NCAA odds lines against the spread over/under total picks predictions

March Madness: Purdue vs. UConn odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Purdue Boilermakers (34-4) and UConn Huskies (36-3) meet in Monday’s National Championship Game. Tip-off from State Farm Arena in Glendale, Ariz., is slated for 9:20 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Purdue vs. UConn odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

The No. 1 seed out of the Midwest Region, the Purdue Boilermakers, rolled off 5 consecutive wins and covers in the NCAA Tournament. They topped 16th-seeded Grambling 78-50 in the 1st round as 27-point favorites with the Under (137.5) cashing. They walloped 8th-seeded Utah State 106-67 in the 2nd round as 11.5-point favorites with the Over (150.5) hitting, and they ousted No. 5 seed Gonzaga 80-68 in the Sweet 16 as 4.5-point favorites as the Under (155.5) connected.

Purdue saved its best basketball for the Elite 8 and Final Four, though, really applying the defense against No. 2 seed Tennessee in the quarterfinals and 11th-seeded NC State in the semis. The Boilers were 3-point favorites in a 72-66 win vs. the Volunteers as the Under (148) hit, and they beat the Wolfpack 63-50 in a defensive battle to cover as 9.5-point favorites with the Under (147) coming in, helping them advance to the title game.

Just a season ago, the Boilermakers became the 2nd team in NCAA Tourney history — joining Virginia — to lose in the 1st round as a No. 16 seed, getting upset by Fairleigh Dickinson. Virginia lost to No. 16 seed UMBC in 2018, but the next season, the Cavaliers used that loss as motivation, rolling to the national title in 2019. Purdue is looking to do the same.

The defending champs from UConn, the No. 1 team in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll, stand in its way — Purdue is ranked 3rd.

Championship Game: Purdue-UConn best prop bets

UConn is a perfect 8-0 in the postseason — ACC and NCAA Tournaments — while going 7-1 against the spread (ATS) in those games. Like Purdue, it is also 5-0 straight up (SU) and ATS in the NCAA Tourney.

The Huskies won 91-52 against 16th-seeded Stetson in the opening round, covering as 27.5-point favorites as the Under (146) cashed. They dumped 9th-seeded Northwestern 75-58 as 13-point favorites with the Under (137) hitting. They belted No. 5 seed San Diego State in a national title game rematch in the Sweet 16, claiming an 82-52 victory to easily cover as 12-point favorites as the Under (136.5) cashed.

In the Elite 8, 3rd-seeded Illinois was no match for UConn, as the Huskies covered an 8-point spread in a 77-52 win as the Under (154.5) again hit. In Saturday’s semifinal, UConn belted No. 4 seed Alabama 86-72 as a 10-point favorite and the Under (160.5) connected.

Purdue vs. UConn odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook’s; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Sunday at 6:32 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Purdue +225 (bet $100 to win $225) | UConn -275 (bet $275 to win $100)
Against the spread: Purdue +6.5 (-105) | UConn -6.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 145.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Purdue vs. UConn and predictions

Prediction

UConn 75, Purdue 67

Moneyline

UConn (-275) will cost 2.75 times the potential return. That’s way too expensive for not enough reward. While the Huskies have won 12 consecutive games, including 8 in the postseason, since getting cracked at Creighton by 19 points Feb. 20 — an 85-66 loss — you can’t bet this much for such a small return.

PASS and look to the spread instead.

Against the spread

UCONN -6.5 (-115) is a good play, although it’s a big number for the title game.

As mentioned, Purdue is also 5-0 SU and ATS in the NCAA Tournament, and C Zach Edey will be a handful for the Huskies to contain. However, while he is a special player, and guards Lance Jones and Fletcher Loyer will give the Boilers nice perimeter shooting, UConn is much deeper and well-balanced with a top-notch and experienced starting 5.

The fact UConn was in the title game last season, the lights will be a little less bright, and it should be able to navigate the waters a little more effectively if and when those waters get a little choppy.

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Over/Under

UNDER 145.5 (-110) is the best play on the board. It opened at 146.5, but didn’t stay there too long.

