Category: March Madness betting odds

Cleveland State at Houston NCAA Tournament First Round Odds, Picks and Prediction

The No. 2 seed Houston Cougars (24-3) are heavily favored (-20) to defeat the No. 15 seed Cleveland State Vikings (19-7) in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday

The No. 2 seed Houston Cougars (24-3) are heavily favored (-20) to defeat the No. 15 seed Cleveland State Vikings (19-7) in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament on Friday at Assembly Hall (Indiana). The contest tips off at 7:15 PM ET on TRU. Here are some insights into this Midwest Region contest for those filling out their brackets.

In their last game, the Cougars picked up a 91-54 win over Cincinnati and covered the 13.5-point spread they were favored by . The teams hit the over on the 135 point total set by oddsmakers. Quentin Grimes racked up a team-high 21 points in the victory on Sunday.

Torrey Patton led the way for the Vikings with a team-high 23 points last time out as they picked up a 80-69 win over Oakland and covered the 2.5-point spread as favorites. The teams combined to hit the over on the 141.5 point total set for the matchup.

Rankings courtesy of Ferris Mowers Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports.

Cleveland State at Houston: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list.
Lines last updated at 2:25 PM ET on March 15, 2021.

  • Money line: Cleveland State +1400 (bet $100 to win $1400) | Houston -3000 (bet $3000 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Cleveland State +20 (-110) | Houston -20 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 134.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Houston: Three things to know

  • The Cougars scoring leader is Grimes, who averages 18.0 points per game. Grimes is the top three-point shooter for the team, connecting on 3.3 per game.
  • The Cougars average 77.6 points per game, seven more points than the 70.6 the Vikings give up.
  • When Houston totals more than 70.6 points, it is 17-1 overall and 14-0 against the spread.

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Cleveland State: Three things to know

  • Patton leads the Vikings in scoring (14.9 points per game) and rebounding (8.1 rebounds per game). D’Moi Hodge paces the squad with a team-high 1.5 made three-pointers per game.
  • The Vikings’ 71.5 points per game are 13.6 more points than the 57.9 the Cougars allow to opponents.
  • When it scores more than 57.9 points, Cleveland State is 18-0 against the spread and 19-5 overall.

Cleveland State at Houston: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Houston 80, Cleveland State 59

Money line

The Houston Cougars are favored to win this matchup according to both BetMGM’s money line and the model.

Against the spread (ATS)

The MGM line for this game has the Cougars favored by 20, while the model predicts they’ll win by slightly more (20.7 points).

Over/Under (O/U)

The model predicts a total 3.8 points higher than the one set by MGM for this game.

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Wisconsin at North Carolina NCAA Tournament First Round Odds, Picks and Prediction

The No. 8 seed North Carolina Tar Heels (18-10) are a 1-point favorite in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament against the No. 9 seed Wisconsin Badgers (17-12) on Friday

The No. 8 seed North Carolina Tar Heels (18-10) are a 1-point favorite in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament against the No. 9 seed Wisconsin Badgers (17-12) on Friday at Mackey Arena. The matchup begins at 7:10 PM ET on CBS. Here are insights into this South Region 8-9 matchup to help you fill out your bracket.

On Friday, the Tar Heels faced Florida State and fell short by a score of 69-66. The Tar Heels failed to cover the spread as 2.5-point underdogs and the teams combined to hit the under on the 151 point total.

Last time out, D’Mitrik Trice scored 19 points as the Badgers fell short in a 62-57 loss to Iowa on Friday. The teams combined to score 119 points to hit the under on the 143.5 point total by bookmakers, while the Badgers were 5.5-point underdogs and covered the spread.

Rankings courtesy of Ferris Mowers Coaches Poll powered by USA TODAY Sports.

Wisconsin at North Carolina: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list.
Lines last updated at 10:25 PM ET on March 17, 2021.

