Kentucky Wildcats.

Game 543.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

Kentucky has dominated Louisville, taking three in a row, and eight of the last 10 overall meeting straight up, while covering eight of those 10 matchups, as well. Yes they've dominated them, folks. They also enter this matchup ranked ninth in the nation, while the home team here ranks 12th, and yet the Cardinals are favored. That cannot sit well with the Wildcats. While I think this is going to be a very competitive matchup, I really do feel it will be a lot closer than this pointspread. Both teams have easy nonconference opponents up next before taking on some solid opposition. I do feel both will come out here and play hard, but giving Kentucky points, especially when they've dominated this rivalry, I feel as a gift. Take the Wildcats. Thank you.

Texas Longhorns.

SURE SHOT play.

Game 306566.

12:00 PM PST/3:00 PM EST.

The Lafayette Leopards have already played two games thus far this early in the regular season. They opened up the campaign on the road covering a 13.5-point spread as an underdog, losing to Saint Joe's, 85-76. Then two days later, devoured Dickinson College, by 35-points. I think we can all agree this is a big step up in class today for the team. Having said that, Texas began this season getting blown out by Duke back on November 4, 75-60. If you recall they finished last season with back-to-back losses and no covers, losing by 11 to Tennessee, and then by six to Xavier. It’s time for them to get some self-esteem, folks. This team is starting this year's campaign just outside the top 25 rankings. They have something desperately to prove. If you recall last season, they opened up with an ugly eight-point loss on a neutral court as a 1.5-point favorite against the Ohio State Buckeyes. They then rattled off seven consecutive victories over some solid competition, and covered some big numbers against some nonconference lesser opposition. Does this sound familiar, my friends? They beat Houston Christian by 31, Chicago State by 47, Mississippi Valley State by 46, Delaware State by 22, Arkansas Pine Bluff by 44, New Orleans by 26, and Northwestern State by 24. They don't have a serious opponent until the 24th when they face Arizona State. Between now and then they have Lafayette, FDU, UMKC, and Rider. So, I don't think they're going to be caught in a look ahead situation, or sandwiched between anyone, because they have four easy opponents over the next several weeks, and they really do want to prove something being not ranked in the top 25 in the preseason polls. Lay the wood with the Longhorns. Thank you.

Oregon Ducks.

BEST BET play.

Game 740.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

Starting this season off just outside the top-25 bubble, cannot sit well with the Oregon Ducks. This is a very talented basketball team. They opened up this campaign, beating Hawaii at home, 60-59. My friends, they were a 12-point favorite in that game. 21 turnovers, and shooting an atrocious 2-of-16 from downtown, in their season opener, the Ducks must, I repeat, they must come out here and play superb basketball. Rice is coming off a 71-point home win over the College of Biblical Studies on Tuesday in their season-opener. They were just 13-19 last season, and trust me when I tell you, are in for a rude awakening here tonight. This is a team that closed last season going 2-15 straight up. They really didn't even go up against any solid superior opposition a seasonal ago outside of perhaps maybe a November 9 matchup with Florida State on a neutral court in which they did cover the 10-point spread, 73-65. The Ducks have a game in five days against the Jackrabbits of South Dakota State before a November 17 matchup against their in-state rival, the Beavers of Oregon State. After that they start facing some very tough opponents. This is their last opportunity to really get in rhythm, and bounce back from that horrible first game performance. A season ago, they began the campaign winning their first nine contests, and 12 of their first 13 games, and they are not afraid to run up scores against lesser opposition. As I mentioned earlier, they must improve on their statistics from their last game. This game gets ugly. Take Oregon. Thank you.

Ohio State Buckeyes.

No Limit Play.

Game 684.

3:30 PM PST/6:30 PM EST.

Purdue Fort Wayne opened up their 2025/2026 regular season on the road at Grand Canyon and took a beating, 90-71. As a matter of fact, going back to the first week of week of February, this team has only sported one straight up victory and one ATS victory. They have lost and failed to cover their last five games played on the road, and now must face an Ohio State opponent, looking to prove something as they start this season just outside the top 25 bubble. A season ago, the Buckeyes beat up all their lower-tear opponents at the start of the campaign, winning and covering a 19-pointspread over Youngstown State, 24.5 pointspread over Evansville, a 25-pointspread over Campbell, and also a 25-pointspread over Green Bay. They don't have a tough matchup until the 16th when they face the Irish of Notre Dame. So, this is one of their final opportunities to get in sync, and impress the pollsters. Take the Buckeyes. Thank you.

Drake Bulldogs.

Game 660.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

Drake opened up their regular season with a narrow, six-point victory over Northern Arizona as an eight-point favorite. If you recall this team was a force to be reckoned with a season ago, losing on March 22 to Texas Tech after four straight postseason victories. As a matter of fact, that was only their second loss since the first week of the New Year. They began last season's campaign rattling off 12 consecutive victories. They enjoy beating down lesser opponents. While Robert Moris also was a good team a season ago. They may not recover from the 32-point blowout beating they took at the hands of Iowa just two days ago. I just don't see this team competing with the superior level of talent they're facing once again here tonight. Take the Bulldogs. Thank you.

West Virginia Mountaineers.

Game 658.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

How about an early regular season matchup between Campbell and West Virginia? Wow, what can you say. You've got a pair of first-year head coaches here, both looking to make a name for themselves. John Andrzejek and Ross Hodge are running the show. You may remember the Campbell head coach as he served as an assistant on Florida 2025 National Championship team. The Fighting Camels lost their season opener on the road at Wisconsin, 96-64. Going back to last season that was their sixth consecutive loss and no cover, my friends. Meanwhile West Virginia took down Mount St. Mary's at home, 70-54, but failed to cover. They were also outrebounded in that contest. I expect the Mountaineers to come out with something to prove here against a lesser opponent, flex their muscles, and give the team and their fans something to get excited about. West Virginia takes no prisoners here tonight. Take the Mountaineers. Thank you.