Both of these teams pride themselves on defense. UConn has allowed 58 or fewer points in 5 of the past 6 games dating back to the Big East Championship Game, and it has cashed the Under in all 6 of those games, while going low in 9 of the past 10 outings.

Purdue hasn’t been quite a good defensively, but it has allowed 68 or fewer points in all 5 NCAA Tournament games, and the Under is 4-1 in those outings.

UConn should be able to dent Purdue for a few more than its tournament average, but don’t look for this to be an up-tempo, high-scoring affair. It will be a grind.

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March Madness: NC State vs. Purdue odds, picks and predictions

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

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The NC State Wolfpack (26-14) and Purdue Boilermakers (33-4) meet in a national semifinal in the Final Four of the NCAA Tournament Saturday. Tip-off from State Farm Arena in Glendale, Ariz., is slated for 6:09 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the NC State vs. Purdue odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

The 11th-seeded Wolfpack have rattled off 9 straight victories in the postseason, while covering 7 of the previous 8 outings. They are a perfect 7-0 against the spread (ATS) in 7 games as underdogs in the postseason — 3-0 ATS in the NCAA Tournament and 4-0 ATS in the ACC Tourney.

NC State dumped rival Duke 76-64 in the Elite 8. The Wolfpack were 7-point underdogs and the Under (142) cashed. The Under is 3-1 in the Pack’s 3 NCAA Tournament games with the lone exception an overtime victory over 14th-seeded Oakland in the 2nd round, the only game NC State has been favored in the tourney. Had there not been overtime in that game, the Under would have cashed there, too.

Purdue, the No. 1 seed in the Midwest Region, covered all 4 of its NCAA Tourney games. The most difficult test came in the Elite 8 when Purdue defeated 2nd-seeded Tennessee 72-66. The Boilermakers were 3-point favorites vs. the Vols as the Under (148) connected. Otherwise, Purdue has won each of its first 3 Tourney games by 12 or more points with the Under going 3-1.

UConn (35-3), the No. 1 team in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll, will face 18th-ranked Alabama (25-11) in the other semifinal — scheduled to tip at 8:49 p.m. ET (TBS) or 30 minutes after unranked NC State and No. 3 Purdue conclude.

NC State vs. Purdue odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook’s; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:39 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): NC State +350 (bet $100 to win $350) | Purdue -450 (bet $450 to win $100)
Against the spread: NC State +9.5 (-115) | Purdue -9.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 146.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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NC State vs. Purdue and predictions

Prediction

Purdue 76, NC State 69

Moneyline

Purdue (-450) will cost 4½ times your potential return. That’s not smart sport gambling, just too much risk for not nearly enough reward.

On the flip side, NC State (+350) is an awfully tempting play as hot as it has been. However, the Wolfpack haven’t faced a player the caliber of Boilermakers C Zach Edey. It will be interesting to watch Edey and NC State C DJ Burns Jr. banging down low.

Meanwhile, AVOID a moneyline play and look to the spread instead.

Against the spread

NC STATE +9.5 (-115) is worth playing as we’re nearly catching double-digit points. The Wolfpack should be able to keep it within single digits, even if their improbable run comes to an end Saturday night in suburban Phoenix.

Purdue is just 2-5 ATS in the past 7 games as a favorite of 10 or fewer points, although those 2 covers have come in the previous 2 outings, NCAA Tourney wins against Tennessee and 5th-seeded Gonzaga in the Sweet 16.

Still, tread lightly.

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Over/Under

UNDER 146.5 (-110) is the lean. Go with a half-unit play at most.

The Under has cashed in 3 of the past 4 games for the Boilermakers, and the total has gone low in 3 of the past 4 outings for the Wolfpack, too.

The defense has reigned supreme in the NCAA Tournament for both of these sides, but the Over dominated for both sides during the regular season, particularly Purdue, so be careful. The Boilers are 23-14 O/U on the season, while the Pack are 22-17-1 O/U.

