Denver at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Thunder- With just seven games remaining in the regular season Denver is two game out of the playoffs after dropping a 114-110 loss at Toronto and have now lost four of their last six. Nuggets coach Michael Malone has said he is disappointed with the club's lack of intensity. Oklahoma City is of course the team with NBA super-stars that just aren't willing to play the defense needed to be a champion. Denver has won 2-of-3 meetings this season and are 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings while the Thunder are 0-3-1 ATS in their last four overall. Take DENVER!

Penn State vs Utah 7:00 ET

Utes (+) over Nittany Lions- Both these clubs enter the NIT final at Madison Square Garden as 4th seeds in their bracket and have won four in-a-row. Penn State's last win was a 75-60 blowout win over Mississippi State Tuesday and it wasn't even that close as the Lions led by 25 entering the fourth quarter. When a team wins like that especially in the semi-final of a tournament I always like to 'fade' them in the final. Utah is 12-4-1 ATS in their last 17 games and get the 'money' here. Take UTAH!

Penn State vs Mississippi State 9:15 ET

Bulldogs (+) over Nittany Lions- Both these clubs were 4th seeds and bring plenty of big game experience from the Big Ten and SEC. As far as trends are concerned both clubs come in making money as the Bulldogs are 5-0 ATS in their last five and Penn State is 5-1 ATS in their last six. But the two trends that mean the most to me are the Nittany Lions are 0-5 straight-up and 1-4 ATS in their last five meetings against the SEC and Mississippi State is 7-0 ATS in its last seven games as an underdog of 2.5 or more. Take MISSISSIPPI STATE!

Portland at Oklahoma City 7:00 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Thunder- After 13 straight wins Portland has dropped their last two both at home to Houston and Boston. But, taking to the road hasn't been a hardship for the Blazers as they are 19-13-1 ATS as visitors and have defeated the Thunder five straight times including three times this season. Oklahoma City now trails Portland by two games in the loss column for the third playoff spot in the West has won seven of their last eight but will struggle to get bye Portland. Take the TRAILBLAZERS!

Duke vs Kansas 5:05 ET

Blue Devils (-) over Jayhawks- No. 1 seed Kansas is an underdog here and No. 2 seeded Duke and that rises an eyebrow of two. The Jayhawks have won 30-games for the third straight season but have been denied entree to the Final Four in the regional finals the past two seasons losing to Villanova (the eventual champion) and Oregon. This season they get stopped by Duke who has been to 12 Final Fours and have five National Championships since Mike Krzyzewski took over in 1980. The Blue Devils are 9-3 ATS in their last 12 and win here. Take DUKE!

Florida State vs Michigan 8:50 ET

Seminoles (+) over Wolverines- I mean have you ever seen anything like that before? The Wolverines put on one of the best long range shooting exhibitions in NCAA tournament history scoring 99 points. Only the Villanova victory against Georgetown (Patrick Ewing) in the 1986 Final compares with a higher shooting percentage but their was no 3-point shot at that time. A repeat is performance is highly unlikely even riding a 12-game winning streak as the Wolverines are off their highest scoring tournament game since 1992. Defense will keep the Seminoles in this one as they have held three straight opponents to 70 points or fewer...take FLORIDA STATE!

Loyola-Chicago vs Kansas State 6:09 ET

Ramblers (+) over Wildcats- Golly, are the 'boys' just begging us to take Kansas State or what! The blessing here is that for the most part few realize just how good Loyola actually is. This team is 31-5 straight and 22-9-1 ATS including 8-0 and 7-1 ATS at neutral sites. The Ramblers are still fighting for respect while the Wildcats believe that already got their respect by defeating Kentucky for the first time ever (0-9 lifetime entering the game). Letdown city...take LOYOLA-CHICAGO!

Utah at San Antonio 8:30 ET

Jazz (+) over Spurs- There is something going on with the Spurs and nobody has been able to definitively put their figure on what it is. San Antonio's doctors have cleared Kawhi Leonard to play but Kawki says 'his' doctors have said he's not ready. After the 'players meeting' when Leonard was begged by 'teammates' to return to the court, he rebuffed them by refusing to play. I really wonder if it isn't a personal thing with 'Pop.' Either way the Spurs will be effected by this issue and they are up against a tough opponent. The Jazz have won 10 of their last 11 and 22 of their last 25 and will take advantage. Take UTAH!

West Virginia vs Villanova 7:27 ET

Mountaineers (+) over Wildcats- I have to admit the two squads that I though could win it all along has been Villanova and Duke so it takes a lot for me to come against who I believe may be the eventual champion. So here I am, with this West Virginia that can beat anybody but often fall apart in important matchups and I believe this fits the bill. But the Wildcats have had a pair of walk-over wins against Radford and Alabama and will be tested with Bob Huggins 'Press Virginia' for 40 intense minutes. Trends on not on the mountaineers side as they are 3-8 ATS in their last 11 against the Big East and Villanova is 9-4 ATS in their last 13 versus the Big-12. Everybody 'knows' that! Yep...take WEST VIRGINIA!

L.A. Clippers at Indiana 7:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Pacers- After four straight losses against teams above them the Clippers put up a much needed win at Milwaukee Wednesday night. That win came after a players 'only' meetings as DeAndre Jordon was making a statement about getting onto the playoffs for the first time. Indiana had to break up a three game home stand with a make-up game in New Orleans on Wednesday and that can put them out of sync having to change family plans and what-not. The Clippers are one of the better road 'take' this season going 18-18 straight-up and a fine 23-13 ATS. Take LOS ANGELES!

Florida State vs Gonzaga 10:07 ET

Seminoles (+) over Bulldogs- Gonzaga is looking to return to their second straight Final-4 (lost to N. Carolina in Final) and they might be surprised at the level of overall talent that packs Florida State's roster. The Seminoles have nine (9) players that average between 6.6 and 13 points per game and a pressure defense that adjustments will have to be made by the Zags. Gonzaga has the longest winning steak of any team left in the tourney but that doesn't always translate to ATS wins as they are just 15-17-1 despite their stellar record. Not this time...take FLORIDA STATE!

L.A..Lakers at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Lakers (+) over Pelicans- Because of a leak in the Smoothie King roof a number of week ago and rescheduling New Orleans and is about to play their third game in three nights (a union no no) and already have two wins. The Pelicans have already defeated the Lakers twice scoring an average 129 points and although Brandon Ingram will miss his 10th straight game this is a 'different' Lakers team. LA has dropped their last three after winning 8-of-10...they get back o track here a the Pelicans wings tire out. Take LOS ANGELES!

