The set-up: St. Joes lost to Auburn in OT to open the season, and then it lost by 22 to Kansas immediatley after. The Hawks have had to deal with some COVID issues over the last couple of weeks, so they come in rested/focused and prepared. Drexel is 3-2 so far, but it's competition is suspect for sure. Last year the Dragons were 14-19. The Hawks have plenty of veteran talent, led by Taylor Funk and Ryan Daly. 

The pick: Saint Joseph's is being undervalued in this spot. Yes, we have more to draw upon from Drexel, but as mentioned above, its competition to this point has been far from difficult. The trend in the early going for CBB teams dealing with COVID issues is that they've struggled a bit, but I'm bucking that trend here. The Hawks have a deep and talented group and this is the perfect opponent to get untracked against. While the outright win is obviously in play here, I'll still recommend to grab as many points as you can.

This is a 10* SLAM-DUNK on St. Joseph's.

The set-up: North Dakota at 1-5 comes in under the radar here in my estimatoin vs. the 3-0 Southern Illinois Salukis. The Fighting Hawks are averaging 66 PPG and allowing 71.5. Southern Illinois has averaged 86.3 PPG and it's allowed 68.7. 

The pick: Yes, North Dakota is struggling in areas, but Southern Illinois' early numbers are skewed due to the level of the competition it's faced. North Dakota is also 7-3 ATS in its last ten road games as an underdog in the +7 to +10.5 points range. I think the Salukis come in complacent, get caught looking past their lowly opponent, and while I'll stop short in calling for the outright upset, everything points to this one being decided in the closing moment. Therefore, I'm grabbing the points.

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on North Dakota.

The set-up:

The pick:

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on Montana.

The set-up: The Oral Roberts Golden Eagles are ranked #38th in offense and 276th in defense and the Oklahoma Sooners are ranked #30th in offense and 257th in defense. Oklahoma is coming off a 31-point win over Florida A&M on Saturday, but with the Big 12 schedule starting this weekend, with a game at home vs. Texas Tech, I think the stage is set for a minor letdown from the home side here. 

The pick: Oral Roberts comes in with momentum as well after beating sub-divison Bacone 96-65 in its latest action. Oral Roberts has been extremely competitive this year already, taking both Wichita State and Oklahoma State down to the wire in five-point losses. This is a few too many points for the Sooners to cover here, so make sure to grab as many as you can!

This is a 9* $UPER-$HOCKER on Oral Roberts.

The set-up: The 2-5 Mavericks are going to sneak in under the radar here in my opinion and easily get the job done by sneaking in through the back door down the stretch. In the early going the Mavericks are averaging 61.7 PPG and allowing 77.1. Only two players average in double figures for the Mavericks. I'm not going to try and convince you that Nebraska Omaha is a good team that's just run into some bad luck, as that's not the case. In every respect the Buffs are the better team. They're 3-1 and they average 72 points, while allowing 55. 

The pick: But with its Pac 12 schedule set to begin against Washington this weekend, I do think that Colorado takes the foot off the gas in the second half. Additionally note that Colorado has struggled mightily in this exact position for bettors by going just 2-5 ATS in its last seven at home and just 4-10 ATS in its last 14 overall. A great situational play here, as I look for the hungry Mavericks to comfortably cover with a solid push in the second half vs. this Colorado team which will cruise to victory and take the foot off the gas as it's winding down.

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Nebraska Omaha.

The set-up: The Ramblers come in under the radar and post a solid cover here in my opinion. Loyola Chicago is 3-0 after a solid 77-66 win over UIC last time out. The Ramblers are averaging 80.3 points and allowing just 55. Loyola Chicago gets the job done with a combination of experience, depth and strong defensive play. 

The pick: Wisconsin comes in off a 73-62 win over URI. But with over a week off before a home game against Nebraska, followed by an X-Mas Day road matchup at Michigan State, this one sets up as a classic "trap" for the Badgers. Wisconsin averages 77.8 PPG, while allowing 59.2, but note that the Badgers just 2-7 ATS in their last nine after holding a team to 65 points or less in a victory in their last outing. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points.

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Loyola Chicago.

The set-up: Outright victory? I'm not calling for that. But I do expect this one to be a lot closer than what this spread would suggest. Charlotte is 1-3 and Davidson is 3-2. The 49ers loss to Appalachian State last time out. Davidson comes in off victories over UNLV and Georgia Southern. The Wildcats have been competitive this year, but consistency from game-to-game has been a concern in the early going. Davidson is also just 2-5 ATS in its last seven after an ATS victory. 

The pick: Charlotte's win/loss record is not indicative of how it's played. It's gotten progressively better and more competitive with each outing, losing 66-57 to East Carolina, 76-65 to Georgia State, before then beating SC State 78-40, before then falling 61-58 to the Mountaineers last time out. Note that the 49ers are also 11-4-1 ATS in their last 16 following a straight-up loss. No outright, but look for the hungrier 49ers to cmofortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch.

This is a 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on Charlotte.

The set-up: Coastal Carolina is 4-0 and I think it comes to play today. Most recently the Chanticleers smashed subdivision Greensboro 103-45. CC has played some terrible competition, but in the early going it's numbers are definitely impressive, averaging 102.8 PPG and conceding just 60. 

The pick: Wofford comes in reeling after back-to-back losses. Most recently the Terriers lost a heart-breaking 58-56 contest against USF. Wofford averages 81.8 PPG and it allows 55.3. When looking at these line-ups, the numbers are very evenly matched. This one comes down to motivation and momentum and while I do think the outright win is possible, let's grab the points as this one is destined to come right down to the wire.

This is an 8* COACH'S CORNER on Coastal Carolina.

The set-up: San Diego is 0-1, as it's had four of its games either canceled or postponed due to COVID. San Diego was supposed to open with Cal State Fullerton, but instead when it did finally get to play it had to face UCLA. Now the Toreros finally get to play at home and I think they'll rally and find a way to take care of the 4-2 Wolfpack, who enter off an 87-77 loss to Grand Canyon State. The Wolfpack are playing their seventh game, while San Diego is playing just its second. I think fatigue is a factor for Nevada tonight. 

The pick: The Torero's are a younger team, but with a spread like this, clearly the oddsmaker think these teams are very evenly matched. But the outside situational factors listed above working in favor of the home side makes it the correct call here in my opinion. Grab the points.

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on San Diego.

The set-up: Mercer is 5-0 and Georgia Southern is 3-1. After three straight wins, the Eagles lost to a tough Davidson team last time out. The Bears have looked sharp in the early going, but I think these teams are very evenly matched. 

The pick: Mercer has also played four smaller schools during its 5-0 start, so its numbers are skewed. I think the Bears take a step back in this difficult road venue and I look for the Eagles to bounce back after falling to Davidson and improve to 7-2 ATS in their last nine following a SU/ATS loss. Grab the points.

This is a 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on Georgia Southern.

The set-up: Am I predicting an outright upset? Of course not! In my opinion, this is a great "situational spot wager." The Cleveland State Vikings are 0-2 and they're completely outclassed here, but I think they'll catch Ohio State flat-footed and disinterested here and I expect them to have a golden opportunity to keep this one close enough in the second half with the large spread it's been afforded. The Buckeyes squeaked by Notre Dame 90-85 last time out, and with a game at Purdue up next, following by a neutral court affair vs. North Carolina, can anyone say "look ahead" spot as well?!

The pick: Cleveland State threw in the white flag early in its 55 point loss to Ohio, but with that awkward and humbling blowout out of the way I think the Vikings are in fact being undervalued here. This is a great situational spot bet. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points.

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Cleveland State.

The set-up: La Salle is the "hungrier" dog in this fight at 1-3. So far in the early going the Explorers are averaging 63.8 points and allowing 67.3. Drexel has won three in a row and enters at 4-1, averaging 69.8 PPG and conceding 60.8. On paper, clearly Drexel is the better team. 

The pick: But I'll caution on reading too much into any of these numbers at this point. In a normal season, it's difficult to properly assess a team until after a full month is played. These teams are just starting their seasons and clearly the oddsmakers also believe they're very evenly matched with a spread like this. La Salle though is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after scoring 80 or more points in a victory in its last outing. Grab the points.

This is a 10* DESTRUCTION on La Salle.

The set-up: Marist is 2-0, coming off two close victories and I expect another battle until the final horn tonight as well vs. the Golden Griffins. Last year the Red Foxes were just 7-23 and they lost to Canisius twice. This is Canisius's first game of the year and while it did beat Marist twice last season, it still only finished 12-20 overall. Marist returns key players from last year's team and a major improvement is expected. Keep your eyes on Michael Cubbage, who averaged 13.5 PPG last year. 

The pick: The Golden Griffins return key players as well, but I think that chemistry is going to be an issue. Marist has two games under its belt and I think that's crucial here. Marist is also 7-2 ATS in its last nine after two or more SU victories in a row. The outright is possible obviously, but grab as many points as you can.

This is a 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on Marist.