Xavier Musketeers.

Game 306646.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

Well folks, the first game of Richard Pitino's start at Xavier was nothing to write home about. The Musketeers had their hands full the other night against Marist. They squandered a 20-point second half lead only to win by the slim margin of four-points. This is a team that enjoys beating up on early season nonconference opponents. They started last year's campaign off at 6-0 with victories over such notables as Wake Forest and South Carolina. Playing a team like Le Moyne, before they have to play at home against Santa Clara and then on the road against Iowa, tells me this team must get their ducks in a row. The Dolphins opened up their campaign with a lopsided 94-50 victory over SUNY Cobleskill. My friends, I'm from New York, and I know college basketball, and I had to think back to recall that team (LOL). Prior to that closing last season out, they lost five in a row, and only covered two of their last 10 contests. And let's face it, they don't face the toughest opposition. I feel the Musketeers must come out here getting in sync before their schedule toughens, and give themselves some confidence. Take Xavier. Thank you.

Michigan Wolverines.

CTB PLAY.

Game 862.

5:30 PM PST/8:30 PM EST.

Going back to 2007, these two teams has faced one another five times with the Wolverines prevailing in all five straight up, and covering four of the five. The most recent matchup back in 2020, saw Michigan eke out an overtime victory by only 10-points, as a 31.5-point favorite. The seventh-ranked Michigan team will begin their campaign off in Ann Arbor in front of their loyal fan base. They have great expectations this season following a Big Ten tournament title and a Sweet 16 appearance last season. Arguably, they possess the best front court in the country with potential NBA lottery pick Lendeborg, Mara, and Johnson. While Oakland has some strong players, they just don't possess the level of talent needed to compete in a matchup like this. A season ago this team started off 4-11 and lost every game they should've lost against superior opposition. It doesn't matter how big of a number, their opponent will win and cover this contest. Please remember the Golden Grizzlies are located in Auburn Hills, Michigan. It's not too far from Ann Arbor, and this is a rivalry. One thing the Wolverines do not like, is to share the spotlight in the state of Michigan. Take Michigan. Thank you.

Michigan State Spartans.

SLAM DUNK play.

Game 306516.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans enter the season ranked 22nd in the nation. This is a team that won 30 games last season, and the conference title, but did lose in the Elite Eight to the Auburn Tigers. It is true several of their top scorers from a season ago are gone, but reports are this team is as loaded as they've ever been. After four consecutive Patriot League championships, Colgate finish last season without the conference crown. They have some good players returning, but this is a team not near the same level of talent as their opponent here tonight. I mean they started last season off at 3-10 straight up, and fell way short against some teams they should've beaten. The Spartans are known to beat up lesser opponents earlier on in the campaign. Just last season their first two games were against Monmouth and Niagara, they won and covered both as 20 and a 30-point favorites. They usually schedule very beatable foes in the first game of the season to give the team some momentum, some confidence, and their loyal fans something to be excited about. I feel they will come out here with something to prove, and prove it. Take Michigan State. Thank you.

Duke Blue Devil's.

Game 680.

545 PM PST/8:45 PM EST.

There is no question both Houston and Duke have earned the right to be in the Final Four. They sported two of the best records in college basketball this season, and from their season-openers straight on through to the postseason, and into this Tournament they have dominated just about all comers. I think the big difference here would be depth and coaching. I give an edge in both of those categories to the Blue Devils. Yes, they also score a few more points on offense, are more accurate overall from the floor, and are better from the free-throw line as well. They're also a little bit stronger on the offensive glass, folks. I feel second-chance opportunities is going to be huge in this specific matchup. We all know how good the Cougars defense is, ranking No. 1 in the nation. But the Blue Devils “D” is just as frustrating. They're also just as tough on the defensive glass. Please understand, while I think Houston is one of the best teams in the nation, they've only been made an underdog once this entire season. That's got a weigh on them psychologically here. Oh, by the way, not only has Duke only lost one game since the end of November, they've also been covering quite a bit as well, as they finished their regular season covering seven straight games, and have covered four of their last five in the playoffs/postseason. Take Duke. Thank You.

Boise State Broncos.

Game 670.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

Sports fans, the seat CBC is proving to be an exciting Tournament, and today in the Butler/Boise State matchup, I think we're gonna’ see another good game. Butler just took down Utah on Monday, 86-84, as a 3.5-point underdog. That was only their second win and cover over their last seven games. Boise State took down George Washington on Monday with authority, crushing them by 30, 89-59 as an 8.5-point favorite. That was their eighth straight up victory over their last 10 outings, and their seventh cover during that span. I know the Bulldogs play in a more physical conference, and have three very strong forwards upfront. But the Broncos defense is stifling, yielding just 66.3-points per game, and when they have stepped out of their conference, they’ve held nonconference opponents scores very low. By the way, they also have a very strong front court of three starting forwards, and rotate in a few others. Believe it or not, they are also better on the offensive side in the scoring, shoot better from the free-throw line, are better from the three-point line, and superior at both ends of the court on the boards. Take Boise State here. Thank you.

Auburn Tigers.

Crusher Play.

Game 646.

2:05 PM PM PST/5:05 PM EST.

