NCAAB odds, pick: Kansas vs. Kansas State betting guide for Monday, Feb. 5

Kansas Jayhawks

The Jayhawks could not miss against the Cougars, and at one point held a 21-point lead. But after a big offensive performance, there is always a risk of a letdown.

Kansas ranks in the top 20 in adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency. On paper, the Jayhawks should not have any issues defending the Wildcats.

Although Kansas' offense led the charge against Houston, it was an impressive defensive effort as well. The Jayhawks continue to be disciplined at that end of the floor and do not allow their opponents to get to the free-throw line often.

Despite the big win at home, the Jayhawks have negative regression looming on the offensive side of the ball. Per ShotQuality, Kansas is 255th in Rim and 3-rate, which suggests the Jayhawks are not taking a lot of quality shot attempts. But Bill Self's team is No. 1 in the country in assists per field goals made, as they continue to be unselfish with the ball.

Big man Hunter Dickinson has to step up for his team against a solid interior defense of the Wildcats. As skilled as Dickinson is, there are moments throughout the season when he has been hot or cold.

The Jayhawks are the side to back in this game, but I am weary about their offensive regression. However, their defense is in for another strong showing.

Kansas State Wildcats

Kansas State's offense has a lot of work to do. The Wildcats turn the ball over too often and struggle mightily from 3-point land.

They are in the middle of the pack in adjusted offensive efficiency, which is not good enough against a strong Jayhawks defense. Kansas State is a good offensive rebounding squad, but Kansas is strong on the defensive glass.

The Wildcats' offense is slower paced, and they have to play that way to lower the offensive variance. Their 3-point attempts per game suggest they might be due for some slight fortune, but the numbers most likely reflect that they are not a talented shooting team. Creighton transfer Arthur Kaluma has been a great addition, and he is the one starter shooting over 36% from distance.

Kansas State's defense is going to have to win this game, which is not out of the question. The Wildcats are catching the Jayhawks at the right time, and their home-court advantage usually pays big dividends in these situational spots. The key to the matchup will be if forward David N'Guessan is healthy enough to play, as he is questionable. N'Guessan is a good defender who blocks a ton of shots, which is massive in a game against Dickinson.

Kansas vs. Kansas State

Betting Pick & Prediction

I do not have confidence in either team in this matchup, so the best approach is to target the total. Both of these offenses are due for negative regression, so I'm betting the Under.

The Wildcats' defense is a strong unit that feeds off their raucous home crowd. Their offense has struggled mightily, and their plan might be to slow the game to a complete crawl. As for the Jayhawks, it wouldn't be surprising if they win big, but their offense is not going to be the reason for that.

This is definitely a flat spot for Kansas coming off a big win, and Kansas State is desperate to get its season back on track. There should be valiant defensive efforts from both teams and this matchup should safely go under the total.

Pick: Under 143.5