  • Money line: Wisconsin -105 (bet $105 to win $100) | North Carolina -115 (bet $115 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Wisconsin +1 (-110) | North Carolina -1 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 138.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

North Carolina: Three things to know

  • Armando Bacot leads the Tar Heels in scoring (12.3 points per game) and rebounding (8.0 rebounds per game). Kerwin Walton paces the squad with a team-high 2.0 made three-pointers per game.
  • The Tar Heels score 75.7 points per game, 11.4 more points than the 64.3 the Badgers allow.
  • North Carolina has an 18-8 record overall and a 13-0-1 record against the spread when scoring more than 64.3 points.

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Wisconsin: Three things to know

  • Trice leads the Badgers in points and assists. He contributes 13.7 points per game while adding 4.0 assists. Trice averages 2.0 made threes per game to lead the team.
  • The Badgers’ 69.6 points per game are only 0.2 more points than the 69.4 the Tar Heels allow to opponents.
  • Wisconsin has put together an 11-2 overall record and an 8-0 ATS record in games where it scores more than 69.4 points.

Wisconsin at North Carolina: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

North Carolina 70, Wisconsin 69

Money line

The model and BetMGM are in agreement that the North Carolina Tar Heels are the money line favorite in this matchup.

Against the spread (ATS)

The MGM line for this matchup is within 0.1 points of the model. Stay away from this one.

Over/Under (O/U)

MGM and the model are extremely close in their point total projections for this contest, within 1.0 point of each other.

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Additional college sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Auburn / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Liberty at Oklahoma State NCAA Tournament First Round Odds, Picks and Prediction

The No. 4 seed Oklahoma State Cowboys (20-8) are a 7.5-point favorite in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament against the No. 13 seed Liberty Flames (23-5) on Friday

The No. 4 seed Oklahoma State Cowboys (20-8) are a 7.5-point favorite in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament against the No. 13 seed Liberty Flames (23-5) on Friday at Indiana Farmers Coliseum. The matchup starts at 6:25 PM ET on TBS. Here are insights into this Midwest Region 4-13 matchup to help you fill out your bracket.

On Saturday, the Cowboys faced Texas and fell short by a score of 91-86. The Cowboys failed to cover the spread as 3-point underdogs and the teams combined to hit the over on the 144.5 point total.

Last time out, Darius McGhee scored 21 points as the Flames earned a 79-75 win over North Alabama on Sunday. The teams combined to score 154 points to hit the over on the 133 point total by bookmakers, while the Flames were 13-point favorites and failed to cover the spread.

Liberty at Oklahoma State: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list.
Lines last updated at 4:55 PM ET on March 17, 2021.

  • Money line: Liberty +280 (bet $100 to win $280) | Oklahoma State -350 (bet $350 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Liberty +7.5 (-110) | Oklahoma State -7.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 140.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Oklahoma State: Three things to know

  • The Cowboys rebounds and assists leader is Isaac Likekele. He averages 6.7 rebounds and adds 3.7 assists per game. Cade Cunningham is the top three-point shooter for the team, connecting on 2.2 per game.
  • The Cowboys record 17.4 more points per game (77) than the Flames give up (59.6).
  • When Oklahoma State puts up more than 59.6 points, it is 20-8 overall and 17-0-1 against the spread.

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Liberty: Three things to know

  • McGhee leads the Flames scoring 15.6 points per game. McGhee paces the squad with a team-high 3.3 made three-pointers per game.
  • The Flames’ 74.9 points per game are just two more points than the 72.9 the Cowboys give up.
  • Liberty has put together a 17-0 overall record and a 12-0 ATS record in games where it scores more than 72.9 points.

Liberty at Oklahoma State: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Oklahoma State 75, Liberty 68

Money line

BetMGM and the model both have the Oklahoma State Cowboys as the favorite in this matchup.

Against the spread (ATS)

The MGM line for this matchup is within 0.3 points of the model. Stay away from this one.

Over/Under (O/U)

In this game, the model projects a total (142.7 points) a little higher than the MGM over/under (140.5 points).

