The Big 12 schedule features another major clash on Saturday afternoon as two ranked teams face off in one of college basketball's most challenging arenas. No. 13 BYU travels to Lawrence to compete against No. 14 Kansas at Allen Fieldhouse, a place that has historically overwhelmed many skilled opponents. This sets us up with some intriguing #13 BYU vs. #14 Kansas predictions.

The Jayhawks are on a winning streak, BYU is seasoned from tough games, and the betting line indicates just how closely matched this game is expected to be. With top-tier freshmen, differing playing styles, and important conference implications, this matchup has the makings of a classic that could hinge on the last possession.

 

 

 

#13 BYU vs. #14 Kansas Predictions for NCAAB on ESPN, 1/31

BYU comes into Saturday with a 17-3 record and a 5-2 standing in Big 12 competition, firmly in the running for the conference title. The Cougars nearly defeated No. 1 Arizona earlier this week and continue to prove they are among the nation’s best.

Kansas, on the other hand, holds a 15-5 overall record and has regained its momentum after a shaky start to the conference season, winning four consecutive games and reestablishing its home court advantage.

Oddsmakers have made Kansas the favorite, primarily due to the advantages of Allen Fieldhouse and the Jayhawks’ strong defensive capabilities. However, this isn’t a typical away game for BYU. The Cougars possess the offensive strength, star players, and strategic versatility to keep the game competitive well into the second half, which is precisely what our #13 BYU vs. #14 Kansas picks believe will happen.

 

 

 

#13 BYU vs. #14 Kansas Spread Pick: Cougars +3.5 (-102 at FanDuel Sportsbook)

Backing any team against Kansas in Lawrence demands strong belief, yet BYU +4.5 fulfills more criteria than the line implies. This spread isn't primarily about predicting an outright victory but rather about having faith in BYU to remain competitive for the full 40 minutes — and potentially clinch a win in the final moments.

The standout player is undoubtedly AJ Dybantsa. The freshman sensation has already demonstrated his ability to dominate games at the highest level, even when his shooting isn't particularly efficient.

In the game against Arizona, Dybantsa scored 24 points despite hitting only 6 of 24 shots, still making a significant impact as a playmaker and attracting constant defensive focus. His capacity to manipulate a defense without needing peak efficiency is precisely what keeps BYU in contention on the road.

Kansas will respond with its own top-tier young talent, including Darryn Peterson if he’s at full strength, along with a frontcourt led by Flory Bidunga. Bidunga has been a force inside, following up with a 21-point, 10-rebound game against Kansas State.

However, BYU senior Keba Keita poses one of the more challenging matchups Bidunga has encountered this season. Keita’s experience, physicality, and rebounding skills enable BYU to prevent being overrun on the boards, which is often where visiting teams struggle in Lawrence.

From a tactical perspective, BYU is adept at playing with pace and spacing the floor. The Cougars average nearly 87 points per game and shoot over 35% from beyond the arc, compelling Kansas to defend the entire half court. This is crucial against a Jayhawks defense that is proficient at rim protection but can be stretched when opponents consistently hit outside shots.

Kansas has shown strong defensive skills, ranking among the top in the nation for field-goal percentage allowed and three-point defense. However, BYU's high-volume shooting and offensive rebounding provide them with various opportunities to score. Even if the Cougars experience cold spells—as many teams do at Allen Fieldhouse—they are equipped to handle those periods without losing control of the game.

Additionally, there’s a situational factor that benefits BYU. The Cougars are coming off a strong performance against Arizona and are clearly on the verge of achieving a significant road victory. On the other hand, Kansas has had a favorable run at home and may not feel the same level of urgency at the start. If BYU gets off to a good start and prevents the crowd from fully influencing the game, this spread becomes even more advantageous.

In the end, this game seems likely to be decided by one or two possessions. Kansas might still manage to secure a win at home, but BYU’s talent and matchup strengths make +4.5 the favorable side in our #13 BYU vs. #14 Kansas predictions.

 

 

 

How To Watch #13 BYU vs. #14 Kansas NCAAB on ESPN

  • Date: Saturday, January 31, 2026
  • Time: 4:30 p.m. ET
  • TV: ESPN
  • Location: Allen Fieldhouse (Lawrence, KS)

 

 

 

#13 BYU vs. #14 Kansas Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

After sharing our #13 BYU vs. #14 Kansas predictions, we’re excited to provide the most recent #13 BYU vs. #14 Kansas odds from FanDuel Sportsbook for this thrilling matchup:

  • Money Line (ML): BYU Cougars +168 | Kansas Jayhawks -205
  • Spread: BYU Cougars +3.5 (-102) | Kansas Jayhawks -3.5 (-120)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 158.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

 

 

 

#13 BYU vs. #14 Kansas Injury Report & Latest News

BYU Injury Report

  • X. Staton (C) – Out, Undisclosed
  • K. Perry (G) – Out, Redshirt
  • D. Baker (G) – Out, Knee
  • N. Pickens (G) – Out, Undisclosed
  • B. Kozlowski (F) – Out, Redshirt

Kansas Injury Report

  • D. Peterson (G) – Probable, Ankle
  • W. Thengvall (G) – Questionable, Undisclosed

 

 

 

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