setback to Wichita State two months ago. VCU is 2-3 SU and ATS in its road games. The Rams have failed to cover in six of their last eight away contests.

The home team has covered seven of the past nine times in the series.