The set-up: The Gophers are 5-0 straight-up, but they're only 1-3-1 ATS, failing to cover in three straight. I think that trend ends here in blowout fashion. UMKC is 2-2 so far, dropping its last two, most recently 62-58 to K-State. Minnesota enters off an 85-80 win over Boston College, getting 22 points from Marcus Carr. These teams aren't even close to being on the same level and there's no risk of the Gophers losing this game outright. Minnesota will win this game easily and I think also cover the spread at the same time as it looks to take advantage of this matchup, before tough upcoming games at Illinois and versus Iowa, Michigan State and Wisconsin. 

The pick: Minnesota is also 4-1 ATS in its last five after three straight ATS losses, while UMKC is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight after scoring 60 points or less in a SU loss in its previous outing. The Gophers have one last chance to pad their stats before the meat of their schedule and I look for them to do just that. Lay the points.

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on Minnesota.

The set-up: Cal is 2-3 and I think it's going to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire with the 2-2 Pepperdine Waves. Cal has lost to Oregon State, Arizona State and UCLA so far, while the Waves have lost to UCLA and SDSU. Both teams have struggled with stiffer competition and done well against the lower-tiered teams. 

The pick: The Waves were dominated in the second half in their loss to the Aztecs 45-26. Cal for the most part has been very competitive this year. The Golden Bears have responded well in this spot for bettors over the years though, as they're 12-4 ATS in their last 15 after scoring 58 points or less in a SU/ATS loss in their last outing. There's only a handful of games left for these teams in the regular season and I just don't see a very big talent gap whatsoever between these clubs. I think it'll come down to whichever of these hungry sides has its hands on the ball last and in a situation like that, I'm grabbing the points.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE MONTH on Cal.

The set-up: Outright victory? Anything under 10 points and it's always a very real possibility in basketball. The Herd are 2-0 and COC is 1-2. Marshall enters off an 80-64 win over Wright State. So far the Herd are averaging 75 points and allowing 60. 

The pick: COC is coming off an 81-57 loss to Furman. Zep Jasper was a lone bright spot with 12 points. COC is averaging 72.3 PPG and it's allowing 73, but note that it's 7-1 ATS in its last eight after scoring 60 points or less in a SU/ATS loss in its previous outing. I think this one comes down to the wire, so grab as many points as you can.

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on College Of Charleston.

The set-up: Rhode Island is 3-2 and Wisconsin is 3-1. After three straight victories, I think the Rams take a step back here. Rhode Island averages 79.2 PPG, while allowing 73. Fatts Russell is averaging 17.6 points and 3.6 assists to lead the team. 

The pick: The Badgers average 79 points, while conceding only 58.5. Leading the way is Nate Reuvers, who is averaging 14 points and 4.5 rebounds, along with Micah Potter, who is averaging 12.8 points and 6.5 rebounds. Both teams are strong. But a loss to Marquette aside, the Badgers have National Championship caliber and I expect them to pull away down the stretch, as I look for their elite level defense to be just too much for the Rams to handle. Lay the points.

This is an 8* SITUATIONAL MISMATCH on Wisconsin.

The set-up: USC is 3-1 SU and 2-2 ATS. With Stanford coming to town this weekend, I think the Trojans take the foot off the gas in the second half and I like the 1-2 SU UC Irvine Anteaters to take advantage. USC comes in off its first loss of the year, a 61-58 setback to UConn, while UC Irvine enters off its first win of the year, a 104-54 win over La Sierra. 

The pick: USC is winning by an average margin of 11.2 PPG this year, but it's also just 2-7 ATS in its last nine after scoring 60 points or less in a SU/ATS loss in its previous outing. Look for the hungry Anteaters to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch.

This is a 10* $UPER-$HOCKER on UC Irvine.

The set-up: Outright victory? I'm not calling for one. That said, I do think this one will come right down to the wire and as such, I'm grabbing the ample points. Montana is 0-2. It won't be lacking for motivation today and that's what I like when I look at potential teams to wager on. Overall the Grizzlies are averaging 66.3 PPG and allowing 71.7. 

The pick: Georgia is off to a 3-0 start, but its competition has been suspect. The Bulldogs have over a week off after this game, and then conference play begins with Cincinnati coming to town. The Bulldogs are not a great team and I think they get caught looking ahead. Note as well that the Grizzlies are 7-2 ATS in their last nine after three or more SU losses. As mentioned off the top, no outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points.

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Montana.

The set-up: Lipscomb is 1-3, while Southeast Missouri State is 1-1. The Bison beat Lamar in their opener, but it's faced three stiff opponents since and gone 0-3 (Tulane, Cininnati and Arkansas.) The Redhawks lost to Southern Illinois in their last outing. The Bison have performed well in this spot for bettors going, going 5-1 ATS in their last six following an ATS loss. 

The pick: The Redhawks on the other hand are just 4-9 ATS in their last 13 vs. teams with losing SU records. The Bison do indeed have a losing SU record, but that's due to the level of early competition. I look for Lipscomb's depth to prove to be too much for the Redhawks to handle. Lay the points.

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Lipscomb.

The set-up: FAU is 2-2 and North Florida is 0-5. The Owls are coming off back-to-back victories, but I think they finally stumble here vs. this desperate Ospreys side. In the early going FAU is averaging 81.8 PPG and allowing 58.3. This is in large part due to the level of its early competition though obviously. 

The pick: The Ospreys average 61.8 PPG and they allow 82.8. UNF has faced some decent competition out of the gate, but after four-straight on the road and one neutral site game, a little home-cooking is just what the doctor ordered for the Ospreys. With a week off before another game at Stetson, I think FAU gets caught looking ahead and flat-footed here. I'm grabbing the points, but would not be shocked by the outright victory.

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on North Florida.

The set-up: Kentucky is 1-2 and Georgia Tech is 0-2. Last year Kentucky won this game 67-53, setting this up as a revenge spot for the home side. The Wildcats have lost their last two games and after their disappointing setback to Kansas in their last outing, I believe they come out flat here. Richmond also upset Kentucky 76-64 as a 6.5 point dog this year. 

The picks: Georgia Tech is desperate as it looks to avoid the 0-3 hole. The Yellow Jackets can smell the blood in the water, as this Kentucky team is just not the same as in year's past after losing its top six scorers from a year ago. Additionally note that Kentucky is just 1-4-1 ATS in its last six road games vs. a team with a losing home record. Public perception has driven this road line larger than it should be. Outright is possible, but I'm going to recommend to grab as many points as you can in the end.

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on Georgia Tech.

The set-up:

The picks:

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on UCF.

The set-up: The Samford Bulldogs are 1-1 and the Belmont Bruins are 3-0. Am I predicting an outright upset here? I'm not. But I do think this one'll be a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. Samford is averaging 87 PPG and it's allowing 75.5. Of course, the sample size is small, but the season is a short one. 

The picks: The Bruins are averaing 81.7 PPG and they're allowing 68.7. These teams numbers are similar in the early going. Belmont is absolutely the better team here, but I think it gets caught looking past its lowly opponent and takes the foot off the gas in the second half. Samford's offense has impressed early and I think it'll hang tight late. Grab the points!

This is a 10* COACH'S CORNER on Samford.

The set-up: Both teams are winless. North Florida is 0-4 and High Point is 0-2. North Florida though has faced "murderers row" early thogh, with contests vs. Eastern Kentucky, NC State, Miami and Florida State. High Point has lost to Davidson and Elon. 

The pick: These teams are similar, but I've seen much more from the Ospreys and than the Panthers his season. Note as well that High Point is a poor 12-26 ATS in its last 38 home games, while North Florida is 21-6 ATS in it slast 27 road games. The Panthers are thin after their starters and that plays into this one as well. An outright is possible, but in the end grab as many points as you can.

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on North Florida.

The set-up: Minnesota is 3-0, most recently coming off a 67-64 win over Loyola Marymount. The Gophers average 84.7 PPG, and they concede just 68.7. North Dakota is 0-2, averaging 70.2, but allowing 77.5. Clearly Minnesota is the better team, but I think it takes the foot off the gas in the second half as it gets ready for Boston College to come to town on Monday. 

The pick: The Fighting Hawks are bad, but they know how to score. This is a great situational play in my opinion and just too many points, as I think the Gophers shiny 3-0 start has the general betting public helping in pushing this line a little too high. Clearly I'm not calling for an outright, but definitely closer than expected!

This is a 10* $UPER-$HOCKER on North Dakota.

The set-up: In a game which I see being decided by whichever of these evenly matched teams has its hands on the ball last, I'm going to grab the points. The Rockets are 2-2 after four games, while EMU is 0-1 after falling 83-67 at Michigan State to open up its campaign. The Rockets most recently beat Cleveland State 70-61 at home, but I think they'll struggle to find that same consistency on the road. EMU has four starters returning from a team that went 16-16 and I expect their determination after the setback to the Spartans to be a difference-maker here. 

