College basketball betting odds lines picks predictions best bets – Page 2

Purdue Fort Wayne at Michigan odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Purdue Fort Wayne at Michigan odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Purdue Fort Wayne Mastodons (9-4) take on the No. 21 Michigan Wolverines (8-3) Sunday. Tip-off from Crisler Center in Ann Arbor is set for 1 p.m. ET (Big Ten Plus). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Purdue Fort Wayne vs. Michigan odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

Purdue Fort Wayne extended its win streak to 4 games in a 103-52 win over the Division II Defiance College Yellow Jackets Friday. The Mastodons’ defense was stifling, holding Defiance to just 13.3% shooting from deep (2-for-15) and forcing 25 turnovers. G Corey Hadnot II led the way with a game-high 17 points.

Michigan dropped its second straight game in an 87-86 loss at the No. 15 Oklahoma Sooners Wednesday. The Wolverines failed to cover as 4-point favorites, and the Over (149) cashed. A 4-point play by Sooners G Jeremiah Fears with 11.5 seconds remaining sealed Michigan’s fate. Senior C Vladislav Goldin posted a double-double with 26 points and 10 rebounds, adding 2 assists, 2 blocks, and a steal in a strong performance despite the loss.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Purdue Fort Wayne at Michigan odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at 2:50 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Purdue Fort Wayne +1350 (bet $1,350 to win $100) | Michigan -5000 (bet $5,000 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Purdue Fort Wayne +20.5 (-110) | Michigan -20.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 160.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Purdue Fort Wayne at Michigan picks and predictions

Prediction

Michigan 90, Purdue Fort Wayne 78

Moneyline

PASS.

Michigan (-5000) will get the win, but the Mastodons will keep this game competitive, which is why I’ll take my wager to the spread and/or total.

Against the spread

BET PURDUE FORT WAYNE +20.5 (-110).

Michigan is the far more talented team and could dominate, but recent struggles make that unlikely. The Wolverines have been shaky defensively, allowing 86 points per game (PPG) over their last 3 contests.

Purdue Fort Wayne enters on a hot streak, winning 4 straight and 5 of their last 6. The Mastodons have covered 7 times in 11 games this season. Averaging 84.6 PPG (30th in the nation), they outscore opponents by 12.8 PPG.

I’ve got the Mastodons keeping this game competitive; take the points.

Over/Under

BET OVER 160.5 (-110).

Michigan has hit the Over in 3 straight games, while Purdue Fort Wayne has gone Over in 4 straight and 7 of its last 9. Both teams score over 81 PPG, so don’t expect much defense in this matchup.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @DrewPhelps05 on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

College sports coverage from USA TODAY Sports Media Group:
Alabama / Arkansas / Auburn / Clemson / Colorado / Duke / Florida / Florida State / Georgia / Iowa / Kentucky / LSU / Michigan / Michigan State / Nebraska / North Carolina / Notre Dame / Ohio State / Oklahoma / Oregon / Penn State / Rutgers / Tennessee / Texas / Texas A&M / UCLA / USC / Washington / Wisconsin / Recruiting / Transfer portal / College Football Playoffs / College Sports Wire / High School

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Central Arkansas at Oklahoma odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Central Arkansas at Oklahoma odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Central Arkansas Bears (3-8) face the No. 15 Oklahoma Sooners (11-0) Sunday. Tip-off from the Lloyd Noble Center in Norman is set for 1 p.m. ET (ESPN+). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Central Arkansas vs. Oklahoma odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

The Bears snapped their 4-game losing streak with a 73-71 win over The Citadel Bulldogs Monday. They couldn’t cover as 4-point home favorites, and the Over (137.5) cashed. Central Arkansas created chaos defensively, forcing 19 turnovers. Freshman G Layne Taylor led the way, scoring 21 points while adding 5 steals, 3 assists, and 2 rebounds in the hard-fought victory.

The Sooners pulled off a thrilling 87-86 victory over the No. 21 Michigan Wolverines Wednesday, covering as 4-point home underdogs. G Jeremiah Fears sealed the game with a clutch 3-pointer and a foul with 11.5 seconds remaining, sinking the free throw for a 4-point play that secured the lead. Fears finished with a game-high 30 points, keeping Oklahoma’s undefeated season alive.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Central Arkansas at Oklahoma odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at 2:30 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Central Arkansas +3300 (bet $100 to win $3,300) | Oklahoma -10000 (bet $10,000 to win $100)
Against the spread: Central Arkansas +28.5 (-110) | Oklahoma -28.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 145.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Central Arkansas at Oklahoma picks and predictions

Prediction

Oklahoma 91, Central Arkansas 65

Moneyline

PASS.