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March Madness: Alabama vs. UConn odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Alabama Crimson Tide (25-11) battle the UConn Huskies (35-3) Saturday in the Final Four at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. Tip-off is scheduled for 8:49 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Alabama vs. UConn odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

Alabama, a 4-seed, advanced to its first Final Four in program history after knocking off 6th-seeded Clemson 89-83 in the Elite 8 March 30, covering as a 3-point favorite. G Mark Sears scored a game-high 23 points and was 7-for-14 from 3, while F Nick Pringle recorded a double-double (16 points, 11 rebounds). The Crimson Tide shot 46.8% from the field and 44.4% from beyond the arc.

UConn, a No. 1 seed, finds itself in back-to-back Final Fours after dominating 3rd-seeded Illinois 77-52 in the Elite 8 March 30. The Huskies covered as 8-point favorites. C Donovan Clingan scored a game-high 22 points and grabbed 10 rebounds for a double-double. G Cam Spencer also had a double-double with 11 points and 12 boards. The Huskies shot 51.7% from the field but just 17.6% (3-for-17) behind the 3-point line.

UConn is No. 1 and Alabama is No. 18 in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll.

Third-ranked and top-seeded Purdue (33-4) faces unranked and No. 11 seed NC State (26-14) in the first semifinal at 6:09 p.m. ET (TBS).

Alabama vs. UConn odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook’s; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Friday at 9:33 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Alabama +525 (bet $100 to win $525) | UConn –750 (bet $-750 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Alabama +11.5 (-105) | UConn -11.5 (-115)
Over/Under (O/U): 161.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Alabama vs. UConn picks and predictions

Prediction

UConn 81, Alabama 68

Moneyline

PASS.

There is no value betting on UConn (-750) as one would have to risk 7½ times the potential return.

The Huskies have won 11 games in a row and 25 of their last 26. They’ve won each of their 4 NCAA Tournament games by 17 points or more for an average win margin of 27.8 points per game.

Against the spread

LEAN UCONN -11.5 (-115).

The Crimson Tide have covered in each of their 4 Tourney games, including one as 4.5-point underdogs in an 89-87 upset of top-seeded North Carolina.

However, their defense has been a liability. They’ve allowed 82 or more points in 3 of the 4 games and 81 or more points in 9 of their last 10.

On the contrary, the Huskies defense is one of their top strengths. It has allowed them to not only win each of their Tournament games but to win them in blowout fashion. They have covered in each of their 4 Tourney games with 3 of the covers being as 12-point or more favorites.

Understandably, this is a high line for a Final Four game, but it is worth a small wager to back the defending national champs.

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Over/Under

BET UNDER 161.5 (-115).

While Alabama tends to score at a high rate, it faces a UConn team that has hit the Under in 5 straight and 8 of its last 9. The Huskies have held opponents to 58 or fewer points in each of its 4 Tournament games and 67 or fewer points in 9 of their last 10 games overall.

The Crimson Tide tend to play at a high pace, but the pace Saturday will be controlled by UConn, which will ultimately lead to the Under hitting.

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NIT Final: Indiana State vs. Seton Hall odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Thursday’s Indiana State vs. Seton Hall odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Indiana State Sycamores (32-6) and Seton Hall Pirates (24-12) meet Thursday in the NIT Final. Tip-off from Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis is slated for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN/ESPN+). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Indiana State vs. Seton Hall odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

The Sycamores belted Utah 100-90 Tuesday in an NIT semifinal in Indianapolis, covering as 4.5-point favorites as the Over (161.5) cashed. Fan favorite C Robbie Avila — with his creative nicknames of “Cream Abdul Jabbar” and “Larry Nerd” — posted 26 points with 10 rebounds, 3 assists and a block, while hitting 11-of-14 from the field. G Ryan Conwell ended up with 27 points, while draining 4 triples.

While Indiana State is 2-1 against the spread (ATS) in its last 3 games, Seton Hall is 3-0 ATS in its last 3. The Pirates advanced here with an 84-67 win over Georgia in their Tuesday semifinal at Hinkle. The Pirates covered as 5.5-point favorites and the Over (146) cashed.

This should come down to Indiana State’s offense vs. Seton Hall’s defense.

The Sycamores averaged 90.5 points per game in their 4 NIT contests; the Pirates yielded 66.3 PPG in their 4 NIT victories — the first win was an overtime victory over Saint Joseph’s.