The picks: EMU is also 7-2 ATS in its last nine home games following a ten points or greater SU road loss. Home court can't be overlooked as a very real advantage in this matchup. The outright is possible, but in the end let's grab the points!

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Eastern Michigan.

The set-up: Arizona State smashed Houston Baptist 100-77 last time out. Cal is riding a two-game winning streak, but I think it's completely outclassed here. Cal beat Nicholls 60-49 last time out. Arizona State averages 89.3 PPG, while Cal allows 60.3. 

The pick: This is the first true test for both teams this season. The season is still young. ASU has more depth and experience though and note that Cal is 0-5 the last five in this series. Arizona State on the other hand is 9-3 in its last 12 vs. unranked opponents. Cal doesn't have the scoring to keep pace, so lay the points!

This is an 8* SITUATIONAL BLOWOUT on Arizona State.

The set-up: Tennessee Tech enters off a 79-48 loss to Xavier. Kenny White Jr. was decent in defeat with 13 points. The Golden Eagles early numbers are poor, but this is a great "situational" play in my opinion, as Northern Kentucky comes in off a tight 74-73 win over Ball State in its opener and with a game at 2-0 Chattanooga up next, this sets up as a classic letdown/look-ahead spot for the home side. 

The picks: Tennessee Tech is still 4-1 ATS in its last five overall, while UNT is just 2-6 ATS in its last eight as a home favorite in the 10.5 to 12.5 points range. Is UNT the better team here? Probably, but there's still plenty of unknowns. I'm not predicting an outright upset, but the stage is definitely set for a much more competitive battle than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe.

This is a 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on Tennessee Tech.

The set-up: Murray State had its first three games cancelled, but won its last one by a lop-sided score of 173-95 over the Greenville Panthers (sub-division team obviously). MTSU is 0-2, most recently coming off a 57-43 loss to East Tennessee State. This is a big yard-stick game for both teams. They're evenly matched and I expect this one to be decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last. 

The picks: MTSU's offense has been lacklustre, but it catches a break today facing this unproven Murray State offense. The Blue Raiders' defense though has been sharp and the massive step up in play, combined with the road venue will prove to be Murray State's undoing today in my estimation. I think the home side pushes the pace from start to finish and while the outright win is obviously not out of the question, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can.

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on MTSU.

The set-up: Morehead State enters this game off a confidence building 69-61 win over Arkansas State last time out and while I'm not predicting an outright upset or anything here, I do think that the Buckeyes will get caught looking past their lowly opponent today to a few days, before three straight road games at Notre Dame, Purdue and North Carolina respectively. From a situational stand point, the back door has definitely been left wide open for the Eagles to fly through. Ohio State is 2-0, coming off a 74-64 win over UMass-Lowell last time out. 

The pick: This same Morehead State team just gave Richmond a run for its money a couple of weeks ago, a team which just upset Kentucky a few days ago. Ohio State is the better team that's playing at home, but this is way too many points considering the circumstances. I'm grabbing the points.

This is an 8* COACH'S CORNER on Morehead State.

The set-up: The Cornhuskers enter off a disheartening 69-66 last second loss to Nevada in their last game and I think they'll still collectively be hung up on that setback. SDSU won't be lacking for motivation as it's 0-2 to start. Most recently the Coyotes lost 69-53 to Drake. 

The pick: The Cornhuskers are the bigger, more talented team that's at home and on paper, they're clearly the better team here. But I think this one sets up great from a situational stand point for the underdog visiting side, which I think comes in under the radar here. With a game vs. lowly FAMU up next, I think the Huskers come out flat here and play down to the level of their competition. Conversely, everything points to SDSU fighting tooth and nail until the final horn. Grab the points!

This is a 10* GAME OF THE WEEK on South Dakota.

The set-up: Cleveland State won only 11 games last year, but with most of its players returning, the Vikings are going to take a step forward this season. This is a revenge game as well, as Toledo won this game on the road 80-65. The ROckets have lost two of their first three, including a three-point loss to Xavier. 

The pick: I think Toledo is the better overall team in this matchup, but the situation favors Cleveland State. I think Toledo is still mentally hung up on the Xavier loss, while Cleveland State is not getting enough respect from the oddsmakers in my estimation considering the players that are returning. No outright, but much closer than this spread would suggest. 

This is an 8* PLAY-BOOK on Cleveland State.

The set-up: Oklahoma State is 2-0 and I think an outright win is possible in this matchup as well. Most recently it enters off a 20-point win over Texas Southern. Marquette is 2-0 as well, most recently beating Eastern Illinois 75-50 on Friday. Overall the Cowboys average 80.0 PPG and they allow 66.5, while Marquette averages 87 and allows 53.5. Of course, these early numbers for both teams are skewed due to the level of the competion. 

The pick: With a spread like this, the oddsmakers clearly believe these teams are evenly matched. And they are. However Oklahoma State's outside shooting is the difference maker for me (42% from range). In a contest which I see coming down to whichever of these team's has its hands on the ball last, I'm going to grab the points.

This is an 8* SUPER SHOCKER on Oklahoma State.

The set-up: No need to overanalyze this pick. I played against Oakland last night in its loss to Xavier on Wednesday night. This is the middle game of the first annual Xavier Invitational. Oakland lost 101-49 and I believe it'll have its hands full here today as well. The Rockets on the other hand lost a 61-59 decision to Bradley in their opener. Toldedo cover the spread though with the 2.5 points it was afforded. Four players scored in double figures for the Rockets and I like them to take out their frustrations on the younger Grizzlies. 

The picks: The Grizzlies had no players score in double figures yesterday. Note that they're a poor 1-4 ATS in their last five after allowing 100 points or more in their previous outing, while the Rockets are a sharp 4-1 ATS in their last five neutral site games. Oakland won this matchup last year, so Toledo also has the revenge factor going for it as well. Look for Toledo's depth and experience to prove to be the difference and lay the points!

This is an 8* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on Toledo.

The set-up: Xavier was 19-13 last year and Oakland finished 14-19. The Grizzlies will start the year without star guard Zion Young, due to eligibility issues. Oakland lost plenty of other talent in the off-season and while this used to be a mid-major team which the power conferences had to take seriously, that's not going to be the case this year. Rashad Williams averaged 19.5 points per game last year, but beyond him, this Grizzlies team is thin for sure. 

The pick: Xavier Coach Travis Steele is on the hot seat this year. The Musketeers are accustomed to winning big, but he's yet to attain the level that the fan base expects. With many key starters and others returning though, Steele is set to have his team climb back to prominence. Paul Scruggs averaged 12.7 points per game last year, and he leads a rugged group of gritty swingmen. Look for Xavier's depth and experience to prove to be too much for these young Grizzlies to handle down the stretch. 

This is an 8* DESTRUCTION on Xavier.

The set-up: These teams have played twice this year already and Indiana is 2-0. Both games have been very competitive though and I fully expect a repeat performance of those contests here. Indiana won 96-90 in OT in the first game, while then also winning 82-74 in the second. The Cornhuskers are the worst team in the Big Ten, but Indiana had plenty of issues as well this season. Not only does Nebraska play with revenge here after the two regular season losses, but it'll also be out to play spoiler, as the Hoosiers are definitely on the bubble as far as making the NCAA Tournament is concerned. 

The pick: Nebraska is also already 2-1 ATS in neutral court games this year and 3-1 ATS in revenging a home loss vs. an opponent, while Indiana is a poor 1-4 ATS in its last five after scoring 60 points or less in its previous contest. No outright, but expect a battle until the end. Grab as many points as you can.

10* SHOCKER ELITE OF THE ELITE on Nebraska.

The set-up: Both teams finished 15-15. This is a revenge game for Clemson after it lost 73-68 in OT to the Hurricanes on New Years Eve. The Tigers lost two in a row to end the regular season, while Miami beat Syracuse in OT in its finale. Previous to that though the Hurricanes had lost three straight. Of note, Miami is playing without leading scorer Chris Lykes here, who was injured in a loss vs. Virginia last Wednesday. Clemson has struggled with consistency, but it does have some epic wins, including over Duke, Louisville and Florida State.) 

The pick: Additionally note that Clemson is already 2-0 ATS this year in all neutral court games, while Miami Florida is just 1-3 ATS in all neutral court affairs this season. Clemson's defense is ranked 39th in the nation and it plays with revenge here. I love the Tigers in this matchup.

8* HIGH-NOON SPECIAL on Clemson.

The set-up: Sacramento State is 15-14 and Weber State is 12-19. These teams split a pair of games during the regular season, but I still think that the Hornets are the better and ultimately deeper team in this particular matchup. Sacramento State stumbled down the stretch of the regular season, but it ranks sixth in the nation in defense by allowing only 59.9 PPG. Weber State lost three of their final four regular season games, allowing an average of 81.7 PPG in the setbacks. 

The pick: Note as well that Sacramento State is 10-4 ATS this year when playing the role of favorite and 8-4 ATS this season after playing its last game as an underdog, while Weber State is a poor 1-3 ATS in all neutral cour games this year. I think the Hornets' incredible defensive play is the difference maker in this one. Lay the points.