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Additional college sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Auburn / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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Oregon State at Tennessee NCAA Tournament First Round Odds, Picks and Prediction

The No. 5 seed Tennessee Volunteers (18-8) are an 8.5-point favorite in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament against the No. 12 seed Oregon State Beavers (17-12) on Friday

The No. 5 seed Tennessee Volunteers (18-8) are an 8.5-point favorite in the opening round of the NCAA Tournament against the No. 12 seed Oregon State Beavers (17-12) on Friday at Bankers Life Fieldhouse. The contest tips off at 4:30 PM ET on TNT. Here are insights into this Midwest Region 5-12 matchup to help you fill out your bracket.

In their last game, the Volunteers were defeated by Alabama by a final score of 73-68 and failed to cover the 4-point spread as underdogs. The teams went over the 140.5 point total set by sportsbooks. Keon Johnson racked up a team-high 20 points in the loss on Saturday.

Maurice Calloo led the way for the Beavers with a team-high 15 points last time out as they picked up a 70-68 win over Colorado and covered the 8.5-point spread as underdogs. The teams combined to go over the 131.5 point total set for the matchup.

Oregon State at Tennessee: Betting odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list.
Lines last updated at 10:25 AM ET on March 18, 2021.

  • Money line: Oregon State +340 (bet $100 to win $340) | Tennessee -450 (bet $450 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Oregon State +8.5 (-110) | Tennessee -8.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 133.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Tennessee: Three things to know

  • The Volunteers scoring leader is Jaden Springer, who puts up 12.5 points per game. Santiago Vescovi is the top three-point shooter for the team, connecting on 1.9 per game.
  • The Volunteers score just 4.2 more points per game (72.5) than the Beavers give up (68.3).
  • Tennessee is 10-0 against the spread and 13-1 overall when scoring more than 68.3 points.

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Oregon State: Three things to know

  • Ethan Thompson leads the Beavers in points and assists. He contributes 15.3 points per game while also adding 3.9 assists. Jarod Lucas averages 2.3 made threes per game to lead the team.
  • The Beavers score an average of 70.7 points per game, 7.5 more points than the 63.2 the Volunteers give up to opponents.
  • Oregon State has put together a 13-0-1 ATS record and a 15-6 overall record in games where it scores more than 63.2 points.

Oregon State at Tennessee: Odds, betting lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Tennessee 72, Oregon State 65

Money line

The Tennessee Volunteers are favored to win this matchup according to both the model and BetMGM’s money line.

Against the spread (ATS)

The model and MGM both have the Volunteers taking home the victory, but the model has them winning by slightly less (7.2 points). Lean towards taking the Beavers.

Over/Under (O/U)

The MGM point total for this matchup is just 3.5 points lower than the model projection.

Want some action on this one? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

Additional college sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Auburn / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage.

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March Madness: Colorado vs. Georgetown odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Saturday’s Georgetown Hoyas vs. Colorado Buffaloes odds and lines, with March Madness Round 1 picks and predictions.

The 12-seed Georgetown Hoyas (13-12) meet the 5-seed Colorado Buffaloes (22-8) Saturday in the first round of the East Regional at Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis. The tip-off is set for 12:45 p.m. ET and will broadcast on CBS. Below, we analyze the Colorado-Georgetown odds and lines, with March Madness NCAA Tournament picks and predictions.

No. 22 Colorado had its 6-game win streak snapped in the Pac-12 Tournament title game last week by losing as an 8.5-point favorite to the Oregon State Beavers.

The Buffaloes have made it past the first round of the NCAA Tournament once in their four appearances since head coach Tad Boyle took over the program in 2010.

Towards the middle of Georgetown’s season, it appeared head coach Patrick Ewing was on the hot seat as the Hoyas lost five straight Big East games and fell to 3-8.

Georgetown rallied and played its way into the Big Dance by winning the Big East Tournament, which included wins over then-No. 11 Villanova and then-No. 17 Creighton by 25 points in the conference title game.

Colorado vs. Georgetown: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 6:37 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Georgetown +200 (bet $100 to win $200) | Colorado -250 (bet $250 to win $100)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Georgetown +6 (-110) | Colorado -6 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 138.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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March Madness betting promotions 

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Colorado vs. Georgetown: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Georgetown 66, Colorado 62

Money line (ML)

PASS with a slight lean on Georgetown (+200) since I’m on the Hoyas to cover the spread and often will sprinkle on an underdog’s money line.

