My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on NC Greensboro (7:00 EST).

The 6-3 Elon Phoenix get ready to battle 5-3 UNC Greensboro on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Spartans.

I think Elon has a letdown here after winning three straight. Most recently the Phoenix won 71-65 in OT to Saint Peter’s. Tyler Selbring had 31 poitns and seven boards in the one, while Brian Dawkins added 21 points and eight boards. 

UNC Greensboro broke a two-game slide with a 76-75 victory over Liberty on Saturday. The Spartans held the Flames to just 32.8 percent shooting and were able to overcome shooting just 30.4 percent themsevles by getting 21 more attempts off. Francis Alonso led the way with 36 points, four rebounds and three assists. 

I’ll point out though that Elon is already just 1-5 ATS in non-conference games this year, while UNC Greensboro is 3-0 ATS in non-conference contests. 

I think that the Phoenix have a letdown and I look for the Spartans to build off their latest victory. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on UC Davis (10:30 EST).

Pacific enters off a 105-68 home win over lowly Arkansas-Fort Smith, while UC Davis comes in off an 81-67 road win over Washington State. 

So far Pacific averages 77.0 PPG, while conceding 71.8. Six players scored in double figures in the teams most recent victory, led by Lafayette Dorsey with 17 points. 

UC Davis averages 68.3 PPG and concedes just 62.7 (ranked 35th overall.) In their latest victory, the Aggies got 20 points from TJ Shorts.

I’ll point out that Pacific is just 6-20 ATS in its last 26 following a SU victory, while UC Davis is 15-5-2 ATS in its last 22 in front of the home town crowd.

UC Davis comes in off the momentum and confidence building win over the Pac 12 team and I think it carries over here. The Aggies’ defense turns out to be too much for the Tigers to contend with down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Saint Louis (8:00 EST).

The 4-2 Southern Illinois Salukis get ready to battle the 3-4 Saint Louis Billikens and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Saint Louis.

The Billikens will be desperate here as they’ve lost four in a row as they get ready to battle the Salukis, who come to town having won two straight, most recently over San Jose State. 

Southern Illinois center Kavion Pippen and 22 points in the win over San Jose State, also blocking five shots and making four steals over his last two games combined. 

Saint Louis won three in a row to open the year, including a 77-71 win over Virginia Tech, but it’s since gone 0-4. Keep your eyes on guard Javon Bess, who is averaging 15.3 points and who had a career-high 22 points in a listless 75-45 setback to Butler this past weekend. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Southern Illinois is already 0-2 ATS this year as an underdog, while Saint Louis is 3-2 ATS in its last five after three or more consecutive losses. 

I think the Salukis remain competitive with Pippen, but I expect the Billikens to risk life and limb today to get back into the win column after the extended stretch of futility. Play on Saint Louis.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Detroit (7:00 EST).

The 4-3 Toledo Rockets get ready to battle the 4-4 Titans on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Deroit.

Toledo enters off a 71-69 home win over Texas Southern, while Detroit lost 106-73 to UCLA in its latest action. When these teams met last year, it was the Rockets that scored the 73-65 win, so the “revenge factor” does come into play here.

So far the Rockets average 75.3 PPG and concede 77.1. Nate Navigato had 16 points in his team’s latest victory. 

Detroit averages 91.1 PPG and concedes 92.5. Kameron Chatman had 18 points in the loss to the Bruins. 

I’ll point out though that Toledo is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after allowing 70 points or less in its previous contest, while Detroit is 3-0-1 ATS in its last four following a SU loss of more than 20 points.

Five players average double-digits for the Titans, which doesn’t bode well for this weak Toledo defense. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Detroit.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on Utah (9:00 EST).

The 6-1 Utah Utes get ready to battle the 6-2 Butler Bulldogs and while I of course wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for this one to come right down to the wire.

Both teams comes in hot. Utah has won two straight, most recently over Hawaii, while Butler has won three straight, most recently over Saint Louis.

Donnie Tillman had 18 points for the Utes in the 80-60 win over the Rainbow Warriors (sixth consecutive game he’s finished in double figures.) 

Butler has won 39 non-conference home games, which includes its latest 75-45 win over Saint Louis. Kelan Martin led the way with 20 poitns and 12 boards. 

From a trend based stand point, this one favors Utah though, as note that the Utes are 3-1 ATS this year against teams with winning records and 2-0 ATS after allowing 60 points or less in their previous outing, while Butler is just 2-3 ATS this season against schools with winning records and only 6-8 ATS in its last 14 after allowing 60 points or less.

I think the Utes’ depth gives them much more than just a “punchers chance” in this matchup. Grab the points, play on Utah.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Situational Stunner is on UTSA (8:00 EST).

The 5-4 UTSA Roadrunners are in Oklahoma to take on the 5-1 Sooners and while I’m not calling for an outright upset, I do think that the visitors can keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe.

The Roadrunners come in having lost back-to-back road games, most recently falling 88-80 to Utah Valley State on Saturday. Keaton Wallace had 21 points and five assists, while Deon Lyle chipped in 13. 

Oklahoma has won three straight, most recently getting the better of North Texas 82-72 on Thursday. Trae Young lead the way in that one with 32 points and ten assists. 

The Sooners have been rolling, but note that they’re still only 11-26 ATS in their last 37 when playing the role of favorite and just 1-4 ATS in their last five in front of the home town crowd. 

The Roadrunners have been struggling, but they’re hungry and note that they’re 10-4 ATS in their last 14 as an underdog and 7-1 ATS in their last eight against opponents with a win percentage of .600 or greater. 

With upcoming games against USC and Wichita State, it’s not too hard to imagine the home side getting caught “looking past” its lowly opponent today. As I stated off the top, I’m not expecting an outright upset, but I do expect a competitive affair. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Fresno State (7:00 EST).

The 5-2 Fresno State Bulldogs get ready to take on the 3-5 LBSU 49ers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Bulldogs.

Fresno State enters off an 80-67 win over Weber State, while Long Beach State enters off a 91-56 loss to Arizona on Wednesday. 

Fresno State has won three straight. So far the Bulldogs average 79.9 PPG, while conceding 70.1. In the win over Weber State, the Bulldogs shot 52 percent from the floor and went 22 of 29 from the charity stripe, led by Jaron Hopkins with 29 big points.

LBSU averages 73.6 PPG and concdes 82.6. In the loss to the Wildcats the 49ers shot just 41 percent from the floor, led by Bryan Alberts with a team-high 12 points. 

I’ll point out that Fresno State is 10-3 ATS in its last 13 non-conference games and 20-6 ATS in its last 26 following an ATS victory, while LBSU is just 4-9 ATS in its last 13 off a SU loss.

Five players are averaging double figures for the Bulldogs. I think Fresno State’s depth proves to be too much for LBSU to keep up with down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on North Carolina (8:00 EST).

The 6-1 North Carolina Tar Heels get ready to battle the 3-2 Davidson Wildcats in non-conference action this evening and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors UNC.

UNC comes in off an 86-71 home win over Michigan on Wednesday, while Davidson beat Charlotte 85-70 on Tuesday. Note that when these teams played last year, it was UNC that held on for the 83-74 victory.

The Tar Heels got destroyed by Michigan State, only to then bounce back with a convincing victory over the Wolverines. Luke Maye had 27 points and six obards. 

UNC comes into this one averaging 85 PPG, while conceding 71.7.

Davidson comes in averaging 86.6 PPG, while conceding 74.4. The Wildcats broke a two-game slide with the win over Charlotte, shooting 51 percent from the floor. Kellan Grady had 22 points to lead all scorers. 

I’ll point out though that Davidson is just 10-15 ATS in its last 15 as an underdog and only 9-15 ATS in its last 24 non-conference games, while North Carolina is 4-2 ATS in non-conference games already this season and 4-1 ATS when playing the role of favorite.

I think UNC’s depth and superior defense proves to be too much for Davidson. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Cal Riverside (10:00 EST).

The 3-4 Pacific Tigers get ready to battle the 2-3 UC Riverside Highlanders and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Cal Riverside. 

The Highlanders are the “hungrier” team in my opinion, as they’ve lost three of their last four. 

The Tigers look poised for a letdown in my opinion. After an 0-3 start, Pacific has won three of its last four. 

So far the Tigers average 75.9 PPG and concede 74.7. Last time out Pacific socred the 80-58 win over Canisius, with five players in double figures. 

Cal Riverside opened the year with an impressive win over Cal, but it’s since lost three of four. Most recenly the Highlanders fell 87-42 to Michigan. It was a tough matchup obviously.

So far the Highlanders average 67.4 PPG, while conceding 76. 

I’ll point out though that Pacific is just 3-7 ATS in its last ten after allowing 60 points or less in its prevoius outing and just 2-5 ATS in its last seven after scoring 80 points or more, while UC Riverside is 3-1 ATS in its last four after failing to score 50 or more points in its previous contest. 

As I stated off the top, I think the “hungrier” team finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on UC Riverside.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Tirple Play is on Boston College (9:15 EST).

