40* LOUISVILLE/N CAROLINA NCAAB STEAMROLLER (North Carolina -5.5) 

I was ready to lay the short number at home with Louisville on Wednesday against Syracuse, but that game got postponed because of more Covid problems for the Cardinals. It's unclear who will be available for Louisville in this one and I just feel the value is with the Tar Heels at home. 

North Carolina has been playing much better after a sluggish start to the year. Tar Heels are 8-3 since starting out 5-4. They are also a perfect 7-0 on their home floor this season. Louisville is just 3-3 on the road and are scoring just 64.5 ppg away from home. UNC averages 78.1 ppg at home. I don't see the Cardinals keeping up in this one. Give me UNC -5.5! 

40* PURDUE/NEBRASKA NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (Nebraska +7) 

I'm willing to take a shot here with Nebraska as a 7-point home dog against Purdue. The Cornhuskers are just 1-11 in Big Ten play and are easily considered the worst team in the league. Thing is they have been playing much better here of late. Nebraska is 3-1 ATS in their last 4 games and the one game they didn't cover as a 10-point dog at Maryland they should have, as they completely fell apart in the final minutes of that game allowing the Terps to go on a late 13-2 run. 

Thing is, Nebraska is considered to be such a bad team that even though their recent play suggests this is a team to back, the betting public just can't do it. I not only think they can cover the big number against the Boilermakers, I wouldn't be surprised at all if they won this game outright. Give me the Cornhuskers +7! 

40* AUBURN/LSU NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (LSU -4) 

I will gladly lay the 4-points at home with LSU as they host Auburn. The Tigers have won 2 straight since dropping 4 of 5 and are fresh off a huge 78-65 home win over Tennessee. The good thing is that big upset win came last Saturday, so there's no concern here with a letdown. 

While LSU is surging, Auburn has really fallen off of late. The Tigers are just 1-4 in their last 5 games and have played just 1 game in the last 10 days. Not to mention the only win during this poor run is a mere 6-point win over bottom-feeder Vanderbilt. Auburn is 2-10 ATS last 12 on the road after a game where they failed to cover and 1-9 ATS last 10 on the road after an upset loss as a road favorite. Give me LSU -4!

40* MISSOURI/S CAROLINA NCAAB SHARP STAKE (South Carolina +3.5) 

I'll take a shot here with South Carolina as a home dog against the Tigers. This line screams take the Gamecocks. Everyone is going to be on a ranked Missouri team here against a South Carolina team that has lost 4 straight, including each of their last 3 at home. 

Thing is the Tigers aren't exactly in prime form right now. Missouri has dropped their last 3 games and are just 2-5 ATS in their last 7. It's a great spot here to back the Gamecocks off that ugly 20-point loss to Tennessee (73-93) on Wednesday. South Carolina is 11-2 ATS last 13 off a conference loss by 10 or more and 6-0 ATS last 6 after giving up 90 or more in their last game. Give me the Gamecocks +3.5! 

50* NOTRE DAME/SYRACUSE NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Syracuse -2.5) 

I love the Orange as a slim 2.5-point home favorite against Notre Dame today. Syracuse is just one of those teams you want to back at home and look to fade on the road. The Orange are 10-1 at the Carrier Dome, compared to 2-5 on the road. I also like that we have a very fresh and motivated Syracuse team in this one, as they haven't played in a week after Wednesday's game against Louisville was postponed. 

Also, I feel the value here is stemming from the fact that the Irish enter this game having won 2 straight and 6 of 8 overall. I just feel their recent run is more a result of the schedule being easy than it is this team is any good. Give me Syracuse -2.5! 

40* RUTGERS/MICHIGAN NCAAB ATS NO-BRAINER (Rutgers +9)

I'm willing to take a shot here with the Scarlet Knights at +9 on the road against Michigan. I think we saw the books discount the Wolverines a little bit in their last game against Wisconsin, which was their first game back after more than 3 weeks off. While it took a huge 2nd half comeback, the betting public is only concerned about the final result, which ended in a 67-59 win. 

I think it has them a bit overvalued here at home now against Rutgers, one of the hottest teams in the league. Scarlet Knights are 5-1 in their last 6 games. They also desperately need this game to really help out their NCAA Tournament resume. 

As for Michigan, they are sitting pretty right now. I think coming off that big comeback win over Wisconsin and a massive game on deck against No. 4 Ohio State, who also is their biggest rival, makes this a perfect play against spot. Give me Rutgers +9! 

50* UTAH/OREGON ST NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Oregon State +2.5) 

I love the value here with Oregon State as a home dog against the Utes. This is a perfect buy low spot on the Beavers, who come in having lost 3 straight. Thing is, those 3 losses all came on the road. The first two were against two of the best teams in the Pac-12 in Colorado and Arizona. The other was a mere 2-point loss at Arizona State on just 2 days of rest. 

Prior to this stretch the Beavers had won 5 of 7 and the only 2 losses during this stretch were road games at USC and UCLA. Oregon State has won 7 of their last 9 at home and I just don't think they should be a dog here. Utah has won 3 of 4, but just lost at Stanford 66-73. This will also be the Utes 3rd straight road game and 6th out of their last 7 away from home. 

Utah is also dealing with some key injuries right now. The Utes recently lost big man Mikael Jantunen and one of their top guards, Rylan Jones, is questionable with a arm injury that has kept him out of their last two games. Give me Oregon State +2.5! 

40* OHIO ST/PENN ST NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Penn State +4.5) 

I will take my chances with the Nittany Lions as a 4.5-point home dog against the Buckeyes. I just feel like this is a great spot to back Penn State, who is way undervalued after just losing at home to Nebraska as a double-digit favorite in their last game.

The Nittany Lions had won their 4 previous home games before that shocking loss and it's almost like they took the Cornhuskers lightly. They won't take No. 4 ranked Ohio State lightly. A team they know they can hang with, as they only lost by 4 on the road to the Buckeyes earlier this season. 

Another huge factor here is the spot for Ohio State. This could be a really tough game for them to bring their "A" game. Buckeyes come in having won 6 straight and just crushed Indiana by 19 in their last game. Easy for them to not give their full attention to a struggling Penn State team with a massive game on deck Sunday at home against Michigan. Give me the Nittany Lions +4.5! 

40* MINNESOTA/INDIANA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Indiana -4.5)

I'm going to take the Indiana Hoosiers -4.5 at home against the Minnesota Golden Gophers. This is just too good a price for me to pass up with Indiana. To say the Gophers have been awful on the road this year would be putting it nicely. Minnesota has played 7 road games and lost all 7. Everyone of those coming in Big Ten play. 

It's not just the inability for the Gophers to win on the road, they struggle to simply keep games close. Of those 7 road losses, 6 have come by double-digits. A big reason for that is their offense can't score. Minnesota averages a respectable 75 ppg on the season, but only 63.6 ppg on the road. 

Gophers are also the worst 3-point shooting team in the Big Ten, which plays right into the strength of this Indiana defense. The one thing that Minnesota's offense does well is rack up offensive rebounds. They are No. 2 in the Big Ten in that department. That figures to be negated some here, as Indiana is 4th best in the Big Ten at keeping opponents off the offensive glass. 

It's not just the offense that goes missing for the Gophers away from home. They are giving up a staggering 80.0 ppg on the road. Not to mention only Iowa and Northwestern have a worse defensive efficiency in the Big Ten. Look for the Hoosiers to get a lot of easy looks and rack up a big edge at the free throw line. Indiana is No. 1 in the Big Ten in free throw rate and Minnesota is No. 12 in the conference in terms of sending opponents to the free throw line. I just don't think 4.5 is enough, as I would make this closer to 6-7 point spread. Give me the Hoosiers -4.5! 

40* NEBRASKA/MARYLAND NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Maryland -10) 

I will take another shot at fading the Cornhuskers on the road. I played on Penn State -11 at home against Nebraska on Sunday and was shocked to see the Cornhuskers not only cover but win the game 62-61. That's not going to keep me from taking Maryland here. 

Clearly getting that elusive win in Big Ten play was a big deal for Nebraska. They were winless at 0-9 in conference games going into that contest and had lost 26 conference games in a row dating back to last year. They also snapped a 24-game road losing streak. 

The fact that they got that win only makes me like the Terps more, as I see Nebraska having a big letdown in this game. Not only is this game less of a big deal since they got that elusive win, but it's also their 3rd game since playing an OT game against Illinois on Friday and their 4th game in the last week. Not to mention their second straight on the road with just 1 day of rest. Give me Maryland -10!  

50* MISSOURI/GEORGIA NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Over 153.5) 

I love the OVER 153.5 in Tuesday's SEC showdown between Georgia and Missouri. The Bulldogs are exactly the kind of team you want to take an OVER with. Georgia is potent offensively and like to play at a face pace. The Bulldogs rank 5th in the SEC in tempo and are scoring 76.4 ppg in SEC play (79.6 ppg last 5 games). They also play little to no defense, giving up 84.8 ppg in conference play this season. 

Missouri like to play at a little slower tempo, but given how easy it figures to be on the offensive end for them, I look for them to speed it up a little tonight. In the Tigers last 12 games they have faced two teams who rank outside the Top 90 at KenPom in defensive efficiency. In those games they scored 88 against Auburn (No. 93) and 102 against TCU (No. 148). Georgia ranks 140th. 

It's also worth noting that Missouri will be without big man Jeremiah Tilmon, who is their best defensive presence inside. He missed their last game against Arkansas and the Tigers gave up 86 in a game that saw a combined score of 167. Give me the OVER 153.5! 

40* VIRGINIA/FLORIDA ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Florida State -1) 

I'm confident we will cash a winner here with Florida State at basically a pick'em at home against Virginia. I wasn't surprised to see the Seminoles struggle a bit with Wake Forest on Saturday, as that was their first game in almost 2 weeks. The important thing is they found a way to win in OT and now will be 100% locked in for this game against the Cavaliers. 

Considering the fact that Florida State has won 23 straight conference home games, that's really enough for me to back the Seminoles at this price at home. I know Virginia is 5-1 in ACC road games, but those 5 wins have come against Notre Dame, BC, Clemson, NC State and Georgia Tech. All of those teams rank outside the Top 45 at KenPom, where FSU is ranked 20th. 

Seminoles have also gone 8-1 ATS last 9 at home against great defensive teams like Virginia, who are allowing 64 or fewer points/game. They are also 11-3 ATS last 14 at home vs a ACC opponent. Virginia is 3-11 ATS last 14 off a win by 10 or more and 1-8 ATS last 9 after allowing 55 or less. Give me Florida State -1! 