Texas A&M vs Michigan 7:27 ET

Wolverines (-) over Aggies- I know I saw it, I saw and win with against against these two clubs last weekend. We posted Texas A&M in their crushing of North Carolina and win had Houston (+) over Michigan and both were huge winners. So, here is how I see this match-up...the Aggies are off an emotional high in defeating the Tar Heels 86-65 which was unexpected along with the margin of victory. The Wolverines need a miracle 3-point shot at the buzzer to advance after trailing the entire second half. Michigan has to feel blessed and is playing on 'free' time. Take the WOLVERINES!

Washington at San Antonio 9:30 ET

Wizards (+) over Spurs- San Antonio has picked up the pace after an inconsistent patch of play of 11 games but have won their last four. The Spurs have been banged-up and are still without All-Star Leonard but LaMarcus Aldridge has picked up the slack. This is the first meeting of the season between these two and they play again in Washington next Tuesday. Washington has been playing and playing better without All-Star guard John Wall as the remainder of the squad is willing to pass the ball. Take the WIZARDS!

Indiana at New Orleans 8:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Pelicans- This game is an oddity of sorts as it is a rescheduled contest from early February when the Smoothie King Center was leaking. These clubs enter this fray with identical records with 11 games left in the regular season. Indiana has won 12 of the last 15 meetings although New Orleans posted a 117-112 win over the Pacers in their only meeting this season back in November. This time around Indiana will set the pace. Take the PACERS!

Western Kentucky at Oklahoma State 8:00 ET

Hilltoppers (+) over Cowboys- Oklahoma State was one of the schools that felt 'shafted' by the NCAA selection committee and they look like they are out to prove that they were good enough to make the 'Big Dance.' Western Kentucky on the other hand was good enough to get selected but a loss in the Conference USA final to Marshall 67-66. The Hilltoppers have been a great side the entire season posting a 13-6 ATS record away from home and a 22-12 ATS overall record. Take the points with WESTERN KENTUCKY!

Mississippi State and Louisville 9:00 ET

Bulldogs (+) over Cardinals- Louisville who usually is in the 'Big Dance' has a chance to go to the NIT semi-finals and a trip to New York's Madison Square Garden with a win tonight. This is the Cardinals first season without former coach Rick Pitino and they for the most part survived the turmoil and seek their fourth trip to the NIT semi's since 2006. Mississippi State dropped 3-of-4 before posting a pair of NIT victories against Nebraska and Baylor covering both contests. This should be another close contest where the points might come into play. Take the BULLDOGS!

L.A. Clippers at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Timberwolves- This is so typical of teams battling for a playoff spot (the final playoff spot) as they have both have lost their most recent crucial games. The Clippers have dropped their last three and now trial Minnesota by two-games in the loss column as there are just three-games that separate the fourth through 10th seeds in the West. The T-wolves have lost their last two but still have a chance to finish as high as fourth. This means more to L.A. As time runs down. Take the CLIPPERS!

Western Kentucky vs USC 11:30 ET

Hilltoppers (+) over Trojans- USC is one of the only No. 1 seeds still alive but their issue is that they are playing in the NIT. The Trojans managed to win 103-98 in double overtime against UNC Ashville without their All-American center who is sitting out the tournament to protect his draft status. Also, their senior guard Jordon MeLaughlin is considering sitting out tonight. I DO NOT want teams whose players don't want to play...I want them hungry. The Hilltoppers will get it done insider where they hold a 345-point advantage in the paint. Take WESTERN KENTUCKY!

Milwaukee at Cleveland 7:00 ET

Bucks (+) over Bucks- After a lengthy road trip where they went 3-3 the Cavaliers return home for the first time since March 5 and host Milwaukee a club they have defeated five straight time as hosts. Cleveland who is secure in the third playoff seed in the East has been playing with a plethora of injuries along with a mystery illness that has even sidelines coach Tyronne Lue who is missing time of late. The Bucks have won three of their last four and have posted a 119-116 win at home earlier this season. Take MILWAUKEE!

Houston at Minnesota 7:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Rockets- With the Golden State Warriors have so many key players sidelined the Rockets have a chance to made a mover for the No. 1 overall seed as they have won their last four and 21 of their last 22. They should be very confident entering tonight's fray as Houston has defeated Minnesota five straight times. After dropping their last outing in San Antonio the T'wolves are two-games clear for the eighth playoffs spot in the West. At home with the generous points the Wolves can howl tonight. Take MINNESOTA!

Texas A&M vs North Carolina 5:15 ET

Aggies (+) over Tar Heels- Now, wait a second, I'm hearing that Texas A&M will try and rely on their hight advantage against North Carolina. Let me say this, if you have a height advantage over the Tar Heels you are a big sized team. The Aggies front court runs 6-10,6-10 and 6-9 as they are the fifth-ranked rebounding team in the country. A&M who out-rebounded Providence 44-26 have more experience at the post. Take TEXAS A&M!

Golden State at Phoenix 10:00 ET

Suns (+) over Warriors- If this team doesn't have enough injury issue Golden State has lost Super-Star Kevin Durant for a number of weeks due to fractured rib (on his right side) and will join his Super-Star teammate Stephen Curry (and Klay Thompson) on the bench. So, now the ravaged Warriors who defeated the Suns 129-83 five weeks ago in their only meeting this season and have won 16 of the last 19 meetings as the Suns enter with seven straight losses. But, this is just a shell of themselves and Phoenix will be all in. The line is the indicator...take PHOENIX!

Houston vs Michigan 9:40 ET

Cougars (+) over Wolverines- Michigan enters this game for a 'Sweet-16' berth having won 10 in-a-row with four straight covers and 9-of-10 ATS. Houston has been on an up swing of their own and are 9-3-1 ATS in their last 13 games overall. Comparing the season long 'numbers' of these two they come out very similar. Same course record on the road and at neutral sites with the Cougars holding a slight point differential advantage but of course they have player a lesser schedule. The thing is Las Vegas is giving Houston a huge amount of respect and so will I. Take the COUGARS!

Ohio State vs Gonzaga 7:45 ET

Buckeyes (+) over Zags- 'Sweet-16 here I come...' Yeah well, for who? Both these clubs were winners in tough first round competition as Gonzaga won their 15th straight and look to return deep into NCAA Tourney play. (Yeah, well who isn't) The interesting thing about this match-up is that they have played twice before. The first time in NCAA Tournament action in Pittsburgh where 2nd seeded OSU beat the 7th seeded Zags. The last time was earlier this season in Portland on November 23 as the Zags crushed the Buckeyes 86-59. Thing will be different Saturday night. Take OHIO STATE!

New Mexico State vs Clemson 9:57 ET

Tigers (-) over Aggies- It looks like the 'public' is expecting there to be plenty of support for New Mexico State as the games are being played in San Diego, where as Clemson has to travel from the east. The Tigers who are making their first appearance in the Tourney in seven years losing in the first round in its past five appearances. That isn't as bad as the Aggies who have lost its NCAA Tournament opener nine straight years. Take CLEMSON!