The 5-2 Boston College Eagles are in Nebraska to take on the 5-2 Cornhuskers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Eagles.

BC averages 77.7 PPG thus far. The Eagles will be looking to bounce back big here though after being held to just 66 points in a loss to Providence last time out. 

Deontae Hawkins and Ky Bowan each had 19 points, while Jerome Robinson chipped in 12. Overall BC has been sharp defensively (other than the loss to the Friars), allowing just 67.3 PPG.

Nebaska looks primed for a letdown here in my opinion after two straight wins. And with games upcoming against four ranked opponents, including No. 2 Kansas and No. 3 Michigan State, it’s not too hard to imagine the home side in some small way, getting caught looking ahead. The Huskers most recently beat LBSU 85-80, led by 26 points from Glynn Watson Jr. 

I think BC is the more complete team. Look for the Eagles to find a way to get the job done and bounce back from the dud against Providence.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Miami Florida (9:15 EST).

Miami comes in off an 86-65 home win over North Florida on Saturday to remain unbeaten, while Minnesota most recently held on for an 89-84 win over Alabama in the final game of the Barclays Center Classic on Saturday. 

Miami averages 79.8 PPG and allows just 54 (ranked third.) In the most recent win over North Florida the Hurricanes got 14 off the bench from both Bruce Brown Jr. and Anthony Lawrence II. 

Minnesota averages 90.7 PPG and allows 69.7. In their most recent victory, Nate Mason had 20 points. 

These are two evenly matched teams with contrasting styles, but note that Miami is 4-2 ATS in its last six after a non-conference game, while Minnesota is just 7-9 ATS in its last 16 after allowing 80 points or more. 

I think the Hurricanes’ strong defensive play keeps the team competitive. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Arizona (8:00 EST).

LBSU comes in off a loss against Nebraska, while Arizona will be desperate here as it enters off three straight setbacks. 

The 49ers gave the Huskers a run for their money, but eventually fell 85-80 in their latest action. Gabe Levin led the way with 22 points and 16 boards. 

Arizona looked horrible in the Battle 4 Atlantis tournament, dropping all three games (NC State, SMU and Purdue.) The Boilermakers whipped it 89-64 in its most recent action. Deandre Ayton was a bright spot with 22 points and eight boards. 

But I think home cooking is just what the doctor ordrered for the Wildcats today. Arizona has major issues on both ends of the floor, but I think its safe to say that it’s not as bad as what its recent tournament performance would suggest either.

And note, LBSU is already a poor 1-2 ATS this year after allowing 80 points or more (it’s just 2-6 ATS in its last eight as a road dog of 12.5 points or more as well), while Arizona is 4-1 ATS in its last five after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games.

For all the reasons listed above, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on Maryland (7:00 EST).

Maryland comes to New York to take on the Orange sitting at 6-1 after an 80-65 thrashing of New Mexico last time out.

Keep your eyes on the Terps’ Anthony Cowan, who had 21 points in their latest victory:

“We’re used to winning close games,” Maryland coach Mark Turgeon assessed afterwards. “We had the lead twice in the second half and let it go, but we moved on. Anthony had two phenomenal games down here. He’s the kind of kid who probably can play three games in one day.”

Syracuse comes in on a five game win streak, most recently getting the better of Toledo 72-64 in the Miami Invitational. Tyus Battle was left out of that game with injury and Frank Howard stepped up in his place to pour in 25 points. 

Clearly these teams are very evently matched. The fact that Battle was injured and is questionable for this one is a bit of a concern in my opinion. And if he does play, will he truly be at 100% capacity?

Additionally I’ll point out that this one sets up great for the Terps as far as the trends are concerned, as note that Maryland is 6-1 ATS in its last seven following three or more consecutive home games, while the Orange are just 1-6 ATS in their last seven following a SU win. 

I think Maryland’s depth on offense wears down the home side. 

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on UC Riverside (4:00 EST)

UC Riverside enters off a 75-57 win over Western New Mexico at home, while Michigan comes in off a 68-60 victory over VCU in the Maui Invitational.

UC Riverside averages 73.8 PPG and concdeds 73.2. In the win over WNMU, the Highlanders forced 23 turnovers and were led by Chance Murray with 17 points. 

Michigan averages just 77.3 PPG and allows 63.2. The Wolverines are a poor three-point shooting team and were just 5 of 20 from range in the win over the Rams.

I’ll point out as well that UC Riverside is 3-1 ATS in its last four as a road dog in the 18.5 to 24 points range, while Michigan is just 2-4 ATS in its last six as a home fav in the 18.5 to 24 points range.

With a game at North Carolina on Wednesday, I think the home side gets caught looking ahead.

While I’m definitely not calling for an outright upset, I do think the conditions are right for a competitive affair. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Ohio State (3:00 EST). 

Clearly these teams are very evenly matched. Should be a nail-biter in the PK80 tournament on Sunday afternoon and as such, I’m going to grab the points.

Butler held on for a 71-69 win over Portland State most recently. The Vikings went 12 of 26 from range, as the Bulldogs struggled with their perimiter defense. Three players would go on to score more than 14 points, led by Tyler Wideman with 18 points and eight boards. 

The Buckeyes beat the Cardinal 79-71 most recently, holding Stanford to just 36.1 percent from the floor. Ohio State dominated the glass (37-28) and was led by JC Jackson with 23 points. 

I’ll point out that Butler is already 0-2 ATS in all tourney games this year and just 1-3 ATS against teams with winning records, while Ohio State is 2-1 ATS in its last three when playing on one or less days rest.

I like Ohio State to build off its latest performance and to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on the Buckeyes.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Nebraska (2:30 EST).

This game is to decide fifth place in the AdvoCare Invitational.

Both teams dropped their quarterfinal contests, ontly to then bounce back with wins on Friday. 

LBSU beat Oregon State, while Nebraska smashed Marist. 

The 49ers look poised for another letdown here though in my opinion after knocking off the Beavers as ten-point underdogs. Gabe Levin and Deishuan Booker led the way in the upset with 14 points apiece.

Nebraska steamrolled Marist 84-59 as an 11.5 point fav. The Huskers shot almost 57 percent from the floor and posted 23 assists on 34 field goals made. Four players reached double figures, led by Isaac Copeland and Anton Gill with 17 apiece. 

II’ll point out that LBSU is already 0-2 ATS this year against schools with winning records, while the Huskers are already 2-0 ATS when playing with one or less days rest.

I think the Nebraka’s defense and depth prove to be too much for the 49ers to overcome. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* PERFECT STORM is on Davidson (7:00 EST).

The 2-1 Davidson Wildcats get ready to battle the 3-3 Appalachian State Mountaineers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Wildcats. 

Davidson comes in off an 81-68 loss to Nevada, while the Mountaineers come in off an exhausting 105-99 double OT loss to James Madison.

Suffice it to say, I think that Appalachian State comes in with “heavy legs” and “hung over” from that emotional and draining setback.

And if recent history is any precedence, then Davidson has to be loving its chances today, because when these teams met last year it was the Wildcats that came out on top with a comfortable 86-74 victory. 

So far the Wildcats average 95 PPG and allow 94. Peyton Aldridge is averaging 22.7 PPG. 

The Mountaineers average 95 PPG and allow 76. Justin Forrest was a bright spot in the team’s double OT loss, finishing with a season-high 36 points. 

I’ll point out though that Davidson is 5-1 ATS in its last six when its opponent allows 100 or more points in its previous outing, while App State is just 6-14-2 ATS in its last 22 against teams with winning records. 

Davidson is the deeper team, with three players averaging at least 18 PPG. 

For all the reasons listed above, lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Richmond (6:00 EST).

The 3-0 Georgetown Hoyas are ready to battle the 1-4 Spiders on Saturday night and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’m going to recommend grabbing the points in a contest which I foresse being decided by whichever team has the ball in its hands last. 

The Hoyas are led by 6-10 Jessie Govan, who is averaging 21 points and 14.3 rebounds per game. So far Georgetown averages 86 PPG and allows 60.7. 

The Spiders have struggled to open the year, most recently coming off a loss against UL Lafayette, a game which saw Grant Golden pour in 24 points. 

Richmond would actually shoot a great 50 precent from the field, but 19 turnovers would be too much for the team to overcome. 

I’ll point out though that Georgetown is just 12-18 ATS in its last 30 when playing the role of favorite and just 5-7 ATS in its last 12 after allowing 60 points or less in its previous contest, while Richmond is 2-1 ATS this year as an underdog and 2-1 ATS against good offensive teams which score 77-plus points per contest.

I think the hungry Spiders keep this one interesting until the final moments.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 34-CLUB PLAY is on Milwaukee (9:00 EST).

The 4-1 Milwaukee Panthers are in Wisconsin to take on the 2-3 Badgers and while I’ll stop short in calling for the outright upset, I do definitley think that this one will end up being a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. 

Milwaukee comes in off a 72-71 win over Elon, while Wisconsin fell 72-71 to UCLA. These teams haven’t played since 2015, when the Panthers defeated the Badgers 68-67. 

