Rating: 2 Units

The Maple Leafs have won three of their last five games. They are playing well offensively and scored nine goals in their last three games. They have also played well on special teams, converting over 25 percent of their power play opportunities. The Sabres are good at killing penalties, but they’re not playing well defensively, giving up 15 goals in their last three games. They are also playing on consecutive nights and will be dealing with fatigue, so expect them to have a hard time slowing down the Maple Leafs in this game. The Sabres have lost three of their last four games. They have played well offensively, scoring nine goals in their last three games. They haven’t been as good on special teams, converting 16 percent of their power play opportunities. The Maple Leafs have killed over 76 percent of their penalties and they’re playing well defensively, giving up eight goals in their last three games, so expect them to keep Buffalo’s offense in check. Go with Toronto to cover the money line.

Tournament Game of the Week

Rating: 5 Units

UConn is destroying their competition, as they won by 39 over Stetson, 17 over Northwestern, and 30 over San Diego State. Their backcourt carried them in the Sweet 16, as they got 18 points from Cam Spencer, and 17 points from Tristen Newton in the win. Newton was a First Team All-American this season and led the team with 15.3 PPG and 6.1 APG as a 6'5 senior guard. He has scored 13 or more in each of the three tournament games, with a high of 20 coming against Northwestern. Spencer is their outside shooter, he is a 6'4 senior guard averaging 14.5 PPG and has knocked down 94 threes on the season on a red-hot 44.1% shooting from deep. Their big man inside is 7'2, 280-pound sophomore Donovan Clingan, he averages 12.6 PPG and 7.4 RPG on the inside. Alex Karaban is another member of the sophomore class, the 6'8 forward can shoot from the outside and adds 13.6 PPG and 5.0 RPG. Stephon Castle is a 6'6 freshman guard getting 10.9 PPG, he had 16 in the win over San Diego State. UConn is currently ranked 1st overall in KenPom. They have the top overall offense in the nation in terms of efficiency and rank 6th in defensive efficiency. They play much slower than the Illini, ranking 319th in the nation in pace of play. UConn is 25-11 ATS as favorite and 16-4 road/neutral

Rating: 2 Units

Canning has been a bit of a project, teasing Angels fans with upside but failing to sustain success. His first start of the 2024 season will be a challenge, as Baltimore is fired up and coming off an 11-run shellacking of LA on Opening Day. I'm betting the O's bats will come to life again after a day off on Friday, chasing Canning from the game early. With early run support, Rodriguez will shine, building off of his late-season success in 2023 (2-1 with a 2.64 ERA in August and 3-1 with a 2.17 ERA in September).

Rating: 2 Units

Only the ACC delivered more teams (4) in this year’s Sweet 16, but only the Big East remains unbeaten (6-0). With it, the Blue Birds bring a 6-2 SU and 7-1 ATS mark into this contest the past two seasons in this tourney. On the other side of the court, the Vols enter with a wobbly 1-6 SU and 2-4-1 ATS mark in Sweet 16 contests, including 0-3 SUATS as a favorite. They are also a horrible 1-6 ATS laying points in this tournament to teams coming off a win in the Big Dance the past seven seasons. Finally, Creighton head coach Greg McDermott is 24-12-1 ATS as a dog of 3 or fewer points in his career against opponents coming off an ATS loss, including 3-0 SUATS during the postseason.

Rating: 3 Units

In this tournament, the Cougars have been riding a back-and-forth tightrope, alternating point spread results in each game. And if you’re willing to play the game, you’ll love knowing that No. 1 seeds who allowed 93-plus points in their previous game have bounced back with aplomb in the next contest, going 10-0 SUATS since 1992. And then there is Kelvin Sampson’s 19-5 record outright in his career in games after his troops surrendered 90-plus points in its last game, including 9-0 SU and 8-1 ATS with the Cougars. This pretty much puts Houston into an Elite 8 context on Sunday. Couple that with the fact that there has never been a team to win this tournament that lost the first game in its conference tournament, and suddenly you find the Blue Devils playing with a blue dress, not what you’re looking for at this stage of this tournament. And not when you are 6-11 ATS in Sweet 16 performances, including 2-6 SUATS against .788 or greater opposition.

Rating: 2 Units

The Guardians had a very good pitching staff last season and they have one of their best pitchers taking the mound in this game. The Athletics had one of the worst offenses in the league and they’re bringing back the core of that team. They didn’t have a lot of success against left-handers and didn’t play well when they faced Allen, who gave up two hits and no runs in his lone start against them. With Cleveland also having a good bullpen, they will keep Oakland’s offense in check. The Athletics also had one of the worst pitching in the league last season. Even though they added some depth in the offseason, Stripling didn’t look good on the mound last season, finishing with an ERA that was over 5. He gave up four runs in four innings in his last start against the Guardians and will have a hard time slowing them down in this game. Go with Cleveland to cover the money line.

Rating: 2 Units

The Knicks aren't just winning in recent games, they are blowing teams out. The Knicks have won seven of their last eight games and five of those seven wins have come by 12 points or more including the 44-point win over the Raptors on Wednesday. The Spurs have played better but they will struggle on the glass against the Knicks 3rd-ranked total rebounding squad. The Knicks' defense has been outstanding of late as well, now ranking second in the NBA in points allowed per game. The addition of Robinson and the likely return of Anunoby on Friday should give them additional presence both on the glass and defensively overall. Expect another comfortable Knicks win tonight.

Rating: 3 Units

Gonzaga looked more like an NIT team than an NCAA participant. They had just lost at Santa Clara, dropping their record to 11-5 and their NET ranking fell to No. 46 – otherwise known as bubble territory. But the Bulldogs righted themselves quickly, ripping off 14 wins in the next 16 games, and comfortably made the March Madness at-large field as a No. 5 seed in the Midwest. Hence, despite the fact they are only 3-8 ATS in their last eleven Dances, Gonzaga is, in our mind, the biggest winner in the tournament to date. Virginia, Baylor and Kansas have each won titles in the last five tournaments, and they all failed to make it out of the first weekend in any of the four years they didn't win it all. It really makes you appreciate Gonzaga's run of nine straight Sweet 16 appearances. The bottom line, though, is the Boilers appear hell-bent on revenge for losing in the first round in this tournament to No. 16 seed Farleigh Dickinson. Should you have the urge to step in front of Purdue, we can only remind you about Virginia in the NCAA Tournament the year after they suffered the ignominy of becoming the first No. 1 seed team to ever fall to a No. 16 in the 2022 tourney. The Cavaliers stormed back with egg on their face and promptly proceeded to cut down the nets in the 2023 NCAA Tournament.

Rating: 2 Units

These teams were in a wild, high-scoring affair in the City of Angels Sunday night. The Lakers have won five straight though one does have to wonder how much action Davis and James will see with both guys dealing with lingering injury issues at the moment. Indiana is the highest scoring team in the league though they do have serious defensive issues as well. The Pacers are 21-15 at home while the Lakers have gone 14-20 as the road team this season, even with their wins over Milwaukee and Memphis this week. With the Lakers banged up at this point in time, you have to give the slight advantage to the Pacers as they find a way to prevail in this contest.

Rating: 2 Units

The Magic’s magical season looks to continue tonight in Disney World when they host the Clippers. The Magic have richly rewarded their backers in Orlando this season, bringing a 22-10 SUATS record, including 14-4 ATS when laying points. And they’ll be anxious to lay them tonight as they look to avenge a 16-point trouncing at the Clippers while checking in off back-to-back revenge bouts with the 76ers. That is not good news for L.A., and its 5-25 SU and 9-21 ATS record as a road dog after facing Philly, including 0-7 SU and 1-6 ATS in the last seven.

Rating: 2 Units

After a so-so 11-5 start to the season, the Golden Eagles have been flying high of late, winning 16 of their previous 20 contests while cashing 14 times in the same games. They’ll take the floor tonight, with the fact that Marquette is 17-1 SU and 13-5 ATS this season versus sub .666 opponents, including 10-0 SUATS the last ten games, knowing that head coach Shaka Smart is 5-1 SUATS as a favorite of fewer than 8 points against ACC competition. That and the fact they are 16-4 SU and 14-6 ATS when laying fewer than 18 points this campaign. There is no refuting the fact that the Wolfpack have been the darlings of the tourney to date, arriving at the Sweet 16 as the only double-digit seed. This, however, is where the meat begins to separate from the bone as No. 11 seeds have been roasted in each of their last three Sweet 16 appearances by an average of 13 points per game. Remember, with 4 starters from last year’s 29 win unit, Marquette was the No. 5 ranked team in the land in the AP Preseason Top 25 poll.