L.A. Clippers at Oklahoma City 8:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Thunder- OKC has put together four straight win as their roster becomes a bunch of walking wounded. All-Star forward Paul George in questionable as is center Steve Adams. LA is just one-game behind San Antonio and Utah and a game and-a-half behind sixth place New Orleans and need every win. Clippers 21-11-1 ATS on the road while the Thunder are 15-20 ATS at home. After a poor shooting night and a loss at Houston last night I expect to Clippers to rebound here. Take LOS ANGELES!

Providence vs Texas A&M 9:15 ET

Aggies (-) over Friars- A record eight SEC teams made the tournament with Tennessee the highest seed at No. 3 and Texas A&M is No. 7. Providence made a great run in the Big Tournament losing to Villanova in the Championship Game after defeating regular season champ Xavier. The Aggies started the year 11-1 and then opened SEC play 0-5 and finished 9-9. The Aggies have 11 NCAA wins with eight of them coming since 2006. A&M's balanced attack will wear the Friars out. Take TEXAS A&M.

St. Bonaventure vs Florida 9:55 ET

Gators (-) over Bonnies- St. Bonaventure set a school record with their 26th win over UCLA on Tuesday and are now facing the 6th seed Florida in Dallas. The last time the Bonnies made the 'Big Dance' it wasn't even a big dance in 1970 as Bob Lanier was the star. Florida struggled down the stretch losing five of their final eight games but is a tourney tested team that has played at least four games in each of the last five times they have reached the NCAA Tournament. Gators bit hard here...take FLORIDA!

Davidson vs Kentucky 7:10 ET

Wildcats (+) over Wildcats- Davidson was able to qualify for the 'Tourney' by winning 11 of their last 13 games and upsetting top-seeded Rhode Island for the Atlantic-10 Championship and securing the bid. Kentucky's youth were able to put it together and win the SEC Tournament and now will face a pair of seniors including at A-10 Co-Player of the Year Peyton Aldridge who is anxious to face 'major' competition. Take DAVIDSON!

Toronto at Indiana 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over Raptors- The two 'hottest' team in the NBA clash tonight at Indiana as the Pacers have won their last three and 21 of their last 30. Not to be out done, Toronto has won nine straight and 16 of their last 17. The trends between these two are one-sided as the Pacers are 7-2 ATS in the last nine meetings including 0-4 ATS in the last four at Indiana. Take the PACERS!

Nebraska at Mississippi State 9:00 ET

Bulldogs (-) over Cornhuskers- These two had their NCAA 'bubble' dream burst as they were passed bye for the 'Big Dance' and now settle for a chance to pay at Madison Square Garden. Of these two squads the 'word' seems to be that it was Nebraska that got shafted in the selection process and yet are only a No. 5 seed. The Cornhuskers closed their regular season winning eight of the final nine games before being eliminated by Michigan 77-58. Mississippi State meanwhile is 18-2 at home which includes and early season loss to Nebraska 76-72 which helped the Cornhuskers to a 4-7 straight-up record on the road. Take NEBRASKA!

Washington at Boston 8:00 ET

Wizards over Celtics- Guys, I hope 'we' are not being sucked into this match-up as the 'numbers' just don't add up. Washington has lost their last two and now they are favored in Boston where they have lost nine of their last 10 meetings. This is a tough spot for the Celtics as they have four players 'out' of this contest including this years glue Kyrie Irving. The deleted Boston club also have a questionable Al Horford and will be missing Marcus Smart and Jaylen Brown. Take WASHINGTON!

St. Bonaventure vs UCLA 9:10 ET

Bonnies (+) over Bruins- Who ever wins this contest will enter the field of 64 as an 11-seed and will go to Dallas Thursday and play Florida. UCLA is making their 49th NCAA Tournament appearance and come in losing three of their last five games including the Pac-12 semi to Arizona getting out-scored 13-0 in overtime. St. Bonnies comes in losing to Davidson the eventually A-10 champion but have won 13 in-a-row before that conference playoff defeat. They are back in the 'Dance' first the first time since 2012. Both these clubs like to go with their starters and don't gibe the bench much of an opportunity and the Bonnies have better overall balance. Take ST. BONAVENTURE!

Indiana at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

Pacers (+) over 76ers- Even t he 'players' on the 76ers admit they are a bit up-and-down as they alternate wins and losses off a 2-2 road trip. These two have spilt the first two meetings each winning at home including Philly 121-110 back on Nov. 3. The Sixers like to beat-up on the 'little' guy but struggle against the better clubs and are 1-5 ATS against teams with a winning record while the Pacers are 8-3 ATS in the last 11 meetings. Take INDIANA!

Golden State at Minnesota 3:30 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Warriors- Minnesota was sitting atop of the Northwest Division in the Western Conference in the third playoff spot but have faltered since the injury to Jimmy Butler. The Timberwolves have lost their last three land are facing falling to the 10th spot with a loss here. Golden State is a 1/2-game behind Houston for the lead in the West and they really don't seem very concerned. Sort of reminds me of the Cavs and Celtics last year. They know they will catch and pass them but not today. Take MINNESOTA!

USC vs Arizona 10:00 ET

Trojans (+) over Wildcats- After last night's 'Bad Beat' loss with UCLA (+6) in overtime against Arizona I have a knot in my stomach when looking at this contest. Arizona who won last season's Pac-12 Tournament came away with the ATS overtime win out-scoring the Bruins 13-2 in the extra period. The Wildcats have won the last four meetings between the two and have a huge 9-3 ATS advantage in the last 12 meetings. With such strong trends my question is why have the oddsmakers made this such a shallow line...Take the TROJANS!

San Antonio at Oklahoma City 8:35 ET

Spurs (+) over Thunder- Which of these two teams would you believe is not going to make the playoffs? The key word is 'team' and that gives the Spurs the advantage as they have played like one for years while OKC is more play ground and breaks apart when it counts most. San Antonio doesn't have a winning road record but it is still better then the Thunders home record. Oklahoma City is off a win and that is bad new for them as they are 1-7 ATS after a straight-up win and add that the Spurs are 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings. Take SAN ANTONIO!

North Carolina vs Duke 9:30 ET

Tar Heels (+) over Blue Devils- Always a treat when these two clash as the ACC 'elite' meet once again with No. 4 Duke against No. 11 North Carolina. The amazing thing to me is that the Blue Devils are where they are with four freshman and Grayson Allen the senior guard leading the way. Well, sort of, the 'big' man for Duke is freshman ACC Player of the Year Marvin Bagley III who had 33 points and 17 rebounds in yesterday's 88-70 win over Notre Dame. The two teams split this season each holding serve and wining at home and both are playing well at this time of the year as should be expected as Duke is 7-1 ATS in their last eight and the Tar Heels are 7-3 ATS in their last 10. What it comes down to is 'Can the Heels contain Bagley III?' They do have the size and coaching. Take NORTH CAROLINA!