The Panthers rallied from a 17-point halftime deficit to knock off the Phoenix at home, outrebounding Elon 41-35 and committing just five turnovers. Keep your eyes on Brock Stull, who had 21 points, five boards and five assists in the victory. 

Milwaukee won’t be intimidated here at all, as it’s already beaten Iowa State this season. So far the Panthers average 70 PPG and concede 64.

Wisconsin averages 75 PPG and concedes 66. The Badgers allowed UCLA to shoot 54 percent from the floor last time out though. Ethan Hpp was a standout, posting 19 points, nine boards and five assists. 

Additionally I’ll point out that the Panthers are 6-1 ATS in their last seven on the road and 4-0 ATS in their last four non-conference games, while the Badgers are just 3-7 ATS in their last ten following an ATS victory.

The Panthers come in on top form, especially on the defensive end, conceding just 56 points to Iowa State and only 51 points to FIU earlier in the year. 

Obvoiusly the Badgers are tough at home, but this should be a nail-biter. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on Toledo (7:00 EST).

Toledo comes to New York off an 84-74 win over Oakland at home, while the Orange dispatched that same Oakland team 74-50 in their most recent action. 

In the early going the Rockets are ranked 69th in scoring in the nation with an average of 85.7 PPG, while ranked 212th on the defense side by conceding 74.3. Jaelan Sanford is avering 23.3 PPG after putting up 26 in the win over the Golden Grizzlies. 

The Orange are ranked 185th in the country in scoring with an average of 75.5 PPG, while ranked 14th on the defensive side by conceding 56.0 PPG. Syracuse is led by Tyus Battle, with 23 PPG this year and he’d post 25 against Oakland.

I’ll point out though that Toledo has fared well in this spot for bettors, going 11-6 ATS in its last 17 as an underdog and 14-10 ATS in its last 24 non-conference games, while Syracuse has struggled in this position by going just 16-18 ATS in its last 34 against good offensive teams which average 77-plus points per contest. 

A matchup of contrasting styles. I think Toledo’s high-powered offense keeps the visitors in this one late. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WEEKLY WIPEOUT WINNER is on Minnesota (8:00 EST).

The 0-3 Alabama A&M Bulldogs get ready to take on the 4-0 Golden Gophers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Gophers.

The Bulldogs most recently fell 104-67 to Alabama in their latest outing. Amari Gouldbourne led the way with 17 points and four assists in the setback. So far Alabama A&M has averaged 62.7 PPG.

Minnesota most recently destroyed Western Carolina 92-64. Jordan Murphy led the way with 23 points, while Amer Coffey chipped in 15 points and four assists. So far the Golden Gophers average 94.2 PPG in the early going. 

I’ll point out though that Alabama A&M is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven non-conference games, while Minnesota is 7-3 ATS in its last ten at home.

The Gophers will go up early and look to maintain pressure right up until the final horn. So far Minnesota’s biggest margin of victory this year has been by 28 points, but I expect an absolute blowout tonight, even with second stringers leading the way in the second half.

Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Stanford (11:30 EST).

The 2-0 North Carolina Tar Heels are in Stanford to take on the 3-1 Cardinal and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

UNC comes in off a 93-81 home win over Bucknell, while the Cadinal defeated Northwestern 73-59 on Friday. 

Joel Berry II had eight points in his return from injury in the Tar Heels win over Bucknell. Luke Maye had 20 points. So far UNC has averaged 89.5 points over its first two games, while conceding 75.

Stanford has averaged 75.2 PG over the first four and allowed just 67. Reid Travis had 16 points in his teams latest victory. 

I’ll point out that the UNC is just 3-8 ATS in its last 11 on the road, while Stanford is 5-1-1 ATS in its last seven against a team with a winning straight up record. 

Travis is a difficult matchup for the Tar Heels. The Cardinal have a couple more games under the belts to figure things out and I believe they keep this one close on their home floor.

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on West Virginia (7:00 EST).

The 2-1 Long Beach State 49ers are getting ready to battle the 2-1 WVU Mountaineers on Monday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors West Virginia.

LBSU beat San Francisco and San Francisco State, before then falling 89-81 at Oregon State. The 49ers have five players who average at least ten points. In the loss to the Beavers, they’d let Oregon State shoot 55.4 percent from the field and go 22 of 29 from the line. 

Turnovers continue to plague LBSU, having committed 55 through the first three games. 

WVU opened with an 88-65 loss to Texas A&M, before then smashing American and Morgan State. The Mountaineers were 28-9 last year and they returned three starters from that team, so the loss to A&M was a difficult one. 

But with two “cream puffs” to get back on track, I think WVU carries that progression over here against LBSU. Keep your eyes on Daxter Miles Jr. who had 32 points in 22 minutes against Morgan State. 

Additionally I’ll point out that LBSU is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven as a road dog of 12.5 points or more, while WVU is 2-0 ATS in its last two as a home fav in the 18.5 to 24 points range.

For all the reasons listed above, play on the Mountaineers.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Syracuse (7:00 EST).

The 2-1 Oakland Golden Grizzlies are in Syracuse to take on the 3-0 Orange on Monday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Oakland comes in off a 13 point loss to Toledo and after Syracuse it has a tough game against Kansas. I think this sets up as a classic letdown/trap for the visitors today, who come in “bummed” off the loss to the Rockets, while also not able to help themselves in some small way “looking ahead” to their matchup with the Jayhawks. 

Note that the Golden Grizzlies got just seven points from their bench in the loss to Toledo.

The Orange needed a 29-6 run to beat Texas Southern and I think Syracuse carries that momentum over here. Tyus Battle had 21 points and was one of five that scored in double figures.

I’ll point out as well that Oakland is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 80 points or more, while Syracuse is 8-5 ATS in its last 13 when playing with one or less days rest.

The Orange are the deeper and more skilled team and I expect them to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Indiana (6:00 EST).

The 2-1 South Florida Bulls get ready to battle the 1-2 Hoosiers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Indiana.

So far the Hoosiers have lost to Indiana State and Seton Hall, while the Bulls come to Assembly Hall off a win over lowly Stetson on Wednesday. 

It wasn’t easy for USF either, edging Stetson 75-72 in the end. So far four Bulls are averaging double-digits, led by Tulio DaSilva, with 14 PPG in the early going. 

For Indiana you’ll want to keep your eyes on sophomore forward De’Ron Davis, who leads the team in scoring with 11.7 PPG thus far. The Hoosiers have been getting decent production from their bench, which averages 29 PPG, with four different reserves averaging double figures.

Defense has been the main issue for Indiana early, but the Hoosiers catch a break here facing the impotent Bulls.

I’ll point out as well that South Florida is a poor 5-8 ATS in its last 13 against teams with losing records and 0-2 ATS in its last two against poor defensive teams which allow 77 plus points per contest, while Indiana is 2-0 ATS in its last two after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive contests.

I like the Hoosiers to continue their solid offensive play and to finally show up on the defensive side as well. Beating Stetson is one thing, but contending with a focused Hoosiers team which to this point has drastically underperformed is quite another. Lay the poitns with confidence, play on Indiana.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on Oregon State (11:00 EST).

The 2-0 Long Beach State 49ers are set to square off against the 1-1 Oregon State Beavers on Saturday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Beavers.

LBSU comes in off a 95-70 win over San Francisco, dominating the glass by a 51-28 margin. There is some room to read between the lines though, as the 49ers would turn the ball over 21 times. Bryan Alberts led the charge with 18 points in that one, while Barry Ogalue had 15 points and eight boards.

The Beavers are looking to bounce back here after a 75-66 defeat at the hands of the Wyoming Cowboys. Oregon State was a 7.5 points favorite in that one. Clearly the Beavers can’t be happy with their performance. Oregon State just couldn’t get anything to fall that night, hitting only 40 percent from the floor and going just 4 of 20 from range. Tres Tinkle was a standout with 20 points and 14 boards, while Drew Eubanks added 18 points as well. 

I’ll point out that LBSU is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after scoring 94 points or more, while Oregon State is 2-1 ATS in its last three afte rbeing held to 68 points or less in its prevoius contest.

LBSU’s sloppy play catches up to it here in my opinion, as the Beavers look to make amends after their poor performance against the Cowboys.

I’m expecting a rout, lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* SItuational Stunner is on Alabama State (11:00 EST).

The 0-3 Alabama State Hornets play their fourth straight road game here. So far they’ve averaged 63 PPG, while conceding 94. Ed Jones has been a stand out with an average of 10.7 points and four rebounds per game, while Reginald Gee averages 10.3 points and four boards. 

The Ducks average 85 PPG and concede 60.5 thus far. Troy Brown has averaged 17.5 points and three assists, while Paul White has added 16 points and six boards. 

Of course I’m not calling for an outright upset here. Note that Oregon hasn’t lost a home game since January of 2015.

But with a series of “cream puffs” to open the year, I think the Ducks get caught looking past their lowly opponent today.