Seton Hall hit 47.1% (32-of-68) from the field against Georgia, while knocking down 40.0% (8-of-20) from behind the 3-point line.

Indiana State hit 56.9% (37-of-65) from the field, including 35.3% (12-of-34) from behind the arc.

Seton Hall hasn’t covered in 4 straight games at any point this season.

Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll

Indiana State vs. Seton Hall odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook’s; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 2:52 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Indiana State -155 (bet $155 to win $100) | Seton Hall +125 (bet $100 to win $125)
Against the spread: Indiana State -2.5 (-115) | Seton Hall +2.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 159.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Indiana State vs. Seton Hall and predictions

Prediction

Indiana State 85, Seton Hall 80

Moneyline

PASS.

Unless you don’t want to lay 2.5 points on the Indiana State spread, you can lay the -155 juice here with the Sycamores.

Against the spread

INDIANA STATE -2.5 (-115) is a decent play to get the job done by at least a trey.

The Sycamores are on fire offensively, going for 75 or more points in all 7 postseason games, and 11 straight games dating back to the regular season. If this team is hitting their shots, Indiana State is hard to beat, especially in front of a raucous crowd.

Indianapolis is just a little over an hour from the Sycamores’ campus in Terre Haute. Just like the semifinal, it will be a pro-Indiana State crowd at Hinkle Fieldhouse.

The Sycamores are a solid 5-2 ATS in 7 postseason games, and they have won 3 of the past 4 games by 9 or more points.

Seton Hall (+125) has been a good play in this tournament. Just like the Sycamores, the Pirates have played hard, looking to make a statement after getting snubbed for the NCAA Tournament.

The difference here will be proximity to campus for Indiana State, and the crowd will spur on the Sycamores.

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Over/Under

OVER 159.5 (-110) is the way to go.

The Sycamores have posted 5 Over results in the past 6 outings, while the Pirates have hit the Over in the past 2 games. Seton Hall has averaged 87.5 PPG in the past 2 outings, while allowing 67.5 PPG. Look for plenty of offense in this battle for the trophy.

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NIT semifinal: Georgia vs. Seton Hall odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Georgia vs. Seton Hall odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Georgia Bulldogs (20-16) and Seton Hall Pirates (23-12) meet Tuesday in an NIT Semifinal. Tip-off from Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis is slated for 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Georgia vs. Sethon Hall odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

The Bulldogs have caught fire in the postseason, winning 3 straight in the NIT, and 4 of 5 outings. Georgia has covered the spread 7 games in a row, including covered in all 5 postseason games — 2 in the SEC Tournament and 3 straight in the NIT.

Georgia is averaging 76.3 points per game (PPG) in the NIT, although the Over cashed only in the most recent game at Ohio State March 26.

The Pirates were sour about being snubbed by the NCAA Tournament committee. Instead of pouting, Seton Hall is making a statement, winning 3 in a row since getting shown the door by St. John’s in its 1st Big East Tournament game.

Seton Hall pounded UNLV 91-68 as a 6.5-point home favorite in an NIT quarterfinal Wednesday, cashing the Over (143.5). However, Seton Hall is still just 3-5 against the spread (ATS) in the past 8 games with the Over going 5-3.

Utah and Indiana State are playing in the other NIT semifinal — scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN).

Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll

Georgia vs. Seton Hall odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook’s; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 3:39 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Georgia +170 (bet $100 to win $170) | Seton Hall -210 (bet $210 to win $100)
Against the spread: Georgia +4.5 (-110) | Seton Hall -4.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 145.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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Georgia vs. Seton Hall and predictions

Prediction

Seton Hall 75, Georgia 73

Moneyline

Seton Hall (-210) will cost 2.1 times the potential return. That’s way too much risk for not enough reward for a singular bet. However, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to include the Pirates in a multi-team parlay or a bonus bet with a boost.

PASS.

Against the spread

GEORGIA +4.5 (-110) is worth a play catching the points. Georgia has been hot, including a surprising outright win at Ohio State as an 8.5-point underdog.