The Sooners (-10000) will win Sunday afternoon, but the spread may be a bit high for them to cover. I’ll take my wager to the spread.

Against the spread

BET CENTRAL ARKANSAS +28.5 (-110).

Oklahoma’s talent on both ends should prove too much for Central Arkansas, as they’ve won 19 straight non-conference home games.

However, the Sooners have failed to cover 3 of their last 4 games as 20-plus point favorites.

Central Arkansas, meanwhile, has covered 4 of its last 6 games, including twice as a 20-plus point underdog. The Bears have also covered the last 2 meetings between these teams. With extra rest after playing Monday, the Bears may keep it closer than expected.

Over/Under

BET OVER 145.5 (-105).

These teams have met in each of the last 2 seasons, with both games going over the total.

Central Arkansas has hit the Over in 5 of its last 7 games, while Oklahoma has gone Over in 2 of its last 3.

The Sooners average 82 points per game and should thrive against a Bears defense allowing 76.8. Don’t be surprised if Oklahoma cracks 90 points for the third time this season.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @DrewPhelps05 on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Illinois vs. Missouri odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s Illinois vs. Missouri odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Illinois Fighting Illini (7-3) head to St. Louis for the annual Braggin’ Rights game against the Missouri Tigers (10-1) Sunday. Tip-off from Enterprise Center is set for 1 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Illinois vs. Missouri odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

The Illini have traded wins and losses in the last 4 games, which has contributed to their descent out of the Top 25. They pushed as 2-point dogs in a 66-64 defeat against the newly crowned No. 1 Tennessee Volunteers Dec. 14. G Kasparas Jakucionis did his part with 22 points but was just 5-for-15 from the floor.

The Tigers are still runnin’ wild after taking down then-No. 1 Kansas Dec. 8. They’ve won 10 straight after plucking the Jacksonville State Gamecocks Tuesday 83-72. G Mark Mitchell had 18 points, 6 boards, 6 dimes and 3 blocks. They failed to cover for the second straight game, though, with bars set at -27.5 and -16.5.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Illinois vs. Missouri odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at Saturday at 5:10 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Illinois -150 (bet $150 to win $100) | Missouri +120 (bet $100 to win $120)
Against the spread: Illinois -3.5 (-110) | Missouri +3.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 154.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Illinois vs. Missouri picks and predictions

Prediction

Illinois 91, Missouri 85

Moneyline

This is the hottest ticket in town even after Justin Timberlake had a concert in the building Thursday night. These teams have traded wins in the last 4 meetings with Illinois coming out on top last season 97-73.

This is a different Mizzou squad, though, that’s feelin’ themselves after beating KU. It will be the Tigers’ first real test aside from that Kansas game, as they’ve had a cupcake schedule otherwise.

I like Illinois here, but not at -150. I’ll lay the points instead.

PASS.

Against the spread

Illinois is more battle-tested and has the edge in talent. Mizzou’s record looks sexy, but again, it hasn’t played anyone besides Kansas.

Take ILLINOIS -3.5 (-110).

Over/Under

The Illini are 4-6 O/U, and Mizzou is 7-4 O/U thus far. The last 4 meetings have gone Over, and these teams come in with a ton of confidence. This event has sold out, and tickets are a little pricey on resale sites. So this is going to be an electric atmosphere. You can bet on these teams runnin’ and gunnin’.

Take the OVER 154.5 (-110).

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

Want to play some games of your own? Play for free at the best social casinos and enjoy lots of slots, blackjack, video poker, roulette and more. You can even earn real prizes!

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Ryan Dodson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Cal vs. San Diego State odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Cal vs. San Diego State odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Cal Golden Bears (7-4) and the No. 23 San Diego State Aztecs (7-2) meet Saturday at SAP Center in San Jose. Tip-off is set for 10:30 p.m. ET (ACC Network). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Cal vs. San Diego State odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

Cal halted a 3-game losing streak last time out with an 84-66 win over Northwestern State last Saturday, cashing as a 16-point favorite as the Over (144.5) cashed. The Golden Bears are just 3-4 against the spread (ATS) in the past 7 games, while the Over has cashed in 4 in a row, while going 6-1 in the past 7 outings in the span.