This is great experience for the Hornets, who can focus on conference play after a tough non-conference schedule. I like Alabama State to keep this relatively interesting until the final ten minutes or so. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Elon (6:30 EST).

The 1-1 FIU Panthers are getting ready to battle the 1-2 Elon Phoenix on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Phoenix.

This non-conference game is part of the Black and Gold Shootout. When these teams played last year, it was Elon that won 84-81 in OT. 

Last year FIU went just 7-24. In their last game the Panthers lost 70-64 in OT to Stetson. FIU was only able to shoot 37.9 percent from the floor, led by Eric Lockett with 19 points. The Panthers also committed 16 turnovers. 

Elon fell 76-67 to Furman in its latest action. The Phoenix shot 44.5 percent from the floor, but only 20.8 percent from range. They also committed 16 turnovers. Keep your eyes on Tyler Seibring, who had 15 points in the setback. While only two players average double figures in points, the Phoenix still have a much deeper/talented lineup overall than FIU, wiith eight players averaging at least 5.7 PPG. 

Additionally I’ll point out that FIU is just 1-4 ATS in its last five neutral site games, while Elon is 6-1 ATS in its last seven following a SU loss.

Elon’s already played Duke and it’s clearly the better overall team. I look for the Phoenix to bounce back here and to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable cover. This line could be a lot higher and I think the oddsmakers have made a mistake.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Las Vegas Insider is on Stanford (6:00 EST).

The 2-0 Northeastern Huskies are in Stanford to take on the 2-1 Cardinal and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Northeastern comes in off an 83-49 win over Wentworth, while Stanford fell 67-61 at home to lowly Eastern Washington on Tuesday. 

The Huskies have defeated two suspect opponents in Boston University (65-59) and Divsion 2 Wentworth (83-49.) Thomas Murphy has been a bright spot, averaging 11.5 points over his first two games. 

Northeastern finished just 15-16 last year and it was picked to finish sixth in the ten team CAA.

Clearly Stanford will be looking to take advantage here, something it failed miserably in doing against Eastern Washington. 

The Cardinal couldn’t get anything to drop, shooting a poor 33 percent from the field, including just 2 of 16 from range. Reid Travis had 20 points in the losing effort. Travis has now scored at least 20 points in each of Stanford’s three games. 

I’ll point out though that Northeastern is just 1-3 ATS in its last four non-conference games, while Stanford is 6-4 ATS in its last ten after failing to cover the spead in three or more consecutive contests.

The Huskies’ competition has been pathetic to this point, but now they face a determined Cardinal side that’s looking for a big rebound effort after such a terrible performance. 

Stanford is deeper, more talented and experienced and I expect it to easily pull away down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on Auburn (11:30 AM EST).

The 1-0 Indiana State Sycamores are in Auburn to take on the 1-0 Tigers on Thursday morning and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Tigers.

Indiana State looks ready for a letdown here in my opinion after its big opening night win over Indiana. Brenton Scott was a standout in the upset with 24 points. Indiana State relied heavily on the 3-ball last year (34.6 percent of its points from range), which doesn’t bode well against this Auburn defense which is out for some redemption.

The Tigers can score as well, as last year they averaged 80.4 PPG. In their win over Norfolk State, Auburn put up 102 points. Bryce Brown led the way with 31 points. While the 102 points was impressive, the 74 given up were not. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much more concerted effort from the Tigers on the defensive end this evening. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Indiana State is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven following an ATS win, while Auburn is 4-1 ATS in its last five as a favorite. 

I look for the Tigers to continue their hot offensive play and to fine tune their defensive unit in this favorable matchup. Lay the points with confidence, play on Auburn.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Pittsburgh (7:00 EST).

The 1-0 Cal Santa Barbara Gauchos are at Pittsburgh to take on the 0-2 Panthers on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Panthers are coming off loss to Navy and Montana, while the Gauchos managed a win over North Dakota State last Saturday. 

Cal Santa Barbara was 6-22 last year, but it looked decent in its 86-66 victory over North Dakota State. Max Heidegger had 33 points, including hitting eight from range. 

Pittsburgh pretty much features an entirely new team this year, a squad which nearly posted its first win of the campaign, but it would ultimately succumb 83-78 in overtime to the Grizzlies. 

The loss snapped Pittsburgh’s 20 game win streak at home: 

“I don’t think about [the fan support for the team],” head coach Kevin Stallings assured. “I support my team. I’m just worried about making my team better. We have had to start over, so that’s a little bit of what we are dealing with. We have some good players who are going to grow into very good players. There are going to be some growing pains along the way.”

I’ll point out though that UC Santa Barbara is just 7-14 ATS in its last 21 following a non-conference game, while Pittsburgh is is 3-1 ATS in its last four after back-to-back SU setbacks.

Clearly this game means a lot to the Panthers. Crowd support has not been good to open the campaign, but a convincing win tonight would go a long way in starting to turn that trend around. I look for the home side to lay it all on the line and to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. 

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ODDSMAKER’S ERROR is on Miami Ohio (7:00 EST).

The 0-1 Wright State Raiders are at Miami Ohio to take on the 1-0 Redhawks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Wright State most recently lost 84-80 to Loyola Chicago, while the Redhawks managed to nudge past Fordham 55-54 in their season opener. 

Note that this is a revenge game for Miami Ohio after Wright State beat it 89-87 last year. 

Last year Wright State averaged 77 points per game and conceded 72.4. The Blue Raiders let Loyola Chicago hit 55 percent from the floor. Grant Benzinger was a standout with 16 points. 

Miami Ohio averaged 70.3 PPG last season and conceded 74.5. While only shooting 33 percent from the field in their opening victory, the Redhawks would go on to win the rebound battle by a decisive 53-25 margin. Jalen Adaway had 15 points and 14 boards. Logan McLane had ten points and 11 boards, including five offensive.

The Redhawks’ smothering defensive play and the home court advantage make Miami Ohio the correct call in this one. 

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on North Dakota State (11:00 EST)

The 0-1 North Dakota State Bison are ready to take the 1-0 USC Trojans at the Galen Center tonight and while I’m not actually calling for an outright upset, I do definitely believe this is too many points to be giving up here.

The Bison enter off an 85-66 loss to UC Santa Barbara. Paul Miller was a bright spot with 18 points and six assists, while AJ Jacobson had ten points and two boards. After losing five of its last seven on the road, I think NDSU can catch the home side looking past it.

USC has a game against Vanderbilt up next, which is another non-conference matchup of course, but clearly a much bigger challenge coming from the SEC.

USC most recently beat CS Fulerton 84-42. Chimezie Metu had 18 points and ten boards. The Trojans have now won six of their last seven at home.

I feel this is a great spot for the hungry Bison, as I believe that USC comes in complacent, while also looking ahead to its next game. Grab the points, play on North Dakota State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Princeton (6:00 EST).

Butler beat Kennesaw State 82-64 on Friday, but this will be the first game of the year for Princeton. 

Both teams played in the NCAA Tournament last year and each will be expecting to return this season as well.

The Tigers faced Notre Dame in the opening round and they’d unfortnately drop a hard-fought 60-58 battle. 

Butler made it to the Sweet 16 before bowing out to eventual champion North Carolina. 

Princeton was undefeated in Ivy League action last year and it’s favored to win the conference again this season. 

Keep your eyes on Tigers’ junior guard Devin Cannady, who averaged 13.4 points and 3.6 boards last year, but who will be playing a much bigger role this season. 

There’s some room to read between the lines in Butler’s win on Friday, as note that it was just six of 25 from range and it also missed 11 of 23 free throws. 

The Ivy League is battle tested and Princeton has plenty of veteran experience and overall talent. I’m not calling for an outright upset, but I do definitely expect the Tigers to keep this one a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are leading us to believe. 

Grab the points, play on Princeton.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on Akron (7:00 EST).

This is the opener of the NE Ohio Coaches vs. Cancer Classic. 

Cleveland State returns three starter sand eight letter winners from a team that went a horrible 9-22 last year. In all the Vikings welcome seven newcomvers. 

Not only does Cleveland State have a lot of new faces on the bench, it also has a new face in head coach Dennis Felton. 

But the Zips will be felling confident here, as they’ve taken three straight in this series, including a 65-53 win in the 2015/16 season opener.

Also note that Akron is 21-12 all time against CSU in front of the home town crowd. 

And that doesn’t bode well in my opinion for Felton’s new team, which comes in having dropped three straight season openers. 

Additionally I’ll point out that Cleveland State is just 1-7 ATS in its last eight against the MAC and only 6-15 ATS in its last 21 non-conference games, while Akron is 5-2 ATS in its last seven non-conference contests.

For all the reasons listed above, play on Akron.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Situational Stunner is on Iowa State (9:00 EST).

Missouri was 8-24 last year, while Iowa State was 24-11, advancing to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.

Both teams have new faces this season though. Iowa State is expected to take a step back this year, while Missouri is expected to take a step forward.

Regardless of that, I still think that the Cyclones bring enough talent to the table to at the very least, take this one right down to the wire.