Seton Hall is on a mission, and it appears it’s on a collision course with fellow NCAA Tournament snub Indiana State for the NIT crown. However, the Pirates are just 2-2 ATS in the postseason, and 1-3 ATS in 4 neutral-site games. Look for UGA to keep it close.

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Over/Under

OVER 145.5 (-105) is worth playing lightly.

The Over has split in 4 postseason games for the Pirates, but there is a slight 8-5 edge to the Over in the previous 13 contests.

For the Bulldogs, the Over-Under has split 2-2 in the past 4 postseason games. The Dawgs have hit 72 or more points in 4 straight games, while allowing 76 or more points in 3 of the previous 4 outings.

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NIT semifinal: Utah vs. Indiana State odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Tuesday’s Utah vs. Indiana State odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The Utah Utes (22-14) and Indiana State Sycamores (31-6) meet Tuesday in an NIT semifinal. Tip-off from Hinkle Fieldhouse in Indianapolis is slated for 7 p.m. ET (ESPN). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Utah vs. Indiana State odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

The Utes have rattled off 3 straight wins and covers in the NIT since getting knocked out of the Pac-12 Tournament by Colorado on March 14. The Utes have averaged 83.0 points per game (PPG) in 3 NIT contests, while cashing the Over in 2 of those outings.

The Sycamores have won 3 in a row since getting bumped in the Missouri Valley Conference final against Drake on March 10. The Indiana State offense has been fire in the NIT, going for 87.3 PPG in 3 games, while going 2-1 against the spread (ATS). The Over is 4-1 in the past 5 postseason outings, too.

Georgia and Seton Hall will play in the other NIT semifinal — scheduled for 9:30 p.m. ET (ESPN).

Rankings: USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll

Utah vs. Indiana State odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook’s; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated Monday at 11:16 p.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Utah +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Indiana State -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
Against the spread: Utah +3.5 (-110) | Indiana State -3.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 163.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Utah vs. Indiana State and predictions

Prediction

Indiana State 86, Utah 81

Moneyline

INDIANA STATE (-175) will cost you, but it isn’t priced out of line if you just want to play the winner and you don’t want to fiddle around with the points.

The Sycamores have ripped off 5 wins in 6 outings in the postseason, while posting 9 victories in the past 10 outings since Feb. 21.

Utah (+145), on the other hand, is just 8-9 in the past 17 games despite the run to the NIT semis.

Against the spread

INDIANA STATE -3.5 (-110) is worth a look as it tries to advance to the NIT title game despite the fact Utah +3.5 (-110) has been red-hot against the number. The Utes have cashed at a 4-1 ATS pace in the postseason, while going 7-2 ATS in the past 9 games since Feb. 29.

However, the Sycamores are a solid 4-2 ATS in 6 games in the postseason, and this team has posted 9 wins in the past 10 outings. As a single-digit favorite, Indiana State is 9-5 ATS in the past 14 instances.

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Over/Under

OVER 163.5 (-110) is the lean in this NIT semifinal matchup.

The total has gone high in 4 of the past 5 games for Indiana State, while going 6-3 in the past 9 outings since Feb. 24. The Sycamores were one of the most prolific offenses in the nation, going for 84.5 PPG, while hitting at a 50.4% pace from the field, and 38.4% from behind the 3-point line.

Indiana State doesn’t leave many points on the floor, either, cashing in at a 79.7% pace from the free-throw line, for which Over bettors are thankful. And the defense is just so-so, conceding 72.0 PPG.

For Utah, it is hitting at a 78.3 PPG clip this season, and it is a respectable 46.6% from the field, and 35.8% from three. But the Utes are horrific at the free-throw line, cashing in at just a 65.0% clip, so that’s a concern. Defensively, they’re not very good, allowing 73.2 PPG, and teams hit triples at a 34.2% pace, which was in the bottom third in the nation.

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March Madness: NC State vs. Duke odds, picks and predictions

Analyzing Sunday’s NC State vs. Duke odds and lines, with college basketball expert picks, predictions and best bets.