San Diego State took care of Cal Baptist last time out Dec. 11 by an 81-75 score, but it didn’t cover as 13.5-point favorites. The Aztecs have failed to cover the past 2 outings, while going 3-5 ATS in 8 games with a spread this season. The Over is on a 4-1 run in the previous 5 outings.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Cal vs. San Diego State odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at 11:05 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Cal +180 (bet $100 to win $180) | San Diego State -225 (bet $225 to win $100)
Against the spread: Cal +5.5 (-115) | San Diego State -5.5 (-105)
Over/Under: 144.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Cal vs. San Diego State picks and predictions

Prediction

San Diego State 83, Cal 71

Moneyline

San Diego State (-225) will set you back more than 2 times your potential return, and that’s way too expensive for a standalone wager. However, if you were to put the Aztecs into a multi-leg parlay, it would be perfectly acceptable to include San Diego State.

PASS.

Against the spread

SAN DIEGO STATE -5.5 (-105) is a solid play, as it should get the job done by at least 3 buckets in this neutral-site battle in the Bay Area.

Cal +5.5 (-115) has really struggled lately, losing 3 of the past 4 games outright. That includes home losses to Cornell and Stanford as a favorite.

Back San Diego State, as it has the much better body of work.

Over/Under

OVER 144.5 (-105) is a solid bet in this intra-state battle in San Jose.

The Over has hit in 4 in a row for Cal, while going 6-1 in the previous 7 outings. Cal has scored at least 78 points in 7 consecutive contests.

For San Diego State, the total has cashed in 4 of the past 5 outings, while going for 73 or more points on offense in each of the previous 4 games.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Bucknell at Gonzaga odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Bucknell at Gonzaga odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The No. 14 Gonzaga Bulldogs (8-3) welcome the Bucknell Bison (4-7) to McCarthey Athletic Center in Spokane, Wash. Tip is set for 9 p.m. ET Saturday (ESPN+). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Bucknell vs. Gonzaga odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

Gonzaga, which is No. 14 in the USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll, enters having won only 3 of its last 5. The Bulldogs are coming off a 102-72 home win over the Nicholls State Colonels Wednesday, closing as a 35.5-point favorite. Gonzaga, in December, has played neutral-court battles with No. 4 Kentucky and No. 13 UConn, losing both. It is 6-5 against the spread (ATS) on the season.

Bucknell is riding a 5-game losing streak. The Bison lost to the Radford Highlanders 74-70 Dec. 8 in overtime, covering as a 6.5-point road underdog. They have also faced the No. 4 Wildcats, dropping that Nov. 9 battle 100-72. The Bison are 6-4-1 ATS on the season and 4-0-1 ATS on the road.

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Bucknell at Gonzaga odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds Lines last updated at 11 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Off the board
Against the spread (ATS): Bucknell +35.5 (-115) | Gonzaga -35.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 153.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Bucknell at Gonzaga picks and predictions

Prediction

Gonzaga 93, Bucknell 63

Moneyline

PASS.

Even if you find odds for this wager, avoid them. The Bulldogs are a rightful favorite and should come out on top with ease.

Against the spread

BET BUCKNELL +35.5 (-115).

The Bison have been terrific for bettors on the road and should be a significant public underdog as well. They pushed against Kentucky and covered as a 25.5-point road underdog against Maryland. They are 3-0-1 ATS as a road underdog.

Gonzaga is 0-3 ATS in its last 3 games and is 2-2 ATS as a home favorite of 20 or more. It has struggled defensively, allowing at least 72 in 5 of its last 6 games. It might not be able to defend well enough to cover a spread of this size.

Back BUCKNELL +35.5 (-115).

Over/Under

BET OVER 153.5 (-110).

If there’s one thing both sides can agree on, it is going Over the projected total. The Bison are 7-4 O/U on the season and 4-1 O/U on the road. They have scored at least 70 in 7 of 11 games.

The Bulldogs are 8-3 O/U on the season and are 3-1 O/U as a favorite of 20 or more. They have gone Over in 5 of their last 6 games. Considering those trends, back OVER 153.5 (-110).