Iowa State returns one starter and three players overall from last years team. Keep your eyes on Solomon Young, who averaged 4.4 points and 3.3 boards over 12 games last year. ISU also welcomes transfer Jeff Beverly from UTSA, who scored in double-digits 28 times for the Roadrunners last year. 

The Cyclones feature a strong backcourt in senior guard Donovan Jackson and freshman Lindell Wigginton. 

The Tigers return three players that averaged double figures last year. New coach Cuonzo Martin is hoping to revive a program which has fallen on hard times of late. Michel Porter Jr. and Jeremiah Tilmon lead a front court which is expected to be among the best in the SEC. 

Missouri has big expectations, but lacks chemistry and experience. The Cyclones are an entirely different team, but the system and pieces that do carry over will be more than enough to keep this one close unitl the final moments in my opinion. 

Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Weekly Wipeout Winner is on Yale (9:00 EST).

Both teams have high hopes this year after each lost in their respective conference championship games last season. 

Yale fell to Princeton in the Ivy League championship game. The Bulldogs are loaded with veteran experience this season though, led by now fully healthy guard Makai Mason, who was lost for the 2016/17 campaign with injury. 

Mason is surrounded by talent, including Jordan Bruner, Miye Oni and Blake Reynolds. 

Creighton lost to Villanova in the Big East Tournament title game. The Bluejays also lost point guard Maurice Watson Jr. to the NBA. Creighton ran an extremely fast paced offense last year, with just 15 seconds per offensive possession, but with Waston Jr. gone, I have a hard time seeing the Bluejays matching that speed. 

This is going to be a battle, but in the end I think the depth and overall experience that the Ivy League school brings to the table today will in the end keep this score a lot closer than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe.

I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 9* PERFECT STORM is on Oklahoma State (8:30 EST).

The Pepperdine Waves were 9-22 last year, while the Oklahoma State Cowboys were 20-13. 

Brad Underwood left the coaching job at Oklahoma State, starting the Mike Boynton Jr. era for the Cowboys. 

The Cowboys return two starters and ten letter winners from a year ago, while the Waves return just one starter.

Pepperdine once again has more questions than answers as the season gets underway. Most specifically is how will it fill the void left by star Lamond Murray, who averaged 21.4 PPG last year? 

The Waves had many players injured last season, including Kameron Edwards, who averaged 7.2 points and 4.2 boards in 2015/16. Edwards is back and so too is Amada Udenyi, who played in just six games last year after blowing his achilles. 

Jeffrey Carroll leads the Cowboys this year. Last season he averaged 17.5 points and 6.6 boards, while shooting 44.4 percent from range. 

Oklahoma State also had some talent to replace in the offseason, but it has some a plethora of it just waiting to fill the void. Keep your eyes on Brandon Averette and Cal State Northridge transfer Kendall Smith, who averaged 16.7 points and 4.8 assists last season. 

The Cowboys have more talent and are the much bigger overall team. I think Oklahoma State will wear down the Wave down the stretch and I look for it to pull away for the comfortable cover once it’s all said and done.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Delaware (7:00 EST).

Delaware is coming off a 13-20 record from a year ago, while Richmond was 22-13 overall. 

The Blue Hens are expected to take a big step forward this season though as leading scorer Ryan Daly is back after posting 16 points and 7.4 boards last year. The team also returns its second leading scorer in Anthony Mosley, who averaged ten points and shot 47.9 percent from the floor. 

Richmond made it to the A-10 Tournament semifinals last year, but the team lost its top two scorers from that team. Third leading scorer Khwan Fore is back though and he averaged 11.2 PPG last season. Note though that Fore is injured right now and will be out for another month. Additionally I’ll point out that Richmond lost its top rebounder from a year ago as well.

Ultimately I think the experienence and talent that the Blue Hens bring to the table today makes this game much more even than what the oddsmakers are trying to lead us to believe. I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* Las Vegas Insider is on West Virginia (6:00 EST).

These teams meet on Friday at the Ramstein Air Force Base on ESPN and suffice it to say, I think this one favors the Mountaineers.

Texas A&M won just 16 games overall last year. The Aggies though are expected to take a step forward this season with returning big man Tyler Davis, along with DJ Hogg and Robert Williams.

I’ll point out though that the Aggies have lost three straight neutral site affairs.

WVU has made the NCAA tournament three straight years and with Bob Huggins as coach, the players faces may change, but the system always remains the same.

The Mountaineers are loaded with talent, including Esa Ahmad (who is suspended for the first half of the season) and Jevon Carter from last year’s team, while you’ll also want to keep your eyes out for rising star Sagaba Konate.

I’ll point out that WVU has won five of its last seven neutral site affairs.

The Aggies sport a ton of talent as well, but I think the Mountaineers’ relentless defensive play (a trademark of Huggins), proves to be too much for Texas A&M on Opening Night, half way around the World. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NAT CHAMP GAME SIDE WINNER is on Gonzaga (9:20 EST).

Arguably the two best teams in the nation collide on Monday night and as you can tell, the oddsmakers feel that they’re pretty evenly matched.

However, I don’t. I think the Bulldogs superior defensive play will turn out to be the difference this evening.

Keep your eyes on Nigel Williams-Goss for Gonzaga, he’s averaged 16.7 points, 5.9 rebounds and 4.6 assists this season. The Bulldogs have two seven footers on their team as well, including the giant Przemek Kanowski, who averages 12.2 points and 5.8 boards per game.

Justin Jackson leads the charge for the high-flying tar Heels with 18.2 points and 4.7 boards per game. Also in double figures are Joel Berry II (14.5) and Kennedy Meeks (12.3 points and 9.3 boards per contest).

I’ll point out though that Gonzaga is 9-2-1 ATS in its last 12 following an ATS loss, while UNC is just 1-3-1 ATS in its last five following a SU victory.

Ultimately I think it will be the Bulldogs’ size and defense which turns out to be the difference in the National Championship game. Play on Gonzaga.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE MONTH is on Gonzaga (6:05 EST).

The South Carolina Gamecocks and Gonzaga Bulldogs are in unchartered territory right now.

The Gamecocks knocked off Florida 77-70 to advance, while the Bulldogs smashed Xavier 83-59 last Saturday. 

South Carolina is in over its head here in my opinion. So far the Gamecocks have trailed three times in four games in this tournament, only to rally and win the contest with a big second half. South Carolina would shoot 49.1 percent from the floor in the win over Florida, despite going just 2 of 10 from range. Sindarius Thornwell was a standout with 26 points and seven boards.

Overall though the Gamecocks are nothing special offensively, they average 73.2 PPG. But they make up for it on the defensive end though, conceding only 64.9 PPG, ranked 31st in the nation. 

The Bulldogs limited the Musketeers to just 20 second half points last weekend, while also going on to hit 47.5 percent from the floor themselves, including knocking down 12 of 24 from range. Xavier was held to just 2 of 16 from behind the arc. Nigel Williams-Goss led Gonzaga with 23 points and eight boards. 

The Bulldogs are 14th in the country in scoring with 83.2 PPG, while ranked fourth on the defensive end in conceding just 60.9. 

I think ATS stats are pretty meaningless at this point and as these teams have no real prior history against each other, this particular selection is based primarily on the situation.

I think the over-achieving Gamecock’s Cindarella run comes to an end here. Gonzaga is very well coached under Frank Martin and has vastly more experience in its line-up, something that can’t be overlooked whatsoever at this point of the tournament.

The Bulldogs are superior on both sides of the ball and in my opinion, this spread should in fact be a lot larger. And that’s why Gonzaga is my April CBB Game Of The Month.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* CBI GAME 2 CHAMPIONSHIP PLAY is on Wyoming (9:00 EST).

The Coastal Carolina Chanticleers get ready to battle the Wyoming Cowboys in Game 2 of the CBI Championship and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

It’s a best of three Championship round and Coastal Carolina has already taken the first game 91-81. No need to overanalyze this one in my opinion, as it’s do or die for the Cowboys.

Coastal Carolina took an early 6-4 lead in Game 1 and then never looked back. The Chanticleers average 73.4 PPG and concede 72.8. Jaylen Shaw has averaged 20.2 points over his last four games.

Wyoming averages 77.7 PPG and concedes 75.5. Jason McManamen had 19 points in the Game 1 loss.

I’ll point out though that Coastal Carolina is just 1-4 ATS in its last five on the road, while Wyoming is 5-1 ATS in its last six at home and 20-7-1 ATS in is last 28 following a SU loss. 

The Cowboys are 17-3 at home this year, while the Chanticleers are a pathetic 3-10 on the road. Lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on North Carolina (5:05 EST).

The No. 5 Kentucky Wildcats get ready to play the No. 6 North Carolina Tar Heels in the Elite Eight on Sunday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors UNC.

Kentucky rolled by UCLA 86-75 on Friday, while North Carolina edged Butler 92-80. 

Note that the Tar Heels play with revenge here after falling 103-100 at Kentucky on December 17th.

The Wildcats average 85.2 PPG, while conceding 71.4. Malik Monk leads all scorers with 20.1 PPG. One glaring weakness for the Cats is their proficiency at the charity stripe, going a poor 70.5 percent collectively from the foul line this season.