Rating: 2 Units

The Clones were as good as it gets at the pay window this season, going 26-10 ATS overall, including 26-2 SU and 23-5 ATS versus sub .800 foes. They’re also perennial money makers in this tourney with a 14-5 SU and 12-6-1 ATS ledger as single-digit chalk. Illinois has matched up with Iowa State just twice since 1990, going 0-2 SUATS with both losses by double-digits, which fits nicely with the Illini’s 3-6 SU and 2-7 ATS mark the last nine game against Big 12 opponents. ISU ranks No 12 in the nation in Defensive Field Goal Percentage (40.17) and No. 4 in Scoring Defense (612 PPG). Iowa State gives up just over 61 PPG and the Illini are 0-5-1 ATS this season in games in which they failed to score 73 points. With Illinois head coach Brad Underwood on a 0-4 ATS slide in this tourney against .700 or greater foes, we're on the Clones.

Rating: 2 Units

The Kraken are the clear favorites in this contest, meaning there is not much money to be had by simply taking them against the Moneyline. Instead, it might be worth taking the risk and giving up the 1.5 goals. The Kraken have defeated the Ducks five straight times, including three straight in Seattle. Each of those victories in Seattle has been by at least three goals, as the Ducks have had no answers for them. Eight of the last nine losses for Anaheim have been by at least two goals. The Kraken ended their eighth-game losing streak with the victory over Anaheim on Tuesday and will be looking to still keep their very thin playoff hopes alive.

Sweet 16 Play of the Day

Rating: 4 Units

After a rocky 5-4 start, UNC went on a 10-3 run before the wheels fell off in a 4-5 February. With a puny 20-13 record following a 2nd round exit in the ACC Tournament, the Heels FAILED to make the Big Dance. Even worse, they decided to take their ball and go back to Chapel Hill, spurning the NIT to stew in private over one of the university’s biggest sports embarrassments. Fast forward to now, where the return of Armando Bacot and R.J. Davis took UNC from the pit of despair to a No. 1 seed in this year’s Big Dance. The Westgate SuperBook, however, did not offer as much respect as the Selection Committee when they gave the Tar Heels longer odds of winning it all than No. 2 Arizona. The good news for the Tide is they tickle the twine more than any team in the nation, averaging 90.7 points per game. The bad news is they get ripped for 80.9 PPG on defense, by far the worst of any Sweet 16 team. They also don’t have much positive history in this event, going one-and done in their last two trips to the NCAA tourney, and just 1-5 SU and 2-4 ATS in this tournament versus No. 1 and No. 2 seeds. Meanwhile, Hubert’s Heels are 33-5 SU and 26-12 ATS as a favorite of 3 or more points against SEC opposition while Bama is just 1-6 ATS as a dog of 2 or more points this season. North Carolina is on a 10-1 winning run heading into this slugfest! Finally, UNC is on a 7-1 SU and 8-0 ATS run in its last eight contests in The Big Dance – all since Hubert Davis took the reins three years ago

Rating: 2 Units

Don’t look now, but the Pelicans are right in the thick of the Western Conference playoff race thanks to the one-two power-punch of forwards Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram. Both of these All-Stars are averaging over 20 points and 5 rebounds per game. As such, New Orleans finds itself in a five-team chase for the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference thanks to a recent 9-3 winning run at press time. They also surrendered a season-high 141 points in a 24-point loss at Milwaukee two months ago, which works well with its 11-6 ATS mark in the series when avenging a same-season double-digit loss. On the other side of the court, the Bucks check in after hosting the Lakers on Tuesday in an overtime loss. After Laker looks, the Bucks are just 5-10 SU and 6-9 ATS in non-conference clashes. 

Rating: 2 Units

This will be a great game between two teams eager to improve in the standings. The Golden Knights look to pull off the upset but the Jets look to step up and take over this game on their home ice. The Jets, who average 3.07 goals per game, should create plenty of scoring chances with Kyle Connor, Nikolaj Ehlers, and the rest of the forward unit carrying the puck into the offensive zone and creating open shots with quick passes. The Jets should limit the Golden Knights offense with Josh Morrissey, Dylan DeMelo, and the rest of the defensive unit creating turnovers in the defensive zone and limiting shots on the net, allowing goaltender Connor Hellebuyck to make plenty of big saves. The Jets should win the game with a strong performance on their home ice.

Rating: 3 Units

UConn performed admirably as defending champs this season, going 24-12 ATS in all games, including 22-1 SU and 17-6 ATS since the calendar year changed in January. No. 1 seeds in the Sweet 16 who won and covered their first two games in this event are 24-2 SU and 20-6 ATS, including 5-1 ATS when on a 3-0 SUATS run. As for the 26-win Aztecs, they’re a money-burning 1-5 ATS as a dog away from home this season, plus 0-2 SUATS in this tournament as a dog of more than 8 points – by an averaging losing margin of 24 points per game. With Connecticut on a 5-0-1 ATS run in its last six Sweet 16 contests, stepping in front of the Huskies right now is like trying to cross a six-lane highway while wearing a blindfold. 

Rating: 2 Units

All three of Arizona’s wins in this tournament have come against opponents that were coming off SU underdog wins. Arizona is just 2-6 ATS as a favorite of more than 5 or more points in Sweet 16 contests. Taking it another step further, the Wildcats are just 1-3 ATS in this Tournament against foes coming off consecutive underdog wins. In fact, the Tigers have been dynamite as dogs this campaign, posting a near-perfect 8-1 ATS record. They’ve also not been afraid to get into the ring against quality foes, going 15-5 SU and 13-5-2 ATS this season versus .647 or greater foes. Zona’s recent history in this round, however, has been clearly disappointing: 4-8 ATS in Sweet 16 games, including 1-6 ATS as a favorite, and 0-4 ATS against opponents coming off a pair of SUATS wins. With the Tiger Train still thundering down the track – and head coach Brad Brownell standing 3-0 ATS in this tourney when facing an opponent coming off a win, we're on the Tigers.

Rating; 2 Units

While the Angels will be without their former two-way ace, the Orioles went out and added one as right-hander Corbin Burnes will get the Opening Day assignment for Baltimore. Burnes, the 2021 National League Cy Young Award winner, went 10-8 with a 3.39 ERA and league-best 1.069 WHIP (walks and hits to innings pitched ratio) last season. The 29-year-old was acquired in a February trade after Baltimore won the American League East in 2023 but was roughed up by Texas hitters in a three-game AL Division Series sweep. Burnes allowed two runs, one unearned, in 5 1/3 innings in his final spring training start. He gave up five hits and struck out four in 57 pitches and then turned his attention to the Angels. The Orioles will also have a new closer, 35-year-old Craig Kimbrel, signed as a free agent this past winter. Kimbrel, owner of 417 career saves, fills in for All-Star right-hander Felix Bautista, who will miss 2024 while recovering from Tommy John surgery.

Rating: 2 Units

With the way that this VCU defense is playing, Utah's fans won't witness the same offense that got them this far in the NIT. The Rams are not letting anybody touch 70 points against them. Meanwhile, the VCU offense is quietly efficient, especially on threes where Utah's defense is weak. An area where the Utes won't be able to pull away is at the free throw line, as this team shoots 65.5% there. That will give the Rams ample opportunity to close the gap if they're trailing late. This game will probably be tight throughout, but even if it's not, VCU won't lose by more than six. Take them to beat the spread.

Rating: 2 Units

The Wolves don't have any reason for a letdown in this game as they march on trying to battle for the top spot in the Western Conference. The Wolves are 25-9 at home this season and own the third-best point differential in the Western Conference. The Pistons, meanwhile, have the NBA's worst record and have the third-worst point differential in the NBA. The Wolves should not have much issue slowing down a Pistons' offense that is just 19th in the NBA in field goal shooting and 25th in 3-point shooting. The Wolves also shoot the ball well from long-range and that will be critical against a Pistons' team that is just 22nd in the NBA in 3-point defense. Expect the Wolves to pick up their third straight win on Wednesday night and push the Pistons to their 8th straight defeat.