It’s awfully cliché, but I’d also consider making this your annual 12-seed over 5-seed upset because Georgetown gets to play the “no one believes in us” card.

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Against the spread (ATS)

There’s inherent value on GEORGETOWN +6 (-110) because the public will be fading the Hoyas since it’s known they wouldn’t be here if it weren’t for an improbable run to the Big East crown.

Plus, Georgetown has played well against tough competition and is 5-2 ATS with a plus-8.4-point spread differential vs. ranked opponents.

Furthermore, Colorado has been a little shaky when playing away from Boulder, which has a significant homecourt advantage because visiting teams aren’t used to playing at altitude.

According to Ken Pom, Colorado has the biggest homecourt advantage in Division 1 basketball and the Buffaloes are 5-7 ATS in road games and 3-3 ATS in neutral site games.

GIMME GEORGETOWN +6 (-110) for 1.25 units.

Over/Under (O/U)

PASS because something tells me Georgetown-Colorado will be a rock fight and these teams have a combined 22-32-1 O/U record, but it’s more of a hunch than something I’m willing to gamble on.

Want some action on this game or others? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

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More college sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Auburn / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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March Madness: Texas vs. Abilene Christian odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Saturday’s Texas Longhorns vs. Abilene Christian Wildcats odds and lines, with March Madness Round 1 picks and predictions.

The third-seeded Texas Longhorns (19-7) face the 14th-seeded Abilene Christian Wildcats (23-4) Saturday. Tip-off is set for 9:50 p.m. ET at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Below, we analyze the Texas-Abilene Christian odds and lines, with March Madness NCAA Tournament picks and predictions.

Texas enters the NCAA Tournament having won its final five games. The Longhorns finished third in the Big 12 regular-season standings. Three players averaged double digits in scoring, led by junior G Andrew Jones and his 14.6 points per game. Texas also led the Big 12 in rebounding.

Abilene Christian won 12 of its final 13 games to make the NCAA tourney, doing so with defense and ball movement. Allowing just 60.1 points per game, the Wildcats were seventh in the nation in scoring defense. They were also third in steals and fifth in assists per game.

Texas vs. Abilene Christian: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 6:10 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Texas -450 (bet $450 to win $100) | Abilene Christian +350 (bet $100 to win $350)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Texas -9 (-110) | Abilene Christian +9 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 139.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

PLAY: USA TODAY March Madness Bracket Game

March Madness betting promotions 

Current March Madness offers from BetMGM Sportsbook:

Bet $10 on the first round, RECEIVE A $10 FREE BET FOR EACH GAME PLAYED that day of the opening round. Bet now!

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Texas vs. Abilene Christian: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Texas 77, Abilene Christian 66

Money line (ML)

As a 14 seed, there isn’t much of a chance historically for the Wildcats to upset the Longhorns. No. 14 seeds are 21-119 all-time against 3 seeds with the last upset being Stephen F. Austin shocking West Virginia in 2016. Texas and Abilene Christian were each 5-0 at neutral sites this season. However, with a -450 money line for Texas, it isn’t worth the risk. PASS.

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Against the spread (ATS)

This line isn’t as big as it could be. Texas struggled against the spread this season, going 12-13-1 ATS, while the Wildcats were 17-6 ATS. Abilene Christian went 7-1 ATS in its last eight games and Texas has covered the spread in their last five.

The difference in competition in the two conferences comes into play here. Texas will be in control for most of the game. The Wildcats will compete and won’t get blown out, but they won’t keep it close enough for a cover. Take TEXAS -9 (-110).

Over/Under (O/U)

Both teams tend to go Over in their games. Abilene Christian has played Over in 11 of its last 13 games. Texas has gone 14-5 O/U in its last 19 and is 5-0 O/U in its last five as a favorite. Take OVER 139.5 POINTS (-110). 