UNC averages 85.2 PPG and leads the nation rebounding with 43.7 boards per game. The Tar Heels concede 70.5 PPG and Justin Jackson leads the nightly charge with 18.2 points and 4.7 boards per game.

I’ll point out that Kentucky is just 1-4 ATS in its last five following an ATS victory, while UNC is 6-2 ATS in its last eight tournament games and 4-1 ATS in its last five non-conference contests.

A lot of talent on display here, but I think UNC’s veteran experience wins out over Kentucky’s youth. Play on the Tar Heels.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ELITE 8 SIDE OF THE YEAR is on Gonzaga (6:05 EST).

The No. 11 Xavier Musketeers get ready to battle the No. 1 Gonzaga Bulldogs in the Elite Eight on Saturday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the favorite.

Neither team has made it to the Championship game in school history. 

Xavier though looks poised for a classic letdown here in my opinion after its upset win over Arizona in the last round. The Musketeers shot a great 52.8 percent from the floor, but were outrebounded 35-27. They also missed five of their 16 free throws. It was an atrocious performance for the Wildcats too.

Suffice it to say, I think Xavier is going to have a much tougher time on the offensive end tonight.

The Bulldogs come in off a 61-58 win over West Virginia, holding the Mountaineers to just 26.7 percent from the floor and only 5 of 23 from behind the arc. 

The Musketeers are overmatched here completely and I’m expecting a complete blowout from start to finish. One player to keep your eyes on is Nigel Williams-Goss, who was held to just ten points last time out, but who presents a difficult matchup for Xavier.

Lay the points with confidence, play on Gonzaga.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SWEET 16 PERFECT STORM is on North Carolina (7:10 EST).

The Butler Bulldogs are getting ready to battle the North Carolina Tar Heels on Friday night on the second day of the Sweet 16 and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the favorite.

Butler comes in off a 75-65 win over MTSU and it’s now won six of its last eight, while UNC is off a 72-65 win over Arkansas and it’s now won eight of its last ten.

The Bulldogs average 76.2 PPG and allow 68.2. Kelan Martin was a stand out in the last round with 19 points. Butler has looked sharp defensively down the stretch, but it now faces one of the nation’s top offenses and suffice it to say, I think it’s going to have its hands full tonight.

UNC averages 85.1 PPG and concedes 70.3 (note though that the Tar Heels have averaged 88.6 PPG on 48.8 percent shooting and allowed just 70.0 in all neutral site games this year). Kennedy Meeks had 16 points to lead four other players in double figures last time out.

I’ll point out that Butler is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven following an ATS victory, while UNC is 20-7-2 ATS in its last 29 neutral site games when playing the role of favorite.

The Tar Heels have been especially sharp on the defensive end of late, allowing just 62.4 PPG over their last nine. Lay the points with confidence, play on North Carolina.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* CBI TOURNEY SIDE OF THE YEAR is on George Washington (8:00 EST).

The George Washington Colonials are getting ready to battle the Illinois-Chicago Flames in the second round of the CBI.

Last year the Colonials won the NIT title. George Washington opened the CBI with a win over Toledo, while Illinois-Chicago earned a slim two-point win over Stony Brook in the round of 16.

The Colonials had a tough non-conference schedule and dropped five games to Georgia, UAB, Penn State, Florida State and Miami, but they’d also pick up quality victories over Harvard, South Florida, Temple and UCF. Tyler Cavanaugh had 29 points in the victory over Toledo.

The Flames finished the season three games below .500, but still managed to earn a postseason birth. After getting through the first round though, I’m expecting a letdown tonight. Dominique Matthews was a standout with a game-high 21 points in the win over the Seawolves.

Illinois Chicago is just happy to be here, while George Washington would love to add the CBI tournament title to its resume after winning the NIT last season and I’m expecting this experienced team to do more than enough to come away with the comfortable ATS victory tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is on South Caroilna (8:40 EST).

The South Carolina Gamecocks are ready to battle the Duke Blue Devils on Sunday night in the second round of the NCAA Tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the underdog.

South Carolina smashed Marquette 93-73 in the opening round, while Duke got by Troy 87-65. The Gamecocks average 72.7 PPG this year, but make up for it on the other end by conceding just 64.7. They also rank seventh overall in 3-point defense in allowing just 29.7 percent. Sindarius Thornwell had 29 points in the victory over the Golden Eagles.

Duke has averaged 80.8 PPG this year, while allowing 69.7. Grayson Allen had 21 points in the victory over the Trojans. 

I’lll point out though that South Carolina is 9-5 ATS in its last 14 neutral court games and 8-4 ATS in its last 12 when playing with one or less days rest, while Duke is just 13-16 ATS as a favorite this year and only 7-9 ATS after scoring 80 points or more.

South Carolina’s offense was firing on all cylinders against Marquette and I’m expecting it to carry that momentum over here. The Gamecocks have a fantastic defense as well and while I won’t be so bold as to call for an outright upset, I do think that South Carolina can at the very least, take this one down to the wire and keep it competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SECOND ROUND NCAA SIDE OF THE YEAR is on Gonzaga (5:15 EST).

The No. 1 Gonzaga Bulldogs get ready to battle the No. 8 Northwestern Wildcats on Saturday night in the second round of the NCAA tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Bulldogs.

Northwestern advanced by upsetting Vanderbilt, led by Bryant McIntosh who poured in 25 points. 

Gonzaga advanced by crushing South Dakota by 20 in the first round. The Bulldogs have now won 33 straight.  Gonzaga features the No. 1 ranked defense, while the offense is ranked 13th. Nigel Williams-Goss has averaged 16.6 points, 5.8 boards, 4.8 assists and 1.7 steals in 33 games this year. 

The Wildcats simply do not have an answer for Williams-Goss, who I’m expecting to have another big game here. 

I’ll point out as well that Northwestern is just 1-2 ATS in its last three against good offensive teams which score 77-plus points per contest, while Gonzaga is 22-8 ATS as a favorite this season.

I think the No. 1 seed sends a message to the rest of the tournament with a full four quarter effort and expect it to pull away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 8* END-OF-NIGHT BAIL-OUT BLOWOUT is on UCLA (9:55 EST).

The 22-13 Kent State Golden Flashes get ready to battle the 29-4 UCLA Bruins in the first round of the NCAA tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the favorite.

Kent State won the MAC Tournament title and the automatic bid to the Big Dance after beating Akron 70-65 on Saturday, while UCLA fell to No. 7 Arizona 86-75 in the Pac-12 Tournament semifinals on Friday. 

The Golden Flashes average 76.9 PPG and concede 72.3. Jaylin Walker led the way with 30 points and six boards in the win in the championship game. 

UCLA is No. 1 in the nation in averaging 90.4 PPG, while allowing 75.3. Isaac Hamilton had 20 points in the loss to the Wildcats.

i’ll point out that Kent State is just 1-3 ATS in its last four non-conference games, while UCLA is 10-3 ATS this year in non-conference contests and 4-2 ATS in all neutral court affairs. 

The Golden Flashes had a great tournament run, but I have a hard time seeing Kent matching pace with the high-powered Bruins. Lay the points with confidence.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on Michigan State (9:20 EST).

The 19-14 Michigan State Spartans get ready to battle the 21-11 Miami Florida Hurricanes in the opening round of the NCAA tournament on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors MSU.

The Hurricanes were 10-8 in the ACC and lost to UNC in the Quarterfinals of the ACC Tournament contest. The Spartans were 10-8 in league play and fell to Minnesota in the Quarterfinals of the Big Ten Tourney.

Miles Bridges had 20 points for the Spartans in the Quarterfinal loss. The Spartans averaged 71.4 PPG and allowed 68.4 this season.

Miami averages 69.4 PPG and concedes 63.7 Davon Reed finished with seven points in the loss to the Tar Heels.

I’ll point out that Michigan State is 3-0 ATS this year after scoring 60 points or less, 6-2 ATS off a loss against a conference rival and 4-1 ATS against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest, while Miami is just 2-8 ATS in non-conference games and 2-4 ATS in all neutral court affairs this season. 

I think the Spartans are the better coached team and expect them to at the very least, take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NCAA OPENING ROUND DOG OF THE YEAR is on Troy (7:20 EST).

The 22-14 Troy Trojans are looking to upset No. 2 seed Duke and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the underdog.

I’m not predicting an outright upset or anything, but I do think that the Trojans own an offense capable of keeping it a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

Duke could get caught looking past its lowly opponent today, after going 11-7 in the ACC regular season and finishing fifth overall, the Blue Devils would steam roll through the conference tournament, en route to the title over Notre Dame.

Troy won the Sun Belt title to punch its ticket to the Big Dance.

The Trojans average 78.4 PPG and concede 71.1. Jordan Varnado leads the team with 16.5 poitns, 7.1 boards and 1.4 blocks per contest. 

Duke averages 80.7 points and concedes 69.8. This team is loaded and had four players that average in double figures.