10* BIG SKY TOURNAMENT GAME OF THE YEAR on Sacramento State.

The set-up: Virginia Tech beat UNC 79-77 in double OT on January 22nd, the only meeting between the schools this season. Both teams ended the regular season with a loss. Both teams disappointed this year overall. Cole Anthony is a lone bright spot for the Tar Heels (19.6 PPG), but beyond him that Tar Heels are very thin. 

The pick: UNC has been a downright disaster for bettors in this spot all year though, going just 5-14 ATS in its last 19 as a favorite, while VT has been money in the bank by going 7-3 ATS this year after allowing 65 points or less in two straight games and 4-1 ATS in its last five after playing a game as a road underdog. I'm expecting an outright win, but I'm grabbing the points as insurance.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on Virginia Tech.

The set-up: I think the No. 8 Ohio Bobcats are going to have their hands full here vs. the No. 9 CMU Chippewas this evening. CMU plays with revenge after a 77-69 road defeat to Ohio in mid February. The Chips won't be lacking for motivation here. They opened the season 6-2 and then lost nine straight, before then finally posting an 85-68 win over WMU in its finale. CMU has the firepower to match anyone in the conference, as it is in fact the highest scoring team by averaging 78.7 PPG. The Bobcats started 2-7 and then won six of their final nine in conference play. Overall though the Bobcats average only 71.1 PPG this year. 

The pick: Yes the Chips have struggled defensively, but they closed out the regular season on a high-note and I like them to carry that momentum over here. Outright victory is possible, but in the end let's grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on Central Michigan.

The set-up: This is the final day of the Big Ten regular season and I think the home side will find a way to get the job done on Seniors Night. The Terps will be especially motivated here as well after dropping three of their last four. Overall the Wolverines average 75.2 PPG, while allowing 67.8. The Wolverines though are a sub-par 4-6 as the away team this season. Maryland averages 71.4 PPG and it allows 64.3. The Terps though are 15-1 at home this year. 

The pick: Regardless of today's result, both teams will be in The Tournament. It's been a big sucess for Michigan and first year head coach Juwan Howard, but I think the home side continues its brilliant play on its own floor. I expect the No. 1 team in the conference to shake off some recent scuffling play with a signature victory on Sunday afternoon. Lay the points.

10* BLOCKBUSTER on Maryland.

The set-up: This is the final game of the regular season for each team. I think this one means a lot more to the Seniors on Xavier as the Musketeers look to avenge a 66-61 road loss to the Butler Bulldogs in February. As primarily a "situational handicapper," this is exactly the type of "situation" and "motivation" I look for when breaking down a contest. Overall Butler averages 68.4 PPG and it allows 61.8. But not only is Xavier hungry to avenge the loss to Butler on Senior night, but it's still in a fight for one of the final spots in the upcoming NCAA Tournament. Most recently the Musketeers fell 80-74 to Providence, making this a "must win" game for all intents and purposes. Overall Xavier averages 70.8 PPG and it allows 67.3. 

The pick: Xavier is 16-4 in its last 20 at home and 7-1 ATS in its last eight home games as well. I think Xavier pulls away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points.

10* GAME OF THE MONTH on Xavier. 

The set-up: It's senior night for Georgetown. The Hoyas enter having lost five straight and with nothing to lose, I think the home side does in fact play with pride as it tries to pull off the big upset on national TV. Overall the Wildcats average 73.3 PPG and htey allow 66.3, while the Hoyas average 75.3 PPG and allow 74. 

The pick: Note as well that Villanova is just 3-7 ATS this year after plyaing three straight conference contests, while Georgetown is 12-5 ATS in its last 17 after two or more consecutive losses. Look for this one to come down to the wire and grab as many points as you can.

8* PLAY-BOOK on Georgetown.

The set-up: This is the final game of the regular season for each. I'm basing this play most only the "revenge angle," as Georgia Tech posted the 68-59 home victory in the reverse fixture earlier in the season. The Yellow Jackets won't be participating in any tournaments this year because of a ban, so this is a meaningless game to them. Overall Georgia Tech averages 68.7 PPG and it allows 66.6. The Tigers average 66.9 PPG, but they make up for it on the other end by allowing only 63.9. 

The pick: Not only does Clemson play with revenge on Seniors Night, but note that Georgia Tech is 0-14 on the road in its last 14 in this series (the Tigers have won those games by an average of 10.1 points). Georgia Tech has lost four of its last five on the road and I expect the home side to take full advantage.

10* BEST OF THE BEST on Clemson.

The set-up: The Beavers upset the Cardinal by five on the road earlier in the season and I believe they'll find a way to do it again on their own floor tonight. The home side will be looking to play spoiler here on Seniors Night, as Stanford comes in having won four straight and on the verge of punching its ticket to The Big Dance. The Beavers are desperate to stop a four-game slide of their own and while they'll likely need to win the Conference tournament now to get an invite, there's still plenty to play for here for the home side. 

The pick: Note as well that Stanford is already 0-2 ATS this year after successfully covering the spread in four or more consecutive games, while Oregon State is a sharp 9-5 ATS at home this season. I'm laying the points on the hungrier home side on Seniors night.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on Oregon State.

The set-up: I think 17-10 Siena is going to lay the smackdown on 11-18 Niagara. This is a revenge game for the Saints after the Purple Eageles somehow managed a SU outright, 1-point win over the Saints. Niagara has won four of its last six games, while Sienna has won seven of its last ten. 

The pick: The Purple Eagles though for the most part have been terrible defensively, allowing their opponents to hit at a 46 percent rate from the floor. The Saints on the other hand have turned up the pressure defensively of late and I look for that trend to carry over here vs. this poor Niagara offense (note that the Saints have given up an average of just 60 points in their last seven conference contests.) The Saints are also 4-1 ATS in their last five at home. I'm laying the points here and expecting a blowout of epic proportions.

10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on Siena. 

The set-up: In this battle between 15-13 Clemson and 15-14 Virginia Tech, I think that the "home court advantage" will be significant for the Hokies tonight. VT has to be feeling confident here as well, as it already beat the Tigers on their own floor earlier in the season. Both teams have big victories on the season, but each has looked downright terrible at times as well. 

The pick: And after losing nine of its last ten, I absolutely believe that Virginia Tech is the "hungrier" team in this fight, especially considering that the Tigers enter off an improbable last-second upset over Louisville! Can anyone say letdown spot?! Each team is playing for pride for the most part here, but VT is desperate on Seniors Night. Lay the short points.

10* ACC BEST OF THE BEST on Virginia Tech.

The set-up: The Bearcats will be in the NCAA Tournament, but they won't want to take the foot off the gas now with just two games left in the regualr season. USF is just 6-10 in AAC action. The only way the Bulls are going to The Dance is if they can somehow win the conference tournament, and obviously that's not going to happen. I think the Bearcats can "smell the blood in the water" and I look for them to deliver the knock out blow to the home side's hopes tonight. The Bearcats can lock up a spot in the NCAA Tournament today and I expect them to play with desperation from the opening tip, until the final horn. 

The pick: Note as well that Cincinnati is 7-2 ATS in its last nine conference road games as a favorite in the -1.5 to -4.5 points range. The Bearcats are deeper, more talented and are the "hungrier dog" in this fight. I'm laying the points.

10* ULTIMATE BLOWOUT BEST OF THE BEST on Cincinnati.

The set-up: It's 18-10 Xavier at 15-13 Georgetown. I think the home side is going to find a way to get the job done here. Note that the Hoyas play with revenge after the flost by nine at Xavier earlier in the year. Xavier is projected to be a ten seed in the NCAA Tournament, but Georgetown is on the bubble and falling off quickly after three straight losses. This is essentially a "do or die" game for the Hoyas. They also play with revenge. As primarily a "situational" handicapper, I do indeed believe that from a situational stand point, this one sets up great for the home side. 

The pick: Note as well that Xavier is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine conference road games as a -3.5 points favorite or pick, while Georgetown is 6-2 ATS in its last eight conference home games after three games or longer SU losing streak. I'm backing the "hungrier" dog in this fight. 

10* BLOWOUT BEST OF THE BEST on Georgetown.

The set-up: Back on January 21st these teams played together and Kansas won 81-60, but at the end there was a bench clearing brawl that made national head lines and each team had players suspended because of it. Kansas comes in off a big 25 point win over Oklahoma State, while K-State enters off an 85-66 loss to Baylor. But after covering the spread in six straight games, I think the visiting side will be in for a real fight here vs. this revenge-minded home side. 

The pick: K-State may have lost eight in a row, but note that it's 7-2 ATS in its last nine in trying to revenge a conference road loss as a ten points or higher underdog. I think Kansas does in some small way get caught looking past K-State today. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points.

10* REVENGE BEST OF THE BEST on Kansas State.