While Michigan State has played some very solid basketball recently, yesterday’s matchup against Mississippi blue-printed a way to actually beat them. And that way is tailor-made for Auburn to take advantage. It is by no accident the Tigers are the No. 1 seed in the south. This is a team that owns an overall record of 31-5, and has covered 20 of their 36 lined games this season. Both defenses can be frustrating. But the Auburn offense is more explosive, far superior, far more accurate, and better from downtown. They have a little bit more muscle upfront as well. I think that'll be a big difference here in this matchup take the Tigers. Thank you.

Tennessee Volunteers.

Hight Roller.

Game 647.

11:20 AM PST/2:20 PM EST.

Odds makers don't have to make a line sharp. They just have to make it enticing to take wagers on both sides of the game. That is the case in this matchup. While Houston deserves to be a small favorite here, Tennessee matches up with them very well. There is no question the Cougars are a fan favorite, thus compelling odds makers to inflate their numbers. They had some problems against Gonzaga and Purdue in this tournament. Meanwhile Tennessee absolutely devoured both UCLA and Kentucky in the Big Dance. Both teams score about the same. And yes, the Houston defense tops the nation. However, the Volunteers "D" isn't far behind them. They are just as frustrating, and just as good on the glass. This game is gonna’ come down to the final possessions. I think the line is a little bit off. Take Tennessee. Thank you.

Alabama Crimson Tide.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 641.

5:45 PM PST/8:45 PM EST.

Without question, Duke is a very talented basketball team, and are playing incredibly right now. But very simply, this is way too many points to give a very talented Alabama opponent. For starters, if they win here, this will be the first Final Four appearance for the Blue Devils since Coach K was at the helm. However, the Crimson Tide made it to the Final Four last season. At both ends of the court Duke possesses great numbers, particularly on the defensive side. However, they match up here against the No. 1 scoring offense in the nation, averaging over 91.1 points per game, along with the second-best college basketball offensive rebounding group out there. They are extremely accurate, and possess the big men upfront to give them the added muscle they need to content here. Both teams have talented back courts. But I really feel giving the Crimson Tide, and they're explosive offense this many points is a mistake. Take Alabama. Thank you.

Florida Gator.

Bookie Buster Play

Game 632.

4:35 PM PST/7:35 PM EST.

I wanna’ give a big shout out to the Maryland terrapins as they finished the regular season in second-place in the very competitive Big Ten Conference, and they’ve played very well in this tournament. Tallying a record of 27-8, we have watched them place in amazing basketball at times this season. But at times we have also watched them play some less than stellar basketball as well. I wouldn’t exactly classify them as inconsistent. But I really don't feel they’re in the class of their opponent they face here today. During the regular season there were an underdog against Purdue in early-December, losing and failing to cover. They were a ‘dog against Oregon at the beginning January, covering the number but losing outright. They did win and cover as a doggie at Illinois towards the end of January. But once again, the beginning of February as a ‘dog, they lost and failed to cover at Ohio State. I think we all watched back at the beginning of this month when they took down Michigan on the road as they're biggest victory this season. But they have not gone up against a team this postseason that they were not favored over. Yes, they beat Illinois in their conference tournament opener. But then lost to Michigan. In this tournament, they played Grand Canyon and Colorado State, teams they were favored by 9.5 and 8.5-points. I just don't see this team facing the level of competition and stepping up that they're going to face and need to step up to today. By the way they're also just 19-16 against the spread this season. The Florida Gators are the No. 1 seed in the West regional. They are 32-4 overall, and have covered 26 of their 36 outings. They enter this matchup taking no prisoners. This is a monster team, folks. They've only dropped four games this season, as I mentioned a moment ago. They've also covered 20 of their final 25 regular season games. Then they went through the postseason, crushing everybody in their way. The Terrapins can score, and have a good defense. But they're going up against a team with a better offense, a deeper team, a superior rebounding core, and a more frustrating defense as well. I just don't see them competing in the matchup at all. I think this line should be at least 8 to 10-points. So, I will take Florida. Thank you.

Alabama Crimson Tide.

No Limit.

Game 862.

3:10 PM PST/6:10 PM EST.

Playing in the SEC, and averaging over 91.1-points per game offensively, in my opinion trumps playing in the WCC, and allowing just 60.8-points per game. Here we see the nations top-scoring offense go up against a top-five defense. But on a regular basis the Crimson Tide certainly face better opponents than the Gaels. They're also the second-best team in college basketball on the offensive glass, giving them a lot of second-chance opportunities. They shoot better from the free-throw line, and hit over 48.3% overall from the floor. This is an accurate team. I think this game might be competitive for a little bit. But Alabama has way too much talent. Take the Crimson Tide. Thank you.

Duke Blue Devils.

Slam Dunk Play.

Game 858.

11:40 AM PST/2:40 PM EST.

Duke is taking no prisoners this season, accumulating an overall record of 35-3 and covering 21 of the 31 lined games, and playing in their own backyard here, will give the team a boost. They have laid double-digits 27 times this season, covering 19 of the 27. On both sides of the court, they are spectacular. They are significantly better from beyond the arc as well as a free-throw lines, and I just don't see Baylor competing on the boards here. If you're concerned about the number, don't be. The Bears have lost by double-digits six times this season: Gonzaga crushed by 38, Tennessee wins by 15, Iowa State routed by 19, Arizona wins by 11, Texas Tech dumped them by 14, and Houston dumped them by 11 as well. I also expect the Blue Devils to come in here with fresher legs as they had a much easier time in their last outing, decimating the Mountaineers by 44, while the Bears had a tough outing, squeaking by the Bulldogs by three. By the way, Duke has covered nine of their last 11, while Baylor has failed to cover 13 of their last 16. Take the Blue Devils. Thank you.