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow @nathanbeighle_ on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Oregon vs. Stanford odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Oregon vs. Stanford odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The No. 10 Oregon Ducks (10-1) and the Stanford Cardinal (9-2) meet Saturday at SAP Center in San Jose. Tip-off is set for 8 p.m. ET (BTN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Oregon vs. Stanford odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

Oregon suffered a 73-71 loss as a 3.5-point favorite in Eugene Dec. 8 as the Over (137) cashed. The Ducks rebounded with a 79-61 win over Stephen F. Austin last time out on Sunday, but Oregon failed to cover as a 21-point favorite as the Over (134.5) cashed again. UO is still 4-2 against the spread (ATS) in the past 6 games.

For Stanford, it eased by Merrimack last time out as a 74-68 victory Tuesday. However, the Cardinal failed to cover as a 15.5-point favorite as the Over (135) cashed. Stanford is 2-3 ATS in the past 5 games while the total has gone high in 4 of the outings in the span.

These teams have met frequently in the past as Pac-12 members up until last season. Oregon has won 6 of the past 8 meetings since March 7, 2020, while Stanford is 3-1-1 ATS in the past 5 in the series. The Under has cashed in 3 of the past 4 installments, too.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Oregon vs. Stanford odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at 10:45 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Oregon -250 (bet $250 to win $100) | Stanford +190 (bet $100 to win $190)
Against the spread: Oregon -5.5 (-110) | Stanford +5.5 (-110)
Over/Under: 149.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Oregon vs. Stanford picks and predictions

Prediction

Oregon 80, Stanford 73

Moneyline

Oregon (-250) is quite a bit expensive in this renewal of its Pac-12 rivalry with Stanford (+195). The Ducks will cost you 2 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s way too expensive for not enough reward, either straight up or as part of a multi-leg parlay.

PASS.

Against the spread

OREGON -5.5 (-110) is a strong play laying the little bit of points. The Ducks are much more battle-tested than Stanford +5.5 (-110), having recorded victories against Alabama, San Diego State and Texas A&M so far this season.

Stanford has an impressive 9-2 SU record, but it is just 2-3 ATS in the past 5 games, and it has a pair of losses against Cal Poly and Grand Canyon. It isn’t likely to match up very well with the ranked Ducks.

Over/Under

OVER 149.5 (-110) is the lean, but go with a half-unit wager.

The Over has cashed in 4 of the past 5 games for Stanford, while going 2-1 in the past 3 home contests.

For Oregon, the Over has cashed in the past 2 games, while going 5-2 in the past 7 outings.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Ohio State vs. Kentucky odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Ohio State vs. Kentucky odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Ohio State Buckeyes (7-4) and the No. 4 Kentucky Wildcats (10-1) meet Saturday at Madison Square Garden. Tip-off is set for 5:30 p.m. ET (CBS). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Ohio State vs. Kentucky odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

Ohio State rolled up a 95-73 win against Valparaiso last time out on Tuesday, covering as a 21.5-point favorite at most shops as the Over (150.5) connected. Despite the win over Valpo, the Buckeyes are 2-3 straight up (SU) and against the spread (ATS) in the previous 5 outings. The Under has hit in 3 of 4 games, too.

Kentucky topped rival Louisville 93-85 at home Dec. 14, but the Wildcats failed to cash as a 10-point favorite. The Wildcats have won 10 of 11 games this season, but UK is a dismal 1-5 ATS in the past 6 games. The Over and Under have alternated in the past 7 outings.

The last time these teams met was Dec. 21, 2019, a 71-65 Ohio State win as a 3.5-point favorite at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas as the Over (132) cashed.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Ohio State vs. Kentucky odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at 10:05 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Ohio State +260 (bet $100 to win $260) | Kentucky -350 (bet $350 to win $100)
Against the spread: Ohio State +7.5 (-110) | Kentucky -7.5 (-110)
Over/Under: 160.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Ohio State vs. Kentucky picks and predictions

Prediction

Kentucky 86, Ohio State 73

Moneyline

Kentucky (-350) will cost you 3½ times your potential return, and that’s way too expensive for a standalone bet or as part of a multi-leg parlay.

On the flip side, Ohio State (+260) cannot be trusted after dropping 3 of the past 5 games, including a 38-point loss against Auburn in its most recent battle against an SEC opponent.

PASS.

