Howard vs Wagner Odds, Opening Spread, Predictions for 2024 NCAA Tournament

Howard vs. Wagner Odds

The 2024 NCAA Tournament field has been announced and the Howard Bison will take on the Wagner Seahawks in the First Four game. Here's everything you need to know about Howard vs Wagner odds, spread and more.

Wagner opened as a 3-point favorite over Howard in the first round off the NCAA Tournament, with the total set at over/under 127.5 points scored by both teams combined.

Find out how 10-seeded Howard and 10-seeded Wagner matchup statistically ahead of their opening round matchup.

Statistical Matchup

Howard vs. Wagner Analysis

The 16-vs-16 seed matchup in the first four is always one of my favorite aspects of the NCAA Tournament. Some stand-alone screen time for a pair of conference champions never hurts.

This time, the Howard Bison from the MEAC face the Wagner Seahawks from the NEC.

Howard cobbled together three huge wins in the MEAC tournament against all odds — the Bison had just seven available players for the three-game set. I’m unsure if the status of Shy Odom, Dom Campbell or Jelani Williams changed, but I’m operating as if they won’t play.

Howard and Wagner play contrasting styles.

The Seahawks' defense is significantly better (171st nationally in defensive efficiency) than Howard's (334th).

On the contrary, Howard’s offense is significantly better (192nd nationally in offensive efficiency) than Wagner’s (334th).

So, what’s the key here?

Shooting.

The Bison attempt 3s on 38% of field goal attempts, connecting on 39.7% (17th nationally.) If the shot doesn’t fall, Howard grabs an offensive rebound on 33% of misses.

That said, Wagner typically excels at containing 3’s, as opponents shoot only 29% from deep against them.

I’m expecting big scoring performances from big man Seth Towns and sharpshooting lefty Marcus Dockery to break Wagner’s trend of stopping shooters. Both came up huge in Howard’s miraculous MEAC run, so look for more of the same excellence here.

The Seahawks' offense is just a brutal watch. It carved up Merrimack’s zone in the NEC title game, but it’s been a brutal season in the scoring department.

I think it finally comes back to haunt them.

Rolling Bison to move on.

–Scott Schaeffer

For more coverage of the 2024 NCAA Tournament and Selection Sunday, make sure to check out our experts' live reactions to the bracket reveal and the Selection Sunday live show, where you can get their instant analysis on every matchup as well as some early insights to help you make your bets.