Rating: 2 Units

Toronto is playing without Scottie Barnes, Jakob Poetl, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and three others tomorrow, but does it still have a shot at covering the 12.5-point spread? The better question may be, how will they stop hot-shooting Knicks guard Donte DiVincenzo? New York's sharpshooter scored a career-high 40 points on Monday, knocking down a team-record 11 three-pointers. 20 of his 23 field goal attempts were from beyond the arc, putting him eight made threes away from the lead for most three-pointers by a Knick since Evan Fournier hit 241 in the 2021-22 season. He's not the only Knickerbocker who's a matchup problem for the Raptors. Jalen Brunson scored 28 points on Monday and Josh Hart notched his sixth triple-double (11 points, 14 rebounds, and 10 assists) since January. The backbone of New York's squad has chemistry from their collegiate days at Villanova, making the Knicks a difficult team to play no matter the venue. They'll bury this depleted Raptors roster from three-point range, mixing in the occasional dunk and layup. I'll bet that chemistry shows up again on Wednesday, giving NY enough juice to win and cover as large spread favorites against tanking Toronto.

Rating: 2 Units

UNLV hopes to make it three straight wins and two on the road with a win over Seton Hall today. The Running Rebels have won their two games in the NIT by an average of eight points, holding their opponents to an average of 78 points. On the season, the Rebels are 189th in the nation in scoring. They are 75th in field goal shooting and 173rd in 3-point shooting. The Running Rebels are just 252nd in the country in 3-point field goals per game. Defensively, they are 80th in the nation in scoring defense. The Rebels are 122nd in field goal defense and 66th in 3-point defense. The Rebels are 287th in the nation in total rebounds per game and 74th in fewest turnovers.

Rating: 3 Units

Cincinnati may have dispatched a Missouri Valley Conference team in beating Bradley in the second round but that game was at home. The Bearcats were just 4-7 as the visiting team this season and their standout road win came over BYU back in early January. Losing Thomas and Lahkin takes two of the Bearcats top five scoring options out of the mix and makes it tougher to keep up in a track meet situation with Indiana State. The Sycamores rolled up a 15-1 record at home this season, including wins over Drake in the regular season plus SMU and Minnesota in the NIT. Indiana State feeds off the home crowd and their health carries them to a win in this contest.

Rating: 2 Units

Edmonton's offense has stepped up but the defense has also been great, allowing only 2.90 goals per game. Evan Bouchard and Mattias Ekholm have combined for 9.7 defensive point shares and 176 blocked shots while Darnell Nurse and Cody Ceci have combined for 5.8 defensive point shares to add depth to the unit. In addition, goaltender Stuart Skinner has been great with a .905 save percentage and a 2.65 goals-against average on 1365 shots with 2.8 goals saved above average.

Rating: 2 Units

This will be a great game between two evenly matched teams. The Golden Knights look to pull off the upset but the Predators have been red hot and look to dominate this game on both ends of the ice. The Predators, who average 3.23 goals per game, should pile on the goals with Filip Forsberg, Gustav Nyquist, and the rest of the forward unit carrying the puck into the offensive zone and creating open shots with quick passes. The Predators, who allow only 2.90 goals per game, should limit the Golden Knights offense with Roman Josi, Ryan McDonagh, and the rest of the defensive unit creating turnovers in the defensive zone and limiting shots on the net, allowing goaltender Juuse Saros to make plenty of big saves. The Predators should win the game with a strong performance on their home ice.

Rating: 2 Units

Miami holds a 7-game safety net from the 10th and final playoff seed, however they’ve lost six of their last ten games overall and have struggled miserably at home this season, going 13-21 ATS overall, including 3-9 ATS against Western Conference opponents. Meanwhile, the Warriors have been golden on this floor in the series, cashing in 12 of their last 18 visits, including 5-0 ATS when seeking same-season revenge from a loss of seven or more points. Golden State arrives holding down the tenth and final spot in the Western Conference playoff race, just one leg up on the surging Houston Rockets. With Golden State entering off a down-to-the-wire, last-second loss at Minnesota, look for the Warriors to improve on their sharp 22-11 ATS mark on the NBA road this season, including 10-3 SUATS the last thirteen games, as they slice up Heat on South Beach tonight.

Rating: 2 Units

The Bucks should be able to power past the Lakers in this rematch. Both teams are among the highest-scoring teams in the NBA and, while neither has been effective on the defensive end, the Lakers struggle on the road defensively. LA is allowing 120 points per game on the road, ranking them just 25th in the NBA in road-scoring defense. The Bucks will dominate the perimeter, ranking fourth in the NBA in 3-point field goals made per game against the Lakers' 21st-ranked 3-point defense. The Lakers also turn the ball over far more frequently than the Bucks, ranking 19th in the NBA in fewest turnovers per game compared with the Bucks' 8th ranking. Look for Milwaukee to pick up the win

Rating: 2 Units

The Bulldogs have been outstanding against the spread in their last 11 road games, going 10-1 including their victory on the road in the NIT. The Dawgs are winning by cutting down their turnovers, averaging just 12 per contest in the NIT, and shooting 45% from 3-point range in their two tournament games. The Buckeyes are allowing the opposition to shoot 32% from 3-point range in their two wins thus far but are allowing 84.5 points per game in their two wins. They are also being outscored by four points in bench scoring, while the Bulldogs' bench has outscored the opposition's bench 58-9 in their two wins. Ride with the Dawgs here to keep their NIT success going.

Rating: 2 Units

Sacramento is currently in the heat of Western Conference playoff chase, in a three way in a battle with Phoenix and Dallas for the No. 6 seed at press time, with each team sporting 29 losses this season.The bottom line is they can’t afford to take any backward steps at this stage of the season. Sacramento will take the floor tonight looking to get even from a 112-93 thrashing in Philly back in January, marking its tenth straight loss to the Sixers in this series. With the Sixers just 4-8 ATS in the second of back-to-backers with no rest this season, including 1-5 ATS away, it’s time for the Kings to put a halt to Philly’s dominance tonight.

Rating: 2 Units

The offense has struggled but the defense also disappointed this season, allowing 3.01 goals per game. Nick Leddy and Colton Parayko have combined for 8.4 defensive point shares but the rest of the unit has struggled, allowing opponents to find open shots on the net with ease. The bright spot has been the play of goaltender Jordan Binnington who has a .912 save percentage and a 2.85 goals-against average on 1542 shots with 13.0 goals saved above average. Binnington has won three of his last four starts and has posted a solid .926 saves mark so far in March. Additionally, St. Louis is 6-1 in its past seven games. 

Rating: 2 Units

This Celtics team isn't just winning but dominating on most nights. They've been doing it shorthanded lately, and that won't be as much of an issue on Monday. As for Atlanta, there are already multiple key pieces ruled out for this one, including Trae Young. So, expect a Boston squad that is already +18 in this season series to win by double-digits. Atlanta relies on their offense, but they've only reached 115 points thrice in their last nine games. Boston is second in defensive rating among NBA teams. There isn't a more efficient offense than the Celtics', who will face no resistance from Atlanta. Take the Celtics to cover the spread.

Rating: 2 Units

Brooklyn is the healthier team, which is saying something, as the Nets are playing without Ben Simmons, Cam Johnson, and three other players. Toronto is going to be without Scottie Barnes, Jakob Poetl, RJ Barrett, Immanuel Quickley, and three others tomorrow. That's a lot of talent that isn't taking the court for the home team, especially considering Toronto traded its best player, Pascal Siakam, earlier this season. Will the Nets coast to a victory? Probably not, but they're still my best bet to cover the spread. Brooklyn can knock down the three-ball, especially when Cam Thomas is in a groove and the Raptors rank 23rd in opponent 3PT%. Their rim defense is also weak (23rd in opponent rim FG%). With Thomas and Bridges leading the way, the Nets have enough offensive firepower to cover as five-point favorites Monday in Canada.

Rating: 2 Units

Both teams hung some hefty point totals in their first round games and this will be an entertaining contest. Iowa has gone just 4-8 on the road this season, so they will have to deal with a hostile environment. Utah was a stellar 15-2 at home on the year, including wins over BYU, UCLA, Oregon and suffered a triple-overtime loss to Arizona. The Utes are playing solid basketball at home and they are better on the defensive end of the floor than Iowa, who has been ridiculously leaky in that regard. Look for the home court advantage to pay dividends for the Utes as they earn the win here to advance.