The set-up: Ultimately I think that Pitt comes in under the radar here after five-straight losses. NC State has issues as well, as it enters having lost two straight. Neither team is "hungrier" than the other, so we can throw overall motivation out the window here in this one. Overall the Panthers average 64.9 PPG and they allow 64.6, while NC State averages 74.5 PPG and it allows 69.6.

The pick: Note as well that Pitt is 7-3 ATS in its last ten conference road games following a five-games or longer SU losing streak, while NC State is just 4-6 ATS in its last ten home conference games as a favorite in the 7.5 to 9.5 points range. I'm grabbing the points.

10* ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on Pittsburgh.

The set-up: VCU is 7-7 in conference play after an 80-62 loss in St. Louis last time out. A date vs. 6-8 UMass is just what the doctor ordered to get untracked though in my opinion. UMass looks poised for a letdown here ultimately in my opinion after two straight wins, including a 57-49 victory over Fordham. Overall VCU averages 71.3 PPG and it allows 65, while the Minutemen average 68.7 PPG and they allow 71.6. 

The pick: VCU is the "hungrier" team here for sure after four straight losses. The Rams though are a money-making 7-2 ATS in their last nine following a four-games or longer conference losing streak and I expect this strong trend to continue here. Lay the points.

8* ULTIMATE DESTRUCTION on VCU.

The set-up: Villanove will be playing in the tournament, but St. John's is desperate for a few more wins. An outright upset here would solidify its spot and while I'm not actually calling for the outright upset, I do think that the stage is set for a much more competitive battle than what this spread would suggest. The Red Storm play with revenge here after losing by 20 to the Wildcats at home earlier in the season. Clearly Villanova is the better team, but after four straight wins I beleive it'll struggle to maintain focus today. 

The pick: Note as well that St. John's is 7-3 ATS in its last ten conference road games in trying to revenge a same season home loss of 20 points or more, while Villanova is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine after a three-games or longer SU/ATS unbeaten streak. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points.

10* ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE on St. John's.

The set-up: Kent State comes in hungry after its 104-98 double OT loss to Buffalo last time out. Buffalo now moves two games ahead of the Flashes and with just four games remaining, it's now or never for Kent State. A date vs. the last place Redhawks is just what the doctor ordered to get untracked as well. Kent State also plays with revenge here after inexplicably falling to Miami Ohio 77-74 in the reverse fixture. 

The pick: Kent State is also 4-1 ATS in its last five after back-to-back SU losses and as a home favorite in the -9.5 to -11.5 points range, while Miami Ohio is just 4-6 ATS in its last ten on the road. If not now, when for the Flashes?! I'm expecting a victory of the "rocking chair" variety here. Lay the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on Kent State.

The set-up: Kansas is better than Oklahoma State in every conceivable way, but the Jayhawks look primed for a classic "letdown" here in my estimation after their big road win over then No. 1 Baylor last time out. Oklahoma State comes in with nothing to lose and the Cowboys are also confident, as they enter off an 83-66 win over Oklahoma. From a situational stand point, I think this one sets up beautifully for the visiting side. 

The pick: Note though that Oklahoma State is 3-0 ATS in its last three as a road dog of 12.5 points or more, while KU is already 0-4 ATS this season as a home favorite in the 12.5 to 15 points range. Grab the points, expect a competitive battle until the end.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on Oklahoma State.

The set-up: Boise State is 18-10 overall and 10-6 in conference polay, but 17-11 New Mexico (6-9) isn't going to simply roll over here. New Mexico comes in desperate after three straight losses (all to stiff competition: SDSU, UNLV and Nevada). Overall New Mexico averages 78.5 PPG, while allowing 76.6. Boise State averages 77 PPG and it allows 69.4. 

The pick: New Mexico is also 7-2 ATS in its last nine conference road games after three or more SU conference losses, while Boise State is just 3-5 ATS in its last eight home games as a favorite in the -8.5 to -11.5 points range. This spread is just too large considering all of these factors listed above.

10* DESTRUCTION on New Mexico.

The set-up: Cal is jsut 11-15, while Washington is only 12-15. The Huskies though play with revenge here after falling 61-58 in OT at Cal earlier in the year. The Golden Bears broke a four-game slide with their first road win of the year last time out in beating Washignton State, but I think a predictable letdown is inevitable here vs. this revenge minded home side. These team's offensive and defensive numbers are similar (poor), but note that the Huskies are still 9-6 at home this year and they're two Pac 12 victories have also been on their own floor.

The pick: Finally note that Cal is just 1-5 ATS this year as a road dog in the 6.5 to 12 points range, while Washington is 3-1 ATS in its last four vs. poor offensive teams which average 64 points or less per contest. I think the hungrier home side keeps the foot on the gas until the final horn. Lay the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on Washington.

The set-up: The defending National Champs are going to be in a dog-fight today in my opinion. And in a contest which I believe is decided by whichever team has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points. UVA has won three straight after an 80-73 loss to Louisville earlier in the month. UVA's defense remains elite this year, holding opponents to just 52.6 PPG, but it's offense has been putrid in averaging only 57.6 PPG. 

The pick: Pittsburgh will need a miracle to make it into the NCAA tournament, but the Panthers are still gunning for a spot in the NIT. Off three straight losses, I think Pittsburgh hangs tough here at home. Overall Pitt averages 65.9 PPG and it allows 64.6. Additionally note that UVA is just 6-14 ATS as the favorite this year, while Pittsburgh is a stellar 5-1 ATS this year vs. good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per game. Grab the points.

10* UNDERDOG BLOOD-BATH on Pittsburgh.

The set-up: This is a big game for these middle of the pack A 10 teams. VCU is 17-9 and Saint Louis is 18-8. VCU is on the bubble now after four straight losses, meaning that every contest from here on out is essentially 'do or die.' VCU though comes in off two tight losses vs. two really good teams in Richmond and Dayton, holding the high-flying Flyers to just 66 points. The Billikens come in with zero momentum as well after losing three of their last four. Saint Louis recently suffered a big blow when guard Gibson Jimerson was lost to a foot injury. 

The pick: VCU is also an awesome 11-5 ATS in its last 16 as a road favorite or pick (including 3-1 ATS this year), while Saint Louis is already a poor 2-5 ATS in its last seven after playing a road game. The Rams' recent losing streak can be attributed to the level of their competition of late. I'm banking on a blowout from start to finish.

10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on VCU.

The set-up: Both teams still have an outside shot at The Tournament. Belmont comes in off a 101-84 win over Jacksonville State, but after six straight wins, I believe the visiting side does indeed get caught "looking past" its opponent in some small way today. Morehead State is clearly the "hungrier" team after three straight losses. Morehead State also plays with revenge here. 

The pick: Note as well that Belmont is already a poor 4-7 ATS this year as a road favorite or pick and just 1-4 ATS in its last five after two straight covers as a double digit favorite, while Morehead State is 3-1 ATS in its last four off a blowout loss by 20 points or more to a conference rival. I'm banking on the hungier, revenge-minded home side to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with teh ample points it's been afforded in this one.

10* REVENGE BEST OF THE BEST is Morehead State.

The set-up: After four straight victories, I think that Richmond gets caught looking past lowly George Mason, which is just 3-9 in league play so far. George Mason plays with revenge here though after the Spiders won 97-87 on the road in mid January. The Patriots average 68.2 PPG and the Spiders average 75.1. The Patriots still have an outside shot at the NCAA Tournament, but it'll depend on how they close out the rest of the way and what they do in the Conference tournament. One game at a time obviously.

The pick: George Mason is also a perfect 3-0 ATS in its last three as a road dog in the +12.5 to +15 points range, while Richmond is just 2-3 ATS in its last five after two straight wins by ten points or more. I'm grabbing the points and expecting a much more competitive battle than what this spread would suggest.

8* MID-MAJOR MAULING on George Mason.

The set-up: The Citadel won't be lacking for motivation here, as it's just 6-19 overall and winless in conference play. I had a pick on St. Joe's last night and it also was winless in conference action, until its monster come from behind upset outright victory. While I don't expect anything as dramatic as that in this one, everything does point to the home side keeping it competitive throughout in my opinion. Chattanooga is 7-7 in the Southern Conference. Note that Chattanooga averages 72 PPG, while the Citadel averages 76. 

The pick: Additionally I'll point out that Chattanooga is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven after successfully covering the spread in three or more straight outings, while The Citadel is 6-2 ATS this season revenging a loss vs. an opponent which scored 85 points or more. Grab the points, expecting a close battle.

10* SITUATIONAL DESTRUCTION on The Citadel.

The set-up: Vandy is just 3-7 the last ten in this series, but I think the "under the radar" visiting side does enough to get the comfortable cover once it's all said and done. Saban Lee averages 21 PPG for the Commodores, who average a very respectable 69 points per game on the road. Vanderbilt's poor defense catches a break here as well facing the slower paced Vols, who average only 66 PPG at home this season. 