I’ll point out though that Troy is 11-3 ATS in its last 14 as an underdog, while Duke is already 0-2 ATS this year as a neutral court favorite of 12.5 points or more.

The Blue Devils don’t play defense very well and they very easily could have already peaked. I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* OPENING ROUND BLOWOUT is on Oregon (2:00 EST).

The 22-12 Iona Gaels are getting ready to battle the 29-5 Oregon Ducks on Friday night in the opening round of the NCAA tournament and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Ducks.

The Gaels beat Siena 87-86 in OT in the MAAC touranment final last Monday, while Oregon had its eight game win streak snapped with an 83-80 setback to No. 7 Arizona in the Pac-12 Tourney Final. 

Iona got 21 points and ten boards from Jordan Washington in the win over the Saints. The Gaels average 80.5 PPG and concede 76.4. 

Oregon averages 79.1 PPG and concedes just 65 (33rd in the country). Dillon Brooks leads the nightly charge with 16.3 PPG. 

I’ll point out that Iona is just 1-5 ATS in its last six following a SU win and 0-4 ATS in its last four NCAA Tournament contests, while Oregon is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 NCAA Tournament games.

Chris Boucher is out for Oregon, but the Ducks are deep and have stifiling defensive attack. Iona is unable to stop anyone and I’m expecting it to fall away as the game comes down the stretch. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Virginia Tech (9:40 EST).

The 22-10 Virginia Tech Hokies are in Wisconsin to take on the 25-9 Badgers on Thursday night in the first round of the NCAA tournament and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, because for a number of different reasons I think this one favors the underdog.

The Hokies won six of their last nine, ending with a 74-68 loss to FSU in the ACC Tournament quarterfinals last week. 

The Badgers had their three-game win streak snapped in a listless 71-56 setback to Michigan in the Big Ten Tournament title game on Sunday. 

I simply feel that Virignia Tech has the offensive firepower to test the Badgers’ stout defense. Note that the Hokies average 79.3 PPG, while conceding 74.4. Zach LeDay leads the nightly charge with 16.3 points and 7.4 boards per game. 

Wisconsin started the year 20-3, but then struggled down the stretch by going 5-6 over its final 11. The Badgers average 72.4 PPG, but make up for it by conceding just 61.1. Bronson Koenig leads the way with 14.1 PPG.

I’ll point out though that Virginia Tech is already 4-1 ATS in all neutral court affairs this year and 11-4 ATS when playing the role of underdog, while Wisconsin is just 3-4 ATS in all neutral court games and just 3-4 ATS in its last seven as the favorite.

For all of the reasons listed above, I’m grabbing the points. Play on the Hokies.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* TOURNEY SIDE OF THE MONTH is on VCU (7:20 EST).

The 26-8 VCU Rams are getting ready to face the 28-4 Saint Mary’s Gaels in the opening round of the NCAA tournament on Thursday and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Virginia Commonwealth.

Saint Mary’s was second best to Gonzaga in the WCC this year and would lose in the Championship game to the Bulldogs. 

VCU was the second-best team in its conference as well and it would lose in the A-10 Championship to Rhode Island.

It’s a matchup of two teams looking to bounce back and I’m expecting an all out battle until the final moments. 

One player to keep your eyes on for the Rams is Jequan Lewis, who led the way with 14.7 points, 4.6 assists and 1.7 steals per game this season. VCU’s normally stout defense stumbled uncharacteristically in the loss to Rhode Island, but it was a strength of the team throughout the season, allowing just 66.3 PPG, ranked 44th in the country. 

The Gaels got destroyed 74-56 in the Championship game last Tuesday. Calvin Hermanson was a bright spot with 14 points in the setback. Saint Mary’s would go on to allow the Bulldogs to shoot 50 percent from the floor, which was out of the norm, as they allowed the second fewest points in the nation this year, allowing only 56.5 PPG.

I’ll point out though that VCU is 3-0 ATS in its last three NCAA tournament games, while Saint Mary’s is just 1-2 ATS in its last three NCAA tournament contests and only 1-2 ATS this year after scoring 60 points or less. 

I think Saint Mary’s is the better team, but it’s not THAT much better. VCU won’t be rolling over here and it will believe it has every opportunity to win this one straight up as well. The Rams’ defense has been suffocating as well this season and they have the offense to match pace.

I’m grabbing the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Virginia (12:40 EST).

The 29-5 NC Wilmington Seahawks get ready to battle the 22-10 Virginia Cavaliers at 12:40 EST on Thursday to open the NCAA Tournament for real and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Cavs.

The Seahawks won the regular season and tournament title in the Colonial conference. NC Wilmington averaged 84 PPG and allowed 75.3 on neutral courts this year. Over their last six games though the Seahawks have given up an average of 77.3 points. NC Wilmington has six players that average at least 7.8 PPG, led by CJ Bryce with 17.6 PPG. 

Virginia has won four of its last five and owns the nation’s No. 1 defense, allowing just 55.6 PPG. The Cavs average just 66.7, but they catch a break today clearly in facing the Seahawks mediocre defense. 

I’ll point out as well that UNC Wilmington is just 1-5-1 ATS in its last seven following an ATS victory, while Virginia is 16-7 ATS in its last 23 following a SU loss.

The Cavs have a weak offense, but they’ve played well against weaker defenses. The Seahawks have played exceptionally well this year, but now face the No. 1 defense in the entire country. 

I think Virginia pulls away down the stretch for the comfortable ATS cover. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Princeton (12:15 EST).

The 23-6 Princeton Tigers are ready to battle the 25-9 Notre Dame Fighting Irish at noon EST on opening Thursday of the NCAA Tournament and while I wouldn’t be completely shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can, because for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the underdog.

Princeton knows how to win. The Tigers come into the Tournament having won 19 straight after beating Yale in the championship game of the Ivy League Tournamant Final. 

ND won eight of ten to close the year, falling 75-69 to the Blue Devils in the ACC Touranment title game on Saturday. 

Princeton went undefeated in league play and held Yale to just 37.7 percent shooting in the championship game. Myles Stephens had 23 points and eight boards.

The Tigers average 72.1 PPG and concede just 61.6, ranked tenth overall in the country.

The Fighting Irish average 78 PPG and allow 69.2. Notre Dame though allowed Duke to shoot a smoking 60.8 percent from the floor in the title game. Bonzie Colson leads all players with 17.5 points and 10.2 boards per game.

I’ll point out though that Princeton is 8-5 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less and 2-1 ATS in all neutral court affairs this season, while Notre Dame is just 3-4 in non-conference contests and just 1-2 ATS in its last three neutral court contests.

The Tigers are pretty thin after their starting five, but they’ll be leaving everything they have on the floor tonight, as there’s no point in trying to reserve anything at this point. Notre Dame has looked brilliant at times this year, but has also struggled in the “bigger” moments. 

I think Princeton takes this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* NIT OPENING ROUND SIDE OF THE YEAR is on Central Florida.

The 19-14 Colorado Buffaloes are battling UCF in the opener of the NIT on Wednesday and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Knights.

The Buffs were eliminated from the Pac-12 Tournament by Arizona, while the Knights lost to SMU in the semi-final of the AAC tournament. Colorado finished the season with an offense and defense each ranked outside the top 100 in the nation.

The Knights ran into a tough Mustangs team in their 70-59 loss in the ACC tournament. But the 22 wins on the year was a school best. BJ Taylor had 20 points in the eventual loss.

I’ll point out though that Coloardo is just 1-4 ATS in its last five allowing more than 90 points in its previous game, while UCF is 4-0 ATS this year following an ATS loss and 4-1 ATS in its last five at home.

Colorado has to travel across the country after a lackluster performance in its conference tournament and I think it’s overmatched here anyways. UCF put together a great overall season and making it to the semi-finals of the ACC Tournament is a big accomplishment. UCF is at home and I think will take full advantage of this opportunity. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on North Carolina Central (6:40 EST).

The 25-8 North Carolina Central Eagles get ready to battle the UC Davis Aggies in the First Four and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Eagles.

After losing two in a row, NC Central won its last three games of the year to win the MEAC conference tournament, led by its 22nd ranked defense.

UC Davis upset UC Irvine in their conference tournament to advance to this point. Note that the Aggies rank lower than NC Central in both PPG and points allowed. 

NC Central would hold Norfolk State to just 35.4 percent shooting in its 67-59 Championship victory, holding it to 21 points in the second half and forcing 17 turnovers. Patrick Cole was a standout with 18 points and eight boards to lead three other players that also scored in double figures.

Note that the Eagles have won all three of their neutral site affairs already this season.

UC Davis only shot 38 percent from the floor, but it would hold UCI to just 34.6 percent in its 50-47 conference victory. The Aggies would force 20 turnovers, but also had 16 of their own. It wasn’t a pretty victory and I think the team has to be feeling pretty good about itself in just scoring the upset in the Conference tournament and is likely just happy to be here. Brynton Lemar scored 20 points in the Championship game. 