Rating: 2 Units

The Aggies only lost by four on a neutral floor against this team earlier in the season. Texas A&M's rebounding gave Houston problems. The Aggies protect the ball well also, which is why the turnover battle was even in that game. Asking the Aggies to keep this game within single digits isn't an issue at all. Especially since Houston's weak free throw shooting will give Texas A&M extra life late in the contest. Efficiency from the floor may cost the Aggies the game, but they'll have a shot at winning in the waning moments.

Rating: 4 Units

Connecticut ranks as the best team in the country. The Huskies are 1st in offensive efficiency, 11th in defensive efficiency, and 324th in tempo (schedule-adjusted). They're 15th in field goal percentage (49.2%), 10th in opponent field goal percentage (39.8%), and 2nd in opponent rebounds (26.0 per game). UConn also ranks first nationally in assist-to-turnover ratio (1.89).

Rating: 2 Units

Having home-court advantage is huge for the South Florida Bulls in this one. As is their offense, which has significantly better ball security in this one. Those edges should be enough for USF to advance again. The Bulls have one of the few defenses in the NIT that can force misses at the same level as VCU. USF's incredible three-point shooting will test the Rams all night long. Expect USF to win by at least three points to keep their season alive.

Rating: 2 Units

The thing about Alabama is that the relentless nature of the team's play eventually wears down the opposition. It proved true in their first tournament game as the Cougars hung in for a while but were eventually worn down by the pace of play and the relentless rebounding and perimeter shooting of the Tide. Grand Canyon has been a plus defensive team this season but has not played teams that even approach the tenacity of the Crimson Tide. While the Antelopes are good on the perimeter defensively, they will be less than familiar with Alabama's penchant for launching threes off of the fastbreak. The Antelopes are not pushovers by any means, ranked 55th according to KenPom, but they don't have the depth to keep up with Alabama for 40 minutes. It will be close for a good portion of the game thanks to Grand Canyon's ability to defend in the halfcourt, shoot at a high rate, and rebound. Eventually, however, like the College of Charleston, the Antelopes will wear down and be knocked off by the Tide.

Rating: 2 Units

These teams are built similarly, slowing the game down and relying on their offense to optimize the limited possessions. The rebounding battle in this game should be about even. Clemson will probably have a slight edge in ball security. The reason that the Tigers will bring this down to the wire is that their defense is far better at forcing missed shots. Baylor's defense has put on a show against weaker teams recently, but for the season the Bears did not force many misses. Expect Clemson to fight until the end of Sunday's game. They may not win, but they won't lose by multiple possessions.

Rating: 2 Units

The Flyers look to step up on their home ice but the Panthers are having a remarkable season and look to take over this game from the first period. The Panthers, who average 3.22 goals per game, should create plenty of scoring chances with Sam Reinhart, Matthew Tkachuk, and the rest of the forward unit controlling the puck in the offensive zone and creating open shots with quick passes. The Panthers should limit a Flyers offense that averages only 2.91 goals per game with Gustav Forsling, Oliver Ekman-Larsson, and the rest of the defensive unit creating turnovers in the defensive zone and limiting shots on the net, allowing goaltender Anthony Stolarz to make plenty of big saves. The Panthers should win the game with a strong performance on the road.

Rating: 2 Units

The Demon Deacons have been dominant at home this season, particularly on the offensive end. They should have a field day against the Bulldogs and their 239th-ranked scoring defense in this one. Georgia's only advantage in this game is on the glass but that might not be as big an issue against a Wake Forest team that ranks 31st in the country in shooting percentage. I expect Wake Forest to get out and play aggressively and put up a big number against a Georgia team that just won its first postseason game in seven years. This one could get away from the Bulldogs early and they simply don't have the firepower to get back in the game.

Rating: 2 Units

The Minnesota Golden Gophers struggled late in the regular season where they lost four of their last five games. They lost by 10 points in their first game in the Big Ten conference tourney. Meanwhile, the Indiana State Sycamores made it to the finals of the MVC tourney and have won seven of their last eight games. Indiana State is the superior offensive squad here by a big margin. Minnesota is only averaging 114.2 points per 100 possessions compared to 119.2 points per 100 by Indiana State, good for 15th in the country. When it comes to defense, the Sycamores have slightly better numbers. Also, this is not a neutral site game. The Sycamores are on their home court where they have only lost one game all season. Four of their last five wins have occurred by at least 10 points.

Rating: 3 Units

Marquette had their issues in the opening half of their first-round game against Western Kentucky but turned things on in the second half to pull away and earn the victory. The Golden Eagles come into the game 26-9 overall and went 14-6 in the Big East in the regular season. Against Western Kentucky, Marquette led by as many as nine in the first half before giving up an 18-5 run over the final 6:54 of the first half to trail by seven at intermission. The Golden Eagles turned it on in the second half, outscoring Western Kentucky 51-26 to win going away. Marquette shot 47.8% from the field, including 13 of 36 from three-point range, and lost the rebounding battle 44-37 in the contest. Kam Jones poured in 28 points to lead the Golden Eagles in the win.

Rating: 2 Units

The Nuggets have dominated Portland of late, winning six straight and eight of the last nine. They have also done so with pretty sizable victories, winning four of the last 6 by 11 points or more. That included a 15-point victory the last time these teams met in Portland. With the Trail Blazers playing on Friday and with so many injuries, this should be an exhausted Portland club. They simply cannot keep up with Denver, especially if Jokic is healthy.

Rating: 2 Units

The Blue Jays have enough talent to derail the Ducks' momentum on Saturday, and I feel confident they'll play well enough to cover, too. Oregon has players, but it lacks the cohesiveness Creighton has. The Ducks are playing better on the fly, but the Blue Jays have been soaring together for years. The battle between Dante and Kalkbrenner will be exciting, but I'm more interested in the back-and-forth action between Oregon and Creighton's guards. Couisnard made a statement against his former team, and Shelstad has played like an upperclassman, but the former is a streaky, inefficient scorer, and the latter is still a frosh. The Blue Jays' guards are more experienced and won't wilt under pressure down the stretch. I also believe CU's rebounding advantage will be challenging for UO to overcome. Bet on the Blue Jays to win and cover in gritty fashion.

Rating: 2 Units

The Dukes have now won nine straight games including a sweep through the Atlantic 10 Tournament and their round one victory. In those five games, they are scoring 64 points per game while allowing just 61.6 points per game. They are being led by their two veteran guards, Clark and Grant. Clark is scoring 14.8 points per game during this postseason stretch while Grant paces the Dukes with an average of 16.8 points per game. The Dukes are now 2-3 vs. tournament teams with their win over BYU on Thursday. They will once again lean on a defense that is 29th in the nation in scoring defense and 53rd against the 3-point shot.

Rating: 4 Units

NC State is the hottest team in the country. I won't pick against the Pack on Saturday, even against an Oakland team coming off its biggest win in school history. The Golden Grizzlies will not benefit from playing a sub-par defense tomorrow, as they did in the first round versus Kentucky. The Wolfpack held Texas Tech under 25 percent from three-point range in their round of 64 game and will take away the three-ball tomorrow, making the Grizz too one-dimensional. I feel confident NC State can hold Oakland's bigs in check (16 points in the paint vs. UK) after giving up just 20 points in the paint vs. TTU. Offensively, North Carolina State will dominate inside. Burns will attack Oakland's conference POY Townsend, who will pick up fouls and surrender too many points against NC State's bruising big man. With a substantial scoring advantage at the rim, the three-point shot will open up for Horne and others, burying the Golden Grizzlies' season.

Rating: 3 Units

The Cyclones are on the verge of a Sweet 16 appearance as they get set to square off with Washington State today. A Big 12 Title, 29 wins, and a Sweet 16 appearance will certainly put this team among the greatest in school history. They come into this matchup ranked 92nd in the nation in scoring offense. The Cyclones are 52nd in field goal shooting and 106th from 3-point range. They are just 252nd in 3-point field goals made per game. The Cyclones make their biggest imprint on the defensive end. They are 4th in the country in scoring defense. The Cyclones are eighth in field goal defense and 58th in 3-point defense. They are just 287th on the glass but a solid 70th in the nation in the fewest turnovers per game.

Rating: 3 Units

These teams are both playing well but the Gonzaga Bulldogs should be able to win here and cover the spread. With the loss of Kevin McCullar Jr. for the tournament, it is tough to expect the Jayhawks to do well here. Graham Ike could slow down what Hunter Dickinson is able to do in the paint, while taking advantage of less defense for Kansas at the other end. When looking at KenPom’s adjusted efficiency margin, the Bulldogs are 12th in college basketball with a +22.61 rating while the Jayhawks are 24th with a +18.61 rating. All in all, go with the Gonzaga Bulldogs to win by multiple possessions.