The pick: Note as well that Vanderbilt is 7-3 ATS In its last ten as a road dog in the 6.5 to 12 points range, while Tennessee is only 5-8 ATS this year as a home favorite. I think Vanderbilt's offense mathches pace and while I'm not going to call for the outright upset, everything points to a competitive battle. Grab the points.

9* REVENGE DESTRUCTION on Vanderbilt.

The set-up: Davidson is 13-11 overall, 7-5 in conference play and just 4-6 as the road team. It looks poised for a letdown here in my estimation after its big 93-64 win over St. Bonaventure. I think the Wildcats get caught looking past their lowly opponent today. The Hawks are 4-21 overall, 0-12 in league play and 2-9 at home. Most recently St. Joe's fell to Rhode Island 73-55. 

The pick: Davidson is just 4-7 ATS on the road this year and it's 0-2 ATS after scoring 75 points or more in two straight games. St. Joe's on the other hand is already 4-1 ATS this year after three straight losses by ten points or more. I admit the Hawks are horrible, but Davidson has been poor as well. This sets up as a bit of a mental letdown spot for the visitors, while the home side is still desperate to post its first conference victory of the year. I'm grabbing the points.

8* ATS BLOOD-BATH on St. Joseph's.

The set-up: Both teams should be in the NCAA Tournament. The Illini though come in as the "hungrier" team though after a loss to Rutgers last time out. Illinois has a balanced attack and it's ranked as the 32nd best tam according to KenPom. Penn State beat Northwestern 77-61 last time out, its eighth straight win. KenPom has the Nittany Lions ranked as the 11th best team in the Nation, but I think the home side will have its hands full with this determined visiting side.

The pick: Illinois is also already 2-0 ATS this year off an embarrassing road loss in which it scored less than 60 points in and 5-1 ATS in its last six vs. good offensvie teams which score 77 plus points per contest. I'm banking on the hungry visiting side to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire.

10* 'COACH'S CORNER' on Illinois.

The set-up: Kansas has won ten straight and it sits just one game back of 12-0 Baylor for the lead. The Jayhawks are at the Bears in their next game and I think that sets this one up as a bit of a "trap" for the home side. Note that Iowa State also plays with revenge after losing 79-53 at home to the Jayhawks earlier in the year. The Cyclones additionally come in "under the radar" after winning two of their last three. That includes their best offensive performance of the year in their 81-52 win over Texas. From a situational stand point, I think this one sets up well for the Cyclones. Kansas can't afford to lose any ground on Baylor, but I believe that the conditions are all in place to classify this as a "trap" for the home side. 

The pick: Note as well that Iowa State is 3-1 ATS in its last four in revenging a same season loss vs. an opponent, while Kansas is already 0-4 ATS this year as a home favorite in the 12.5 to 18 points range. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on Iowa State. 

The set-up: Villanova won't want to take the foot off the gas now in this dangerous non-conference road matchup on Sunday afternoon. The Wildcats escaped most recently with a slim 72-71 win over Marquette on Wednesday, while the Owls nudged past Tulane 72-68. Villanova's five starters all average in double figures; overall the Wildcats average 73.5 PPG. Temple has just two players averaging in double figures and the Owls average 69.3 PPG. 

The pick: Temple's been great at home of late, but now the level of competition gets raised dramatically. Villanova's depth is going to be the difference for me today, as I expect the Wildcats to come in focussed on the task at hand after their most recent "close call." Lay the points.

10* SUPER-DESTRUCTION on Villanova.

The set-up: Both teams will be equally as "hungry" here. Both teams come in off losses. Syracuse is in a two-way tie for fifth place and so far its 4-2 on the road this year. Overall the Orange average 74 PPG and they allow 68.3. The Seminoles are coming in off a loss to Duke. FSU averages 75.1 PPG and it allows 65.1. 

The pick: I'll point out though that Syracuse is 7-3 ATS in its last ten conference road games as an underdog in the 8.5 to 11.5 points range, while FSU is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven home games following a SU loss and favored by 8.5 points or more. I like the Orange to fight until the end. Grab the points.

10* VERY EARLY NATIONAL TV BLOCKBUSTER on Syracuse.

The set-up: This is a big game, as both teams are tied for eighth spot with a 5-7 record in the MAAC. The Stags play with revenge today after the Red Foxes picked up the 70-58 road win, snapping an 11 game losing streak for Marist at the time. Both teams season averages are comparable. They're bad. Marist's recent/current form is better, but I think that swings the value the other way here. Fairfield is the hungrier/more desperate team and it's also playing with revenge. 

The pick: And note that Fairfield is 10-5 ATS as an underdog this year and 4-0 ATS this season revenging a SU loss vs. an opponent as a favorite, while Marist is 0-2 ATS this year as a favorite and just 2-3 ATS this season off an upset win as an underdog. Clearly the outright is possible, but let's grab the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on Fairfield.

The set-up: Memphis has the better overall record at 17-6, but it's 6-4 ACC record sits behind 15-8 Cincinnati's record of 8-3. The Bearcats fell 60-49 at Memphis earlier in the year, making "revenge" a significant factor working in their favor tonight. Memphis averages 73.7 PPG and it allows 64.1, while Cincinnati averages 72.5 PPG and it allows 65.7. 

The pick: Note though that Cincinnati is 4-0 ATS in its last four following a SU loss and 5-1 ATS in its last six at home, while Memphis is 0-3-1 ATS in its last four following three or more straight home games. The Bearcats have gotten better as the season has worn on. I like the home side to play with aggression tonight on its own floor and to avenge the earlier loss. Lay the points.

9* BLOWOUT DESTRUCTION on Cincinnati.

The set-up: Wichita State opened the season 15-1, but it's since lost five of its last seven. It beat UCF 89-79 at home earlier in the year, but it didn't cover the 11.5 point spread. The UCF Knights have won two in a row, but I think they'll have their hands full here vs. the No. 45 Shockers who average 72.3 PPG, and allow 64.5. UCF averages 68.3 PPG and it allows 66.7. 

The pick: Note though that the Shockers are a perfect 3-0 ATS in their last three after three or more consecutive losses, while UCF is only 3-7 ATS at home this year and just 1-2 ATS in trying to revenge a loss vs. an opponent. This is a big game for the Shockers and I look for them to finally get back on track in this favorable matchup. Lay the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on Wichita State.

The set-up: The Musketeers won their third game in a row by beating Providence 64-58, but I think they'll have their hands full with this hungry home side this evening. Butler won't be lacking for motivation after a poor 76-57 loss to Marquette in its latest action. Overall Xavier is averaging 71.3 PPG, while the Bulldogs average 68.9. The Bulldogs though are ranked 48th in field goal percentage in the nation. 

The pick: The Musketeers are also only 3-4 ATS on the road, including 0-2 ATS as a road dog in the 3.5 to six points range, while Butler is 7-3 ATS in its last ten as a home favorite or pick. I think the "hungrier" home side rises up to the challenge and gets back no track with a conviving win. Lay the points.

10* BLOCKBUSTER on Butler.

The set-up: Notre Dame comes in off a four-point road win over Clemson to improve to 15-8 on the year and 6-6 in league play, but I believe it'll take a step back here vs. the defensive-minded Cavaliers. Virginia comes in highly motivated after a seven point loss to Louisville in its last action, falling to 15-7 overall and 7-5 in conference play. Notre Dame averages 76.2 PPG and it allows 68.4. UVA averages 56.8 PPG and it allows only 51.7. 

The pick: As good as the Irish have looked of late, note that they're still just 3-4 ATS as an underdog this year and just 1-3 ATS after allowing 60 points or less. And note that UVA has performed well in this spot for bettors by going 4-1 ATS in its last five off a road loss. I believe the hungrier home side's suffocating defensive play is the difference maker in this one. Lay the points.

10* PLAY-BOOK on Virginia. 

The set-up: Northwestern comes in focussed after having a week off to absorb its one point loss to Purdue last weekend. This is the first time these teams have played this year, but last season they split, each winning on the road. Note that the Wildcats are 4-1 all time at the RAC. This is the start of four games in ten days for Northwestern, so getting out on the "right foot" of a journey like this always paramount and with a week off to prepare, I expect NW to keep this one a lot closer than what this spread would suggest. Rutgers returns home after a two-game trip. The Scarlet Knights are 15-0 at home so far this year. Note though that NU has suffered four conference defeats this season by four points or less. 

The pick: Note as well that NW is 6-3 ATS in its last nine road games when playing with six or more days rest and as a double-digit underdog, while Rutgers is only 4-5 ATS in its last nine home games as a favorite in the -10 to -13.5 points range. I think the home side comes in complacent and I believe the visitors come in hungry. Probably no outright, but it'll be close. Grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on Northwestern.

The set-up: Cornell jumped out to an early lead yesterday in its 73-62 win over Princeton and I expect it to keep the foot on the gas here. Pennsvylvania comes in off a 76-67 victory at Columbia, but I believe it'll have a much tighter fight on its hands today vs. the suddenly confident Big Red team. Cornell now faces former Big Red head coach Steve Donahue today, looking to avenge the fact that they've dropped 13 of the last 14 in this series. 