Against the spread

KENTUCKY -7.5 (-110) is the play.

The Wildcats are a risky play, as Kentucky has covered just once in the past 6 games. However, that cover was a 90-89 OT victory in Seattle as a 6-point underdog against Gonzaga. Kentucky is 2-0 SU/ATS in its 2 games on a neutral floor this season.

On the flip side, Ohio State +7.5 (-110) has covered just twice in the past 5 games, with 2 losses by 24 or more points in the past 2 outings off campus.

Over/Under

UNDER 160.5 (-115) is worth a look, but go with a half-unit play at most.

The Under has cashed in 3 of the past 4 games for the Buckeyes, who are averaging just 56.0 points per game in the past 2 non-home contests.

For the Wildcats, the Over and Under have alternated in the past 7 games, with the Over hitting last time out.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Purdue vs. Auburn odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Purdue vs. Auburn odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The No. 17 Purdue Boilermakers (8-3) and the No. 2 Auburn Tigers (10-1) meet Saturday. Tip-off from Legacy Arena at the BJCC in Birmingham, Ala., is set for 4:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Purdue vs. Auburn odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

Purdue suffered a 70-66 loss against Texas A&M last time out as a 2-point favorite. The Boilermakers have dropped 2 of the past 3 games, while going 1-3 against the spread (ATS) in the previous 4 outings. The Over is 3-1 in the 4-game span.

Auburn picked up a 100-59 victory against Georgia State Tuesday, covering as a 39.5-point favorite. The Tigers have won and covered 3 in a row since an 84-78 loss at Duke Dec. 4. The Tigers are 5-1 ATS in the past 6 games and 9-2 ATS across the previous 11 outings. The Over is on a 4-1 run in the previous 5 contests.

These teams haven’t met since Nov. 23, 2016, when the Boilermakers posted a 96-71 win as a 10-point underdog at Hard Rock Hotel Riviera Maya in Mexico.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Purdue vs. Auburn odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at 9:47 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Purdue +360 (bet $100 to win $360) | Auburn -500 (bet $500 to win $100)
Against the spread: Purdue +10.5 (-115) | Auburn -10.5 (-105)
Over/Under: 149.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Purdue vs. Auburn picks and predictions

Prediction

Auburn 83, Purdue 75

Moneyline

Auburn (-500) will cost you 5 times your potential return, and that’s way too much to risk on a matchup between 2 ranked teams. Even as part of a multi-leg parlay, including the Tigers sucks all of the value out of your betslip.

PASS.

Against the spread

BACK PURDUE +10.5 (-115) to keep this game within single digits. Purdue is just 1-2 straight up/ATS in 3 games as an underdog this season, but that lone victory was an 87-78 win against Alabama as a 4-point underdog Nov. 15.

Auburn -10.5 (-105) has had a tremendous 5-1 ATS run in the past 6 games, while going 9-2 ATS in 11 outings this season.

Over/Under

OVER 149.5 (-105) is a strong play in this marquee matchup.

The Over has connected in 3 of the past 4 games for Purdue, with the Boilermakers allowing at least 78 points in the 3 outings with an Over result.

For Auburn, the Over has hit in 4 of the past 5 games, with the Tigers going for 90 or more points in 4 of the past 5 outings, too. The Tigers are good for 78 or more points in 10 of 11 games.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

UCLA vs. North Carolina odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s UCLA vs. North Carolina odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The No. 18 UCLA Bruins (10-1) and the North Carolina Tar Heels (6-5) meet Saturday at Madison Square Garden. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m. ET (CBS / Paramount+). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the UCLA vs. North Carolina odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

UCLA stomped Prairie View A&M 111-75 as a 34-point favorite last time out Tuesday as the Over (146) cashed. The Bruins have won 9 in a row since its lone loss of the season in a neutral-floor battle in Henderson, Nev., against New Mexico. UCLA has covered 3 in a row, while going 5-1 against the spread (ATS) in the past 6 outings.