40* NEBRASKA/PENN ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Penn State -11) 

I will lay the 11-points with Penn State at home against Nebraska. I know the Cornhuskers are searching for that elusive Big Ten win, but this is a team that has simply not been competitive on the road in conference play. Nebraska is 0-4 in away games in the Big Ten, losing by 14 at Wisconsin, 36 at Ohio State, 10 at Michigan State and by 18 at Minnesota. They also lost by 24 at Creighton in their only non-conference away game. 

I just think the Cornhuskers are getting a little love after taking Illinois to OT at home in their last game. I actually think they it will be harder for them coming so close to beating a team like the Fighting Illini and coming up short. As for Penn State, they should be motivated here off a loss at Michigan State. Penn State has won 4 straight at home in Big Ten play and have to have this one. Give me the Nittany Lions -11!

50* UTAH/STANFORD PAC-12 GAME OF THE MONTH (Stanford -4.5) 

I backed Stanford as a slim home dog against Colorado on Thursday and it didn't go well with the Cardinal losing 51-69. It was just a bad game from the start for Stanford, who fell behind 10-0 to start the game and gave up 3 different 10-0 runs in the game. You got no chance of beating a team like the Buffaloes doing that. 

I just feel that performance has the Cardinal showing some really good value here as a slim 4.5-point home favorite against Utah. The Utes have won 3 straight, but are not a team to be trusted on the road. Utah is a mere 5-14 ATS on the road over the last 2 seasons, where they are losing by an average of 10 ppg. Stanford is 14-5 ATS last 19 as a home favorite or pick, 22-9 ATS last 31 at home after failing to cover 4 of their last 5 and 14-5 ATS last 19 at home off a home game. Give me the Cardinal -4.5! 

40* OLE MISS/S CAROLINA VEGAS INSIDER (Ole Miss -1.5) 

I will gladly back the red-hot Rebels as a slim 1.5-point road favorite against South Carolina. Ole Miss comes in off about as impressive 3-game stretch as you will find in SEC play. The Rebels knocked off Tennessee at home, beat Auburn on the road and then absolutely destroyed Missouri 80-59 at home in their last game. 

South Carolina on the other hand has lost 6 of their last 8 games, including the last two at home. They lost by 16 at home to a very mediocre Mississippi State team last Saturday and then lost 78-81 at home to the top SEC team in Alabama. I just think they put everything they had into that game against the Crimson Tide and to lose they way they did, I just think it's going to be really hard for them to bounce back with the kind of effort needed to take out Ole Miss. Give me the Rebels -1.5! 

40* DUKE/NC STATE NCAAB ATS NO-BRAINER (Duke -3) 

I'm willing to take a shot here with Duke as a mere 3-point road favorite against NC State. I just feel like now is the time to buy low on the Blue Devils, who come in having lost 3 straight with the last two coming as home favorites against UNC and Notre Dame. 

It just feels like it's now or never for Duke to flip the switch and get this thing turned around. I don't know that there's a better team for them to do that against than the Wolfpack. NC State is just 4-7 in ACC play and have lost 7 of their last 9 with their only two wins coming against bottom feeders Wake Forest and Boston College. Give me the Blue Devils -3! 

40* GEORGIA/ALABAMA NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Alabama -13) 

I got no problem laying the 13-points with Alabama at home against the Bulldogs. The Crimson Tide are coming off a game where they failed to cover in a 81-78 win at South Carolina. However, they really should have covered. They led 78-70 with 3:37 to play and managed to score just 3 points the rest of the game. 

On the flip side of things, Georgia is coming off a very fortunate cover on the road against Tennessee. The Bulldogs trailed by 23 with just under 11 minutes to play in the game and wound up only losing by 8. I don't think they are going to be able to keep it close at all against Alabama. The Crimson Tide are just as good, if not better, defensively than the Vols and are way better on the offensive side of the ball. After the sloppy finish against South Carolina, which followed a loos at Missouri, I look for Alabama to really come out with one of their better performances. Give me the Crimson Tide -13! 

40* IOWA/MICHIGAN ST NCAAB ATS ANNIHILATOR (Iowa -4.5) 

I will lay the short number on the road with the Hawkeyes against Michigan State. Iowa snapped out of it's recent funk with a convincing 79-66 home win over Rutgers. The Hawkeyes were in control of that game from the get go and it wasn't a huge surprise to see Iowa get back on track with the return of C.J. Fredrick. When he's on the court this is just a different team. 

I know the Hawkeyes failed to cover as a 9.5-point home favorite against the Spartans earlier this season, winning by just 6. However, they still put up 84 points and won the game despite a really off night from behind the 3-point line. They were just 5 of 17 (29.4%). This is a team that averages 10 made 3-pointers a game and is shooting 39% as a team from deep. 

Not only was Iowa off, Michigan State went 12 of 29 (41.4%) from deep. That's not normal for the Spartans, who only average 7 made 3's per game and are shooting just 33% as a team. I just think Iowa is the much better team and are playing with a sense of urgency after their recent 1-4 stretch. Give me the Hawkeyes -4.5! 

40* TULANE/UCF NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (Tulane +5.5) 

I like the points with Tulane as they hit the road against UCF on Friday. Some might see the fact that the Knights just played a really good game at home against Wichita State (lost 60-61) as a positive, but often times losing a close game like that is a lot harder to bounce back from than if you got your teeth kicked in. 

I just think for a team like UCF, who is 5-10 overall and 3-9 in the AAC, with no shot at making the NCAA Tournament, that only makes it that much harder to bounce back. As for Tulane, they just upset Tulsa 58-48 on the road Wednesday and have really been playing some of their better basketball here of late. This is not only a game they can keep close, but win outright. Give me the Green Wave +5.5! 

40* PURDUE/MINNESOTA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Minnesota -3.5) 

I will gladly take a shot here with Minnesota as a small home favorite against the Boilermakers. Some might be hesitant to back the Gophers given they lost by 19 (62-81) at Purdue roughly two weeks ago. Thing is, Minnesota is just a different team at home than they are on the road. Gophers are 12-1 SU and 10-3 ATS at home compared to 0-6 SU and 1-5 ATS on the road. 

You also have to love how head coach Richard Pitino has got his team to respond when revenging a blowout loss to an opponent. As a head coach, Pitino's teams are 21-9 ATS at home when revenging a loss of 10 or more points. Gophers are also a dominant 20-9 ATS in their last 29 at home against a team with a winning record. Give me Minnesota -3.5! 

40* LSU/MISS STATE NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (LSU +2.5) 

I think we are getting big time value here with LSU as a dog against the Bulldogs. The Tigers had started out 10-2 before going just 1-4 over their last 5 games. It might seem like LSU isn't playing well, but in reality the schedule has been brutal. Two of the 4 losses were to the best team in the SEC in Alabama, they also lost at Kentucky and a heartbreaker at home to Texas Tech in the SEC/Big 12 challenge. 

I look for LSU to get back on track in a big way here against Mississippi State who is just 2-4 in their last 6 games and those 2 wins have come against ISU and South Carolina. Bulldogs figure to have a hard time keeping up offensively with the Tigers in this one, especially given LSU is almost a sure-in to win the turnover battle. Tigers are No.1 in the SEC in offensive TO%, while Mississippi State is No. 13 in defensive TO%. Give me LSU +2.5! 

40* RUTGERS/IOWA NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Iowa -6)

I'm going to take the Iowa Hawkeyes -6 at home against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights. Most are going to want nothing to do with Iowa in this one, as they are just 1-4 SU and 0-5 ATS in their last 5 games. I think it has Iowa showing some decent value here. Note that in 4 of their last 5 home games they have been a favorite of 9.5 or more. Not to mention they already went on the road and beat Rutgers earlier this season. 

It's been a combination of a lot of things that has played into the Hawkeyes recent slump. They aren't shooting the ball quite as well from deep, especially in the 2nd half of games, the defense has been sloppy at times and they just haven't closed games out. In almost all of these losses Iowa has had a big lead and let it slip away. 

I just think with their backs against the wall, we are going to see them deliver in a big way at home against the Scarlet Knights. Rutgers has won 4 straight after losing 5 in a row, but none of those wins have come against a top tier team in the Big Ten.

This is also a Scarlet Knights team that has had a much harder time scoring on the road.They are averaging 72.6 ppg on the season and yet just 65.3 on the road. They also are shooting 46.5% from the field on the season, but only 43.8% on the road. You have to be able to score to keep it close against the Hawkeyes and I just don't think Rutgers will have the fire-power to do that. Give me Iowa -6! 

50* VIRGINIA/GA TECH NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Georgia Tech +4.5) 

I really like the Yellow Jackets here as a home dog against Virginia. Georgia Tech is just 2-3 in their last 5 games, but have been playing better than that record would lead you to believe. They had two games they could have easily won on the road against Virginia and Duke. They ended up losing 62-64 to the Cavaliers, despite leading by double-digits in the 2nd half. 

I will take the points in the rematch, but I'm confident the Yellow Jackets win this game outright. Virginia is 4-1 in true road games, but only one of those road wins was against a team that ranks in the Top 50 at KenPom. The loss was by 14 at Va Tech. Even in their last two wins they haven't been all that impressive, beating NC State by just 7 on the road and Pitt by 7 at home. 

Cavaliers are just 9-19 ATS over the last 2 seasons vs a team with a winning record. Georgia Tech on the other hand is 9-2 ATS last 11 when playing a team that's won more than 80% of their games. Yellow Jackets are also 47-28 ATS last 75 as a home dog of 6 or less and 9-2 ATS in their last 11 after failing to cover 2 of their last 3. Give me Georgia Tech +4.5! 

50* ST. JOHN'S/BUTLER *BIG EAST PLAY OF THE MONTH* (St. John's +1) 

I love the value here with St. John's as a dog against the Bulldogs on Tuesday. The Red Storm are the hottest team in the Big East right now, as they come in having won 6 straight with 4 of those 6 wins coming on the road, including a 92-81 victory at Providence on Saturday. 

Butler is coming off a 68-58 win at home against DePaul, but that's nothing to get excited about given how bad the Blue Demons have been in conference play (1-8). Butler just doesn't do much that gets you excited. Their offense is anemic and the defense isn't a whole lot better. These two already played once and St. Johns won by 12 despite shooting just 45% from the field. No way should the Red Storm be a dog here. Give me St. John's +1! 