Rating: 2 Units

The defenses as of late show a significant gap as Winnipeg is giving up just 1.75 goals in their previous four games while New York is allowing 4.6 goals in their last five games. The ability to not let the opposition get shots on goal is critical and there is a difference here as well throughout the season as the Jets have 29.6 shots on goal allowed per game while the Islanders have 32.9. With Connor Hellebuyck in the net as well, the Winnipeg Jets are the easy choice here. 

Rating: 2 Units

Boston is leading the NHL with 97 points and has a three-point lead in the Atlantic division over Florida. The Bruins are 6-3-1 over the last 10 games and on the road this season have an impressive 18-6-9 record. Philadelphia is just 4-4-2 over its last 10 games played and at home is not bad but is not dominating at 18-14-3. Boston has a pair of goalies that have seen nearly equal time with Jeremy Swayman having 22 wins in 39 appearances with a 2.57 goals against average and .917 save percentage. Linus Ullmark has 19 victories in 34 appearances with a 2.64 goals against average and .914 save percentage. Boston is 2-0 in two meetings head to head with Philadelphia this season, outscoring Philadelphia by a combined 12-7.

Rating: 2 Units

This game is going to be a tightly contested matchup with two teams that have solid players leading the program. However, Arizona’s Ballo should be able to slow down Dayton’s Holmes down low and that will be a massive difference in terms of against the spread as Dayton is a good 17-15 ATS while Arizona is 21-11-2 ATS thus far. The Wildcats’ offense is the best part of either team and the Flyers’ defense will not be able to contain the Wildcats. Dayton was fortunate to win their first-round game. With Arizona’s size and rebounding ability, go with the Arizona Wildcats to cover the spread and win by double digits.

Rating: 2 Units

The Gaels bring a 5-9 ATS ledger into this fray in games after zipping past the Zags. They’ve also been vulnerable in the NCAA tourney, dropping nine of fifteen games both outright and against the spread. And they’ll likely have their hands full here against the upstart 29-win Antelopes, champions of the Western Athletic Conference for the third time in the past four seasons. Grand Canyon also brings an impressive array of team stats, ranking in the Top 20 overall in Defensive Field Goal Percentage and Win Margin. And we’d be remiss if we didn’t mention that this year’s resume includes wins over 24-win San Diego State and 23-win San Francisco. Additionally, playing against any opening round NCAA Tournament favorite coming off an upset win in its conference championship game if they beat the spread by more than 10 points and they are facing a foe coming off a SUATS win is 10-0 ATS. Finally, Canyon has been grand in games when coming off consecutive SUATS wins when facing sub .900 opposition, going 18-6 SUATS, including 12-1 SU and 11-2 ATS when the Lopes sport an .860 or greater win percentage.

Rating: 2 Units

Lebron is 4-1 ATS in his career from Game 70 out during the regular season when playing with same-season revenge from a loss of 29-plus points. Life hasn’t been the same for the Sixers since the loss of the Big Man, Joel Embiid. They were 26-7 with him in the lineup this season, but just 11-21 without him at press time. Philly was on a 1-5 SU skid as well heading into last weekend and will have to do battle with Charlotte, Miami and Phoenix before landing in the City of Angels. The bottom line in tonight’s contest? The Lakers dole out $88 million combined annually to LeBron James and Anthony Davis, and THIS is the time of the season when they really earn their money. 

Rating: 3 Units

Trying to separate 8-and-9 seeds is like splitting up conjoined twins. You never know how successful you’re going to be. No. 8 seeds are 90-86 overall against No. 9 seeds in this tournament. When it comes to the spread, the 8-seeds are 24-22-1 ATS when taking points, including 4-0 SUATS since 2000 with a .800 or greater record. That being the case, the Aggies enter 16-0 outright this season against .666 or fewer foes, while TCU is just 2-4 ATS this campaign when going up against .655 or better opponents. We can’t argue with numbers like those. 

Rating: 2 Units

After a humiliating homestand, look for the Kraken to lick their wounds and get back in the win column. They lost in a shootout the last time these teams played, but they had beaten the Coyotes in the previous four meetings and are 2-0-1 in the last three in Arizona. The Coyotes are extremely inconsistent right now and so it is not surprising that oddsmakers are unsure of how to call this game. They are 5-5 in their last 10, scoring 29 goals while giving up 33. Neither team has much to play for but pride and the Kraken clearly want to erase the bad taste of an abysmal homestand. 

Rating: 2 Units

Wisconsin was just 2-9-1 ATS in games when coming off a loss this season, including 0-3 ATS in games outside the Big Ten. They also carry the uncertainty of being a No. 5 seed going against a No. 12 seed. Like its football brethren, JMU is making a strong splash in its second year of Division 1 competition as they wrapped up a second 20-win season. Looking over their stat sheet, it was anything but a fluke as they ranked 8th in Scoring Margin, 10th in Scoring Offense, and 14th in Turnover Margin. Hey, it’s why they were one of only THREE teams to win 30 games this season… and note these 10 teams featured rosters dotted with the oldest players, by age: St. Bonaventure, Washington, TCU, North Carolina, St. John’s, Nevada, James Madison, Tulane, Texas, and Seton Hall. Together these teams went 216-111 SU and 166-156-5 ATS for the season, with only one team (the 14-17 Green Wave) failing to produce a winning record. Finally, this same contingent went 20-13 ATS as an underdog when coming off a loss, including 16-7 ATS as dogs of +3 or more points. With the Dukes on the list, a take is in order here

Rating: 2 Units

Safe to say, the Cougars blew it. They were in the rocking chair and had the No. 1 overall seed of the tournament locked up until Cyclone rolled in and blew it all to smithereens when they scored a season-low 41 points in a 28-point wipeout loss to Iowa State in the Big 12 title game. For what it’s worth, Division-1 teams are 45-28 SUATS in opening round games of the tournament when coming off a game in which they tallied fewer than 50 points the previous contest, including 4-0 SUATS when they sport a .838 or greater win percentage. Meanwhile, head Cougar Kelvin Sampson is 15-3 SU and 10-5 ATS in his career in games after failing to score 50 points in the last game. 

Rating: 4 Units

Although the Aggies are like vacuums on the offensive glass, they're simply far too inefficient to advance in this one. Nebraska's defense is capable of consistently forcing missed shots until they grab a board. The Huskers shouldn't fear Texas A&M at the free throw line either. The battle on the other end features a mediocre three-point defense against a Nebraska squad that attempts 26.4 per game and hits 35.8% of them. The Huskers hit free throws and protect the ball well enough to optimize their possessions. Texas A&M let their last two opponents exceed 85 points. Roll with Nebraska to advance and beat the tight spread.

Rating: 2 Units

The Gators were the epitome of a team on an up-and-down ladder this season, yet survived 11 losses to gain admittance to this party. In addition, they struggled in games outside the SEC (5-8 ATS). However, they’ve gone 7-0 ATS in opening round games of this tournament when coming off a loss. Finally, Play-in teams are coming off a win are just 12-46 outright all-time.

Rating: 4 Units

The Hatters have never gone dancing before and now they’re the one team in this tournament that knows beyond a doubt that they’ll get slaughtered. Still, when you’re taking almost four touchdowns, getting slaughtered does not eliminate the possibility of cashing a ticket. Stetson lost by 31 at Houston and 16 at ULNV this season and after playing the majority of its games on the road, it paid enough benefits to land them in this contest. Not enough, though, to overcome UConn’s 5-1 ATS in opening round games as a favorite of -26 or more points – by an average win margin of 38 PPG. And since the Huskies are riding a 23-5 SU and 22-6 ATS mark in this tournament since 2009, we’re not going to try on this hat today.

Rating: 4 Units

The Tigers is 6-1 ATS when taking points this season, including 3-0 ATS from non-conference foes. In addition, Clemson enters this fray with a super-sharp 5-0-1 ATS log in this tournament against foes arriving off a win. Now that they’ve appeared to turn the corner under veteran head coach Brad Brownell, we see them possibly deep in this event. NCAA Tournament dogs with a gap of 3 or more seeds are 16-10 SU and 17-9 ATS first-round games, including 3-1 SU and 4-0 ATS when coming off consecutive losses. With that, New Mexico enters this contest, having swept its way through the Mountain West tournament, winning and covering 4 games in 4 days in the process. Prior to the surge, though, the Lobos were riding a 2-4 SU and 1-5 ATS skein.