U.C.L.A. vs Arizona 9:00 ET

Bruins (+) over Wildcats- There sure will be plenty storylines on this Pac-12 tourney game being played at T-Mobil Arena in Las Vegas. We can start with Arizona coach Sean Miller who is in the mist of an FBI report (that can NOT be good under any circumstances) has returned to his duties and the Wildcats have won their last three. Although Arizona has won nine of its last 11 Pac-12 tourney games but that nemesis from Los Angeles the Bruins actually have the edge. UCLA is 7-3 ATS in their last 10 and 7-2 ATS in the last nine meetings and the underdogs is 14-2 ATS in the last 16 meetings. Take UCLA!

Houston at Toronto 7:30 ET

Raptors (+) over Rockets- Houston's winning streak is now at 17 and look to make it 18 at Toronto against the Raptors who have won six straight of their own. The Raptors are the first team to clinch a playoff spot and look to hold the top spot in the East. When a pair of good team like this meet the trends are always positive for both clubs as is the case here. The Rockets are 9-0 ATS in their last nine road games against teams with winning records while Toronto is 4-0 ATS following an ATS loss. My key factor here is that the Raptors are 8-2 ATS in the last 10 meetings in Toronto. Take the RAPTORS!

North Carolina vs Miami-Fl 9:00 ET

Hurricanes (+) over Tar Heels- I'm so confused...no, not about my side but the way different agencies interpret the same information. To start with Miami is the ACC's No. 3 seed and received the double-bye while North Carolina is the 6th seed and defeated Syracuse 78-59 (who was no threat). Now, here is where the fun starts, no. 3 seed Miami is ranked 25th and sixth seed North Carolina is ranked 11th so, go figure. The Tar Heels are a strong favorite here off their dominating performance last night but the Hurricanes are well rested and know they can beat this club again as they did this season at Chapel Hill 91-88. Take MIAMI-FL

Boston at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Celtics- Boston who started the season with 18 straight wins have come out after the All-star break winning five of six but now trail Toronto by two-games in the East. Both clubs will be missing their top players as the Celtics Kyrie Irving has a knee injury and Minnesota will be with Jimmy Butler. Boston is the better overall club and are 5-2 without Irving and the Wolves are 4-6 without Butler. Minny has had five days rest after their loss at Utah where Karl-Anthony Towns and Jeff Teague were ejected. T'wolves are 25-7 straight up at home and come together for a win tonight. Take MINNESOTA!

Cleveland at Denver 10:30 ET

Nuggets (+) over Cavaliers- So, Denver has gone from a beaten road favorite at Dallas last night to a home favorite over Cleveland tonight. Maybe, the 126-117 win the Nuggets posted at Cleveland on Saturday has them confident enough to beat the Cavs twice in a row. Cleveland of course will be looking for payback but they are still a team in transition as they continue to struggle. Kevin Love is still out and it is the rest of the team that appears to have 'panic' attacks as LeBron's supporting cast is still adjusting. Take DENVER!

Vanderbilt vs Georgia 7:00 ET

Commodores (+) over Bulldogs- I know and understand that Georgia is the 12th seed in the SEC tournament and Vanderbilt is the 13th seed but this 'line' just doesn't look right. Even though the Bulldogs have lost their last two and Vanderbilt is off a win they are just 12-19 on the season and a miserable 8-20 ATS with a 12-game ATS losing streak included. With the Commodores having won only one game in 13 tries away from home and with this 'line' they will have to win this game outright and so they will. Take VANDERBILT!

Philadelphia at Charlotte 7:00 ET

Hornets (+) over 76ers- Two of the stronger NBA rebounders will face-off as the 76ers Joel Embiid and the Hornets Dwight Howard meet and the last meeting between the two did not go so well for the veteran from Charlotte. These two went head-to-head on Friday and Embiid dominated Howard outscoring him 23-6 and out rebounding him 15-6 as Philadelphia won at home 110-99. Even though the 76ers are 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings they are 1-7-1 ATS in their last nine road games while the Hornets are 3-0 straight-up and ATS in their last three at home. Take CHARLOTTE!

Wake Forest vs. Syracuse 7:00 ET

Demon Deacons (+) over Orange- The way I see it Syracuse has to win deep into the ACC Tournament to have a chance of getting an invite to the 'Big Dance' while No. 14 seed Wake Forest would have to win it all to get a bid and at 11-19 they won't be going anywhere else. These two split their two meetings both posting victories at home. The Orange are off a win over No. 20 Clemson while the Deacons have lost their last two and are just 3-13 ATS in their last 16 games. But, crazy stuff happens in conference tournaments and I expect it to start here. Take WAKE FOREST!

Brigham Young vs. St. Mary's 11:30 ET

Cougars (+) over Gaels- Sharp shooting St. Mary's somehow ended up the second seed in the WCC and have won four-in-a-row. The Gaels lead the nation in field goal percentage (51.5) and ranked 10th in 3-point field goal percentage at 40.8% and have defeated BYU five straight times with five straight 'covers.' Without a doubt the best player on the floor will be St. Mary's 6-11 senior Jock Landale the WCC Player of the Year scoring 21.3 points and 10.5 rebounds per contest who led the Gaels to their regular season 28 wins. The Cougars will try and avenge their 81-50 loss in the WCC tournament last season and will keep this one close. Take BYU!

Portland at L.A. Lakers 10:35 ET

Lakers (+) over Trailblazers- The two 'hottest' teams in the NBA face-off tonight in Los Angeles where the Lakers host Portland who has won 14 straight in this series. LA has won their last five with the return to the line-up of Lonzo Ball who is 14-of-22 from three point range since his return four games ago. Portland has won their last six and that dynamic duo of guards Damian Lillard and CJ McCollum have led the way. The Blazers won the first meeting in LA 95-92 and the Lakers are much improved since then and get the 'money' tonight. Take LAKERS!

Philadelphia at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Bucks (+) over 76ers- The Bucks are dropping fast losing their last four games but still are in a solid position to make the playoffs entrenched in the seventh spot 1.5 games behind the Sixers. Milwaukee made a coaching change jettisoning Jason Kidd to the unemployed and immediacy when on a winning streak but the euphoric effects seem to have worn off. The mini slump for the Bucks has seen Giannis Antetokoumpo shoot under 40% the last four game and a turn around is expected here. Take MILWAUKEE!

Temple at Tulsa 3:00 ET

Owls (+) over Golden Hurricane- Two clubs that were considered dead even about two weeks ago have taken different paths down the stretch. Tulsa has won seven of eight while the Owls have dropped three of four. The Golden Hurricane are locked into the 4th seed in the AAC while Temple who lost heartbreakers to Wichita State and Houston before a loss to lowly Connecticut. A small conflict in trends has Tulsa 11-5 ATS in their last 16 home games while Temple is 7-2 ATS in their last nine games overall. Take the OWLS!