40* ALABAMA/S CAROLINA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Alabama -6) 

I got no problem laying 6-points on the road with Alabama. This is a huge bounce back game for the Crimson Tide after suffering their first conference loss of the season in Saturday's 65-68 loss at Missouri. Alabama couldn't have shot any worse (33.3%) and yet they still almost found a way to win on the road against one of the better teams in the SEC. 

I definitely don't think they will have any problem getting their offense back on track against the Gamecocks, who are one of the worst teams in the SEC in almost all of the major defensive categories. You also just have to look at common opponents to see how big an edge the Tide have here. Alabama is 5-1 outscoring common opponents by 12 ppg (84.8 to 72.8). Gamecocks are 1-4 against common opponents and getting outscored by 8.8 ppg (73.4 to 83.2). 

Tide are 8-1 ATS last 2 seasons off a loss by 6 or less and a perfect 7-0 ATS when coming off a loss by 3 or fewer. Give me the Crimson Tide -6! 

40* NOTRE DAME/DUKE NCAAB STEAMROLLER (Over 146.5) 

I like the OVER 146.5 in today's ACC clash between Duke and Notre Dame. Both of these offenses are capable of putting up 80 points in this game. Notre Dame is absolutely on fire right now on the offensive side of the ball. Irish have shot 51% or better from the field in each of their last 3 games and scored at least 79 in all 3. They will be going up against a Duke defense that has allowed each of their last two opponents to shoot 50% or better from the field. 

The Blue Devils have scored 75 or more in 4 straight and are averaging 77.4 ppg at home on the season. Duke scored 75 points on 52% shooting in an earlier meeting this season. That was the first time 5 meetings the Blue Devils didn't score at least 83 on the Irish. 

OVER is 8-2 in Duke's 10 conference games this season, 20-6 in their last 26 at home and a perfect 6-0 in their last 6 at home off a conference loss. OVER is also a perfect 6-0 in Notre Dame's last 6 off a road loss by 3-points or less. Give me the OVER 146.5! 

40* TEMPLE/WICHITA ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Wichita State -8.5)

I will lay the 8.5-points at home with Wichita State against the Owls. The Shockers have been a team I have been on a decent amount. Not a lot of people talk about this team, despite the fact that they are 10-4 with their only 4 losses coming to Missouri, Oklahoma St, Houston and Memphis. All of which are ranked in the Top 50 at KenPom. 

I was on the Owls in their last game at home against Cincinnati and they somehow lost to a depleted Bearcats team that hadn't played and barely practiced in almost a month. The Owls shot a miserable 39.6% from the field and were once again sloppy with the ball with 19 turnovers, including several bad turnovers down the stretch with the game on the line. 

You could see how devastated Temple was after losing that game and I just have a hard time seeing them showing up for this game on Super Bowl Sunday. Not to mention we have a Temple offense that ranks 9th in offensive efficiency facing a Wichita State defense that is No. 4. On the flip side the Shockers have the No. 2 most efficient offense in the ACC vs the No. 9 Temple defense. The Owls were a 12-point road dog to SMU and 17-point road dog to Houston. Give me the Shockers -8.5! 

40* NOTRE DAME/GEORGIA TECH NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Georgia Tech -4.5) 

I really like the Yellow Jackets as a small 4.5-point home favorite against Notre Dame. I think we are getting an absolute steal here with Georgia Tech at this price. The Yellow Jackets have lost 3 of their last 4, but those 3 losses all came on the road to good teams in Virginia, Duke and Louisville. 

Georgia Tech has won 7 straight at home and are a perfect 4-0 at home in ACC play with all 4 wins coming by at least 5 points. Notre Dame comes in having won 4 of their last 5, but those 4 wins have come against BC, Miami, Pitt and Wake Forest. Those are their only 4 wins in ACC play. Give me Georgia Tech -4.5! 

40* UCF/TULSA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Tulsa -4.5) 

I got no problem laying the 4.5-points at home with Tulsa against the Knights. This is a good time to buy low on the Golden Hurricane as they come in having lost 4 of their last 6. Thing is 3 of those losses came on the road, while the lone loss at home was to a good SMU team by just 2-points. 

As for UCF, they have really been struggling. The Knights have lost 3 straight and 8 of 9 overall. Their only win during this stretch coming at home against ECU. UCF has lost 6 straight on the road and will be playing their 4th straight road game here. Give me Tulsa -4.5! 

50* N CAROLINA/DUKE NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Duke -3) 

I love the value here with Duke as a mere 3-point home favorite against North Carolina. I know the Blue Devils are coming off an ugly loss at Miami on Monday, but I really think this team is headed in the right direction and are going to make easy work of the Tar Heels in this one. 

North Carolina is simply getting way too much respect right now because they have won 6 of their last 8, but it's not so much a result of how well they are playing but more so the schedule. I know it's not as difficult playing at Duke this year as others with no fans, but I just think the price is too good to pass up. Give me the Blue Devils -3! 

40* OLE MISS/AUBURN NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (Auburn -5)

I really like the spot and price we are catching with Auburn at home against Ole Miss on Saturday. This is a huge bounce back game for the Tigers, who after a hard fought loss at Baylor, laid an egg two days later at home to Georgia. Prior to those two setbacks Auburn had really been playing well behind the emergence of freshman point guard Sharife Cooper. 

While the Tigers are poised for a turnaround, this is a big letdown spot for the Rebels who are coming off a big 52-50 upset win over Tennessee on Tuesday. Ole Miss has also lost 5 of their last 6 on the road. Give me Auburn -5! 

50* SYRACUSE/CLEMSON NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Clemson -3) 

This is just too good a price to pass up with Clemson at home. We cashed an easy 50* Top Play on the Tigers in Tuesday's 63-50 win at home against North Carolina. Clemson did lose at Duke the previous game, but before that beat Louisville at home 54-50. Tigers are 7-1 SU at home with their only loss coming at the hands of Virginia. 

Syracuse has won 3 of their last 4, but all 3 wins came at home, while the lone loss was on the road. That's kind of been the theme for the Orange this season, as they are 9-1 at home compared to just 1-4 on the road. Big reason they struggle on the road is their defense, which is giving up 80 ppg. With how good Clemson is defensively, if they let the Tigers score anywhere close to that this thing is going to get out of hand. Give me Clemson -3! 

40* BOISE ST/NEVADA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Boise St -4) 

I got no problem laying 4-points on the road with Boise State. Now I just played against the Broncos in their recent 2-game road trip at Colorado State, but that's an underrated Rams team and it was the first time the Broncos had been tested in a while. I'm not as bullish on this Nevada team. 

The Wolf Pack are 7-5 in MWC play, but those 7 wins have all come against teams who have losing records in conference play. I just feel that Nevada is completely outclassed here. The Wolf Pack usually exploit teams at the free throw line, but I don't think that will be the case here. Without that edge I don't know how Nevada keeps this close as the Broncos are better on both side of the ball. Give me Boise State -4! 

50* CINCINNATI/TEMPLE AAC PLAY OF THE MONTH (Temple +2) 

I think the fact that the Owls most recent outcome is a 64-81 home loss to Tulane as a 7.5-point favorite has them showing some big time value here as a 2-point home dog to a Cincinnati team that has no business laying points on the road in this spot. 

The Bearcats are just 3-7 overall and 1-4 in AAC play, but even more important here is the fact that Cincinnati will be playing their first game in almost a month. The last time the Bearcats played was on Jan. 10. It's not like they have been using all this time to practice an improve. Even with walk-ons they haven't had enough guys to go 5 on 5. Speaking of Walk-ons, word is they are going to be so short-handed for this game that some of them will have to play. 

While the Owls have only played 9 games because of Covid, they been back in the swing of things for weeks now and had won 3 of 4 before that ugly showing against the Green Wave. Coming off a bad loss has been a good time to back Temple, as they are 24-11 ATS last 35 off a home loss by 10 or more. Give me the Owls +2! 

40* KENTUCKY/MISSOURI NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Kentucky +4) 

I'm going to take the Kentucky Wildcats -4 on the road against the Missouri Tigers. I really like this spot for Kentucky, who were a pissed off bunch after Saturday's game against Texas was called off because of Covid concerns. The important thing to note is that it wasn't a player related problem. They had a staff member that tested positive. No players are going to be missing this game against Missouri because of Covid. 

Because their game against Texas was called off Kentucky will be coming into this game against Missouri with some fresh legs, as they will have a full 8 days off since they last took the court at Alabama.

They should be able to use those fresh legs to their advantage, as Missouri will be coming into this game on just 3 days of rest after a grueling 102-98 OT win at home against TCU, where they spent the majority of that game playing from behind. 

I also like how the Wildcats matchup with Missouri. The Tigers are an awful 3-point shooting team and really need to score inside to get their offense going. That plays right into the strength of Kentucky's defense, which is No. 2 in the SEC in 2P% defense. Missouri has a good defense, but they really struggle with fouling. They are dead last in the SEC in opponents free throw rate. That's huge for a Wildcats team that doesn't exactly shoot the ball well from the field, but is No. 1 as a team in the conference at 76.6% from the free throw line. 

I know the wins haven't been stacking up like we normally see with a Kentucky team, but the Wildcats always seem to find their groove in February and March and while they are just 1-4 in their last 5 there's been a lot of positives for this team. I really like them to win this game outright, but will take the 4-points as a little added insurance. Give me the Wildcats +4! 

50* LSU/ALABAMA NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Alabama -8.5) 

I got no problem laying the 8.5-points at home with the Crimson Tide. A lot of people might be hesitant to lay this many points against a decent LSU team, but I just love the spot and the matchup for the Tigers. 

Alabama will be 100% locked in for this game after a 61-66 loss at Oklahoma on Saturday. That setback snapped the Crimson Tide's 10-game win streak. This is also a team that is really focused about closing out the season strong after struggling in February over recent years. 

The Tide are 8-1 at home where they are winning by almost 14 points/game. They are 9-0 in SEC play with an average margin of victory of 16.1. Their only win at home in conference play by fewer than double-digits was a 8-point victory against Mississippi State. 

LSU is a great offensive team, but are not very good defensively. Alabama is great on both sides and it's why they beat the Tigers 105-75 on the road back on Jan. 19th. I just don't think LSU's defense will be able to make enough stops to keep this close. Give me the Crimson Tide -8.5! 

40* USC/STANFORD NCAAB LATE NIGHT BAILOUT (Stanford +2.5)

I really like the value here with Stanford as a home dog against USC. The Cardinal could once again be without Bryce Wills, Ziaire Williams and Daejon Davis (all 3 are questionable), but I actually think that's playing into the value here. Stanford has shown they can compete at a high level without these guys and a big reason for that is they still got one of the best players not just in the Pac-12 but the country in Oscar da Silva. 