UConn Huskies.

Crusher Play.

Game 859.

9:10 PM PST/12:10 PM EST.

This is way too many points to give a Huskies squad with a stifling defense, and a monster core of rebounders. They also hit almost 80% from the line. Big edge there. Tale Connecticut. Thank you

Tennessee Volunteers.

Game 822.

6:40 PM PST/9:40 PM EST.

I'm going to keep this breakdown just like me, short and sweet LOL. UCLA is a good team. But they struggled this season in Big Ten play when facing top conference opponents, and physical opponents as well. I just don't see them matching up in anyway with Tennessee. The Volunteers are a monster team That have no problem beating down opponents. It's true, once December arrived, they were erratic against the spread, and towards the end of the regular season, they were just downright crushing anybody who bet on them. But the odds makers were inflating their lines, my friends. Don't fall for that trap here. Their defense is stifling. That rank 11th on the defensive side in points allowed, third in field goal percentage allowed, first in three-point percentage allowed, and 18th on the defensive boards, and they went up against some very tough offenses this season. The Bruins just don't have the offense to measure up here. Yes, they have a pretty good defense themselves. But not enough to contain the Volunteers for double-digit scorers. This is a team that's just as talented upfront as they are in the backcourt. I think this game gets ugly. Take Tennessee. Thank you.

Creighton Blue Jays.

Game 819.

4:40 PM PST/7:40 PM EST.

Sportsbetting isn't about who wins. It is about who covers. Let's face it, we're not in this for fun. We're in this to make money. And I'm here to tell you Auburn is giving way too many points to Creighton in this matchup. While the Tigers are a very good team, I feel the odds makers are overvaluing them as they have failed to cover five straight, and seven of the last nine outings. Creighton enters this matchup covering five of their last seven, and playing some very competitive basketball. Ryan Kalkbrenner is going to be a major factor here. The 7’1”, 270-lb, center is a force to be reckoned with in the paint. Auburn relies heavily on their team playing physical basketball down low. Let's face it, both defenses allow about the same. Yes, the Tigers do score more. But the Blue Jays are just as accurate, and just about as good from both the free-throw, and three-point areas. Both teams are solid on the boards. I think this game is a lot more evenly matched up than what the line is reflecting. This is way too many points. Take Creighton. Thank you.

Drake Bulldogs.

Game 825.

3:10 PM PST/8:10 PM EST.

This matchup is being played in Wichita, Kansas. The Drake Bulldogs didn't just take the regular season and tournament crowns in the Missouri Valley, they also amassed a record of 31-3 overall this season. As a road team, they were excellent, winning nine of their 10 as a visitor. This is a team that took down Miami, Florida Atlantic, Vanderbilt, and Kansas State during the regular season. And you saw what they did to Missouri just two days ago. By the way, they are red-hot, winning 19 of their last 20 games played straight up. They've also covered three of four matchups in the playoffs/ postseason. They have a great back court, and an offense overall that ranks 20th, hitting over 48.6% from the floor. That would be enough for me to raise an eyebrow here. But they rank second nationally on defense, yielding just 59.2-points per game, and they are the top defensive rebounding core in the nation. Yes, Texas Tech deserves to be here. But I feel because they are mediocre on the boards at both ends of the court, they're going get a lot of second-chance opportunities taken away from them. They will also give their opponent a lot of second-chance opportunities as well. They do shoot pretty well from outside. But they face a very frustrating “D” from downtown. This is way too many points. Take Drake. Thank you.

Michigan State.

Game 788.

7:00 PM PST/10:00 PM EST.

After seeing a couple of very close games in yesterday’s Rd. 1 matchups, and of course McNeese State besting Clemson, I doubt very much Michigan State will take this game lightly. I am aware most of the money is coming in on Bryant. But this team has only stepped up in class twice this season, and got crushed in both outings. They faced Saint John's in mid-December, and lost by 22, and two weeks later faced Grand Canyon, and lost by 46. Those are the only two teams they had to worry about, and they lost badly in both contests. The Spartans crushed everybody in their way this season, particularly in their own conference against some very, very strong teams. Bryant is all about the offense, averaging over 82.1-points per game. They're also pretty good on the offensive glass as well. But that's where their strengths end. They go up against one of the most frustrating defenses in the country, that also ranks as one of the best on the defensive boards. That would be enough for me to raise an eyebrow here. However, the Spartans put up almost 80 PPG themselves, hit over 78% from the free-throw line, and are one of the best in the nation, ranking 11th on the offensive glass. Right now, neither of these teams know who they will play in the next round as the winner will go up against the Marquette/New Mexico winner. So, I don't see MSU looking ahead here either. I think they come out, take no prisoners, and send Bryant home very early. Take the Spartans. Thank you.

Connecticut Huskies.

Game 784.

6:25 PM PST/9:25 PM EST.