Want some action on this game or others? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Jess Root on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

More college sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Auburn / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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March Madness: Iowa vs. Grand Canyon odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Saturday’s Iowa Hawkeyes vs. Grand Canyon Antelopes odds and lines, with March Madness Round 1 picks and predictions.

March Madness officially has begun. Saturday, we get to see one team’s NCAA Tournament debut. The (2) Iowa Hawkeyes (21-8) will face the (15) Grand Canyon Antelopes (17-6) at 6:25 p.m. ET in Indiana Farmers Coliseum in Indianapolis. Below, we analyze the Iowa-Grand Canyon odds and lines, with March Madness NCAA Tournament picks and predictions.

Iowa comes in as a two seed with one of the nation’s best scoring attacks. The Hawkeyes are No. 6 in scoring in the nation, averaging 83.8 points per game. They lead the nation with 19.1 assists per game and are led by senior C Luka Garza, who averages 23.7 points and 8.8 rebounds game.

Grand Canyon makes its NCAA Tournament debut after winning the WAC in head coach Bryce Drew’s first year. The Antelopes have size up front with 7-0 senior C Asbjorn Midtgaard and 6-10 senior C/PF Alessandro Lever, and are the eighth-best rebounding team in the nation. They had the nation’s second-best field-goal defense, allowing only 37.7% from the field and 61.1 points per game, ninth best in the country.

Iowa vs. Grand Canyon: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 5:40 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Iowa -1600 (bet $1,600 to win $100) | Grand Canyon +850 (bet $100 to win $850)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Iowa -14.5 (-110) | Grand Canyon +14.5 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 144.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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March Madness betting promotions 

Current March Madness offers from BetMGM Sportsbook:

Bet $10 on the first round, RECEIVE A $10 FREE BET FOR EACH GAME PLAYED that day of the opening round. Bet now!

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Iowa vs. Grand Canyon: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Iowa 72, Grand Canyon 62

Money line (ML)

Grand Canyon’s schedule in the WAC doesn’t do much to prepare it for Iowa. The Antelopes have never played a game as big as this. The Antelopes don’t have much of a chance as 15-seeds have a combined 8-132 all-time record against the No. 2 seed. With Iowa’s overwhelming line at -1600, there is no reason to make a money line bet. PASS.

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Against the spread (ATS)

Here is where it gets fun. GCU is 15-5 ATS overall and 4-0 ATS in neutral sites, while Iowa is only 15-13-1 ATS. Grand Canyon’s size and defense will give Iowa trouble and will slow the game enough to keep the score relatively close. The Antelopes went 3-0 ATS against Nevada, Arizona State and Colorado. The first round is where magical upsets happen. Grand Canyon will threaten but falter. However, Iowa won’t blow GCU out. Take GRAND CANYON +14.5 (-110).

Over/Under (O/U)

At 144.5 points, this total is set high. Iowa scores a ton, but Grand Canyon slows the game down. The Antelopes went 6-14 O/U this season, while the Hawkeyes were only 14-15 O/U. In seven combined games between the two teams at neutral sites, only two contests went Over the total. Take UNDER 144.5 (-105).

Want some action on this game or others? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Jess Root on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

More college sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Auburn / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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March Madness: Purdue vs. North Texas odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Friday’s Purdue Boilermakers vs. North Texas Mean Green odds and lines, with March Madness Round 1 picks and predictions.

The fourth-seeded Purdue Boilermakers (18-9) will battle the No. 13 seed North Texas Mean Green (17-9) in an NCAA South Region Round 1 game Friday. Tip-off is set for 7:25 p.m. ET at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Below, we analyze the Purdue-North Texas odds and lines, with March Madness NCAA Tournament picks and predictions.

The Boilermakers won five straight games – playing exceptional defense along the way – before bowing out in overtime to Ohio State in the Big Ten Tournament. Purdue ranks fourth in Big Ten defense, yielding just 66.3 points per game. The Boilermakers own solid efficiency numbers at both ends of the floor and are a well-rounded team on the boards.

North Texas picked up an overtime victory against Western Kentucky in the Conference USA Tournament championship game to earn its first NCAA Tournament bid in 11 years. The Mean Green went just 5-5 in their first 10 games, but UNT rallied to go 12-4 since, including a current four-game win streak. The Mean Green play a lockdown brand of defense with a bottom-50 tempo.