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The NC State Wolfpack (25-14) and Duke Blue Devils (27-8) meet Sunday in Elite 8 action in the NCAA Tournament. Tip-off from the American Airlines Center is slated for 5:05 p.m. ET (CBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Duke vs. NC State odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

The 4th-seeded Blue Devils surprised the top seed in the South Region, the 1st-seeded Houston Cougars. Duke won a low-scoring defensive battle 54-51 as the Under (134) was never in question. Now, Duke is the top remaining seed in the South Region.

Duke has won and covered 3 straight games since losing in the ACC Tournament to NC State on March 14. The Wolfpack won that tourney game 74-69 outright as an 11-point underdog as the Under (146) connected. The Blue Devils blasted the Wolfpack 79-64 in the previous meeting on March 4 in Raleigh, covering as a 6-point favorite as the Under (150.5) cashed.

NC State has had an amazing postseason ride, winning 5 games in 5 days at the ACC Tournament to win the title, while winning 8 consecutive outings in the ACC tourney and NCAA Tournament. The Wolfpack has covered 6 of the past 7 games, including each of the previous 6 outings as an underdog.

Duke was No. 14 and NC State was unranked in the final USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll of the regular season.

NC State vs. Duke odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook’s; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:01 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): NC State +300 (bet $100 to win $300) | Duke -250 (bet $250 to win $100)
Against the spread: NC State +7.5 (-120) | Duke -7.5 (+100)
Over/Under (O/U): 143.5 (O: -105 | U: -115)

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NC State vs. Duke and predictions

Prediction

Duke 72, NC State 67

Moneyline

Duke (-250) will cost you 2 1/2 times your potential return, and that’s quite expensive, especially against a conference rival which knows it well. These teams will be playing for the 3rd time since March 4.

NC State (+300) has been amazing story, but all good things come to an end. Sometimes we get attached to a Cinderella story, but you can’t bet what you might want to happen, you have to use your head. Duke is the better team, and it will show Sunday.

AVOID, and look to the spread instead.

Against the spread

NC STATE +7.5 (-120) is playing with a lot of confidence. While Duke -7.5 (+100) should be able to get the job done, these teams have split the 2 meetings since March 4, with the Wolfpack winning outright in Washington D.C. as an 11-point underdog on a neutral floor.

The Wolfpack has won and covered each of the past 6 games as an underdog. NC State is also 7-2 ATS in the past 9 games on a neutral floor, too. The Pack is likely to run out of gas, but it should have enough left in the tank to keep it within 4 buckets.

Duke used a suffocating defense to beat Houston, the No. 2 team in the nation, at its own game. Look for the Blue Devils to ride a hot defense to splash cold water on the Pack.

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

Over/Under

UNDER 143.5 (-115) is worth a look in this Elite 8 matchup, and ACC rivalry game.

NC State has cashed the Under in 2 of the 3 NCAA tournament games, while allowing 69 or fewer points in 5 of the past 7 postseason outings. The Under has cashed in both meetings with Duke since March 4, too.

For Duke, it has leaned heavily upon its defense to get the job done in the NCAA Tournament, allowing an average of just 51.0 PPG in 3 outings, with the Under going 4-0 in the postseason, and 7-1 in the past 8 games. The Under is 14-3 in the past 17 outings dating back to Jan. 27, too.

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March Madness: Tennessee vs. Purdue odds, picks and predictions

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

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The 2nd-seeded Tennessee Volunteers (27-8) battle the top-seeded Purdue Boilermakers (32-4) Sunday in the Elite 8. Tip from Little Caesars Arena in Detroit is scheduled for 2:20 p.m. ET (CBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook’s lines around the Tennessee vs. Purdue odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

Tennessee took down 3rd-seeded Creighton 82-75 Friday to cover as a 3.5-point favorite. G Dalton Knecht scored a game-high 26 points while all 3 Tennessee players who scored in double figures had at least 15. The Volunteers shot 41.8% from the field and 45.8% from beyond the arc in the win.

Purdue knocked off 5th-seeded Gonzaga 80-68 Friday to cover as a 4.5-point favorite. C Zach Edey scored a game-high 27 points with 14 rebounds for a double-double, and G Braden Smith (14 points, 15 assists) also had a double-double. Four Purdue players scored in double figures while the team shot 57.1% from the field and 45% from 3 in the win.