Both Connecticut and Oklahoma will have their hands full in this matchup, and I doubt very much either will be in a look ahead mode with a probable matchup in the next round vs. Florida. The Huskies are 14-4 in Big Dance games under Dan Hurley. The coach brought them two National Titles over the last two seasons. This is familiar territory for the team. While Oklahoma is a formidable foe, they really hit a snag in the second half of their season. They began the regular season winning their first 13 contests. However, they finished the regular season dropping 12 of their final 18 outings. While they played well in the playoffs taking down Georgia and losing a one-point heartbreaker at the hands of Kentucky, this team just doesn't measure up here. Yes, they have covered their last seven outings. But this is a whole different monster facing the very physical UConn squad. The Huskies played well out of the conference, taking down such notables as the Baylor Bears, Texas Longhorns, and Gonzaga Bulldogs. They also held their own finishing third in the very competitive, Big East conference. They finished their regular season winning four in a row straight up, and covering their final three games. They devoured Villanova in the postseason, only to be embarrassed taking a nine-point loss as a four-point favorite in their last game against Creighton. I feel they bounce back here strong, and get back on track to compete for another National Title. Both teams have been running with three big men, and two guards as a starting lineup in the playoffs. This will be a big advantage for the Huskies. While both teams average about the same and scoring offensively, Oklahoma has a slight edge, both from downtown, and from the free-throw line. However, Connecticut possesses a swarming, and frustrating defense that allows a mere, 68.0-points per game, and rank second nationally on the defensive boards. They will take away a lot of their opponents second-chance opportunities here. They're also monsters on the offensive glass as well, giving themselves more second-chance opportunities. They’re are way too big, and way too strong in this matchup. BTW, this game is being played in Raleigh, North Carolina, you will see quite a few more Connecticut fans. BTW, they are also a better road team going 7-4 away from home compared to Okie, who went 2-7 on the road. Take the Huskies. Thank you.

Saint Mary’s.

Game 790.

12:15 PM PST/3:15 PM EST.

They say offense gets the glory, but defense gets the win. St. Mary's possesses one of the best defenses in college basketball today, ranking fifth in the nation, yielding just 60.8-points per game. They allow just 40.8% overall from the floor, 31.6% from downtown, and rank fourth in the nation on the defensive boards. When it comes to defense, Vanderbilt has none. They're absolutely deplorable at the stop end of the court. They rely solely upon their offense, which does account for over 79.7-points per game. However, they are not very good overall in shooting percentage from the floor, three-point percentage, or even from the free-throw line. They're also atrocious on the offensive boards. They do have three double-digits scorers. But so does the Gaels. This is also a team that disposed of opponents like Nebraska, USC, and Utah in nonconference competition this regular season. Remarkably, they haven't allowed a single opponent in their 33 games played, to post better than 75 points. They have too much defensively. Not to forget, a very experienced team, and a very experienced coach. Take Saint Mary's. Thank you.

Memphis Tigers.

Game 806.

11:00 AM PST/2:00 PM EST.

How about the No. 5 seed getting points against the No. 12 seed? It puzzles me as well, my friends. While Colorado State is getting most of the money from the general public, and does come in here red-hot, winning and covering 10 straight games, Memphis has been playing well themselves. They have won 16 of their last 17 straight up. Granted, they are not very good against the number. But this team has a lot of talent. Maybe many out there have forgotten that during the regular season they took down Missouri, UNLV, San Francisco, Connecticut, Michigan State, Clemson, Virginia, and Mississippi. They are no strangers to stepping up in big game situations. By the way, Colorado state got embarrassed by Mississippi in a mid-November matchup. Not only that, but they also lost to some other teams they should've played well against. Both teams play in competitive conferences, and both finished pretty well in their perspective conferences. While the Rams account for 75.3-points per game, and only allow 67.1-points per game, the Tigers post over 80.0-points per game, and allow just 73.0-points per game. They are much better at both ends of the court on the boards as well, with a bigger, and stronger front court. Oh, by the way, they're also monsters from downtown. I think the wrong team is favored here. They are also 10-2 as a visitor this season. Take Memphis. Thank you.

St. John's Red Storm.

Game 752.

6:45 PM PST/9:45 PM EST.

The Red Storm is in the Big Dance for the first time since 2019. They have a coach who has been to the Final Four seven times, and has walked away with two National Titles. They play in one of the most competitive, and most physical conferences in college basketball, and they finished with both, the regular season, and Conference Tournament Crowns. This is a team that has won nine straight games, covering all three in the postseason. They are no strangers to laying big numbers. I mean, they've covered double-digits against Fordham, Quinnipiac, Virginia, Kansas State, Bryant, DePaul, Seton Hall twice, and Butler. They have no problems crushing lesser opponents. Meanwhile, with all respect to the Summit League’s top-team, the Omaha Mavericks have failed miserably when they step up in class. Yes, they covered against Minnesota and UNLV early on this season. But they got crushed by Northern Iowa and Iowa State. Let's face it, they also took a bad beating by Abilene Christian as well. They have won and covered all three of their playoff matchups, too. But playing an opponent like they're going to see in the opening round, who has lost just one game in 2025, is going to be fatal for this team. The Red Storm will have to play either the Razorbacks or the Jayhawks in the next round. I believe they'll come out here to make a statement, not just to their next opponent, but to the entire West Regional. I feel coach Rick Pitino is going to take no prisoners here. Take St. John's. Thank you.

Drake Bulldogs.

Game 765.

4:35 PM PST/7:35 PM EST.

Of all the Thursday games, I feel this just might be the one in which the line is most off. Yes, I am aware Missouri plays in the SEC, and owns an overall record of 22-11. But they really struggled down the road. They dropped their final three regular season games, and got humiliated by Florida in their last outing. They have failed to cover four of their last five overall matchups. Yes, they started the campaign off on fire. But then the end of December came, and they started struggling. Granted, the Missouri Valley isn't the SEC. But the Drake Bulldogs took the regular season crown, and the Conference Tournament Title as well. They finished with an overall record of 30-3. Something that I checked, and rechecked was Drake stepping up in class four times this regular season. All four times they won outright. They took down Miami by 11, FAU by 12, Vanderbilt by 11, and Kansas State by three. By the way, they kept all four of those opponents to 70-points or less. You may not realize this, but this team possesses the No. 2 overall defense in the nation, allowing just 59.2-points per game. They are also monsters at defending the arc, and own the No. 1 defensive rebounding core in college basketball. Yes, Missouri possesses as a top-10 offense, accounting for over 84.5-points per game. But their defense leaves a lot to be desired, and they really do rely upon their outside shooting. Not only that, but the Tigers are absolutely horrible on the offensive boards. That is where this game will be won, as their opponent will take away a lot of second-chance opportunities. I think this line should be a lot lower. Take Drake. Thank you.