Purdue vs. North Texas: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 5:19 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Purdue -300 (bet $300 to win $100) | North Texas +240 (bet $100 to win $240)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Purdue -7 (-110) | North Texas +7 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 126.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

PLAY: USA TODAY March Madness Bracket Game

March Madness betting promotions 

Current March Madness offers from BetMGM Sportsbook:

Bet $10 on the first round, RECEIVE A $10 FREE BET FOR EACH GAME PLAYED that day of the opening round. Bet now!

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Offers available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. New customer offers, terms and conditions apply.

Purdue vs. North Texas: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Purdue 64, North Texas 58

Money line (ML)

Peg this contest as a full two-possession cushion for Purdue and a near-75% win probability for the Boilermakers in their home state. PASS on the money line.

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Against the spread (ATS)

PASS on the Boilers covering the 7-point spread. Figure on Purdue having the better shooting night and getting some mileage out of uncontested and untimed 15-footers. The Boilermakers as -5 or even -5.5 would bring some tilt to that side. Otherwise, pocket the sides here and look into a slow-pace Under.

Over/Under (O/U)

North Texas owns a points-per-game-allowed average of just 61.2, ranking 10th in the country. UNT has held foes to a 36.7% mark from the field over its last five games. Over/Under bettors have been slow to respond. The Under is 15-10 in the team’s 25 games.

The total here is a low. It isn’t low enough. BACK THE UNDER 126.5 (-105).

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March Madness: West Virginia vs. Morehead State odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Friday’s West Virginia Mountaineers vs. Morehead State Eagles odds and lines, with March Madness Round 1 picks and predictions.

The 3-seed West Virginia Mountaineers (18-9) take on the 14-seed Morehead State Eagles (23-7) at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis Friday for a 9:50 p.m. ET tip-off. Below, we analyze the West Virginia-Morehead State odds and lines, with March Madness NCAA Tournament picks and predictions.

The Mountaineers stumble into the NCAA Tournament with three losses in the past four games, including a 72-69 loss as 3-point favorites to Oklahoma State in their first game of the Big 12 Tournament. The Mountaineers have also failed to cover in four in a row after a 5-1 ATS run. West Virginia went 7-9 ATS in 16 games against regular-season opponents who qualified for the NCAA Tournament.

The Eagles soared past Belmont in the Ohio Valley Conference title game, and enter the NCAA Tournament on a seven-game win streak. Morehead State has covered four of the past five games overall, and it’s 3-1 ATS on a neutral court this season. This is a team which hasn’t matched up with the big boys very well, losing by 36 to Kentucky in November, by 33 to Ohio State Dec. 2 and by 15 to Clemson Dec. 21. Morehead State plays lockdown defense, allowing just 63.4 PPG to rank 32nd in the nation, and it allows foes to hit just 40.4% from the field, including 30.2% behind the 3-point are.

West Virginia vs. Morehead State: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:56 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: West Virginia -1100 (bet $1,100 to win $100) | Morehead State +650 (bet $100 to win $650)
  • Against the spread/ATS: West Virginia -13 (-110) | Morehead State +13 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 137.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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West Virginia vs. Morehead State: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

West Virginia 69, Morehead State 60

Money line (ML)

West Virginia (-1100) will cost 11 times your potential return. While that’s not a good long-term betting strategy, it’s especially dangerous during NCAA Tournament time when we see monumental upsets. Morehead State was on the good side of one of those big upsets, upending 4-seed Louisville 62-61 back in 2011 behind former Denver Nuggets big man Kenneth Faried.

PASS.

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Against the spread (ATS)

MOREHEAD STATE +13 (-110) has the defense to give West Virginia fits, although the Eagles might not have the juice to go all the way and pull the upset. They play a very deliberate style on offense, going for just 68.6 PPG, they’re not a good 3-point shooting team and they struggle from the free-throw line. But the defense is good, and they should match up well against the struggling Mountaineers.