Purdue finished No. 3 and Tennessee was ranked No. 6 in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll.

Tennessee vs. Purdue odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook’s; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 1:45 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Tennessee +140 (bet $100 to win $140) | Purdue -165 (bet $165 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Tennessee +3.5 (-115) | Purdue -3.5 (-105)
Over/Under (O/U): 147.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Tennessee vs. Purdue picks and predictions

Prediction

Purdue 83, Tennessee 77

Moneyline

PASS.

The spread presents better value for the top-ranked Boilermakers (-165).

Against the spread

BET PURDUE -3.5 (-105).

Tennessee has failed to cover in 3 of its last 4 games, including 1 of its last 2 tournament games.

Purdue has covered in all 3 of its tournament games and has won by 12 or more points in each game, with an average win margin of 26.3 points. While the Volunteers will put up more of a fight than the Boilermakers’ previous opponents, Edey and company are too much to handle.

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

Over/Under

BET OVER 147.5 (-110).

Both teams excel on defense, with Tennessee holding 2 of its March Madness opponents to 58 or fewer points and Purdue holding all 3 of its opponents to 68 or fewer. However, both teams also excel on offense, with Tennessee scoring 82 or more in 2 of its 3 games and Purdue scoring 78 or more in all 3 of its games.

With a line of 147.5, each team holds the capability to go on scoring runs and quickly add points to the total. They both shoot at a high rate from 3 and are able to quickly accumulate points in the paint. Expect a shootout Sunday.

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March Madness: Clemson vs. Alabama odds, picks and predictions

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

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The Clemson Tigers (24-11) and Alabama Crimson Tide (24-11) meet in the West Region final Saturday in Los Angeles. The opening tip-off at Crypto.com Arena is slated for 8:49 p.m. ET (TBS). Below, we analyze BetMGM Sportsbook ‘s lines around the Clemson vs. Alabama odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

Clemson was an 8 1/2-point underdog Thursday against No. 2-seed Arizona, but the 6th-seeded Tigers prevailed, holding the Wildcats to a 37.3% mark from the floor and winning 77-72. Winner of 3 straight games as an underdog, CU now turns its attention to the Crimson Tide, a team it beat 85-77 back on Nov. 28.

Alabama, ranked No. 18 in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll, is the 4-seed in the West. On Thursday, the Crimson Tide defeated No. 1-seed North Carolina 89-87 (beating the spread as a +4.5). UA held the Tar Heels to a 38.5% mark from the field and in the Tournament has held opposing shooters to a 37.7% mark.

Clemson vs. Alabama odds

Provided by BetMGM Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 11:40 a.m. ET.

Moneyline: Clemson +145 (bet $100 to win $145) | Alabama -175 (bet $175 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Clemson +3.5 (-110) | Alabama -3.5 (-110)
Over/Under (O/U): 163.5 (O: -115 | U: -105)

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Clemson vs. Alabama picks and predictions

Prediction

Alabama 81, Clemson 80

Moneyline

PASS: look for more value in a play against the number.

Against the spread

Clemson has played 10 games as an underdog; it has gone 9-1 ATS in those games.

UA is averaging an NCAA-I-best 90.7 points per game, Clemson is 13-3 ATS when facing teams averaging 77-or-more points. This game offers up a pace contrast with the Tigers playing at a slower-than-average tempo and the Tide playing one the fastest in the game. But against the fastest 4 ACC squads (Florida State, Louisville, North Carolina, Syracuse), CU went 5-2 ATS during the regular season. In the Tournament, the Tigers have logged ATS victories against fast New Mexico and Arizona.

And during the season, when Clemson topped Alabama Nov. 28, that was an ATS win for the Tigers.

Clemson likes to get the ball inside, and the Alabama interior defense is not a strength. Still, UA figures to leverage systemic advantages in rebounding and in getting to the foul line. But a Tide edge in 3-point shooting (UA launches a ton of 3s and makes them at a top-25 rate) is softened by a Clemson surge in perimeter defense. The Tigers have held opponents to a 28.3% mark on 3s since Feb. 21.