Tennessee Volunteers.

Game 760.

3:50 PM PST/6:50 PM EST.

Wofford and Tennessee met in November of 2023, as the Volunteers prevailed 82-61. The Terriers are a good team. Let's face it, they have won and covered all three of their postseason games thus far. But looking at their regular season schedule, they've only stepped up in class twice. They got decimated in mid-November by the Duke Blue Devils, 86-35. They did get an outright three-point victory over the St. Louis Billikens a month later. But I think we can all agree, the Billikens not really a formidable foe. I think we can also all agree the Southern Conference cannot compare in any way to the Southeastern Conference. Wofford finished 10-8 in conference play this season, and sported an overall record of 19-15. Tennessee finished fourth in the SEC, going 12-6 in league play, enroute to an overall record of 27-7. When this team played lesser opponents earlier on in the schedule, they devoured them. They took down Webber by 16, Montana by 35, Austin Peay by 35, Tennessee Martin by 43, Western Carolina by 48, Middle Tennessee by 18, and Norfolk by 15. They are not afraid to run up the score. They are also no strangers to covering double-digits point spreads. Please remember they took down some great teams this season with authority as well. The list is so long, I'll save you the death toll. Losing to the Gators in their last outing is going to further motivate this team. They will send a message to the rest of the Midwest representatives here. They possess one of the most frustrating defenses in the nation, allowing just 63.1-points per game, on 38.2% shooting overall from the floor, and just 27.8% from beyond the arc. They will also dominate the boards as well. They will crush it. Take Tennessee. Thank you.

Dayton Flyers.

Game 717.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

Sports fans, there is no way the Flyers should be underdog here or even a Pickem. They should definitely be at least a basket or two favorite. This is a very good basketball team. They enter this matchup winning seven of their last 10 straight up, and two of their last three against the spread. Meanwhile, Florida Atlantic comes in here dropping five of their last eight straight up, and only covering two of their last 10 overall. Dayton has taken down such notables this season as Northwestern, Connecticut, Marquette, UNLV, Saint Louis, and Virginia Commonwealth. They also hung in tight dropping a late-November matchup on a neutral site against North Carolina, covering but losing 92-90. Not to mention they lost by five getting double-digits against Iowa State the next day. When this team steps up, they play very strong. Meanwhile, FAU lost early to Central Florida, College of Charleston, Drake, Seton Hall, and even Florida Gulf Coast. They took beatings from Michigan State, Memphis twice, North Texas twice Wichita, and UAB. They have been point spread poison this season, covering just 12 of 32 overall contests. Their defense has been getting steamrolled. I just don't see them competing on the boards in this match up either. The Flyers have kept some solid opponents at bay on the scoreboard. I feel they'll do the same here. This line is off. Take Dayton. Thank you.

Tennessee Volunteers.

Game 613.

10:00 AM PST/1:00 PM EST.

I feel the line here should be at most a basket or so. Especially because it is being played in Nashville. These two SEC powerhouses are both monster teams. As you know, Auburn took the regular season crown, going 15-3 in conference play, while Tennessee was a very respectable, 12-6 against SEC opponents this season. Yes, the Tigers took the only meeting this season over the Volunteers, 53-51 at home back at the end of January. But Tennessee has won three of the last five meetings SU and covered three of the last five ATS, which includes ATS covers in the last two most recent matchups. They also enter this game a lot hotter, winning nine of their last 11 SU, while Auburn dropped two of their last three SU. Yes, it's true, neither team has been consistent against the number recently. However, the Tigers have failed to cover three in a row, and five of their last seven games. Overall, we have got one of the best offenses in the country going against one of the best defenses. The Tigers account for over 85.2-points per game. But defensively they give up a lot of points. Meanwhile, the Volunteers have a solid offense, for sure. But it is their defense which has brought them success this season ranking seventh in the nation, and allowing a mere 62.0-points per game, also ranking first in field goal percentage allowed, and second in three-point percentage allowed. By the way, they're also better on the defensive boards, which will give their opponent less second-chance opportunities. One more item folks: Tennessee had a much easier time yesterday taking down Texas, 83-72. A game in which they had in hand from the opening tip off. Meanwhile, Auburn had a very tough time with the pesky Mississippi opponent, eking out of five-point victory. But once again failing to cover. Take the points with the Volunteers. Thank you.

Florida Gators.

Game 838.

4:00 PM PST/7:00 PM EST.

I'm not a big fan of laying big numbers, especially in these conference tournaments. But Florida comes in here well rested, winning and covering, and looking for a little revenge. The Gators have not taken the court since March 8. They are also on a great run, going 9-1 both straight up and against the spread their last 10 games. Not only that, but this is a team that hasn't suffered too many losses this season. One of those losses was against the Tigers at home in their only matchup this season back in mid-January. It was a heartbreaker in which they lost 83-82 late in the game. Florida has been money to sports bettor’s most of the season, covering 23 of their 31 outings. Not only that, but this is a team that covers big numbers. They have covered 12 of their last 14 games played being favored of 8.5 for more points. Don't get me wrong, Missouri can play. But playing back-to-back days against a team like they're going to face today is going to be tough for them. Remember, this is a team that lost four of their last six, both straight up and against the number. While they do have a strong, deep team, they just don't have the defense. Both teams rank in the top-10 in scoring, and both are pretty good from downtown. But Florida’s defense allows a mere 68.2 points per game on 39.5% shooting, and ranks in the top-10 at defending the three. I'll take the Gators here. Thank you.