Cincinnati at Wichita State 12:00 ET

Bearcats (+) over Shockers- When the All American Conference was formed most felt the Connecticut was the prize school to enter but they have fallen upon difficult times while Cincinnati and Wichita State became the most formidable. Cincinnati owns a 1-game lead over Wichita State with the Shockers owning a 76-72 win in January and this contest will determine the No. 1 seed for the playoffs. This is the Shockers first season in the ACC after leaving the Missouri Valley Conference where they played since 1945. The Bearcats had won 39 straight home games before their loss to the State and will get their revenge here. Take CINCINNATI!

Boston at Houston 8:30 ET

Rockets (+) over Celtics- These two have the longest winning streaks on the NBA season as the Celtics had a 16-game streak as the season unfolded and now it is Houston that has a 14-game winning streak their second such streak of the year. In a meeting at the TD Garden in Boston on Dec. 28 the Celtics won 99-98 after Houston blew a 26-point lead. The Rockets played that contests without Chris Paul, Clint Capela and Luc Mbah a Moute. The Celtics who have won 4-in-a-row have struggled on offense at times and tonight they get exposed. Take HOUSTON!

North Carolina at Duke 8:15 ET

Blue Devils (-) over Tar Heels- In a rarity both No. 9 North Carolina and No. 6 Duke are coming off losses Monday as they both were beaten by last-second baskets. This is the second meetings of the year between these two and the Tar Heels won their first one at home 82-78 as they committed just two turnovers. Despite that loss Duke has won six of the last nine meetings and are 37-11 against Top-10 ranked teams at home. The Devils' Grayson Allen has picked up his offensive output of late and with the home court where Duke is 9-4 ATS while the Heels are 6-9 ATS on the road. Take DUKE!

Iowa State at Oklahoma 9:00 ET

Sooners (-) over Cyclones- Anyone that has paid any kind of attention to college basketball this season is well aware of the Sooners swoon as they started the season 12-1 and have now lost seven of eight and 10 of 13. Oklahoma is just 3-13 ATS in their last 16 contests as a good part of their failing has coincided with Trae Young's shooting slump but to tell the true the rest of the squad just isn't all that good. Iowa State is actually the worst of the Big-12 especially on the road where they are 0-9 straight-up and 4-9 ATS overall. The Cyclones are 21-8-1 ATS in the last 30 meetings but have been decimated by injuries this year. Take OKLAHOMA!

Charlotte at Philadelphia 7:00 ET

Hornets (+) over 76ers- The question to me here is 'Can Philadelphia get emotionally ready' after coming off a national TV win over Cleveland last night which ended an 11-game losing streak to the Cavaliers. The 76ers have won eight of their last 10 but are just 2-4 ATS in their last six. Charlotte was hammer by Boston 134-106 last time out after winning their previous five. The Hornets are coming of a terrible loss and will be in bounce-back mode tonight. Take CHARLOTTE!

Philadelphia at Cleveland 8:00 ET

76ers (+) over Cavaliers- The most improved club on the floor this season is the 76ers as their youth movement led by Joel Embiid and Ben Simmons. But, Philadelphia who is most likely headed to the playoffs have dropped their last two while Cleveland has turned things around since their blockbuster trade and have won seven of their past nine games. Stat wise there are huge conflicts as these two met for years with the 76ers still the doormat of the NBA. The Cavaliers have won 11 straight against the Sixers and 14 of the last 15 and are 16-7 ATS in the last 23 meetings. Cleveland's issue is that they are 4-22 ATS in their last 26 home games against sub .500 opponents. Take PHILADELPHIA!

Virginia at Louisville 8:00 ET

Cardinals (+) over Cavaliers- Virginia has already locked up the ACC regular season title and the No. 1 seed in the ACC Tournament next week. Louisville on the other hand has had a season of turmoil between losing coach Rick Pitino and other off the court issues. The Cardinals are on the 'bubble' and this should give them enough incentive against a team that has already clinched. Although Virginia hasn't lost a road game since February 2017 a loss to North Carolina. Louisville has shuffled their lineup in recent games and are scrambling for each win. They need the wins and have a chance here. Take LOUISVILLE!

Oklahoma City at Dallas 8:30 ET

Mavericks (+) over Thunder- Well, the crybabies are screaming louder then thunder as Oklahoma City's 'Big-3' Westbrook, Anthony and George are complaining about the lack of whistles going their way. With the least amount of passes to teammates for assists in the NBA the Thunder should try and move the ball to players in better position and stop their bitching. Dallas is who we knew they would be but this talk of tanking has all eyes upon the team from Texas. The Mavericks have won 2-of-3 meetings this season and are 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings. Take DALLAS!

Temple at Connecticut 7:00 ET

Huskies (+) over Owls- Does coach really matter or is it just recruiting? Well, for Connecticut since the departure of former coach Jim Calhoun the Huskies have become an also-ran under Kevin Ollie who was national Champion for the Huskies while playing for Calhoun. Temple demolished UConn earlier this season 85-57 and is 7-1 ATS in their last eight games overall while under Ollie the Huskies are just 7-21 ATS in their last 28 home games. So, with these lopsided stats why are the Owls less then a long range field goal favorite. Take CONNECTICUT!

Oklahoma at Baylor 9:00 ET

Sooners (+) over Bears- It looks like the Sooners swoon losers of six straight and 0-8 ATS has ended with their impressive 86-77 win over Kansas State. The fact that Oklahoma's last win before their slide was against these same Bears 98-96 as Trae Young scored 44 points and the winner of the first meeting has swept the series five of the past six years. Oklahoma has struggled on the road going 0-8 ATS while the Bears are 6-2 ATS in their last eight contest but the over-riding factor is that the Sooners are 25-12-2 ATS in the last 39 meetings. That is a large sample and I'll trust it. Take OKLAHOMA!

Philadelphia at Miami 7:30 ET

Heat (+) over 76ers- The final two clubs in playoff position in the East face off in Miami as the 8th seed Heat host the 7th seed 76ers. Miami broke out of a nine-game slump where they went 1-8 straight with a huge 115-89 win over hapless Memphis on Saturday. Philadelphia on the flip side lost Sunday to Washington Sunday after having won seven in-a-row and will play seven of their next eight on the road. The Sixers have lost their last two trips to Miami by an average 25 points and fall short once again. Take MIAMI!

Oklahoma State at Iowa State 7:00 ET

Cyclones (+) over Cowboys- Man this is scary, I mean I know how bad Iowa State really is compared to the rest of the Big-12 and how badly the Cowboys need this game. Oklahoma State is on the bring of playing themselves out of the NCAA tournament with losses in three of their last four games. Iowa State has seen their year go down with injuries as they are missing three starters and are seeing freshman get more playing time. The Cowboys have a 64-63 series edge but the Cyclones have won 10 of the last 11 meetings including six straight in Ames. Somehow...it's IOWA STATE!