Not only is Stanford going to be jacked up for a home game against one of the top teams in the Pac-12 in USC, but this will also be the first game for the Cardinal this season on their home floor at the Maples Pavilion. 

The other big thing for me, is I just don't think USC is all they are made out to be. They are good team, but they have also played the easiest conference schedule of any team to this point. Their last 5 games have come against Washington, Washington State, Cal and Oregon State (twice). This is the first real test they have had in over 3 weeks. I just don't think they should be favored here. Give me Stanford +2.5! 

40* GEORGIA/AUBURN NCAAB STEAMROLLER (Over 159)

I got no problem playing OVER the big number of 159 in tonight's SEC showdown between Auburn and Georgia. Auburn was already a top tier offense in the SEC but the addition of freshmen sensation Sharife Cooper has taken them to another level. The Tigers are averaging 81.6 ppg in their last 5. 

I look for them to have no problem getting to 80 points in this game. Georgia is giving up a staggering 82.6 ppg in conference play and a staggering 87.5 ppg in road games this season. When ever they have faced a decent offense their defense has been exposed. 

Now add in the fact that Auburn doesn't play much defense of their own and these two teams love to push the pace and you got the makings of a game that will easily get into the 160s. Give me the OVER 159! 

50* UNC/CLEMSON ACC GAME OF THE MONTH (Clemson +3) 

I love the value here with Clemson as a home dog against the Tar Heels. It's been a rough go for the Tigers after their impressive 9-1 start, as they have lost 4 of their last 5 and are now just 4-5 in ACC play. Thing is the schedule has been brutal of late. In their recent 1-4 stretch, 3 of those losses came on the road to Georgia Tech, FSU and Duke. The only loss at home was to the ACC's best team in Virginia. They did manage to beat Louisville at home in their only win and I expect them to win here. 

North Carolina has won 6 of their last 7 games and it has them way overvalued. It's a great stretch, but it's also come against a soft schedule. The Tar Heels 6 wins during this stretch have come against Notre Dame, Miami, Syracuse, Wake Forest, NC State and Pitt. The Orange are the only one of those teams ranked in the Top 50 at KenPom. 

The other big thing here is this is a brutal spot for UNC playing on the road against a desperate team with a massive game against Duke looming on Saturday. With how well it's been going for the Tar Heels it will only make it that much easier for them to look past the Tigers. Give me Clemson +3! 

40* UCF/MEMPHIS NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Memphis -8.5) 

I'll take my chances here with Memphis laying 8.5-points at home against UCF. Not only is this a play on the Tigers, who I think are playing some of their best basketball of the season, but it's just as big a play against the Knights. 

Memphis did have their 3-game losing streak in a heartbreaking 2-point loss at SMU last Thursday, but did manage to cover the spread for a 4th straight game. The Tigers defense has really picked it up. Memphis is allowing just 61.1 ppg on 38.5% shooting in American Athletic play. 

As for UCF, this is just a brutal spot playing on just 1 day of rest after a grueling OT loss at Wichita State on Saturday. That's a game the Knights would love to have back, as they blew a 8-point lead in the final 4 minutes of regulation and then another 5-point lead in OT. 

I just don't know that the Knights can play any better than they did at Wichita State. UCF shot a season best 57.4% from the field in that game. That was only the 2nd time all season they shot better than 46%. I could see that shooting percentage plummeting here with what has to be tired legs and a great Memphis defense. Give me the Tigers -8.5! 

40* WASH ST/WASHINGTON NCAAB STEAMROLLER (OVER 140) 

I like the OVER quite a bit in Sunday's Pac-12 matchup between in-state rivals Washington and Washington State. You got two teams here that have been playing absolutely no defense. The Huskies are giving up 77.3 ppg on the season and a ridiculous 83.2 ppg in conference play. I know Washington State's offense isn't great, but they can easily get 70 here. As for the Cougars defense, they are allowing 76.2 ppg on the road and 77.4 ppg over their last 5 conference games. Hard to see them slowing down a Washington offense that is averaging 77.8 ppg in their last 5. Give me the OVER 140! 

40* AUBURN/BAYLOR NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Auburn +14.5) 

I don't have high hopes for the SEC in Saturday's SEC/Big 12 showdown, but I can't pass up with the value we are getting with Auburn as a 14.5-point dog against Baylor. The Bears are one of the best teams in the country, but this is a huge number to be laying against a surging Tigers team that has found new life behind star freshman point guard Sharife Cooper. He's played 6 games since getting cleared to play and has been unbelievable, averaging 22.3 ppg, 8.7 apg and 5.0 rpg. 

Auburn is 4-2 in the 6 games he's played and the 2 losses have been by a mere 4-points at home to Alabama (by far the best team in the SEC) and a 2-point loss at Arkansas. I believe he's going to be the difference in the Tigers keeping this within the number. I also feel like this game means more to the Tigers than it does the Bears. Give me Auburn +14.5! 

40* ARKANSAS/OKLAHOMA ST NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Oklahoma St -2) 

I just can't pass up on Oklahoma State as a mere 2-point home favorite against the Razorbacks. While the Cowboys are just 4-4 and probably the 7th best team in the Big 12, they would be one of the best teams in the SEC.

Arkansas is just 5-4 in SEC play and has not fared all that well on the road. The thing is the Razorbacks are 13-4 overall and that has them way overvalued in this one. What people overlook with their great record is the played the 300th toughest non-conference slate and have not delivered against any of the top teams in the SEC. Give me the Cowboys -2! 

40* UCF/WICHITA ST NCAAB ATS STEAMROLLER (Wichita St -5.5) 

The Shockers are worth a look here as a mere 5.5-point home favorite against UCF. A lot of people threw Wichita State under the bus early in the year when they lost their head coach, but there's lot of talent still on this roster. Wichita State has won 7 of their last 10 with the only two losses coming on the road to two of the better teams in the AAC in Houston and Memphis. 

UCF had that shocking 3-1 start to the season where they beat Auburn, Florida St and Cincinnati, but are just 1-5 in their last 6. The Knights have also not had much success of late against Wichita State. The Shockers have won all 5 meetings between the two programs with each of the last 3 and 4 of the 5 overall by at least 8 points. Give me Wichita State -5.5! 

50* TEXAS TECH/LSU NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Texas Tech -3.5) 

I love the Red Raiders here as a small road favorite against LSU. I've played the Tigers a decent amount this year, but this is not a matchup that favors them at all. LSU wants to outscore teams and that just doesn't work against a team like Texas Tech. The Tigers simply won't be able to go score for score with a team like the Red Raiders who are such a force defensively. 

We have seen what happens here of late when LSU faces a decent defensive team in SEC play, as they got annihilated 105-75 at home by Alabama and 82-69 at Kentucky. I just look for Texas Tech to take control of this game right away and never look back. Give me the Red Raiders -3.5! 

40* NORTH TEXAS/RICE NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (North Texas -7) 

I'm sticking with my bet on North Texas -7 (gave out as a free pick yesterday) and actually going to throw a little more on it. I just feel that this North Texas team is flying a bit under the radar right now. They went just 4-4 in non-conference play, but there was no shame in that as the 4 losses came against Arkansas, Mississippi State, West Virginia and Loyola-Chicago. All 4 of which came on the road.

They have started out 3-1 in C-USA action with the only loss coming on no rest in a back-to-back situation against UTSA after they had beat the Roadrunners the night before. 

The Owls had started out 4-1 in league play, but have since lost 3 straight and part of their struggles of late has to do with the absence of sophomore Travis Evee, who is out because of Covid. There's also a chance they could be without senior Cavit Ege Havsa. If he can't go the Owls would be down their top two options at the point guard position. 

Another key factor in this matchup is rest. North Texas hasn't played since Jan. 16th, where Rice will be playing their 3rd game in a 7 day stretch. 

Offensively there's not a lot that separates these two teams, but North Texas is by far the better defensive team. The Mean Green rank 2nd in C-USA in defensive efficiency, while Rice is 13th. I believe the absence of Evee and the edge defensively should be more than enough for North Texas to cover here. 

Mean Green are 26-13 ATS over the last 2 seasons and have covered 18 of their last 25 as a favorite. They are also 14-5 against teams like Rice who attempt 21+ 3-pointers/game and 12-3 ATS last 15 vs team like the Owls that average 18 or fewer free throws/game. Give me North Texas -7! 

40* UAB/MIDDLE TENNESSEE NCAAB SHARP STAKE (UAB -10) 

I will gladly take my chances here with the Blazers winning by more than 10-points on the road against Middle Tennessee. UAB is 12-2 and are sitting on top C-USA with a 5-1 league mark. They just recently got back one of their best players in Quan Jackson after he missed 4 games. One of their losses came in the game he got hurt and the other when he was out. In the two games he returned for against Rice they won both by double-digits. 

While UAB is one of the best teams in C-USA, Middle Tennessee is one of the worst. The Blue Raiders are 3-9 overall and 1-5 in league play. Their only conference win coming against FIU is also one of the worst teams in the conference. UAB has a massive edge offensively in this one. They are 2nd in offensive efficiency in C-USA and the Blue Raiders are dead last. Another thing is turnovers. UAB is the best in the league in protecting the ball, turning it over just 12.5% of the time. Middle Tennessee is one of the worst with a 21.8% turnover rate. That should be more than enough to cash this ticket. Give me UAB -10! 

40* MICHIGAN ST/RUTGERS NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Rutgers -2.5) 

I will lay the short number with Rutgers at home against Michigan State. The Scarlet Knights finally got the monkey off their back with a 74-70 win at  Indiana on Sunday. The victory snapped a 5-game skid for Rutgers. I still really like this Rutgers team and I've been just waiting for them to get back in the win column. I know they got embarrassed at Michigan State 45-68 earlier this season, but that almost makes me like them more, as they will be extremely motivated here to get revenge. 

At the same time, I don't love this spot at all for the Spartans, who are coming off a massive covid break. Michigan State hasn't played since Jan. 8. This is also a team that wasn't playing great before the break, as they are just 2-4 in Big Ten play. Their only two wins outside of Big Ten play against teams in the Top 100 were against Duke and Notre Dame and that victory over the Blue Devils is less and less impressive the more we see of Duke this year. GIve me Rutgers -2.5! 

40* BOISE ST/COLORADO ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Colorado St +1)

I'm going to take the Colorado State Rams +1 at home against the Boise State Broncos. I don't play a ton of Mountain West games, but I've had my eyes on this matchup for a little while now. I just think this is the perfect spot to fade Boise State, who comes into this game a perfect 9-0 in Mountain West play and has won 13 straight since losing their opener at Houston way back on Nov. 27th. 