Rating: 2 Units

Marquette was the No. 8 team in this season’s AP Preseason Top 25 poll, were it not for an oblique injury to Big East Player of the Year, PG Tyler Kolek. He is one of the most unique passers in the game and leads the nation in Assists Per Game. The Eagles were 22-6 this season with him and just 2-2 without him. If he's back in the lineup, Marquette is a genuine threat to cut down the nets. For now, though, they ride a 1-5 SUATS record of late in this tourney. The Hilltoppers swept the CUSA tourney en route to earning a bid and were 8-3 ATS when taking points this season and 10-2 ATS in games when coming off a win of more than seven points. They are also 7-0 ATS as a dog of late in this tournament..

Rating: 2 Units

The Aztecs rode a winning train right to the title game of last year’s NCAA tournament. Yet, despite an up-and-down campaign this season, which saw them drop 4 of their final 6 games to conclude the season, they find themselves back as a No. 5 seed in a dreaded matchup against a rising 12 seed. Keep in mind that 5 seeds coming off a loss are just 10-21 ATS since 2012, including 1-5 SU and 0-6 ATS when the 5-seed sports a sub-700 win percentage. 

Rating: 3 Units

These disrespected puppies bring quite a bit into this tourney and MUST be respected. The 29- win Bulldogs were also rock-solid in the stat wars this season, ranking No. 5 overall in Points Per Game as well as No. 15 in Overall Win Margin. They also won 29 of their final 32 games after opening the season with a pair of losses at Purdue and VCU. The question is whether Kansas can regroup after losing leading scorers G Kevin McCullar Jr. (18.3 PPG) and C Hunter Dickson (18.0 PPG and 10.8 RPG) down the stretch. Keep a close eye on the injury ticker, as both are expected back during this tournament. For now, though, Sam (not Stan) gets the call

Rating: 2 Units

Drake looked impressive in its three-game run to the Missouri Valley Tourney championship, fending off a pair of strong teams in Bradley and Indiana State to claim the title. Unfortunately, despite winning 27 games last season, and 28 this campaign, the Bulldogs have little to show for it in this tournament, going 1-3 SU and 0-4 ATS in this event. Yes, they’re riding a recent 4-0 SUATS win streak but they’re just 8-15 ATS outside the conference the past two seasons, including 2-9 ATS with three or more days of rest. Drake went one-and-out last year, and if the current line stays the same, WSU will bring along a 6-3-1 ATS record as pups this season. Finally, Pac-12 teams are 4-0 SUATS since 1990 when dancing against the Missouri Valley.

Rating: 2 Units

Who would have thought it? The Wolfpack upset arch-rival UNC as a double digit dog in the ACC championship game as they ride a 6-game win skein into this party. Their mission will be to shake a 0-3 SUATS losing skein in this tourney, something that could prove difficult given its 0-5 SU and 1-3-1 ATS mark in the Big Dance when entering off an upset win. It also doesn’t help to know that ACC tournament champions coming off a SU underdog win are 0-6 ATS in this tournament. With it, the Red Raiders enter knowing they were 0-5 ATS this season against foes coming off a SU underdog win. So, what gives today? TTRR’s 10-4 SU and 9-5 ATS overall mark of late in this tournament gains the nod. 

Rating: 2 Units

The Vols have never made a Final Four. Could this be the year? With this year’s party wide open, they likely have as good a chance as ever. However, the biggest weight holding them down is the fact that No. 2 seeds from the SEC are just 22-32-3 ATS in the NCAA, as well as 5-8 ATS when dancing off of a loss. Rick Barnes doesn’t aid the situation, either, with a lukewarm 19-31 ATS career mark in this event (28-26 outright). It all ties into the SEC’s super soft 11-16 ATS mark in first-round games the past five seasons, with only three outright wins coming by 20 or more points. On the other side of the court, the Peacocks love spreading their feathers in this tournament, where they won and covered three of their four games in their most recent engagement in 2022, making it as far as the Elite 8 Round. They were also 21-10 ATS overall this season, including 7-0 ATS when coming off a SU underdog win (they upset Fairfield in the title game of the MAAC tourney). Only one way to look here.

Rating: 2 Units

The Knicks own a miserable 4-14 SU and 6-12 ATS overall in this series despite their recent heroics. The Knickerbockers also show up here off a same-season revenger at Golden State and they’re just 7-14 SUATS after facing the Dubs. Yes, the Knicks own the fourth-best record in the East but overall this season the Eastern Conference owns a .477 win percentage compared to the West’s superior .523 mark. Those numbers should come into play tonight as the Nuggets take a bite out of the Big Apple.

NCAAB Game of the Week

Rating: 5 Units

McNeese is led by second-year head coach Will Wade, who previously took LSU and VCU to the NCAA Tournament and will lead McNeese to its first tournament appearance since 2002. His troops dominate the NCAA statistics, ranking No. 1 in Win Margin, No. 3 in both Defensive Field Goal Percentage and Turnover Margin, No. 5 in Defensive Points Per Game, and No. 10 in Offensive Field Goal Percentage. Needless to say, that’s quite a laundry list. Meanwhile, after a lethargic 11-5 start to the season, the Zags closed like a racehorse, but it was too late when they fell to Saint Mary’s in the West Coast Conference title game. With it, they ride a 1-8 ATS overall mark in their last nine games into this tourney contest. That’s not promising news against a 12-seed that can flat-out play, a double-conference champion taking points from a foe that was neither. Finally, McNeese head coach Wade is 3-0 ATS as a No. 8 or lower seed in the NCAA tournament versus .800 or fewer opponents

Rating: 2 Units

St Louis has won four of the last five overall and the Blues have won eight of the last 11 head-to-head versus Ottawa. St Louis has also won six of the last eight played on the road against the Senators. Ottawa has won just three of its last 12 games overall and has lost five straight against a team from the Western Conference. St Louis goalie Jordan Binnington has a 2.83 goals against average and .913 save percentage. Binnington was in goal on December 14 when St Louis defeated Ottawa 4-2 and pushed aside 32 or 34 shots faced between the pipes. In contrast, Ottawa goalie Joonas Karpisalo has a 3.37 goals against average and .887 save percentage. Ottawa has lost eight of the last 10 games that Korpisalo has been in goal and Korpisalo was in goal when the Senators lost to the Blues 4-2 last December. The incentive is much higher for St Louis to win as they are just four points behind the second and final wild card spot in the Western Conference, while Ottawa is on the verge of being eliminated from postseason contention.

Rating: 3 Units

We know that No. 10 or 11 seeds who win a Play in game are live in opening round contests and are 6-5 SU and 8-3 ATS when facing .750 or fewer foes. A quick glance at the Longhorns’ lousy 11-20-1 ATS overall ledger, including 3-9-1 ATS against non-conference opponents this season seals the deal. And we didn’t even mention Hook ‘Ems haughty 3-12-1 ATS record in this tournament since 2010.

Rating: 2 Units

Nevada did play well outside the conference this season, going 11-2 SU and 9-4 ATS but our concern is its underachieving 3-7 SUATS log the last ten games in this event, including a 1-5 SUATS mark against .696 or greater foes. While the Flyers were third-place finishers in the Atlantic-10, they finished just one game back of the top spot. Dayton has endured a three-game losing streak in this tournament but are 5-1-1 ATS in The Dance when they sport a sub .750 win percentage. Strange to see the Flyers as a higher-seeded underdog; however, we’re not about to back down.

Rating: 4 Units

The Gamecocks turned on the jets at the right time this campaign when they closed out the season on a 12-4 SU and 11-5 ATS run, including 6-1 ATS away from Columbia. They were also an eye-opening 12-1 SU and 10-3 ATS outside the SEC, including 8-0 ATS against non-conference opponents that were coming off a win. They also went 25-9 ATS under second-year head coach Lamont Paris when playing on three or more days of rest, including 20-3 ATS of late. The Ducks won their final four games of the season to capture the final Pac-12 tournament. They also bring a 7-1 ATS ledger in their last eight games into the tournament fray. While there are good numbers abounding on both sides of the ball, our call goes to the hotter Cock squad

Rating: 3 Units

Big Ten tournament champions are just 2-6-1 ATS in tourney openers since 2014. What Morehead State has on its side is the fact that they rank No. 5 in Defensive Field Goal Percentage, No. 8 in Defensive Points Per Game, and No. 76 in Rebound Margin. Those sticky stats are what pulls off upsets during The Dance, even if troubled former NFL WR Antonio Brown has labeled the Eagles as his choice to win this tournament. Finally, the Illini are 3-12 ATS as a favorite under head coach Brad Underwood when facing a non-conference opponent coming off consecutive wins, including 1-9 ATS when Illinois owns a greater than .700 win percentage.