Houston at Utah 9:00 ET

Jazz (+) over Rockets- Yes, I do understand that the Rockets have blasted-off and have won 12-in-a-row and 20 of their last 22. Utah on the other hand is 0-4 ATS in their last four home games (something that is very rare) but tonight they are up against the NBA's highest scoring team and they have held 10 of its last 13 opponents under 100 points. Defense is the key for the Jazz and they will put it on display tonight. Take UTAH!

Duke at Virginia Tech 7:00 ET

Hokies (+) over Blue Devils- No. 5 Duke is making a late season move as they have won their last five including four contests where freshman sensation Marvin Bagley III was sidelined with a knee sprain. The Blue Devils have dominated this series defeating Virginia Tech 74-52 two weeks ago and hold a 46-9 series advantage. The Hokies got caught looking ahead to this encounter Saturday's as they fell to Louisville but have won four of their last six. As a matter of fact Tech is 7-3 ATS in their last 10 ACC games and will get the cash tonight. Take VIRGINIA TECH!

Houston at Denver 8:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Rockets- Houston who is fighting tooth and nail with Golden State for the top spot in the West have won 11 straight and 18 of 20 going 14-6 ATS in that span. Denver is also a team that is streaking but not to the extent of the Rockets as they have won 10 of 13 and are 7-1 in February going 7-2 ATS in their last nine. Houston has built a strong record against a number of 'soft' teams but now they must play 12 of the next 13 games against teams with winning records. Denver has enough to surprise here. Take the NUGGETS!

Penn State at Nebraska 5:15 ET

Nittany Lions (+) over Cornhuskers- Nebraska perennially are one of the 'bubble' team that ends up in the NIT or some other minor tournament. The Cornhuskers have had a great year ATS going 21-7 and are 15-1 straight-up at home including 10-1 ATS in their last 11 home games. So, my question is why is this home team such a small favorite? Probably because Penn State has come up 'big' a number of times this season and they have better balance then Nebraska. The Lions are 7-2 ATS in their last nine in the Big Ten and get the money here. Take PENN STATE!

Auburn at Florida 8:30 ET

Tigers (+) over Gators- I know it was only a point or so but I can't see how or why Florida would be favored in this game. They in my mind just don't have the horses and usually as I have said before the come up short in big games more often then not. Not only are the Gators 1-6-1 ATS in their last eight games against the SEC they are only 3-9-1 ATS in their last 13 home games. Auburn meanwhile I son a mission and led by coach Bruce Pearl they are 12-3 ATS in their last 15 SEDC games, they are 19-7 ATS in their last 26 games overall and they are 10-4 ATS on the road. This time I'll back the trends. Take AUBURN!

Boston at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Celtics- Boston has won 2-of-3 meetings against New York already this season with the last win three weeks ago when they posted their largest margin of victory 103-73 this season. One thing about professionals is that they respond when embarrassed or humiliated. New York who is without their All-Star Porzingis broke an eight-game losing streak with a 120-113 win at Orlando last time out. The Celtics are in the second of back-to backs as they won at Detroit last night. This time out take NEW YORK!

Ohio State at Indiana 8:00 ET

Hoosiers (+) over Buckeyes- Ohio State at times looked like the best in the Big Ten and then there are times they look like a different animal. The Buckeyes won the first meeting 71-56 as hosts but have had different results when the take to the road as they try to sweep the series for the first time since 2011. Indiana had won four straight before their loss to Nebraska Tuesday but have won four of the last five meetings at home. State has lost their last two road games by a combined 35 points. Take INDIANA!

Charlotte at Washington 7:05 ET

Hornets (+) over Wizards- Washington did what they were supposed to do last night and took down the Cavaliers (Megabucks winner) 110-103 and have now won eight of their last 10 playing without All-Star John Wall. The Wizards are 17-10 straight-up at home but a lowly 10-17 ATS and they are 4-0 ATS home games against the Hornets. Charlotte has already defeated Washington twice this season and will pick up their third win tonight. Take the HORNETS!

Arizona State at Oregon 11:00 ET

Sun Devils (+) over Ducks- At one time this season Arizona State was 12-0 and ranked No. 4 but have managed to split their last 14 games and are just 3-10-2 ATS in their last 10 Pac-12 games. Oregon is off two losses to USC and UCLA in Los Angeles last weekend and are in danger of dropping three straight for the first time in over four-years. The Ducks are 123-16 straight-up at home but the road team is 12-3-1 ATS between these two with Oregon posting a win in Tempe 76-72 in mid-January. In revenge mode the Devils fork the Ducks. Take ARIZONA STATE!

Washington at Cleveland 8:00 ET

Wizards (+) over Cavaliers- What a move! The Cavaliers got younger, faster, quicker and found some players willing to attempt some defense. Cleveland has won four straight since the 'trade' and have won five of the last six meetings with the Wizards including two wins this season straight-up but are just 2-5 ATS as hosts. King James off the All-star MVP is averaging 30 points, 9.5 rebounds and 13 assists in the Cavs last four while the Wizards have won seven of nine without John Wall and can do it here. Take WASHINGTON!

North Carolina at Syracuse 7:00 ET

Orange (+) over Tar Heels- For those of you that think there is a huge advantage for Syracuse playing in the Carrier Dome think again, the Orange are just 4-9 ATS as hosts in their last 13. North Carolina is one of the strongest rebounding teams in the nation and ranks 2nd in offensive rebounding and lead the nation in rebounding margin at 11.7. The Orange will have to rely on their 10th rated scoring defense as they allow just 63.4 points at home and with the Tar Heels missing big men Isaiah Hicks and Kennedy Meeks they will take advantage. Take SYRACUSE!

Miami-FL at Notre Dame 7:00 ET

Hurricanes (+) over Fighting Irish- So what has happened to both these clubs...injuries is what happened. The Hurricanes come blowing into South Bend on the wrong end of three straight while the Fighting Irish have won 3-of-4 including their last two at home. The return of guard Matt Farrell has sparked the Irish as his career high of 37-points led them to a road victory over Boston College while Miami was falling at home against Syracuse. While one guard returned the Canes lost their star guard Bruce Brown Jr. to foot surgery and are 3-3 since his departure. With excellent coaching behind them Miami rebounds here. Take the HURRICANES!

Nebraska at Illinois 3:30 ET

Illini (+) over Cornhuskers- Right now Nebraska even with 20 wins is on the NCAA Tournament 'Bubble' and a win on the road over even a mediocre team like the Illini would go a long way in the selection committees eyes. Illinois has had so much turmoil the past few seasons from a players revolt and coaches being fired for discipline reasons. The Cornhuskers are 20-6 ATS on the season including an impressive 9-4 ATS on the road while Illinois is just 5-7 ATS in their last 12 games overall and 2-6 ATS in their last eight in conference play. These two played to a 64-63 final already this season with the host 'Huskers' winning in a non-cover. This time the Illini even the score. Take ILLINOIS!