Going into the final days of January without a conference loss is impressive, but I believe a big reason for that is due to Boise State schedule. KenPom ranks the Broncos conference slate the easiest of any team in the MWC to this point. All of their wins have come against the bottom 5 teams in the conference in Wyoming, Fresno St, Air Force, New Mexico and San Jose State. Their schedule including non-conference ranks 283rd in the country. 

Colorado State is 8-2 in MWC play with their only two losses coming on the road against two of the best teams in the league in San Diego State and Utah State. It's also worth noting that the Rams split their 2 games on the road against both of those teams. 

Colorado State has two sophomore studs in point guard Isaiah Stevens and power forward David Roddy. Both of those are listed on KenPom's All-MWC team, which is given to the 5 highest graded players. Boise State doesn't have any on that list. The Rams will have the two best players on the floor and I expect them to be extremely motivated not only to give the Broncos their first conference loss but due to the lack of respect they are getting as a home dog in this matchup. Give me Colorado State +1! 

40* WISCONSIN/MARYLAND NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (Wisconsin -2.5) 

I just can't help myself with Wisconsin laying this short of a number on the road against the Terps. I played and lost with the Badgers at home against Ohio State on Saturday and that was about as bad as they could have played. One thing you have to love with Wisconsin is they don't let one bad game linger into the next matchup. Wisconsin has not lost consecutive games this season. 

Maryland comes in off a surprising and impressive 63-49 win at Minnesota, giving the Gophers their first loss at home this season. One thing to note about that game is that was a abit of a letdown for Minnesota off a huge upset win over Michigan. I just don't think it's worth reading into that game much. Terps are still just 3-6 in Big Ten play and while the Badgers don't lose consecutive games, Maryland has not won back-to-back conference games. Give me Wisconsin -2.5! 

40* MARQUETTE/PROVIDENCE NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Providence -1.5) 

I think we are getting a steal here with the Friars at basically a pick'em at home against the Golden Eagles. Providence may be just 8-7 overall and 4-5 in Big East play, but so much of that has to do with their schedule. The Friars have played the 14th toughest schedule to date of any team according to KenPom and the toughest slate so far in Big East play. 

They are just 1-4 in their last 5 games, but have had to play 4 of the 5 on the road and the lone home game was against Creighton. Simply put this is the perfect time to buy low on Providence. As for Marquette, they are fresh off an ugly home loss to DePaul and while they beat the Friars at home back on Jan. 12th, that's actually a huge plus as Providence is a perfect 7-0 ATS over the last 2 seasons when revenging a same season loss and are winning in this spot by 8 points/game. Give me the Friars -1.5! 

40* LSU/TEXAS A&M NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (LSU -5)

I'm confident LSU will go on the road and make easy work of the Aggies. These two teams already played once this season back on Dec. 29th. The Tigers won that game 77-54 as a 8-point home favorite. Even with this game being played at Texas A&M, I don't think it's going to impact the outcome enough for LSU to not win here by at least 6 points. 

This is a huge get right game for the Tigers coming off back-to-back double-digit losses. First a 30-point loss at home to Alabama and then a 13-point loss at Kentucky. Prior to that LSU had started out 5-1 in SEC play and 10-2 overall with their only 2 losses by 4 points to St. Louis and Florida on the road. Texas A&M is 2-5 in SEC play and their 2 wins have come by a combined 3 points. Give me LSU -5! 

50* MISSOURI/AUBURN NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Auburn -2) 

I will gladly lay the short number at home with Auburn. The Tigers are playing their best basketball of the season right now. They have won 3 of their last 5 with the two losses in this stretch coming by a mere 4 points at home to Alabama and by 2 points on the road to Arkansas. They just destroyed South Carolina 109-86 on the road in their last game. 

Big reason for the strong play of late for Auburn is their star freshman PG recruit Sharife Cooper was finally cleared to play. He's played each of the last 5 games and has been incredible, averaging 21.2 ppg and 9.0 apg. He's also averaging a modest 4.4 rpg and 1.2 spg. I think he's the best player on the floor in this game and I just don't think people are aware of how much better this Auburn team is with him out there. Give me the Tigers -2! 

40* MEMPHIS/SMU NCAAB ATS NO-BRAINER (Memphis -2) 

This is too good a price to pass up with Memphis at home. The Tigers were one of the worst teams to back early on, as they went just 1-9 ATS in their first 10 lined games. However, that was more of the books just inflating the numbers on this team.

They have finally started to hit their stride, covering back-to-back games with ease. First it was a 72-52 win at home against Wichita State as a 3.5-point favorite. Then it was a 80-53 win at ECU as a mere 7-point favorite. Big reason for these two great showings is the Tigers got the 3-ball working with 11 made 3's in each of the last 2 games. SMU is a quality team, but they are getting way too much respect on the road in this one. Give me Memphis -2! 

40* RICHMOND/ST. JOE'S NCAAB STEAMROLLER (OVER 152.5) 

I look for Richmond and St. Joe's to fly past the total of 152.5 today. Richmond is averaging 76.2 ppg in A-10 play and have scored at least 77 in all but one game. The lone exception being 66 points against St. Bonaventure, who has the No. 1 defense in the conference. 

The Spiders will have to have their worst shooting performance of the season to not hit 80 points against the Hawks. St. Joseph's is giving up 84.7 ppg on the season and 82.3 ppg for the year. A big reason for that is not only are they not good defensively, but they combine that by playing at one of the fastest paces in the country. They have allowed 80 or more in 6 of their 7 league games. 

Key here is that Richmond loves to play fast and aren't very good defensively . They are 13th out of 14 teams in effective FG% defense in the A-10. They are letting opponents shoot 57% on 2-point attempts, which is huge here as the Hawks are not a good 3-point shooting team. I think this one easily gets into the 160s. Give me the OVER 152.5! 

50* TEXAS TECH/W VIRGINIA BIG 12 PLAY OF THE MONTH (W Virginia -1.5) 

I love the value here with West Virginia at basically a pick'em at home against the Red Raiders. The Mountaineers are 10-4 with their 4 losses coming to Gonzaga, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas. They were are one of the few teams to keep it close with Gonzaga (lost by 5) and 2 of their 3 conference losses are by 4 or fewer points. 

While West Virginia will be playing on just 1 day of rest compared to a full week off for the Red Raiders, note that the Mountaineers had a 2 week break before playing on Saturday against Kansas State. They also didn't need to use a ton of energy in that win over the Wildcats, as they cruised to a 69-47 win. 

Last year West Virginia won 66-54 at home over the Red Raiders and are 7-1 SU in their last 8 home games against Tech. Give me the Mountaineers -1.5! 

40* NOTRE DAME/MIAMI NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Miami -2.5)

I like the value here with the Hurricanes as a small home favorite against the Irish. Miami is a team that I feel there's value with right now. The Hurricanes come in off an ugly 57-83 loss at Syracuse and are now just 6-7 overall and 2-6 in ACC play. What gets overlooked is this team has really battled injuries and have also played a tough schedule.

Each of their last 6 losses have come against teams in the Top 100 at KenPom. They have been much better at home in ACC play when not completely depleted. In their last 3 homes games they lost by 1 to Clemson, 2 to UNC and beat Louisville by 6. Notre Dame has been equally bad in this season, as they have lost 4 of 5, but they are coming off a 10-point win against BC, which I feel is playing into the value here with Miami. Give me the Hurricanes -2.5! 

40* LSU/KENTUCKY NCAAB SHARP STAKE (LSU +1.5) 

I will gladly take LSU as a small road dog against Kentucky. If it wasn't for the brand name that the Wildcats have, there's no way they would be favored in this matchup. Kentucky just isn't very good. The Wildcats have lost 3 straight and are a mere 3-8 over their last 11 games. 

This is also a brutal spot for Kentucky coming off a crushing 62-63 loss at Georgia, where the Bulldogs hit the game-winning shot with a second to play. You might argue that LSU is also in a bad spot coming off an ugly 75-105 blowout loss at home to Alabama, but it's actually much easier to bounce back from a blowout loss than it is a close defeat, especially one like Kentucky had where they had no business losing. Give me LSU +1.5! 

50* OHIO ST/WISCONSIN NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Wisconsin -4.5) 

I absolutely love the value here with the Badgers as a mere 4.5-point home favorite against Ohio State. This is simply too good a price to pass up with Wisconsin at the Kohl Center. I don't care who the opponent is, I would lay 4.5 with the Badgers at home in conference. Wisconsin is 10-1 at home this season where they are winning by an average of 17.2 ppg. All 4 of their Big Ten home wins have come by at least 7 points. 

I get Ohio State has been playing really well here of late, but they Buckeyes did just have their 3-game winning streak snapped in a crushing 65-67 loss at home to Purdue. A game they led by double-digits and have to be absolutely sick about losing. The Buckeyes made 14 3-pointers against Purdue, but were to reliant on the outside shot shooting 35 3-pointers to just 18 2-pointers. That just won't work against Wisconsin. Give me the Badgers -4.5! 

40* CLEMSON/FLORIDA ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Clemson +6.5)

I really like the value here with Clemson as a pretty decently sized road dog against the Seminoles. It's been a rough last two games for the Tigers. They went into their game at home against Virginia sitting at 9-1 and got absolutely worked by the Cavaliers 85-50. They let that loss turn into two as they laid an egg a few days later at Georgia Tech, falling 65-83. 

My money is on Clemson to fire back here with one of their best showings of the season and this is a team we know they can hang with. The Tigers already beat FSU 77-67 at home back on Dec. 29th. I get the Seminoles have been playing well and will be out for revenge, but both of those factors have been accounted for with this line. Give me Clemson +6.5! 

40* MARSHALL/FIU NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Marshall -8) 

I know this might seem like a big number, but I got the Thundering Herd winning this game by double-digits rather easily. This is a huge game for Marshall, who after going 6-1 in non-conference has started out 1-3 in C-USA play. 

Thing is they have played 2 of the best teams in La Tech and WKU each twice and 3 of the 4 were on the road. All 3 losses were by 8 or fewer points. FIU is 2-4 in C-USA, but have played the 12th easiest conference schedule to date. FIU doesn't have the offensive fire-power or defensive presence to keep pace with Marshall. Give me the Thundering Herd -8! 