North Carolina suffered a 90-84 loss against Florida last time out, while the Tar Heels slipped to 2-4 straight up (SU) in the past 6 games. UNC is 1-6 ATS in the past 7 games, while the Under has hit in 3 of the previous 4 outings.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

UCLA vs. North Carolina odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at 9:16 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): UCLA -135 (bet $135 to win $100) | North Carolina +110 (bet $100 to win $110)
Against the spread: UCLA -1.5 (-110) | North Carolina +1.5 (-110)
Over/Under: 149.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

UCLA vs. North Carolina picks and predictions

Prediction

UCLA 76, North Carolina 68

Moneyline

UCLA (-135) will set you back quite a bit as a moderate favorite in New York City. The Bruins have been playing better basketball than North Carolina (+110) to date. However, the Bruins aren’t worth playing at this price when you can lay just a little bit of points for a much lower cost.

PASS.

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

Against the spread

PLAY UCLA -1.5 (-110) to get the job done by at least a bucket. The Bruins are a much stronger and economical play.

North Carolina +1.5 (-110) is just 1-6 ATS in the past 7 games, with a lone cover against La Salle Dec. 14. The Tar Heels are 0-2 SU/ATS in 2 neutral-site games as underdogs, too.

Over/Under

UNDER 149.5 (-115) is worth a look.

The Tar Heels have cashed low in 3 of the past 4 games, while the Bruins have hit low in 8 of 11 games on the season. UCLA has allowed just 56.9 points per game, ranking inside the top 5 in the nation, while limiting the opposition to just a 38.9% field-goal percentage and 29.1% 3-pointer percentage.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]

Wake Forest at Clemson odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Saturday’s Wake Forest at Clemson odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4141″ ]

The Wake Forest Demon Deacons (9-3, 1-0 ACC) and the Clemson Tigers (9-3, 1-0) meet Saturday at Littlejohn Coliseum. Tip-off is set for 2 p.m. ET (ESPN). Let’s analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s college basketball odds around the Wake Forest vs. Clemson odds, and make our expert college basketball picks and predictions.

Wake Forest followed up a 57-44 loss at Texas A&M Dec. 3 with a 72-66 victory against Boston College in the ACC opener Dec. 7. It also had a 75-58 win and cover as 8-point favorites over James Madison last time out on Tuesday.

Despite the cover Tuesday vs. JMU, the Demon Deacons are still 2-7 against the spread (ATS) in the past 9 outings and 3-9 ATS in 12 games this season. The Under is 5-1 in the past 6 games and 9-3 in 12 outings to date.

Clemson has suffered consecutive overtime losses against Memphis and South Carolina, while the Over has cashed in both outings. However, the Under is 5-1 in the previous 6 games decided in regulation.

– Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Men’s Basketball Coaches Poll

Stream select live college basketball games and full replays: Get ESPN+

Wake Forest at Clemson odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list of college basketball odds. Lines last updated at 8:39 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Wake Forest +340 (bet $100 to win $340) | Clemson -450 (bet $450 to win $100)
Against the spread: Wake Forest +8.5 (-105) | Clemson -8.5 (-115)
Over/Under: 135.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Play our free daily Pick’em Challenge and win! Play now!

[gambcom-standard rankid=”4132″ ]

Wake Forest at Clemson picks and predictions

Prediction

Clemson 70, Wake Forest 63

Moneyline

Clemson (-450) will set you back 4½ times your potential return, and that’s way too much risk for not nearly enough reward.

Even as part of a multi-leg parlay, backing the Tigers just doesn’t make any sense.

PASS.

Against the spread

PLAY WAKE FOREST +8.5 (-105) to keep it within single digits in Saturday’s conference tilt at Littlejohn.

Clemson -8.5 (-115) has not only failed to cover the past 2 games, but it has lost outright as a favorite. It is also 1-3 ATS in the past 4 games as a favorite, while going 4-5 ATS in the past 9 outings when favored.

For Wake Forest, there is plenty of risk, as the Deacs are 0-3 ATS in the past 3 tries as underdogs, so don’t get carried away.

Over/Under

UNDER 135.5 (-115) is the lean, but go with a half-unit play at most.

For Clemson, the Under has cashed in 5 of the past 6 games decided in regulation. And, for Wake, the Under is 5-1 in the past 6 outings, while going 9-3 in 12 contests this season.

Let’s go low, and hope Clemson doesn’t need OT for a third straight game.

[gambcom-standard rankid=”6305″ ]

For more sports betting picks and tips, check out SportsbookWire.com and BetFTW.

Follow Kevin J. Erickson on Twitter/X. Follow SportsbookWire on Twitter/X and like us on Facebook.

[lawrence-newsletter]

[lawrence-auto-related count=3 category=1667]