Rhode Island at St. Bonaventure 7:00 ET

Bonnies (+) over Rams- I was given word on how good Rhode Island is and I didn't think much of it but kept my eye on the Atlantic-10 leader. The Rams have now won 16 in-a-row and take to the road where they are 10-3-1 ATS to face the Bonnies who are 10-1 straight-up at home. URI has won three straight against St. Bonnies and five of six but are just 4-9 ATS in the last 13 meetings. The Rams lost their top senior guard E.C. Mathews to injury last time out while the Bonnies backcourt star Jaylen Adams averaging 3.5 points and 6.2 assists in his last four games and will take advantage. Take ST. BONAVENTURE!

Denver at Milwaukee 8:00 ET

Nuggets (+) over Bucks- As many of the NBA clubs are starting to fatigue and breakdown these two clubs are making positive strides toward the playoffs. Both clubs have won their last two contests and Denver has won five of their last six while the Bucks are 9-2 since the departure of Jason Kidd as coach. Despite their fine play of late Milwaukee is banged-up and have a score of walking wounded so to speak. This of course will aid the Nuggets who are 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings including 5-2 ATS in Milwaukee. Take DENVER!

Ohio State at Penn State 8:00 ET

Nittany Lions over Buckeyes- Ohio State leads the Big-Ten and have won four straight with their last loss coming at the hands of Penn State 82-79 while the Lions have won five of their last six. The Buckeyes have won the last two meetings at Penn State and are looking to avenge that loss nearly three weeks ago but will now have to contend with Penn State's Josh Reaves as his return after an academic suspension (who else but the Ivy league and Penn State does that) and the Lions are 5-1 since. Take PENN STATE!

Seton Hall at Xavier 9:00 ET

Pirates (+) over Musketeers- Seton Hall has hit a tough patch as they have lost their last three and five of their last seven overall. Xavier meanwhile, is cruising along wining their last eight and has taken over the top spot in the Big East over Villanova. In this year's first meetings the Pirates had a 10-point lead before a 21-7 run by Xavier turned the tide and the result as they won 73-64. The X-men are ranked No. 2 and have are 25-9 ATS in their last 34 games overall. With the return of Angels Delgado has helped the Pirates and will the fact the Musketeers have Villanova up next. Take SETON HALL!

L.A. Clippers at Boston 8:05 ET

Clippers (+) over Celtics- At 40-18 most don't see how much the Celtics are struggling as they have now lost their last two and have dropped eight of their last 14 and are 3-5 in their last eight home games. Los Angeles is 12-5 straight-up in their last 17 and are 4-2 since the trading of Blake Griffin and are 2-1 on their current seven-game road trip and are 18-8 in their last 26 overall. One issue with the Celtics slump is the play of their younger rookies who's production have fallen. Doc Rivers is returning to Boston once again and gets the ring. Take LOS ANGELES!

Houston at Minnesota 8:00 ET

Timberwolves (+) over Rockets- two impressive NBA win streaks are on the line tonight as the Timberwolves who have won 13 straight at home and have the leagues best home record at 23-6 while Houston has won their last eight overall. Rockets took the season's first meetings at home defeating the Wolves 116-98 and tis is the first of back-to back meetings. Minnesota is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings and is now an underdog at home. This time around the T'wolves get it done. Take MINNESOTA!

Maryland at Nebraska 7:00 ET

Terrapins (+) over Cornhuskers- I tried to stay away from this one but in the end obviously I could not. Here is Nebraska the hottest team in the Big Ten with five straight wins 7-of-8 and with a 12-1 ATS in their last 13 against the Big Ten and they are barley favored at home. The Cornhuskers are 4-games better in conference standings then Maryland and is 13-1 straight-up at home while the Terrapins are just 1-7 straight-up on the road. This whole thing just doesn't make sense. I'll go with the 'Wise Guys' here. Take MARYLAND!

Baylor at Texas 9:00 ET

Bears (+) over Longhorns- These are a pair of 15-10 clubs that are headed in opposite direction as Baylor has won their last three including wins over West Virginia and Kansas. Meanwhile, the Shaka Smart era in Texas has yet to see the results the Longhorns alumni expects. They have lost their last two and their last five against Baylor. The Horns are young with their top player a freshman in Monhamed Bamba who leads the Big-12 in blocked shots with 4.1 per contest (that's quite good). The Bears bench is much deeper as they have outscored opponents 121-37 over the past four games. Take BAYLOR!

New Orleans at Detroit 7:00 ET

Pelicans (+) over Pistons- Two big player moves have affected both these clubs but one was voluntary and the other just circumstance. Detroit of course acquired Blake Griffin and after a quick start the Pistons have lost their last two, the Pelicans meanwhile, lost what was a dynamic big man combination when DeMarcus Cousins when down for the season leaving Anthony Davis on an island once again. Now, with Griffin teamed up with Andre Drummond it is the Pistons that are working on all 8-cylinders. New Orleans is 4-1 ATS in their last five trips to the Motor City and won 112-109 on Jan. 8 with Davis scoring 30-points in three quarters. Once again...NEW ORLEANS!

Toronto at Charlotte 1:00 ET

Hornets (+) over Raptors- There is no question in my mind that the Raptors are a threat in the East, especially with the turmoil going on in Cleveland and the injury concerns in Boston. Toronto just completed a four-game home win steak averaging a 21.3 point winning margin. They also have two wins over the Hornets this season including a 129-111 win at Charlotte. The Hornets have dropped their last three all on the road and now return home where they are 15-14 straight-up. Sometimes, these number have a small impact on the games result but the Raptors are just 10-23 ATS in the last 33 meetings and just 4-9 ATS in their last 13 at Charlotte. Take the HORNETS!

Michigan at Wisconsin 1:00 ET

Badgers (+) over Wolverines- How the tide has changed in the Big Ten as the once powerful Badgers have fallen by the wayside and don't look as though they have any post season possibilities, unless of course they run the table the rest of the way. No. 20 Michigan is off their worst performance of the year scoring just 20 points in the second half against Northwestern on Tuesday. Most of the time 'we' look for a good club to bounce-back after a loss like that but the Wolverines haven't won a game out of the state of Michigan and have lost 13 of their last 14 meetings in Madison. The underdog is 14-3 ATS in the last 17 meetings. Take WISCONSIN!

New Orleans at Brooklyn 6:00 ET

Nets (+) over Pelicans- Brooklyn who has lost nine of their last 10 straight-up have 'covered' their last two losing to Detroit and Houston. Many of the NBA clubs look different after the trading deadline but New Orleans looks different because of the devastating loss of DeMarcus Cousins as the Pelicans have dropped their last three and five of six since his injury. The out-look for the Pelicans is so bad they had a home game postponed because of a leaky roof and they responded by getting blowout at Philadelphia. Not enough 'fight' to overcome these adversities. Take BROOKLYN!