40* COLO ST/UTAH ST NCAAB LATE NIGHT BAILOUT (Colorado St +8) 

I like the value here with Colorado State as a near double-digit dog in Thursday's rematch against Utah State. These two teams played on Tuesday and the Aggies rolled to a 83-64 home win. It was just a bad night shooting for the Rams, who shot just 33% from deep. Utah State on the other hand was on fire, shooting 53% from behind the 3-point line. 

Even after that game the Rams still are the much better 3-point shooting team, as they are hitting 39% as a team on the season. Colorado State is also suffered just 3 losses all season and are one of the more well coached teams in the MWC. Not only do I think the Rams shoot better in the rematch, but they are going to be the more motivated team having getting blown out in that first meeting. Give me Colorado State +8! 

40* WICHITA ST/MEMPHIS NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Memphis -2.5) 

I think this is the perfect price and spot to roll the dice with Memphis at home against the Shockers. The Tigers come into this game a mere 6-5, but could easily be sitting with a much better record, as all but one of their defeats have come by single digits. They also only have lost once on their home floor. 

The value with Memphis in this one stems from the fact that they come in having failed to cover each of their last 7 games. I just think you have to put that aside given the small number we are dealing with.

I also like the matchup. The Tigers are 3rd in the AAC in both offensive rebound rate and free throw rate. Two things Wichita State has struggled with. The Shockers are also built defensively to take away the 3-point shot and Memphis is a team that wants to attack you inside. Give me the Tigers -2.5! 

50* KENTUCKY/GEORGIA NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Kentucky -3)

I'll lay the 3-points here with Kentucky on the road against the Bulldogs. It's been a rough go for the Wildcats this year, but they have shown some signs of getting this thing turned around. They have lost their last two games, but one was at home against an Alabama team that is looking elite and the other was on the road against Auburn. 

Both of those were bad matchups, as both of those teams are good at defending the 3-point shot, which is what Kentucky's offense relies a lot on. Georgia is one of the worst defensive teams in the SEC. They rank 13th in defensive efficiency and 13th in 3P% defense. They also are one of the worst teams at allowing offensive rebounds and Kentucky is No. 3 in the SEC in offensive rebound rate (one of the few things they do well). I just think this is a get right game for the Wildcats. Give me Kentucky -3! 

40* VCU/ST BONAVENTURE NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (St Bonaventure -2.5) 

I'm going to take the St. Bonaventure Bonnies -2.5 at home against the VCU Rams. I've been on St. Bonaventure quite a bit this season and will gladly lay the short number at home with them against VCU. 

The Bonnies returned all 5 starters from a 19-win team that finished T-5th in really good A-10 conference last year. They come into this game 6-1 overall with a 4-1 mark in conference play. They have won 4 straight conference games since losing their opener on the road to Rhode Island. That includes a big road win at Richmond. 

VCU comes in having won 8 of their last 9, but it's really been a favorable stretch here with their schedule. Out of those 9 opponents during this hot streak, they have played just 1 team that's currently ranked in the Top 100 at KenPom and that was Rhode Island, who beat them on their home floor 83-68. The only other team they played in the Top 150 during this stretch was George Mason and they barely pulled out a 66-61 win against the Patriots. 

I'm not saying the Rams aren't a quality team, I just think they are a little bit overvalued in this spot. I think this line should be closer to 6 than 3. VCU is a team that causes a lot of turnovers, but also turns it over a lot. St Bonaventure is 3rd in the A-10 in both offensive and defensive TO%, so look for the Bonnies to win the turnover battle. 

St Bonaventure should also have a massive edge on the glass in this game. They are No.1 in the A-10 in offensive rebound rate and VCU is 13th in giving up extra possessions via the offensive rebound. The Rams also tend to foul a lot, ranking 13th in opponents free throw rate and the Bonnies are 4th in the A-10 as a team with a 71.1% free throw percentage. Give me St. Bonaventure -2.5! 

40* DUKE/PITTSBURGH NCAAB STEAMROLLER (OVER 141.5) 

I like the OVER 141.5 in tonight's ACC matchup between Pittsburgh and Duke. The Blue Devils are as healthy as they have been in a while and I'm expecting them to really come out locked in offensively after a mere 67-points last time out against Va Tech. That game was last Tuesday, so Duke has had plenty of practice time to get things figured out. 

Pitts defense is currently the best in the ACC, but I'm not buying it. I just don't see them being able to slow down Duke in this one. Key here is I do think the Panthers got some offensive fire-power and the Blue Devils are not a good defensive team. I think both teams easily score 70 in this one. Give me the OVER 141.5! 

40* MARYLAND/MICHIGAN NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Michigan -10) 

I got no problem laying 10 points at home with Michigan against the Terps. The Wolverines were bound to suffer a loss at some point and it came this past Saturday at Minnesota. Michigan fell 57-75 in by far their worst performance of the season. It just looked like the Wolverines weren't ready to play. 

I don't see them letting that sluggish performance carry over into this game against a Maryland team they should dominate. The Terps just don't have the size inside to compete with top tier teams like Michigan. Look for standout freshman Hunter Dickinson to have a huge game, while the Wolverines defense keeps a suspect Maryland offense in check. Give me Michigan -10! 

50* MIAMI/SYRACUSE NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Syracuse -4) 

I absolutely love this spot and price with the Orange at home against the Hurricanes. This is huge buy low sell high situation, as you have Syracuse coming into this game off an ugly 76-96 loss at Pittsburgh, while Miami is off a huge 78-72 upset win at Louisville. 

Great win for the Hurricanes, but there's a couple of factors working against Miami in this one. The Hurricanes are still missing several key players and that will be felt on just 2 days of rest. Miami is also a team that relies heavily on their ability to drive to score and that just isn't a great recipe for success against the Syracuse zone. Orange are also undefeated on their home floor this season and we know they are showing up with a big effort here. Give me Syracuse -4! 

40* PURDUE/OHIO ST NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Ohio State -4.5) 

I will lay the 4.5-points at home with Ohio State against Purdue. Both teams come in having won 3 straight, but I've been more impressed with the Buckeyes not just during this recent stretch but over the course of the entire season. This one is also going to mean a little extra for Ohio State, as they will be out to revenge a 60-67 setback at Purdue back on Dec. 16th. 

While Purdue has won their last 2 road games, they were 0-4 in true road games prior. The Buckeyes are a perfect 7-0 on their home floor this season. That includes a perfect 3-0 record in Big Ten play and all 3 of those home wins in conference play have come by at least 10 points. Ohio State is also a strong 10-1 ATS last 11 at home after a cover and 6-0 ATS last 6 at home after back-to-back covers. Give me the Buckeyes -4.5! 

50* KANSAS/BAYLOR NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Under 141)

I will gladly take the UNDER 141 in Monday's huge Big 12 matchup between No. 2 Baylor and No. 6 Kansas. The Bears are elite on the defensive side of the ball and while Kansas isn't as good defensively as they have been in recent years, they are still more than capable of holding their own on that side of the ball. 

Baylor just played a similar team to Kansas in Texas Tech on Saturday and they won that game by a final of 168 to 160 for a combined score of just 128. Kansas is certainly going to be motivated for this game and should be locked in defensively here off a loss and playing on a week of rest. UNDER has cashed in 10 of the last 13 meetings between these two teams when they play at Baylor. In both meetings last year they combined for 122 and 125 points. Give me the UNDER 141! 

50* W KENTUCKY/MARSHALL NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Marshall -2.5)

I will gladly lay the 2.5-points at home with Marshall as they take on Western Kentucky for the second time in 3 days. This time at their home court after losing 73-81 on the Hilltoppers home court Friday. Marshall only lost by 8 in that game, despite shooting just 42.3% from the field and getting outscored by 17 (19-2) at the free throw line. Look for a few more shots to fall at home, as well as a few more trips and makes at the charity line. That combined with the Herd simply being the more motivated team having lost the first matchup and it sets up for a very favorable spot and price here. Give me Marshall -2.5! 

40* VIRGINIA/CLEMSON NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Clemson +2.5) 

I think we are getting big time value here with the Tigers as a small home dog against Virginia. Clemson has been one of the biggest surprises this year and this is their chance to really show everyone they are for real. Even though they already have by racking up wins over Purdue, Alabama and Florida State. 

Virginia is a really good team, but the schedule so far this year has been a bit of a joke outside of their game against Gonzaga. One they got absolutely destroyed 98-75 on a neutral court. The only other team they have faced that's ranked in the Top 80 at KenPom is San Francisco and they lost them to 60-61. They are 4-0 in ACC play, but have played the easiest conference schedule of any team to this point. Clemson is 3-1 in league play and played the 5th hardest schedule. Give me the Tigers +2.5! 

40* BAYLOR/TEXAS TECH NCAAB NO-BRAINER (Under 139)

I just can't help myself here with the UNDER 139 in Saturday's Big 12 showdown between Texas Tech and Baylor. These are just two of the best defensive teams in the Big 12, they are two of the best in the entire country. The Bears are 3rd nationally in defensive efficiency and Texas Tech is 5th. I know Baylor is great offensively, but this is by far the best defense they have faced this year and it's unlikely they go offensively on the road. I just don't see either team getting to 70 points. Play the UNDER 139! 

40* KENTUCKY/AUBURN NCAAB STEAMROLLER (Under 146) 

I think we are getting a great price here with the UNDER in Saturday's SEC matchup between Kentucky and Auburn. Neither of these teams are great offensively. Kentucky is 9th in the SEC in offensive efficiency and Auburn is 10th. The Wildcats are 3rd in the SEC in 3P% compared to 12th in 2P%. That plays right into the Tigers strength defensively. Auburn is just 9th in 2P% defense and 4th in 3P% defense. It's the same thing on the other side. The Tigers are 1st in 2P% offense and 7th in 3P%. Kentucky's defense is 1st in 2P% defense and 13th in 3P% defense. Both teams are built to take away what the other does the best. Give me the UNDER 146! 

50* MIZZU/TEXAS A&M NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Missouri -4.5)

I got no problem laying the 4.5 points on the road with Missouri as they visit Texas A&M on Saturday. The Tigers have to be itching to get back on the court, as they have not played a game since a huge 2nd half collapse in a 63-78 loss at Mississippi State. Missouri led in that game by 14 in the 2nd half and somehow lost by 15. The Tigers only other loss was to Tennessee. 

The Aggies come in off a 56-55 win at Mississippi State, but that's nothing to get excited about. That's now 3 straight games where Texas A&M has failed to eclipse 60 points (have scored 60 or fewer in 4 of their 5 SEC games). It could get real ugly here for the Aggies offense against a hungry and talented Missouri defense. Give me the Tigers -4.5! 