Rating: 2 Units

All the talking heads want to discuss is the possibility of No. 2 Arizona facing No. 1 North Carolina in the West Regionals. The stakes would be big – a trip to the Final Four – with Caleb Love, who last spring transferred from the Tar Heels to the Wildcats, trying to defeat his former teammates and his former teammates trying end his season. But that’s the future maybe and fortunately for today’s combatants, they get to stay somewhat close to home by meeting at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City. The 49ers are 18-7 ATS as a dog in Pac-12 performances, which puts us on Long Beach versus Arizona today. 

Rating: 3 Units

Duquesne head coach Keith Dambrot (LeBron James’ high school coach in Akron) led his team to their first NCAA tournament bid in 47 years (1977) as they beat VCU to gather its 4th win in four days and win the A-10 title. Note that 33 such teams have accomplished this feat this century and they’ve pretty much kissed their sisters in NCAA tourney openers, going 15-8 SU and 16-16-1 ATS, but 7-13 SUATS when coming off a win of 6 or more points. Still, they were 7-3 SU and 8-2 ATS as either a pick or dog this season and since we’re not interested in laying close to double digits today, we suggest you put up your Dukes with Duquesne

Rating: 2 Units

It’s Tom Izzo time, and the tournament knows it, as this marks his 26th consecutive appearance in the event. The Wizard is 21-7 outright in games against the SEC, including 8-0 SU and 7-1 ATS during March Madness. In addition, he also stands 19-6 SU in opening round games in this tournament, not to mention 12-4 SU and 11-5 ATS overall in this tournament as either a favorite or a dog of 4 or fewer points against foes seeded higher than his squad. It was a bit of a disappointing season for the Bulldogs, a 21-win team last season that welcomed all five of its starters back this campaign. Yes, they won 21 games again this season, but they entered this contest just 2-4 overall in their last six games. The bottom line is Sparty will be out to prove the aforementioned preseason prognosticators correct, and we’re not about to get in the way.

Rating: 2 Units

Los Angeles has dominated Portland, winning the last seven games. However, the Trail Blazers have won two of the last three games against the spread. It is the double-digit spread that is the concern. The Clippers are 2-6 ATS in their last eight while Portland is 6-3-1 ATS in their last 10. The Trail Blazers may have won only three of their last 10 games, but they hold their own. That will be the case here as well, as they lose, but only by single digits.

Rating: 2 Units

Since this is the first year of No. 10 seeds being forced into Play-In games in this event, we’re looking at the matchup on its merits. For openers, the Buffaloes fell to Oregon in the Pac-12 championship game, a loss which snapped an 8-game winning skein by Colorado. They will be looking to even the score from a 13-point loss against the Broncos two seasons ago as small chalk. The Buffs have beaten the MWC in 20 of the last 27 games in this geographical matchup, with a 6-1-1 ATS ledger in those games when CU is coming off a loss. On the other side of the court, Boise State has taken the gas in all five of its NCAA tourney appearances this century while going 0-5 SU and 1-4 ATS. They are also just 7-12 outright against .700 or greater Pac-12 opponents. With the Pac-12 intent on closing the books on a high note on its fabled conference, it’s preordained the Buffaloes run their footloose and fancy-free way in this final party.

Rating: 2 Units

The San Francisco Dons are the pick here, with their remarkable offensive firepower and sharpshooting capabilities setting them apart. Averaging 77.9 points per game on an impressive 48.9% shooting from the field and 35.4% from beyond the arc, the Dons' ability to light up the scoreboard cannot be overstated. Their free-throw shooting is reliable at 75.8%, ensuring they capitalize on opportunities at the line. Defensively, San Francisco is no slouch either, limiting opponents to 66.3 points per game. Key players like Jonathan Mogbo, who not only leads in scoring and rebounding but also contributes significantly in steals and blocks, exemplify the team's balanced attack. The Dons' performance against high-caliber opponents this season shows they're battle-tested and should be able to dominate in this game. 

Rating: 2 Units

The Runnin' Rebels come into this game as the type of team equipped to handle the Princeton offense. The Tigers rely heavily on the 3-point shot, ranking 9th in the country in 3-point field goals made per game. The Rebels are 56th in the nation in 3-point defense and are 72nd in the country in scoring defense overall. The Rebels were done in against San Diego State by their inability to rebound but that shouldn't be a factor in this game with both teams near the bottom of the rebounding rankings. It will take a big effort given the fact that Princeton is undefeated at home but I like the Runnin' Rebels as well due to their must more stringent schedule this season. Princeton is 2-1 against NCAA Tournament teams this season but that includes two games against Ivy League representative Yale. The Rebels have had 11 games against tournament teams this year, going 5-6. UNLV is also effective on the road after going 7-3 away from home this season. They have also won 10 of their last 13 games in a tougher conference.

NBA Game of the Week

Rating: 5 Units

The Celtics were riding high at 29-8 on the season. They had just come off a same-season revenge victory at home against Minnesota the night before and immediately hit the road for a back-to-backer versus Milwaukee. The Bucks stormed out to a 41-23 lead after the first quarter and never looked back, going on a 25-0 run before the white flag was raised and the starters were benched, taking a 75-38 lead into the half, the largest lead in franchise history. When it was over, Boston’s hide was thoroughly tanned after a 135-102 beating. The payback tips at 7:40 in Beantown tonight, and for what it’s worth, Boston is 3-0 ATS in this series when avenging a same-season defeat of 25 or more points, with every win by double-digits. They are also 16-5-1 ATS the last twenty-two games in this series, including 7-1-1 ATS when coming off a home contest. The Bucks are just 1-7-1 ATS as a dog against foes seeking same-season revenge from a loss of 30-plus points; and finally playing on any .545 or greater NBA team seeking same-season revenge from a loss of 33 points if they are facing a .545 or greater foe is 16-2 ATS.

Rating: 2 Units

The Capitals have won three games in a row and are facing a team on short rest, making it easy to think they'll win this one on their home ice. The problem is that the Maple Leafs are having a great season and look to take over this game from the first period. The Maple Leafs should create plenty of scoring chances with Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and the rest of the forward unit carrying the puck into the offensive zone and creating open shots with quick passes. The Maple Leafs should limit the Capitals offense, which averages only 2.66 goals per game, with T.J. Brodie, Jake McCabe, and the rest of the defensive unit creating turnovers in the defensive zone and limiting shots on the net, allowing goaltender Joseph Woll to make plenty of big saves. The Maple Leafs should win the game with a strong performance on the road.

Rating: 2 Units

The ability to control the glass is critical to win games and there is a bit of a difference as Loyola Chicago is averaging 36.7 total rebounds per game while Bradley is grabbing 34.7 total rebounds per game. The Ramblers have been able to keep the offensive numbers very similar and it makes it hard for the Bradley Braves to step up and pull out a lead. All in all, take Loyola Chicago to pull off the upset on the spread. 

Rating: 2 Units

While some schools turned down the NIT, Indiana State star Robbie Avila said his team is "motivated as ever." Avila, a center, averages 17.5 points, 6.6 rebounds and 3.8 assists per game, and he hits 40.5 percent of his 3-point attempts. "To be able to have that opportunity to come back and win some more hardware is a blessing," he said. Five players score in double digits per game, and the Sycamores are tied for eighth in Division I at 84.4 points per game. Finally, SMU is 3-11 ATS their L14 games.

Rating: 2 Units

Here we go again, kowtowing to the wishes of the Well-Oiled Machine and fading a .500 favorite in the 17-17 Bobcats while using the double-champion Tigers from the SWAC. And why not? Grambling won 20 games with its first SWC conference title. Since 2018, the SWAC has won its opening round game three times in its five NCAA appearances, including two of the last three contests. They’ve also captured nine of their last ten overall games to conclude the season. This is from a unit that started the campaign on a 2-10 downer. Meanwhile, Montana State was picked to finish in eighth place in the Big Sky by the Scribes in a preseason vote but outplayed the press while winning its third-straight Big Sky title. However, they are another No. 16 seeded chalk artist that has struggled in these First Four games. We’ll be gambling with Grambling this evening.