St. John's Red Storm.

Game 850.

3:30 PM PST/6:30 PM EST.

My friends, St. John's took both meetings against Marquette this season, straight up and against the spread. Granted, the early-February matchup they took by four-points, and the early-March matchup they took in overtime by two-points. However, the Golden Eagles have been point spread poison, failing to cover three in a row, and seven of their last 10, while the Red Storm have covered five of their last six. Both teams played yesterday as Marquette went to the mat in a tough, physical two-point victory over Xavier. Meanwhile, St. John's had a much easier time crushing Butler by 21-points. In both meetings this season the Red Storm outrebounded the Golden Eagles. They are much stronger on the offensive boards, giving them more second-chance opportunities, and their defense is certainly more frustrating. One more item folks: St. John’s is perfect at home this season at 18-0, and playing at home this season at Carnesecca Arena. Playing in Madison Square Garden is their second-home. Take SJU. Thank you.

Colorado State Rams.

Game 782.

6:00 PM PST/9:00 PM EST.

I think the line is way off in this matchup. I understand Nevada is playing in their home state. But here in Las Vegas, they despise the Wolfpack. They enter this matchup losing three in a row, and seven of the last 10 matchups with the Rams. They have lost and failed to cover the last three, including both this season. This is a team that does not travel well, and has not played well at all against conference opponents. Meanwhile CSU is on fire, winning and covering seven straight, and eight of their last nine overall games. I must tell you, this line is way short. The Rams account for more points on offense, give up less points on defense, are much better on the boards, and significantly stronger from the line. I see them winning by about double-digits. Take CSU. Thank you.

Xavier Musketeers.

Game 740.

11:30 AM PST/2:30 PM EST.

Both Marquette and Xavier last played on March 8, and should come in here with fresh legs. The Musketeers took the most recent meeting between these two conference rivals back in mid-January on the road, 59-57. As a matter of fact, both matchups this season were settled by two-points. The Golden Eagles haven't been so golden, losing and failing to cover their last two outings. Meanwhile, Xavier is red-hot, winning seven in a row, and covering five of those seven contests. The difference here is the stellar outside, and far better free-throw shooting by the Musketeers. Thanks Xavier plus the points. Thank you.

Arkansas Razorbacks.

Game 769.

10:00 AM PST/1:00 PM EST.

Arkansas enters this matchup coming off a big, 72-68 win against South Carolina yesterday, while Mississippi hasn't stepped on the court since March 8, a road defeat at the hands of Florida, 90-71. That loss was their fourth over their last six games straight up, and there seventh over their last eight games against the spread. They did take down the Razorbacks in the only matchup this season back at the beginning of January on the road, 73-66. But Arkansas enters this match up hotter, winning five of their last six straight up, and five of their last seven against the number. Yes, the Rebels possess six double-digit scorers. But only account for 1.0 more PPG than their opponent. I do see a mismatch on the boards here. The Razorbacks come in here hotter, and ride momentum from yesterday's win. By the way, the game wasn't as close as the score against the Gamecocks. They had a 20-point lead at one point, and just started pulling their starters to keep them fresh for today's contest. Take the points with the Razorbacks. Thank you.

Syracuse Orange

Game 653.

6:30 PM PST/9:30 PM EST.

I'd like to discuss a late game being played in the Atlantic Coast Conference tonight as Syracuse and SMU face off at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. These two teams met once this season, just eight days ago where the Mustangs were a 13.0-point favorite at home, and eked out a two-point victory, 77-75. I know there's a big difference between their records as Syracuse is 14-18 overall, and SMU, is a very respectable, 22-9 on the campaign. But the Orange enter this matchup, winning their last two, covering three in a row, and six of their last seven. Meanwhile, I think it would be safe to say the Mustangs are point spread poison, failing to cover six of their last seven outings. Syracuse has a very big, very strong frontcourt, and they really do run with four big men most of the time. SMU just doesn't have the muscle down low to cover this number in this matchup. Yes, statistically they put up better numbers on both sides of the court, and hit 38% from downtown. But I just think this is way too many points to give a team like the Orange who, let's face it are a scrappy squad. Too many points here. Play the doggie here. (Woof Woof). Take ‘Cuse and take your bookmakers money. Thank you.

Kansas State Wildcats.

Game 659

4:00 PM PST 11:00 PM EST.

These teams met only once this season as Baylor took a home meeting back in the third week of January, 70-62. But not only did Kansas State cover that matchup, they also won the three previous meetings, and covered all three of those as well. One thing for sure about the Bears, they have been overvalued by oddsmakers this season, only covering one of their last 10, and three of their last 17 overall contests. Yes, on paper they put up some better numbers. But I do feel Baylor is being overvalued by the oddsmakers again. Take Kansas State. Thank you.

Kentucky Wildcats.

Game 909.

9:00 AM PST/12:00 PM EST.