50* NCAAB NORTHEAST CONF GAME OF THE MONTH (Bryant -4.5) 

I absolutely love this spot for Bryant in Friday's rematch against St. Francis PA. These two played last night and the Red Flash pulled off the big upset beating the Bulldogs 89-82 as a 7.5-point dog. That result has Bryant now laying a full 3-points fewer in a game they are going to be much more motivated to win. Also, the Bulldogs were ice cold from 3 and St Francis had one of their better shooting performances from outside. Look for regression both ways and for Bryant to win this one going away. Give me the Bulldogs -4.5! 

40* OLD DOMINION/RICE NCAAB STEAMROLLER (OVER 146) 

I love the value here with the OVER 146 in Friday's C-USA clash between Old Dominion and Rice. For starters, the Owls are your ideal OVER team. Rice is not only efficient offensively, they like to play fast. The Owls are No. 1 in C-USA in offensive efficiency and No. 2 in tempo. They need all the scoring they can get because they don't play much defense. They are 13th in conference play in defensive efficiency. Old Dominion is mediocre offensively and average defensively, but more than anything will be forced to play at Rice's fast pace. Give me the OVER 146! 

40* PURDUE/INDIANA NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Indiana -3)

I will lay the 3-points with Indiana at home against the Boilermakers. I know the Hoosiers are still going to be without Armaan Franklin, but this is just too good a price to pass up on Indiana at home. The Boilermakers were able to pull off an upset win at Michigan State in their last game, but they also trailed 16-33 in the 2nd half of that game before a crazy run to win 55-54. 

Purdue just isn't built to win on the road consistently in Big Ten play. They had lost each of their previous 3 games on the road. They just aren't a good offensive team. They rank 12th in the conference in offensive efficiency and 11th in effective FG%. They are also dead last in the Big Ten in TO% and second to last in free throw rate. When you can't get easy looks, give the other team easy points off turnovers and don't get to the foul line, it's hard to win on the road. Give me Indiana -3! 

50* STANFORD/UTAH NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Stanford -1) 

I will gladly lay the 1-point on the road with the Cardinal against the Utes. I don't know why the books keep giving this Utah team respect, but it hasn't worked out well for them. The Utes have failed to cover each of their last 3 games and are just 2-6 ATS over their last 8 games. 

Utah is 4-5 overall with 3 of those 4 wins coming against teams who are ranked 258th or worse at KenPom. The other win was against Washington, who is ranked 141st, but are also 1-9 on the season. 

Utah's one of the worst teams in the Pac-12 offensively. They are 4th in 2P% offense, but 11th in 3P% offense. That plays right into the strength of this Stanford defense. The Cardinal are 2nd in the Pac-12 in 2p% defense compared to just 11th in 3P% defense. Stanford on the other hand is one of the best offensive teams in the league and simply have too much fire-power to not take them at basically a pick'em here. Give me the Cardinal -1! 

40* NORTHWESTERN/OHIO ST NCAAB ATS NO-BRAINER (Northwestern +8.5) 

Northwestern burned me in their last game, as I took them +8 at home against Illinois and was counting my money at the half with the Wildcats up by 15. That will teach me to count my eggs before they have hatched, as Northwestern was outscored 53-13 in the 2nd half and ended up losing by 25. 

That would be enough for most people to not want anything to do with a team, but I'm out to get that money with Northwestern and will take them at +8.5 at Ohio State tonight. A team they already beat this season at home 71-70. 

I really like the fact that the Wildcats have been off since last Thursday. That's more then enough time to put that ugly 2nd half against Illinois behind them and get them refocused for this big game against the Buckeyes. Ohio State is good, but not great and are still without starting point guard C.J. Walker. Give me Northwestern +8.5! 

50* AUBURN/GEORGIA NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Georgia +1) 

I love the value here with the Bulldogs at basically a pick'em at home against Auburn. We are getting exceptional value with Georgia in this one because of the fact that they have lost 3 straight and most recently were annihilated by 30 at Arkansas on Saturday. 

What will go unnoticed by those that aren't die-hard Bulldogs fans is that Georgia's highly anticipated freshman guard, K.D. Johnson will be making his season debut. Johnson was one of the top rated players coming out of Georgia. He can do it all and really gives the Bulldogs an outside threat they are missing. 

Head coach Tom Crean had this to say about Johnson. “We really missed having another pure guard. I think it’s obvious. When you’re recruiting him, you’re recruiting him to play. There was no doubt he’s going to be a factor for our team.” He also added this, "He's as competitive as anybody that’s on the team. He’s strong, he has a tremendous mindset defensively, he moves the ball, he moves without it, he can shoot. He just has a contagious confidence—I’ll put it that way.”

There's also the opponent to factor in. Auburn isn't very good. The Tigers are 0-4 in SEC play and have already lost 3 games on the road to teams I think are on par with Georgia in UCF, Texas A&M and Ole Miss. Give me the Bulldogs +1! 

40* NC State/Florida St NCAAB SHARP STAKE (FSU -3.5)

I'm going to take the Florida State Seminoles -3.5 at home against the NC State Wolfpack. I believe we are getting some value here with Florida State as a small home favorite due the fact that they have been out of action for over 2 weeks. Seminoles haven't taken the court since losing at Clemson 67-77 back on Dec. 29th because of Covid. 

I know rust can be a concern for a team that has had this much time off, but I don't think it will be as big a factor as some might think. In fact, I think we are going to see a fresh and hungry Florida State team take the court Wednesday night. 

This is a very talented Seminoles team that started out the season 4-0 with impressive wins over both Indiana and Florida. Florida State is also a team that rarely loses on their home floor. Seminoles have won 18 straight home games and each of their last 3 at home against NC State. 

As for the Wolfpack, they come in with a 6-3 record, but have lost their last two. Their 6-1 start was aided big time by a soft schedule, as 4 of their first 5 opponents were against teams who are currently ranked 245th or worse at KenPom. Their two conference wins also came by just 2 points against UNC and BC, so this team could easily be 0-4 in league play. 

Wolfpack are 11th in the ACC in adjusted defensive efficiency, 11th in the ACC in giving up offensive rebounds, 13th in free throw percentage and 11th in defending the 2-point shot. FSU is 4th in the ACC in effective FG% and 4th in 2P%. They are also No. 3 in the conference in defending the 3-pointer and No. 4 in 2-point defense. I just think it all adds up to a comfortable home win for the Seminoles. Give me Florida State -3.5! 

40* ALABAMA/KENTUCKY NCAAB ATS NO-BRAINER (Kentucky -2)

I really like the Wildcats here as a small home favorite against the Crimson Tide. Kentucky comes in having won 3 straight and just annihilated Florida on the road 76-58, but are still undervalued by the books because of their 4-6 overall record.

Not to mention Alabama comes in having won 5 straight, which includes a big road win at Tennessee. I've been on the Crimson Tide a lot early, but I think this recent success has them getting too much respect in this spot. Alabama will be on just two days rest, playing their 2nd straight on the road and this is simply a different Kentucky team right now. Wildcats are playing with a chip on their shoulder and this is a statement game against the Tide. Give me Kentucky -2! 

40* DUKE/VA TECH NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Virginia Tech +2) 

I will take the points with the Hokies at home against the Blue Devils. I just think Duke is overrated. This is not the same caliber a team as recent years and while they have started out 3-0 in ACC, they have played arguably the 3 worst team. 

The Hokies are by far the best team they will have played in league play. Va Tech is 3-1 in ACC play and the only loss was a mere 2-point setback at Louisville. Biggest thing here for me is Duke's defense. Blue Devils rank 15th in the ACC in 3P% defense and 14th in 2P%. Really hard to win on the road when you don't defend at a high level. Give me the Hokies +2! 

50* BUTLER/ST JOHN'S BIG EAST PLAY OF THE MONTH (St. John's -2) 

I love the Red Storm here as a small 2-point home favorite against Butler. Neither of these teams have been all that impressive of late, as St John's is just 1-5 in their last 6 (all conference games). The Bulldogs are just 3-6 on the season. 

I just haven't liked what I've seen out of this Butler team. They haven't won a game away from home all season and have struggled to keep it close on the road in Big East play. St John's 1-5 start is a result of them playing 4 of their first 6 conference games on the road. Their only home loss in league play came to a really good Creighton team. I just think St. John's is the better team and should be a bigger favorite at home in this one. Give me the Red Storm -2! 

40* UCONN/DEPAUL NCAAB ATS NO-BRAINER (DePaul +5.5) 

I'll take a shot with the Blue Demons as a 5.5-point home dog against the Huskies. This might seem like a favorable line to back UConn given the Huskies absolutely routed DePaul at home 82-61 back on Dec. 30th, but I see it the other way. I think that result has created a favorable line here for the home team. 

One thing that will get overlooked with that first matchup is the fact that DePaul was in a horrible spot, playing on just 2 days of rest after a double-overtime game at Providence. Now it's UConn that's in the tough scheduling spot, as the Huskies will be playing their 3rd straight road game in a span of just 7 days and are on just 1 day of rest after a game at Butler Saturday. 

The Huskies could also be down their best player in James Bouknight, who is questionable to play with an elbow injury. Bouknight didn't play against Butler on Saturday, so you have to wonder if another day will be enough to get him back. If it comes out that he isn't playing, this line is sure to drop. With or without him, I like the Blue Demons in this spot. Give me DePaul +5.5! 

40* CINCINNATI/WICHITA ST NCAAB SHARP STAKE (Wichita State -2) 

I love the value here with the Shockers as a slim 2-point home favorite against the Bearcats. I just feel like this Wichita State team is one of the more underrated teams right now and Cincinnati might be one of the most overrated.

The ATS results of these two teams certainly backs that up. The Bearcats are just 2-7 ATS on the season, while Wichita State is 4-2 and come in having covered their last 4. I just think because Cincinnati comes in off a 76-69 upset win as a 5.5-point dog at SMU, the line here is much lower than it should be. Wichita State's 6-3 with their 3 losses against Missouri, Oklahoma State and Houston, who are all sitting in the Top 50 in KenPom's rankings. Not to mention they were competitive in all 3 losses and have 3 other wins over Top 100 teams. Give me the Shockers -2! 

50* LSU/OLE MISS NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (LSU +2) 

I will gladly take my chances here with LSU as a small road dog against the Rebels. LSU bounced back from that ugly loss to Florida with a 94-92 OT win at home against Georgia. I think it's big for the Tigers to win a game like that against the Bulldogs when they didn't play close to their potential. 

