VCU vs. NC State, Picks and Prediction for Monday, November 17, 2025

The NC State Wolfpack (3-0) are hosting the VCU Rams (2-1) in an early non-conference battle. According to ESPN Bet, the Wolfpack opened up as 12.5-point favorites with the total posted at 166.5. Check out our free college basketball picks and more at Winners and Whiners.

Huge test for the Rams

The VCU Rams were No. 67 in the SI preseason rankings and third in the Atlantic 10. The Rams opened up the season with a 103-74 win over Wagner, followed by an 80-77 loss to Utah State, and a 78-61 victory over Saint Peter’s.

In the KenPom ratings, the VCU Rams are 64th overall. They are 30th in adjusted defensive efficiency and 89th in efficiency. The Rams are also 61st in three-point percentage (38.4%). The team has five players averaging double-figures in points. Jadrian Tracey leads the team with 13.3 ppg, followed by Tyrell Ward with 13 ppg, and Nyk Lewis with 11.7 ppg. Barry Evans leads the team with 27.3 minutes and has been strong all around with 7.3 ppg, 6.3 rpg, and 3.3 apg.

Leading the nation in scoring

In the Sports Illustrated preseason rankings, the NC State Wolfpack were selected No. 33 overall and fifth in the ACC, meaning a NCAA Tournament run is an expectation.

To begin the season, NC State has run off three straight wins, knocking off North Carolina Central 114-66, UAB 94-70, and UNC Greensboro 110-64. The Wolfpack are rated 20th by KenPom. The team has shined on both ends of the floor, ranking 17th offensively and 29th on defense.

NC State is 17th in three-point shooting (44.1%). Darrion Williams, a 6’6 senior who played for Texas Tech last season, is averaging 21.7 points and 6.0 rebounds per game while shooting 64.7% from three-point range. Paul McNeil Jr, a returning 6’5 guard, is averaging 20.3 ppg and shooting 46.4% from three.

VCU Rams at NC State Wolfpack Predictions

ATS Pick for VCU vs. NC State

• NC State -12.5 (4 units)

The spread is large, but this will be a huge step up in class for VCU and also their first road game. The Wolfpack are first in the nation, averaging 106 ppg, but they have not yet faced an opponent who scored more than 70 points against them. With all of NC State’s offensive weapons and three-point shooting, I don’t think VCU will be able to keep this game close enough to cover.

Total Pick for VCU vs. NC State:

• Over 166.5 (4 units)

NC State has scored at least 94 points in every game this season, and VCU has scored at least 77 in each of its games. With NC State’s offensive explosiveness and VCU’s pace (19th) in adjusted tempo, I expect both teams to get plenty of scoring opportunities throughout this game.

Take the over.