Auburn at Georgia 3:30 ET

Bulldogs (+) over Tigers- I hope that I am not over-reacting but I felt like it was prom night when I saw this matchup. After five straight wins and eight of their last nine the Tigers were upended 81-80 by Texas A&M while Georgia just dropped a pair of road games at Vandy and Miss St with one win in their last home game against Florida as they are 1-5 last six and 2-7 last nine. I call this my bam-bam as Auburn has not lost two straight yet this season...till today. Take GEORGIA!

L.A. Clippers at Detroit 7:00 ET

Clippers (+) over Clippers- Well, it didn't take long, the first major trade that started it all has the Clippers visiting Detroit. These two made a block-buster trade with the Clippers sending Blake Griffin to the Pistons who have won five straight since his arrival. Los Angeles has regrouped and won their last two and four of five since the trade and are looking to avenge a loss to the Pistons back in October. Take the CLIPPERS!

Oklahoma City at L.A. Lakers 10:30 ET

Lakers (+) over Thunder- What is going on here? Vegas has got to be kidding with this 'line' as the Thunder are just a long range field goal favorite against a Lakers team that is 9-games under .500. Okay, I will admit Los Angeles has won their last three but this 'price' looks way out of whack. Oklahoma City is off a a huge 125-105 win over Golden State Tuesday and now returns to the site of their 133-96 victory in LA back on January 3. Los Angeles is finding their way without their No. 1 draft pick Lonzo Ball going 11-4 since that Thunder loss. This time it's the LAKERS!

Duke at North Carolina 8:00 ET

Tar Heels (+) over Blue Devils- A bit of the glitter that surrounds these two programs has fallen to the wayside as these ACC powers have struggled at time. Between these two they have accumulated 11 losses with just Duke maintaining a ranking in the Top-10 at No. 8. The Blue Devils look to rebound from a loss at St. John's Saturday and have lost two of their last three while North Carolina ended a 3-game losing streak with a win over helpless Pittsburgh. The Tar Heels are 10-2 straight-up and 8-3 ATS at home (All as favorites) and are 35-15-2 ATS in their last 52 home games. As a small underdog here the Heels get it done. Take NORTH CAROLINA!

Houston at Miami 7:30 ET

Heat (+) over Rockets- Although the Miami Heat are 4-games over .500 they have been one of the more inconsistent clubs in the NBA this season most likely because of the up-and-down physical issues that Hassan Whiteside carries with him. Currently they are in the mist of a four-game losing streak and they have lost five times to last place teams. Houston has won their last five including a win last night on Brooklyn but have struggled against the Heat going 1-4 ATS in the last five meetings. Take MIAMI!

Virginia at Florida State 7:00 ET

Seminoles (+) over Cavaliers- Like so many other cubs that look to build early season wins Florida State started the season 11-1 and found themselves ranked in the Top-25. Well, since ACC play has started the Seminoles have gone 6-5 but they do come off an 80-76 win at Louisville. Virginia on the other hand along with Villanova is among the NCAA's best and has won 14-in-a-row. The Cavaliers have done it with defense.allowing Syracuse just 44 points at the Carriers Dome Saturday. FSU who is 10-1 straight-up at home holds a 24-23 series edge and the underdog is 9-4 in the last 13 meetings. Take the SEMINOLES!

Milwaukee at New York 7:30 ET

Knicks (+) over Bucks- The Knicks started the season with such promise as they was talk of playoffs with young Kristaps Porzingis leading the way. But, as the year progressed New York regressed to a season low eight-games under .500. Milwaukee on the other hand has won six of seven games since firing head coach Jason Kidd. Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo was removed from Sunday's win at Brooklyn in the fourth quarter and his effectiveness can be questioned. The Knicks got the money Friday at Milwaukee in their 2-point loss as they are 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings. Take the KNICKS!  

Michigan at Northwestern 7:00 ET

Wildcats (+) over Wolverines- At 19-6 and ranked #20 Michigan is looking for their second win over Northwestern in the past eight days and their 11th win in the last 13 meetings. The Wolverines have been playing 'hot' going 10-4-1 ATS in their last 15 games overall but are just 2-4 straight-up in their last six games at Northwestern. The Wildcats are 10-3 straight-up at home while the Wolverines are just 3-4 in true road games. Michigan is shooting just 56 percent from the free throw line over their last six games and that could be the difference. Take NORTHWESTERN! 

West Virginia at Oklahoma 9:00 ET

Mountaineers (+) over Sooners- The last time these two met in Morgantown the first week of January the Mountaineers went off 7-point favorites and beat an undefeated Oklahoma 89-76. Since that encounter both clubs have had patchy results with West Virginia dropping five of their last seven while Oklahoma has lost four of its last six games. Sooners guard Trey Young has fallen off his early season pace and the rest of the team is battling the flu. Illness has also weakened West Virginia as coach Huggins avoided his famous full court press because of player fatigue. At full strength the Mountaineers do it to Texas again. Take WEST VIRGINIA!

Portland at Detroit 7:00 ET

Trailblazers (+) over Pistons- The Blake Griffin era is off to a blazing start as the Pistons have won three straight since the trade that brought the All-star to the Motor City. It was New Orleans that had the two most formidable big men in Anthony and Cousins before the injury but now the double powerhouse is in Detroit with Andre Drummond and Griffin. But, when 'big men' are on the court there is often spacing issues. Portland is off a heart breaking loss at Boston after leading 54-38 at halftime as the Blazers have now lost their last two. With this 'number' where it is I expect the Trailblazers to shock the Pistons. Take PORTLAND!

Philadelphia vs. New England 6:30 ET

Patriots (-) over Eagles- 'Wait as long as you can!' This 'number' should do one thing and one thing only and that is drop. Well, there is always the possibility that late heavy 'Wise guy or sharps' money will make a difference but I doubt it. Now, about the game itself...Is it defense or quarterbacks? When push comes to shove in this matchup I have to believe that experience counts and although Nick Foles has had a great playoff run with posting a passer rating of at least 100 in his first three playoff games but things will be different for him Sunday. Tom Brady should be the difference as the Eagles defense is better at home (17.3) then on the road (23.5) and the surroundings can be draining. Take NEW ENGLAND!

Wisconsin at Maryland 1:10 ET

Badgers (+) over Terrapins- My goodness, a pair of once proud programs are in the dumpster as perennial Big Ten challenger Wisconsin has been absolutely terrible going 1-7 ATS in their last eight games and Maryland really hasn't been all that better. The Terrapins have lost their last three but have played better at home where they are 12-2 straight-up and 8-2-1 ATS and the home team has won seven of the last nine ATS. Still, the Terps aren't good enough to lay this kind of number. Take WISCONSIN!