Rating: 2 Units

If it looks strange to find the Cavaliers taking points in this contest, it should. For openers, they are likely the most disrespected 23-win team in the nation. Virginia, a team that was 23-5 outright against sub .730 opposition this season, has faced a total of nineteen No. 9 or lower seeds in this event, winning thirteen games straight up while being installed as the favorite in all nineteen contests! The Cavs’ staunch scoring defense ranks No. 3 overall in the nation, allowing 59.5 PPG. It fits like a glove next to the Rams' 0-4 SU all-time mark in games where it failed to score 80 points in this tournament. Then there’s the fact that Colorado State will be laying points for the first time in the Big Dance this century, checking in five times as a dog. While losing 7 of the 10 games they played against ACC foes since 1990, the Rams must also overcome the fact that the Mountain West Conference is little more than Play Dough in the hands of the ACC in this tournament, going 1-13 SU and 3-11 ATS dating back to 1990. 

Rating: 2 Units

Minnesota returns home to begin a four-game homestand on Tuesday. They are 23-8 at home (2-0 ATS as a home underdog). Minnesota won the first matchup 110-89 on Nov. 1 on its home court. Edwards led the Timberwolves with 24 points on 8-for-16 shooting, and Mike Conley chipped in 17 points on 7-for-9 shooting. Jokic finished with 25 points and 10 rebounds in that contest. Murray scored 14 points for Denver, which shot only 39.6 percent from the field and 18.2 percent (6 of 33) from 3-point range. In addition, Denver is 11-15 ATS as a road favorite.

Rating: 2 units

K-State (19-14) had plenty of Quad-1 victories to hold out hope for an at-large berth in the NCAA Tournament. But too many close wins in the lower quadrants, combined with an unusual number of bid thieves, eliminated any chance of the Wildcats making the field of 68. The Hawkeyes (18-14) also had a chance to make the big dance. They played six games against teams that ended up with top-3 seeds in the NCAA Tournament: Creighton, Purdue (twice), Iowa State and Illinois (twice). Iowa went a combined 0-6 in those games.

Rating: 2 Units

San Antonio, stands 4-2 SUATS in this series in this role, but also 15-8 SU and 13-9 ATS at home when seeking same-season triple revenge under head coach Greg Popovich, including 11-5 SU and 12-3 ATS in this role versus .577 or greater foes. Those strong numbers also include a 6-0 SUATS mark when Pop’s troops sport a sub. 600-win percentage. Dicey spot for Dallas who enters off the double avenger on Sunday against Denver with a whopping 37-point get-even game at Utah on deck. The Mavericks’ 2-6 ATS effort in their last eight games against triple revenging foes means they’ll be on our fade list tonight.

Rating: 2 Units

The Penguins are coming off an impressive win but I see the Devils stepping up on their home ice and taking over this game. The Devils should create plenty of scoring chances with Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, and the rest of the forward unit carrying the puck into the offensive zone and creating open shots with quick passes. The Devils should limit a Penguins offense that averages only 2.91 goals per game, with Kevin Bahl, John Marino, and the rest of the defensive unit creating turnovers in the defensive zone and limiting shots on the net, allowing goaltender Nico Daws to make plenty of big saves. The Devils should win the game with a strong performance on their home ice.

Rating: 2 Units

The Flyers look to step up on their home ice but they run into a buzzsaw Maple Leafs team that looks to take over this game from the first period. The Maple Leafs, who average 3.58 goals per game, should create plenty of scoring chances with Auston Matthews, William Nylander, and the rest of the forward unit carrying the puck into the offensive zone and creating open shots with quick passes. The Maple Leafs should limit the Flyers offense, which averages only 2.91 goals per game, with T.J. Brodie, Jake McCabe, and the rest of the defensive unit creating turnovers in the defensive zone and limiting shots on the net, allowing goaltender Ilya Samsonov to make plenty of big saves. The Maple Leafs should win the game with a strong performance on the road.

Rating: 2 Units

The Winnipeg Jets are only 4-3 in their last seven games. The New York Rangers continue to dazzle, earning the win in five of their last six games. They also continue to dominate at home where they are 24-8 on the season. Winnipeg has been inconsistent when it comes to scoring. They have scored three or fewer goals in five of their last seven games. They were productive this past weekend but took advantage of horrible defensive opponents in the Ducks and Blue Jackets. The Rangers have only conceded 13 goals in their last five games. Igor Shesterkin has been outstanding, conceding two or fewer goals in three of his last four games.

Rating: 2 Units

Georgia (17-16) makes its first NIT appearance since 2017, which also marked the program's most recent postseason trip. The Bulldogs have endured a late-season slump, dropping five of their last seven games -- including their exit from the second round of the Southeastern Conference tournament with an 85-80 loss to Florida. However, defeats of a 20-win Ole Miss team on March 5 and Missouri in the first round of the SEC tournament on March 13 gave Georgia its highest win total since going 18-15 in 2017-18. The Musketeers head into the NIT at 3-7 over their last 10 games against a tough Big East Conference schedule. They closed with an 87-60 loss at reigning national champion UConn at the Big East tournament last Thursday. Georgia is 16-9 ATS in their L25 games overall.

Rating: 2 Units

This game's line moved from 6.5 to 3.5 following the injury update to Carter, Providence's first-team all-conference guard. His absence limits a Friars squad that depended on the junior to score more after losing Hopkins to an ACL injury. Carter was averaging nearly 20 points on 14 shots per game — who will pick up the scoring slack? The obvious candidate is Oduro (11.2 FG attempts per game), but Providence will also count on more production from Pierre, who will likely attempt more three-balls (4.3 3PT attempts per game) with Carter sidelined.

Rating: 2 Units

North Texas will use its tough defense to contain LSU's average offense and the Mean Green will find a way to score enough points against a below-average LSU defense to pick up a victory on Tuesday and move on to the second round of the NIT. North Texas allowed an average of only 62.4 points per game which was 7th best in the country and gave up 40.7% shooting which was 31st in the nation. In contrast, LSU gave up 74.8 points per game which was 268th. The Tigers allowed 33.3% shooting from 3-point territory, which was 160th and that plays to North Texas's strength on offense as the Mean Green shot 37.5% from three-point range which was 21st in the nation. North Texas averaged 34.7 rebounds per game while holding their opponents to 29.4 boards per contest.

Rating: 2 Units

The Hawks still had to face the Clippers at the time this preview was written, so no line was available. However, one should expect Los Angeles to be favored by at least six in this game. Both teams are 5-5 in their last 10 games, but Atlanta is playing on back-to-back nights in Los Angeles against two teams battling for playoff position. The Lakers have won the last two meetings between these teams in Los Angeles and won both of those games by 16 points. In fact, when L.A. defeats Atlanta, they win big, so look for a dominating performance out of the Lakers.

Rating: 2 Units

The Sabres look to bounce back from a rough loss and I see them taking over this game against a struggling Kraken team. The Sabres should create plenty of scoring chances with Jeff Skinner, Alex Tuch, and the rest of the forward unit carrying the puck into the offensive zone and creating open shots with quick passes. The Sabres, who allow only 2.96 goals per game, should limit the Kraken offense, which averages only 2.68 goals per game, with Rasmus Dahlin, Owen Power, and the rest of the defensive unit creating turnovers in the defensive zone and limiting shots on the net, allowing goaltender Ukko-Pekka Luukkonen to make plenty of big saves. The Sabres should win the game and provide great odds in the process as road Underdogs.

Rating: 2 Units

The Sixers (37-30) struggled for a bit Saturday but pulled away for a 109-98 win over the Charlotte Hornets. Tyrese Maxey scored 30 points, Kelly Oubre Jr. added 22 and Buddy Hield had 14 for the Sixers, who played without Joel Embiid, Tobias Harris, De'Anthony Melton and Robert Covington. Spoelstra tweaked his lineup again without Jimmy Butler, Tyler Herro, Nikola Jovic and Kevin Love. Herro has been out since Feb. 26 with injuries to his knee and feet. Spoelstra is cautiously optimistic about Herro's return before the end of the regular season. They'll need him if they have aspirations of another deep playoff run.