The pick: Note that Penn is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten when coming off a five-points or greater victory and playing with zero days rest, while Cornell is 8-2 ATS in its last ten home games playing on no rest and off a win of ten points or more. I like the home side to at the very least, take this one right down to the final moments. Grab the points.

8* BEST OF BEST on Cornell.

The set-up: Harvard is 13-6 and it's looking to bounce back after losing its last two games by a combined four points. Most recently The Crimson fell to Princeton, 70-69. Harvard is still 6-3 on the road though and I think it will in fact use the last two losses as motivation to once again take this contest down to the wire. Outright victory? Clearly very possible. But in a game which I envision coming down to whichever of these hungry sides has its hands on the ball last, I'm grabbing the points. Yale is 7-0 at home and 14-4 ATS this year. The Bulldogs are no pushovers, but I think that's just added incentive for The Crimson to "come to play" today. 

The pick: Note as well that Harvard is 20-4 ATS in its last 24 as an underdog, including 2-0 ATS this year, while Yale is just 6-8 ATS in its last 14 off a home vs. a conference rival, including 0-2 ATS this season. This one has "nail biter" written all over it, so grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on Harvard.

The set-up: I think the second place Cougars get caught looking past their lowly opponent tonight. Now, I'm not calling for the outright upset or anything, but I'm definitely expecting a much tighter battle than what this spread would suggest. Yes, BYU is 6-3 in WCC action and Portland is just 9-15 overall and 1-7 in league play, but I believe the home side "comes to play" tonight. BYU comes in off a monumental 81-79 win over Saint Mary's last time out, which sets it up for a classic "letdown" here in my opinion. Portland most recently fell 85-61 to Santa Clara. 

The pick: Note though that BYU is just 1-3 ATS this season already as a road favorite or pick and just 9-19 ATS in its last 28 off a win vs. a conference rival, while Portland is already 3-0 ATS this season in revenging a loss in which the opponent scored 85 points or more in. Look for the Pilots to play with passion as they try to avenge the earlier setback and expect the visitors to leave the back door open just enough for home side to comfortably sneak in through once it's all said and done.

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Portland.

The set-up: Weber State is the "hungrier" team here in my opinion. The Wildcats are 8-14 overall and 4-7 in Big Sky play. Weber State beat Southern Utah last Thursday, and then fell to Northern Colorado on the weekend. Sacramento State is 11-9 overall, but it's also only just 4-7 in league action. The Hornets come in with zero momentum as well, as they've lost three straight, most recently a 67-53 setback to Idaho on Monday. Weber State also plays with the added incentive of "revenge" tonight after it fell 71-57 in Sacramento back on January 11th. 

The pick: Sacramento State is also a poor 3-6 ATS in its last nine as a road dog of three points or less (including 0-2 ATS this season), while Weber State is already 4-1 ATS this season in revenging a loss vs. an opponent of ten points or more. Lay the short points, expect a big rout.

8* ULTIMATE DESTRUCTION on Weber State.

The set-up: Am I predicting an outright upset here? Nope. But I do think that the "hungrier" team will come in "under the radar" here and keep this one much more competitive than what this spread would suggest. The Mountaineers are 17-4 overall and 5-3 in league play, while Iowa State enters having lost five of its last six (9-12 overall.) Note that the Cyclones aren't the same team that made the NCAA Tournament last year, but they're still averaging 74.7 PPG, while allowing 72.2. WVU averages 73.3 PPG and it allows 61.3. 

The pick: Note though that Iowa State is 10-5 ATS in its last 15 off two straight losses vs. a conference rivals (including 2-0 ATS this season), while WVU is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine as a home favorite in the 9.5 to 12 points range (including only 1-2 ATS this year.) No outright, but closer than expected.

9* ELITE OF THE ELITE on Iowa State.

The set-up: Southern Illinois has won five straight and is 7-3 in the Missouri Valley Conference, but I believe it'll finally have a letdown here vs. this hungry home side. Evansville is desperate beyond believe after opening conference play by going 0-10, most recently falling 80-68 to Northern Iowa. The Salukis are just 10-12 overall though and if not now, when for the Purple Aces? The Salukis average 63.3 points and it allows 60.8. Evansville averages 69.2 PPG and it allows 75.2. Yes, on paer this one favors SIU, but I think the visitors finally get caught looking past their opponent today. 

The pick: Note as well that SOuthern Illinois is just 4-6 ATS in its last ten off a road win, while Evansville is 10-5 ATS in its last 15 after allowing 80 points or more (including 4-2 ATS this season.) I'm primarily a "situational" handicapper and this one falls into several of my systems. Clearly the outright win isn't out of the question, but in the end I'll recommend to grab the points.

10* GAME OF THE MONTH on Evansville.

The set-up: Duke is is coming off a 97-88 win and cover on the road over Syracuse, but I think it'll have its hands full here vs. this hungry BC side. Boston College is just 7-7 at home, but it comes in off an impressive 71-70 win over UNC and I have no reason not to believe that the Eagles can't carry over that confidence/momentum here. BC is playing its best basketball of the season and it's out to avenge a terrible 88-49 loss to Duke on December 31st. On paper the Blue Devils are clearly the better team. But BC's recent improvement in play, combined with these strong situational factors make the home side the correct call here in my opinion. 

The pick: Note as well that Duke is a poor 1-3 ATS in its last four as a road favorite in teh 12.5 to 18 points range, while BC is a solid 5-2 ATS this season revenging a loss vs. an opponent which scored 75 points or more in. I'm grabbing the points and expecting an all out battle until the end.

10* DESTRUCTION on Boston College.

The set-up: I think the hungry 5-15 Idaho Vandals sneak in under the radar here vs. the 11-8 Sacramento State Hornets. Both teams come in on losing streaks. Most recently Sacramento State fell 59-54 to Eastern Washington. Idaho lost 77-72 on the road to Northern Arizona. 

The pick: Note that the Hornets are a poor 1-6 ATS in their last seven home games after scoring 55 points or less in their previous contest, while the Vandals are 14-3-1 ATS in their last 18 off a SU loss. Grab the points and expect an all out war until the final horn!

9* DESTRUCTION on Idaho.

The set-up: While the outright win is obviously not out of the question, in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. The Bears hold a one game lead over Kansas with a perfect 8-0 conference record. K-State is only 2-6 in league play and it's to pull off the upset here. Baylor is 5-0 on the road and its been exceptional defensively, but the Bears look poised for a mental letdown here in my opinion, with bottom feeder Oklahoma State up next, BU has hit a very "vanilla" part of its schedule. 

The pick: K-State has played its best basketball of the year at home, going 8-4 at Bramlage Coliseum thus far. Additionally note that K-State is still a sharp 7-3 ATS in its last ten off a road loss. I'm grabbing the points and expecting an all out war until the final horn. 

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on K-State.

The set-up: I think Dayton is going to get caught "looking past" its lowly opponent today. Dayton has won ten in a row, but the Rams aren't going to roll over here. Most recently Fordham fell 62-52 to St. Bonaventure. Dayton comes off a 73-69 win over Duquesne. On paper, clearly the Flyers are the better team, but everything points to this being a letdown/trap in my opinion. 

The pick: Note that Fordham is 11-5 ATS in its last 16 conference road games as an underdog in the +23.5 to +27.5 points range, while Dayton is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine conference home games following a nine games or more SU unbeaten streak. I'm grabbing the points and expecting a solid cover.

10* play on Fordham.

The set-up: Troy got the better of Georgia State at home 75-65 two weeks ago. The Trojans though are in bounce back mode after an 86-57 loss to Georgia Southern. The Panthers' lone loss in their last five was against the Trojans. I think the "revenge" factor gets thrown out the window here, as Troy is still the "hungrier" team. 

The pick: Overall the Trojans have three victories over top five teams in the conference. Additionally note that Troy is 7-4 ATS in its last 11 conference road games as a double-digit underdog, while Georgia State is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten in trying to revenge a double-digit same season road loss. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points.

8* play on Troy.

The set-up: The Rebels are hungry here. After breaking a six-game slide, they then lost in double OT at home to Auburn. LSU though comes in complacent here in my opinion, as it's won nine in a row, most recently over Alabama. Also note that this is a revenge game, as LSU posted the 80-76 road win in the reverse fixture. 

The pick: Additionally note that Ole Miss is 7-2 ATS in its last nine road games as a double digit dog and off an OT home loss, while LSU is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 following a six games or more unbeaten streak. I'm not calling for the outright, but everything points to this one being closer than what this spread would suggest. 

8* play on Mississippi.

The set-up: I think the 14-4 Yale Bulldogs get caught looking past the 6-12 Columbia Lions. Columbia is 1-1 in Conference play after falling to Cornell at home last time out 62-50. Yale comes in complacent here though in my opinion after four straight wins, including starting conference play 2-0. Columbia averages 66.8 PPG and it allows 69.1. Yale averages 75.7 PPG and it allows 62.7. 

