The Virginia Tech Hokies (14-10) have an upset on their mind as they face the seventh-ranked North Carolina Tar Heels (19-6) on Saturday, February 17 at 2:00 PM ET at the Dean E. Smith Center in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The Tar Heels are moderately favored to win at home, with a point spread at -10.5 (-110).

The Hokies have gone 2-3 in their last five games and were able to snap their three-game win streak with a recent win. This was an 83-75 showing over the Florida State Seminoles.

Guard performance will play a crucial role, with Sean Pedulla leading the Longhorns in scoring with 15.8 points and 4.5 assists per game. He maintains a 40.7 percent shooting accuracy from the field and a 79.2 percent success rate from the foul line.

The Hokies consistently score an average of 74.3 points, showcasing a 46.3 percent field goal success rate. Their effective teamwork is reflected in an average of 15.2 assists per game, providing numerous scoring opportunities.

On the defensive end, they hold opponents to 69.7 points, resulting in a favorable point differential. Key defensive stats include 32.6 rebounds, 2.5 blocks, and 5.3 steals per game.

The Tar Heels are 2-3 over their last five performances and need to find consistency as they are back home. Their most recent battle was an 86-79 defeat against the Syracuse Orange, as they allowed the Orange to shoot 62.5 percent from the field.

RJ Davis spearheads the team's offensive efforts, boasting an average of 21.4 points per game, a 43.1 percent field goal accuracy, and an impressive 90.8 percent success rate in free throws. His early impact has the potential to sway the game in their favor.

The Tar Heels consistently score an average of 82.3 points, showcasing a notable 44.9 percent shooting accuracy. To enhance their offensive capabilities, they should prioritize improving ball movement, as their current average of 14.5 assists per game slightly lags behind their opponents.

On the defensive end, they hold opponents to an average of 71.0 points per game, providing a considerable safety margin compared to their offensive output. Furthermore, they demonstrate prowess with averages of 41.0 rebounds, 4.1 blocks, and 6.0 steals per game, underscoring their versatile ability to disrupt opposing teams.

Bookmaker displays the betting odds for the college basketball game, with the North Carolina Tar Heels favored by 10.5 points. Market analysis suggests an 85.2 percent probability of their victory when competing on their home court. Look for the Tar Heels to find success at home.