Over/Under (O/U)

UNDER 137.5 (-110) is the lean here based on Morehead State’s shutdown defense, and its struggles on offense. West Virginia will test that defense, as it averages 77.6 PPG, but it hits just 42.8% from the field. That kind of shooting won’t get it done against a sturdy Eagles D.

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More college sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

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Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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March Madness: Villanova vs. Winthrop odds, picks and prediction

Previewing Friday’s Villanova Wildcats vs. Winthrop Eagles odds and lines, with March Madness Round 1 picks and predictions.

The 5-seed Villanova Wildcats (16-6) take on the 12-seed Winthrop Eagles (23-1) Friday at Indiana Farmers Coliseum in Indianapolis for a 9:57 p.m. ET tip-off. Below, we analyze the Villanova-Winthrop odds and lines, with March Madness NCAA Tournament picks and predictions.

The Wildcats were stunned in their first game of the Big East Tournament against eventual champ Georgetown 72-71 March 11. Villanova has had a tough time adjusting after losing senior G Collin Gillespie to a season-ending knee injury March 3. In the two games without him, the ‘Cats are 0-2 SU/ATS, averaging just 61.5 PPG.

Winthrop ran through the Big South en route to its first NCAA Tournament bid since 2017. While the Eagles had tremendous success in the regular season, that hasn’t always been the case in the Big Dance. They have won just once in 10 appearances, a 2007 first-round win over Notre Dame before bowing out to Oregon as an 11-seed. Their current 12-seed is the second-highest in school history behind that 2007 club.

Villanova vs. Winthrop: Odds, spread and lines

Odds via BetMGM; access USA TODAY Sports’ betting odds for a full list. Lines last updated at 4:19 a.m. ET.

  • Money line: Villanova -300 (bet $300 to win $100) | Winthrop +230 (bet $100 to win $230)
  • Against the spread/ATS: Villanova -7 (-110) | Winthrop +7 (-110)
  • Over/Under: 142.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Offers available in CO, IA, IN, MI, NJ, PA, TN, VA and WV. New customer offers, terms and conditions apply.

Villanova vs. Winthrop: Odds, lines, predictions and picks

Prediction

Villanova 77, Winthrop 72

Money line (ML)

Villanova (-300) will cost you three times your potential return. It’s a little risky since the Wildcats are 0-2 SU/ATS since Gillespie went down, and they’re facing a Winthrop side that has lost just once this season. But who have the Eagles really played in the Big South? They played just one NCAA Tournament team in UNC Greensboro, and that was in the opener Dec. 1 on a neutral floor. The Eagles beat the Spartans 75-67 as six-point underdogs, but again, their strength of schedule is a little suspect.

PASS.

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Against the spread (ATS)

WINTHROP +7 (-110) could give Villanova a scare as the Eagles have rolled up 79.2 PPG to rank 35th in the nation. Again, their SOS wasn’t great, and they played just one quality opponent. ‘Nova should put up plenty of points against Winthrop’s defense, which coughs up points to the tune of 68.3 PPG, ranking 123rd in the country.

Over/Under (O/U)

OVER 142.5 (-115) is the play. Winthrop averaged 81.7 PPG in its three Big South Tournament games. Even through the Under went 2-0-1 in those contests, and 5-0-1 in the Eagles’ past six, Villanova is a much more quality opponent, who will put up points. The Wildcats, who hit the Over in their loss to Georgetown, averaged 75.8 PPG during the season, while hitting 35.5% of their 3-pointers. It won’t be a track meet, but it won’t be a defensive slog, either.

Want some action on this game or others? Place a bet at BetMGM now. For more sports betting picks and tips, visit SportsbookWire.com. Please gamble responsibly.

Follow Joe Williams on Twitter. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter and like us on Facebook.

More college sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:

Alabama / Auburn / Florida / Georgia / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Tennessee / Texas / USC / Wisconsin

Gannett may earn revenue from audience referrals to betting services. Newsrooms are independent of this relationship and there is no influence on news coverage. This information is for entertainment purposes only. We make no representations or warranties as to the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any content.

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