Some air has been taken out of this play by a Friday line move: consider a partial-unit play on CLEMSON +3.5 (-110).

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

Over/Under

In 7 Clemson neutral-site games this season, the Under has gone 6-1.

These are 2 veteran teams who will leave everything on the court at the defensive end in this one. CU’s defensive rebounding and perimeter defense should take the starch out of a couple point-spiral factors for Alabama.

In the aforementioned Clemson games against fast ACC foes, Alabama, New Mexico, and Arizona, the Under went 7-3.

TAKE THE UNDER 163.5 (-105).

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March Madness: Illinois vs. UConn odds, picks and predictions

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

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The UConn Huskies (34-3) battle the Illinois Fighting Illini (29-8) in the Elite 8 Saturday from TD Garden in Boston. Tip is set for 6:09 p.m. ET (TBS/truTV). Below, we analyze FanDuel Sportsbook’s lines around the Illinois vs. UConn odds, and make our expert college basketball picks, predictions and best bets.

The Huskies earned the top seed in the East Region and throttled the 16th-seeded Stetson Hatters 91-52 March 22. They then beat the 9th-seeded Northwestern Wildcats 75-58 Sunday and the 5th-seeded San Diego State Aztecs 82-52 Thursday, covering as 27.5-point, 13-point and 12-point favorites, respectively. UConn was 20-11 against the spread (ATS) in the regular season and has gone 5-1 ATS in its 6 postseason games.

Illinois made a deep run in the Big Ten Tournament prior to the start of the NCAA Tournament. It won the Big Ten in a 93-87 victory over Wisconsin March 17. The Fighting Illini were given the 3rd seed in the region and took down the Morehead State Eagles 85-69 in the 1st round, beating the Duquesne Dukes 89-63 in the 2nd round and then the No. 2-seeded Iowa State Cyclones 72-69 in the Sweet 16. Illinois has covered in each and is 5-1 ATS in its 6 postseason games (3-0 ATS in the NCAA Tournament). It finished the regular season 17-12-2 ATS.

UConn finished No. 1 in the USA TODAY Sports Coaches Poll, while Illinois ended the season 10th.

Illinois vs. UConn odds

Provided by FanDuel Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 10:40 a.m. ET.

Moneyline (ML): Illinois +330 (bet $100 to win $330) | UConn -430 (bet $430 to win $100)
Against the spread (ATS): Illinois +8.5 (-102) | UConn -8.5 (-120)
Over/Under (O/U): 155.5 (O: -110 | U: -110)

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Illinois vs. UConn picks and predictions

Prediction

UConn 80, Illinois 76

Moneyline

PASS.

The Huskies (-430) are surging and should come out on top. At -430, they aren’t even worth considering on the moneyline. Illinois has some value, but the spread offers the better play here.

Against the spread

BET ILLINOIS +8.5 (-102).

UConn is among the best teams in the NCAA on both sides of the court, sitting 1st in KenPom’s adjusted offensive rating and 6th in defensive rating. Illinois might have a lacking defense, but it can score with the best of them, which should help keep this game close.

The Fighting Illini sit 2nd in offensive rating. They scored 72 on a strong Iowa State defense and notched at least 85 in the 4 games prior, 1 of which was a 93-point performance against Wisconsin, which sits 46th in KenPom’s defensive rating. Illinois has a scorching hot player in G Terrence Shannon Jr., who is averaging 31.2 points per game in the postseason.

Expect a close battle in this one given the Fighting Illini’s ability to score, and back ILLINOIS +8.5 (-102).

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

Over/Under

LEAN OVER 155.5 (-110).

During the regular season, UConn had 5 players averaging double figures. It doesn’t play at a fast pace, but it has an efficient offense that will make the possessions count. It has scored at least 92 points in 4 of its last 6 games.

The Fighting Illini will be a test that the Huskies have yet to face this season. Illinois has scored at least 85 in 4 of its last 5 and went over the projected total in 21 of 31 regular season games and in 5 of 6 postseason games.

Given the skill set of both teams and the strong efficiency offensively, take OVER 155.5 (-110).

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

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