Kentucky still has a lot of prove to both the pollsters as well as themselves, and must finish out the regular season on a high note. This is the team that's covered five of their last eight overall outings. I am aware Missouri is 18-1 at home this season. But they are showing signs of cracking, as have dropped three of the last four, both straight up and against the number. The Wildcats, even without guard Robinson (sidelined due to injury for several weeks), possess five double-digit scorers. They also have a big inside presence, and are monsters that both ends of the court on the boards. Both teams can score, that's for sure. The big difference here is the fact Kentucky is both better from the free-throw line, and much stronger at defending the arc. I feel that will be the difference in this match up, and giving them this many points is a mistake. Take the Wildcats. Thank you.

Michigan State.

Game 767.

5:00 PM PST/8:00 PM EST.

The No. 8 Michigan State squad clinched a share of the Big Ten regular season championship on Wednesday without even playing a game. They can win it outright tonight with a victory over Iowa. Michigan took a home loss last night to Maryland to ensure the Spartans at least a piece of their first conference title since the 2019/2020 season. A loss tonight by MSU would give Michigan a chance to share the regular season crown. To add to the drama, the in-state rivals meet on Sunday in their regular season finale. Having said that, the Spartans are riding a five-game win streak, both straight up and against the spread, in which their defense has not allowed a single opponent to put up better than 66-points on the scoreboard. Not only that, but during that span, they have won and covered all three games played as a visitor. On the other hand, Iowa has struggled, dropping seven of their last nine straight up, and only covering one of their last 13 outings. They have been absolute point spread poison, folks. Just going backwards in their recent losses, they lost by 11 to Northwestern, 20 to Illinois, two to Oregon, 26 to Maryland, 11 to Wisconsin, nine to Purdue, 17 to Ohio State, five to Minnesota, 16 to UCLA, and 10 to USC. Yes, the Hawkeyes had a very solid frontcourt of Freeman and Sandfort, combining for 32.8 points per game and 12.9 rebounds per game this season. But they lost Freeman back on January 27, coincidentally, when the team started sliding. Their trio of starting guards are outclassed here as well. While both teams score about the same, the Spartans defense allows only 66.6 points per game, and overall, this squad are monsters at both ends of the court on the boards. Oh, by the way, there's also a double revenge factor as Iowa took the last two meetings in this rivalry. I look for Michigan State to win with authority here. Thank you.

Liberty Flames.

Game 759.

4:30 PM PST/7:30 PM EST.

I've said it before, and I will say it again; it doesn't have to be a major conference in college basketball for you to make money in it. Today I want to talk about a Conference USA matchup between the second and third best teams in the league, as the Liberty Flames and Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders square off against one another. Both teams are sitting at 11-5 in conference play this season. But the Flames did take the only meeting back in the beginning of January at home, 73-63. They are an excellent road team, going in 7-2 as a visitor, while Middle Tennessee State is 10-3 at the Murphy Center on the campaign. The Flames come off a loss following a six-game straight up win streak, while the Blue Raiders enter this matchup riding a three-game straight up hot streak. Both offenses are loaded with talent. Both have talented back courts, and strong front courts. Both possess four double-digit scorers. The difference you're going to see here is on the defensive side of the court, where Liberty ranks in the top-10 nationally, yielding just 61.7 points per game, allowing a mere 40% shooting from the floor, and are the No. 1 team in college basketball from the arc, allowing just 27.7% from downtown. To make matters worse on the opposite side of the court, there're a top-25 three-point shooting team themselves. That's going to be be the big difference in this contest. This is a big game for them. They could, at the very least solidify a No. 2 spot for sure. But if they win out their last two regular season games, and the top team in the division, Jacksonville State runs into any issues with Kennesaw State two days from now, because they took down the Gamecocks already, they would win the tiebreaker, and take over the No. 1 seed in the Conference USA. I put a lean on the Flames here to burn the Blue Raiders. Thank you.

BYU Cougars.

Game 649.

6:00 PM PST/9:00 PM EST.

Two teams that are looking to better their situation in the Big 12 face each other this evening in the Iowa State/BYU matchup. The national rankings currently have the Cyclones ranked 10th in the nation, while the Cougars are 23rd. I am aware BYU is just 5-5 on the road, while Iowa State is 15-1 at home. But I do feel the Cyclones are overvalued by the oddsmakers as they have covered just four their last 10 overall outings, which does include just two of five played at the James H. Hilton Coliseum. Meanwhile BYU is not just winning, they are covering as they are on a six-game SU/ATS hot streak. They have also covered four of their last five as a visitor. Last March's matchup saw the home team, Cyclones prevail 68-63. I feel this is way too many points to give the Cougars as they do match up pretty well on both sides of the court here. Take BYU. Thank you.

New Mexico Lobos.

Game 655.

6:00 PM PST/9:00 PM EST.

New Mexico is perched atop the Mountain West at 15-3 in conference play. Just behind them at 14-4 sits Colorado State, followed by Utah State at 14-5, and then tied at 13-5 is San Diego State and Boise state. They need to keep their foot on the gas if they want to finish the regular season the top team in the MWC. They have this matchup tonight on the road at Nevada then finish up the regular season at home in a few days against UNLV. They can easily take both of these opponents. Granted, they haven't covered too many games lately, failing to cover their last five straight. But this is a team that knows how to win when they need to. Let's face it, they're 23-6 overall on the campaign, winning nine of their last 11 games straight up. They have also taken the last three meetings against Nevada straight up, covering two of the three. Speaking of the Wolfpack, they come here struggling, going 1-3 both SU and ATS their last four contests. I don't see their mediocre offense, which averages mere 72.9 points per game competing on the scoreboard with the Lobos four double-digit scorers which contribute to their 18th ranked, 82.7 points per game average. At a Pickem, this game is a gift. Take New Mexico. Thank you.