The pick: Note though that Columbia is 9-4 ATS in its last 13 off a loss vs. a conference rival, while Yale is 0-2 ATS in its last two as a home favorite in the 12.5 to 18 points range. This is a letdown spot for the Bulldogs in my opinion. Conversely, the Lions will be eager to pull of the upset here and while that likely won't happen, everything points to a more competitive battle than what this spread suggests. Grab the points.

10* DESTRUCTION on Columbia.

The set-up: I think CSUB comes in under the radar here vs. WAC-leading NMSU. The Runners are 4-2 to start WAC play. NMSU is 6-0 in WAC play. Note though that three of the Aggies last four wins have come by single digits. Teams regularly reserve 

The pick: The Roadrunners posted their second OT win of the season last Thursday by knocking off Utah Valley 58-59. CSUB then lost 86-79 at home to Seattle. I believe the hungry visitors do indeed push the home side to the limit and while I'll stop short in calling for the outright, everything points to this one being a competitive battle until the end. Grab the points.

8* play on Bakersfield.

The set-up: North Dakota State is 14-7 and I think it'll have its hands full tonight vs. the hungry 5-13 Western Illinois Leathernecks. This is a big time revenge game for the desperate home side. The Bison have won 14 of the last 15, including all three meetings last year. 

The pick: Note as well that North Dakota State is a poor 3-7 ATS in its last ten off a home win against a conference rival, while WIU is 14-8 ATS in its last 22 revenging a loss vs. an opponent of ten points or more, including a sharp 4-1 ATS this year. Expect a battle until the final moments and grab all these points.

10* play on Western Illinois.

The set-up: Marshall won't be lacking for motivation here as it's lost four of its last five. The Herd though are 3-5 in league play and they'll look to get off the schneid in this very winnable game. FIU was on a three-game win streak, but it enters off a humbling 75-49 loss to Charlotte. Marshall averages 74.6 PPG and it allows 72, while FIU averages 79.6 PPG and it allows 73.4. These teams are evenly matched, but I think Marshall is the "hungrier" side and I believe FIU is collectively rattled after its last poor performance. 

The pick: Note as well that Marshall is already 5-2 ATS this year as a road dog or pick, while FIU is just 1-3 ATS in its last four off a road loss by 20 points or more. I won't be surprised by an outright victory obviously, but in the end I'll recommend to grab as many points as you can. 

8* play on Marshall.

The set-up: The Spartans and Wildcats played on December 18th and MSU hung on for the 77-72 win. I expect a similarily hard-fought affair tonight as well. MSU is tied for first in the Big Ten with a 7-2 record, while Northwestern is just 1-8 in league play. Note though that the Wildcats have faced the 17th most difficult schedule in the country according to BPI. Most recently the Wildcats fell 71-59 to the Buckeyes. Overall NW averages 66.3 PPG and it allows 67.6. The Spartans lost 67-63 in Indiana, then bounced back with a 70-52 win over Minnesota. MSU averages 77.1 PPG and it allows 63.2. 

The pick: On paper MSU is the better team, but Northwestern comes in as the much "hungrier" side this evening. Note that none of the Wildcats' eight losses in conference play have come by more than 14 points. Additionally note that NW is 4-1 ATS in its last five as an underdog of 13 points or more. I believe the home side leaves the back door open just enough for desperate visiting team to comfortably sneak in through down the stretch. Grab the points.

10* ELITE OF THE ELITE on Northwestern.

The set-up: Nebraska is 7-13 and I think it'll have its hands full here with this determined 11-8 Michigan team. After starting 7-0, the Wolverines have gone just 8-4 since. The Wolverines had plenty of turn-over from last season and they've been dealing with injuries, but Nebraska is the perfect opponent to get untracked against. 

The pick: Note that Michigan is 6-0 ATS in its last six after a loss by six points or less and 5-0 ATS in its last five after scoring 65 points or less in two straight games, while Nebraska is already just 4-6 ATS at home this season and only 4-6 ATS this year after covering the spread in its previous game. I'm laying the points and expecting the "hungrier" team to deliver tonight.

10* PLAY-BOOK on Michigan.

The set-up: The Vandals won't be lacking for motivation today as they've dropped four in a row. The Southern Utah Thunderbirds can empathize, as they've lost two of their last three, including a crushing OT loss to EWU last time out. The "revenge factor" comes into play here as well for the home side, who has lost three straight in this series, including two in a row at home. 

The pick: Southern Utah averages 67 PPG and it allows 64. The Vandals have a stout defense as well which holds the opposition to just under 38 percent shooting on the year. Southern Utah is just 4-5 ATS this season as a favorite, while Idaho is 9-7 ATS as an underdog. In a contest which I envision being decided late, I'm grabbing as many points as I can.

10* GAME OF THE WEEK on Idaho.

The set-up: I think 7-11 Fordham sneaks in under the radar here and finds a way to keep this one competitive vs. 14-5 St. Louis. The Rams come in with momentum as well, as they broke a five-game slide with a win over George Washington last time out. Saint Louis however enters suscepitble after two straight losses in my opinion. The Rams have struggled offensively this year, but the defense has been sharp in allowing only 61 PPG. The Billikens allow 66. And note that over its last four games Saint Louis has averaged just 66 PPG. 

The pick: Additionally note that the Billikens are 0-6 ATS in their last six home games vs. a team with a losing road record and 0-4 ATS in its last four following a SU loss, while Fordham is 4-1 ATS in its last five road games following a SU/ATS win/cover. No outright, but closer than expected. Grab the points.

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Fordham.

The set-up: The Citadel Bulldogs return home to start a two-game home stand. The Citadel is 54-47 all time vs. the Paladins in Charleston. The Citadel play with revenge here as well after Furman took both games last year. Furman is the better team on paper, but after its win over Samford, I think it gets caught looking past its lowly opponent tonight. 

The pick: Also note that Furman is a poor 2-6 ATS in its last eight on the road and off a victory and as a favorite of ten points or more, while Citadel is 7-1 ATS in its last eight as a home dog in the ten to 15.5 points range and off a loss. Revenge is a dish best served cold. Grab the points.

10* REVENGE BEST OF THE BEST on Citadel.

The set-up: Yale is 13-4 and its on the road to take on a hungry 7-7 Brown Bears team. Brown plays with revenge here, as it fell at Yale in mid January by a score of 70-56. Yale comes in off an 89-75 road win at Howard, but I think the Bulldogs will have their hands full tonight. This is a great situational play in my opinion, as Brown has had an extended period off, having not played since the loss at Yale. 

The pick: On paper Yale has the advantage, but note that it's just 1-3 ATS in its last four after playing a game as a road favorite, while Brown is 4-2 ATS in its last six revenging a road loss of ten points or more and 4-1 ATS this season after a loss by ten points or more. I think the outright upset is definitely possible, but in the end I'm going to grab the points.

10* ANNIHILATOR on Brown.

The set-up: FIU is 13-6 and after two straight victories, I think it comes in a tiny bit complacnet here vs. 7-12 ODU, which enters off two straight losses. FIU plays at a fast pace, averaging 81 PPG, but its defense is horrible. The Monarchs are coming off a tough 66-62 loss to Charlotte. ODU's defense has been fantastic though, ranked 42nd in the league overall. From a situational stand point, this one definitely sets up nicely for the home side. 

The pick: Note as well that the Monarchs are 4-1-1 ATS in their last six as an underdog and 4-1 ATS in their last five at home, while the Panthers just 1-4 ATS in their last five as a road dog after back-to-back victories. I'm laying the points.

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Old Dominion.

The set-up: The Marist Red Foxes are after their second straight victory after getting the better of Iona 83-73. Matt Herasme had 17 points and 11 boards in the victory. It was a break out game for Marist, as it set season highs for field goal percentage, points scored, three-pointers made, three-point percentage, assists, rebounds and free throws made. The Manhattan Jaspers had won four of five to open league play before then falling 65-58 to Monmouth on Saturday. 

The pick: Manhattan is just 2-4 ATS in its last six after playing two straight home games (including 0-2 ATS this year), while Marist is 3-1 ATS in its last four after scoring 80 points or more in its previous game. The Red Foxes come in off an inspiring win and I look for them to carry that momentum over here. That said, grab the points.

10* MID-MAJOR DESTRUCTION on Marist.

The set-up: Akron is 4-1 ATS in its last five, but it comes to town off a ten-point home loss to Toledo last time out. Miami Ohio comes in hungrier here though after dropping four of its last five, including falling by nine at Ball State last time out. These two teams are always competitive. Miami Ohio though plays with revenge here as Akron has taken the last two between the schools, both SU and ATS. 

The pick: But note that Miami Ohio is was gone 4-1 SU at home the last five in this series, including 5-0 ATS. Akron is the better team on paper, but Miami Ohio is the hungrier and more desperate revenge-minded team on the floor. Grab the points.

8* play on Miami Ohio.