They should have a much easier time here against Ole Miss. The Rebels are off to a strong 6-3 start, but their only win against a team in the Top 100 was Wednesday's home win over a mediocre Auburn team that is just No. 81 in KenPom's rankings. In their other 3 games against Top 100 teams they lost at Dayton, were routed at Alabama by 18 and lost at home to Wichita State. 

Also Rebels come in ranked No. 12 in the country in adjusted defensive efficiency, but that's a very misleading stat, as their defense dominated a bunch of bad teams early in the year. In their two recent losses they gave up 82 to Alabama and 83 to Wichita State. LSU is one of the best offensive teams in the country. Ole Miss won't be able to keep up. Give me the Tigers +2! 

40* USC/ARIZONA ST NCAAB ATS SLAUGHTER (USC -1.5) 

I will lay the short number with USC on the road against the Sun Devils. The Trojans come into this game off one of their best showings of the season, as they went on the road and defeated Arizona 87-73. I look for them to make easy work of a tired and deplete Arizona State team on Saturday. 

While the Sun Devils will likely get back their star player Remy Martin, they have several other guys out and have to be running on fumes after Thursday's OT game against UCLA. Arizona State basically used a 6 man rotation for that game. They had 4 different players play at least 41 minutes and two other plays account for 41. The rest of the team logged only 12 minutes. 

USC is just too talented for ASU to beat them, even at home in this spot. Look for the Trojans to take control of this early and really pull away in the 2nd half. Give me USC -1.5! 

40* MIAMI/NC STATE NCAAB ATS NO-BRAINER (Miami +6.5) 

I really like the value here with the Hurricanes catching 6.5 on the road against the Wolfpack. Miami is showing value here due to the fact that they come in having lost 3 straight and are just 1-5 in their last 6. The first two losses in this stretch of game against Florida Gulf Coast and Pitt were a result of Miami being short-handed with a bunch of guys out. 

They have since got healthy and while they haven't been able to finish on top of the scoreboard, they have been really close of late. In Miami's last 3 games they have lost by 2 at Virginia Tech as a 9-point dog, lost by 1 at home to Clemson as a 4.5-point dog and by 2 at home to UNC as a 3.5-point dog. 

As for NC State, they come in off a 70-74 OT loss at home to Clemson. A game they were fortunate to keep close. The Tigers shot just 9 of 30 (30%) from behind the 3-point line and were a mere 3-9 from the free throw line. The Wolfpacks only other two games against a Top 100 team were two 3-point wins at home against BC and UNC and a 11-point loss at St. Louis. I just don't think NC State is deserving of laying this kind of number here. Give me Miami +6.5! 

40* PURDUE/MICH ST NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Michigan St -4.5) 

I will gladly lay the 4.5-points at home with Michigan State against the Boilermakers. The Spartans had that ugly 3-game losing streak to start out Big Ten play, but they have rebounded nicely of late. They snapped the skid with a 84-77 win at Nebraska and in their last game absolutely destroyed Rutgers 68-45. 

Shockingly that was Michigan State's first cover since they beat Duke 75-69 as a 5.5-point dog back on Dec. 1. I believe their recent struggles is definitely keeping this number lower than it should be. Purdue is simply not as good as they have been in recent years. They have lost all 3 of their road games and are just not built to win many games on the road in the Big Ten. Spartans stay hot. They win and cover easy here. Give me Michigan State -4.5! 

50* ILLINOIS/NORTHWESTERN *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (Northwestern +8) 

I'm shocked at the value we are getting here with Northwestern as a 8-point home dog to Illinois. I get the Wildcats got brought back to reality in their last two games, getting routed on the road by both Iowa and Michigan, but those are two of the best teams in the Big Ten.

A lot of teams are going to get destroyed when they visit those two arenas. I know Illinois is another great team, but getting them at home is a completely different story. I'm not saying the Fighting Illini won't win, but I definitely think this game is going to come down to the wire. Give me Northwestern +8! 

40* INDIANA/WISCONSIN NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Wisconsin -7.5) 

I got no problem laying 7.5-points with Wisconsin at home against Indiana. Wisconsin is going to be extremely fresh for this matchup, as they haven't played since Dec. 31st. Not to mention the Badgers are one of the toughest teams to beat at home in the Big Ten. 

There's also the fact that an Indiana team that struggles to score is expected to once again be without one of their best scorers in sophomore Armaan Franklin. This is also a tough matchup for the Hoosiers best player, big man Trayce Jackson-Davis. Wisconsin has all kinds of size and are one of the best teams in the country (8th) in 2-point % defense.

With how much Indiana struggles from behind the 3-point line, it's going to take an absolutely dreadful shooting performance by the Badgers for them to not win here by double-digits. Give me Wisconsin -7.5! 

40* MINNESOTA/MICHIGAN NCAAB STEAMROLLER (Under 152) 

I'm going to take the UNDER 152 in today's Big Ten matchup between Michigan and Minnesota. I just feel the number here is inflated quite a bit due to the Wolverines coming into this game averaging 77.7 ppg in their 4 Big Ten games. What people will overlook is those 4 games have come against the 4 worst defensive teams in the conference. 

Minnesota isn't elite defensively, but they are 5th in the Big Ten in adjusted defensive efficiency and 1st in opponents effective field goal percentage. As for Michigan's defense, they rank 1st in defensive efficiency and 2nd in effective field goal defense. Gophers offense has also not traveled well. In Minnesota two road games this season they scored 65 vs Illinois and 59 against Wisconsin. Give me the UNDER 152! 

40* VCU/GEORGE MASON NCAAB SLAUGHTER (Over 136.5) 

I see a ton of value here with the OVER 136.5. VCU can flat out score the basketball. In the Rams last 5 games they are averaging 85.4 ppg. After giving up 74 to a depleted Dayton team in their last game, I'm confident that VCU will score at least 80 in this one. 

That means we need roughly 60 from George Mason to eclipse this total and I think they hit that mark with relative ease on their home floor. VCU is giving up 68.4 ppg on the road and a lot of that is due to the pace they play at. The Patriots will have ample opportunities. As long as they don't shoot like 35% or something, this thing is going to fly over the total. Give me the OVER 136.5! 

50* GEORGIA/LSU NCAAB *BEST BET* TOP PLAY (LSU -9)

I played on LSU in their loss Saturday against Florida. The Tigers lost the game by 4 as a 1.5-point dog. LSU was in control early and just let it slip away. That will happen, but it makes me like them that much more in this game. They will be 100% locked in for this game against the Bulldogs. 

Georgia is 7-1, but all 7 of those wins came in non-conference play and they didn't play anyone good. The best team they faced was Cincinnati, who is 2-6 right now. The Bulldogs showed what they are made of losing at home by double-digits to Mississippi State. It's not getting any better on the road against an even better team in LSU. I also love that Georgia likes to play fast, as that plays right in the strength of the Tigers. They win here by 10 no problem. Give me LSU -9! 

40* PITT/SYRACUSE NCAAB NO-BRAINER (Under 141) 

These two teams have both been off for almost 3 weeks. Syracuse hasn't played a game since Dec. 19th and Pitt has been off since Dec. 22nd. Both are going to have to shake off a lot of rust on the offensive side of the ball. I also think we are going to see both teams bring it defensively with fresh legs. 

Syracuse is definitely playing faster than they have in recent years, but they have also played a pretty easy schedule, which I believe is aiding those numbers. It also has people looking over the defense of these two teams. Both have the ability to really lock down the opposition. 

Another thing is that these are two of the worst 3-point shooting teams in the country. Pitt ranks 224th in KenPom's 3P% and Syracuse 216th. Pitt is also offensively challenged and are without one of their best players in sophomore guard Justin Champagnie. 

In the two meetings last year these two combined for 130 and 121 points. Give me the UNDER 141!  

40* ST. JOE'S/ST BONAVENTURE NCAAB SHARP STAKE (St Bonaventure -12) 

I got no problem here laying the 12-points with the Bonnies at home against St. Joseph's. This is an extremely talented and deep St. Bonaventure team that returned all 5 starters from last year. After losing a game they should have won on the road against Rhode Island, the Bonnies responded with a huge upset win on the road against everyone's favorite pick to win the A-10 in Richmond. 

Now the Bonnies are set to play their conference home opener (also first home game since Dec. 19th) against a St. Joseph's team that hasn't won a game, as they come in at 0-7. The Hawks play absolutely no defense. St. Joseph's has given up 81 or more points in every game they have played and really hurt themselves because they combine that no defense by playing at a frantic pace. The Bonnies will have this thing covered by half and easily win this by 20+ points. Give me St. Bonaventure -12! 

40* MIZZU/MISS ST NCAAB SHARP STAKE (UNDER 138.5)

I'm going to take the UNDER 138.5 in Tuesday's SEC matchup between Missouri and Mississippi State. The Bulldogs are a team that want to slow the game down as much as possible. Mississippi State comes into this game ranked 340th out of 357 D-I teams in adjusted tempo. 

The definitely are going to want to slow it down in this one, as they are coming off a double-overtime game against Kentucky on Saturday which saw 5 different players log 34 or more minutes with two guys playing 44 or more. That game with the Wildcats ended up with 151 combined points, but they only combined for 122 (61-61) in regulation. 

Missouri just played a game against Arkansas that saw a combined 149 points, but note that the Razorbacks like to play fast, ranking 29th in adjusted tempo. In the game before against Tennessee, which ranks 300th in pace, they saw just 126 combined points. The game before that against Bradley, which ranks 305th in tempo only saw 107 points. Give me the UNDER 138.5! 

40* FLORIDA/ALABAMA NCAAB VEGAS INSIDER (Alabama -2.5) 

We cashed with Alabama +10 in Saturday's 71-63 outright win on the road against No. 7 Tennessee and will gladly fire back with the Crimson Tide as a small home favorite against the Gators. I lost going against Florida in the Gators 83-79 win over LSU, but my same concerns with the Gators remain and that's them not having one of their best players in Keyontae Johnson. 

It's one thing to overcome an injury like that at home. It's a lot harder on the road. I just don't see Florida being able to keep pace with this fast-paced offense of Alabama. The one thing that really plagued the Tide early on was their 3-point shooting, but they have made at least 10 from deep in each of their last 3 games. Look for them to stay hot from the outside, as Florida's defense comes in ranked 261st in KenPom's 3P% ranking. 

Alabama is also a perfect 6-0 ATS last 3 seasons when listed as a home favorite of 3-points or less and 12-3 ATS last 15 when coming into a game after back-to-back covers. They have also covered 9 of their last 11 vs a team that's won 80% or more of their games. Give me the Crimson Tide -2.5!