I’ll point out that NC Central is 8-3 ATS in its last 11 neutral site games, while UC Davis is just 1-4 ATS in its last five as an underdog.

I think the Eagles are the better all around team in this matchup and I expect their smothering defensive play to be just too much for the Aggies to handle tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on on Wake Forest (9:10 EST).

The 19-13 Wake Forest Demon Deacons are getting ready to battle the 20-13 Kansas State Wildcats in “The First Four” on Tuesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Deacons.

Kansas State lost 51-50 to West Virginia in its latest action, while Wake Forest fell 99-90 to Virginia Tech in its conference tournament. 

The Demon Deacons though come into the NCAA tourney playing solid ball, they’ve won four of their last five. Wake Forest is a weak defensive team, it allows 83 PPG in neutral court affairs this year, but the offense continues to shine, averaging 88. 

The Wildcats have averaged 69.8 PPG and conceded 60.7 in neutral court contests this season. Also note, that the Wildcats have in fact allowed 72 PPG in true road games this year. 

And I’ll point out that Wake Forest is 6-1 ATS in its last seven after allowing more than 90 points and 5-0 ATS in its last five against the Big 12, while Kansas State is a dismal 1-4 ATS in its last five NCAA tournament games.

For the most part the Wildcats have struggled against the “elite” offenses this year. True they just held the Mountaineers to 51 points, but they also allowed an average of 81.4 PPG when facing Oklahoma, Iowa State, Oklahoma State and WVU earlier in the season. 

Wake catches a break in facing the anemic Wildcats’ offense, a unit which has managed a paltry 61.4 PPG in its last five games.

The Demon Deacons’ dynamic offense turns out to be the difference in the end, play on Wake Forest.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on SMU (4:15 EST).

The 29-4 Cincinnati Bearcats are ready to battle 29-4 SMU in the AAC Championship Game this afternoon and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Mustangs. 

SMU would finish 17-1 in league play, it’s only loss coming at the hands of Cincinnati. The Mustangs would later go on to avenage that setback at home and suffice it to say, I’m expecting another rout here today as well.

Cincinnati advanced by taking down UConn 81-71, while SMU beat UCF 70-59. 

Despite the victory, the Bearcats struggled with consistency yestreday, shooting just 40 perecent from the field. They’d also miss 29 of 47 field goal attmeps and 12 of 19 three-pointers. Things clearly won’t get any easier in facing the Mustangs.

SMU has now won 15 in a row after yesterday’s complete performance, dominating on both ends of the court. Sterling Brown had 20 points, making all seven free throws in the process in the victory. 

I’ll point out that Cincinnati is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against teams with a winning percentage above .600, while SMU is 13-3 ATS in its last 16 in the same position. 

Ultimately though I think the Mustangs are playing better than the Bearcats right now. I’m expecting a comfortable ATS victory once it’s all said and done. Play on SMU.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Wisconsin (4:00 EST).

The 23-11 Michigan Wolverines are getting ready to battle 25-8 Wisconsin in the Big Ten Championship game and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Badgers.

Michigan has had to win three straight to make it here, most recently getting the better of Minnesota 84-77 yesterday. I unfortuantely had the Gophers in that one. 

No. 2 Wisconsin has cruised to the finals with two straight victories, destroying the Hoosiers by ten and then annihilating Northwestern by 28. 

These teams split a pair of games this year. Each was within six points.

Michigan averages 74.9 PPG and concedes 65.8 Derrick Walton Jr. leads the nightly charge with 15 points and 4.6 assists per game.

Wisconsin is among the best in the nation on the defensive end of the floor though and I believe this will be the difference maker today (allowing 61.1 PPG, ranked seventh overall).

I’ll point out as well that Michigan is just 1-2 ATS in its last three as an underdog, while Wisconsin is 10-6 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less.

Wisconsin has looked untouchable over the first two games of this tournament. I’m expecting a comfortable ATS victory, play on the Badgers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is Minnesota (1:00 EST).

The 22-11 Michigan Wolverines are taking on Minnesota in the Semi Finals of the Big Ten Tournament from the Verizon Center in the nation’s capital on Saturday morning and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Golden Gophers.

Minnesota got by Michigan State 63-58, while Michigan managed a second straight win in as many days in yesterday’s 74-70 OT victory over Purdue.

But if recent history is any precedence, then the Golden Gophers have to be loving their chances today, as when these teams met one other time earlier in the year, they’d come away with the 83-78 win at home.

The Wolverines average 74.6 PPG and concedes 65.6. Derrick Walton Jr. leads the way with 14.6 points and 4.5 assists per game.

Minnesota held the Spartans to just 32.8 percent shooting on Friday. Jordan Murphy led the way with 13 points and ten boards. He leads the team with 11.1 points and 8.8 rebounds per game. Minnesota averages 75.2 PPG and concedes 68.6.

I simply feel the three games in three days will be too much for the Wolverines to overcome and look for Minnesota to ride its smothering defensive play to another victory over Michigan this season. Play on the Golden Gophers.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* LEGEND is on Nevada (10:00 EST).

The 20-11 Fresno State Bulldodgs get ready to battle the 26-6 Nevada Wolf Pack from the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas in the semi-finals of the Mountain West Conference Tournament on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Pack.

Fresno State advanced by beating New Mexico 65-60 in the quarters, while Nevada smashed Utah State 83-69 on Thursday. 

It’s difficult to beat any team three times in a single season. Even great teams have difficulty pulling that feat off against much lesser competition.

Fresno State is a very good team obviously. But I wouldn’t classify it as a “great” team. 

Nevada is the No. 1 seed in the tournament, but it comes into this one playing with the “double revenge factor” after inexplicably dropping both games to the Bulldogs during the regular season, accounting for half its conference losses this year.

Fresno State averages 74.3 and concedes 70.2. The Bulldogs hit 6.3 three point field goals per game, but shoot only 35.3 percent from range overall. Jaron Hopkins leads the nightly charge with 13.3 points and 5.5 boards per game.

Nevada averages 79.8 PPG and concedes 71. The Wolfpack average 9.2 three point field goals per contest, while hitting 38.6 percent from range. Marcus Marshall leads the way with 19.7 points and 3.6 assists per game.

The Wolfpack are dealing with an injury to Elijah Foster, but they’re a deep team and I think their offensive production will be just too much for the Bulldogs to keep up with today. I’m on Nevada.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-TEN PERFECT STORM is on Purdue (12:00 EST).

The Michigan Wolverines get ready to battle the Purdue Boilermakers in the quarterfinals of the Big Ten Tournament from the Verizon Center in Washington and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Boilermakers.

Purdue comes in fresh after earning a bye through the first two rounds. And now the Boilermakers will be looking to avenge a 12 points loss (82-70) to Michigan back on February 25th.

The Wolverines beat Illinois 75-55 yesterday. Interesting to note that Michigan was late for the 12 PM EST start due to taking a morning flight to Washington after a minor plane crash on Wednesday. 

Suffice it to say, this one sets up great for the Boilermakers in many respects. Purdue will have to keep its eyes on Derrick Walton Jr. who leads the team with 14.7 points and 4.5 assists per game. Michigan ranks second in the Big Ten in three point percentage with a 38.6 rate, but that comes at a cost as it struggles in defending from range (allowing 37.9 percent) and in rebounding (-1.6 margin).

Purdue is led by Caleb Swanigan, who averages 18.7 points and 12.6 boards per game. He also shot 54 percent form the floor and 44.9 percent from behind the arc this season. 

The Boilermakers lead the Big Ten in three-point shooting and also rank first in field goal percentage (also first in overall offense with 80.5 PPG and first in rebounding margin, +7.1).

I’ll point out that the underdog is just 1-4 ATS the last five in this series, while Pursude is a perfect 4-0 ATS in its last four neutral court affairs.

You can’t teach “size,” and in this department the Boilermakres have a big advantage in 7-2 center Issac Haas. Combined with Swanigan and all of the above situational and trend based factors, I think the correct call is on Purdue.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Hawaii (11:30 EST).

The 14-15 Hawaii Rainbow Warriors are set to battle the 10-17 Long Beach State 49ers in the quarterfinals of this year’s Big West Tournament. Note that this is a rematch of last year’s title game which was won by Hawaii 64-60.

These teams closed their respective regular season’s against each other, with LBSU winning by nine points just last week. They did split the season series though, with the Warriors winning the first one.

But if recent history is any precedence, then Hawaii has to be loving its chances today as this is the third consecutive year the teams have met in the Big West tourney, with the Warriors winning both. Keep your eyes on the Bows’ Noah Allen, who averages 15.5 points. 

Temidayo Yussuf had 23 points in the 49ers win over Hawaii last Saturday, but I’ll point out that Long Beach State has struggled in this spot for bettors this year, going just 4-9 ATS against clubs with winning records and only 7-8 ATS when playing the role of favorite, while Hawaii has excelled by going a perfect 2-0 ATS this season after allowing 80 points or more.

I’m expecting this one to come down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-EAST PERFECT STORM is on Creighton (9:30 EST).

The 23-8 Creighton Bluejays are set to battle the 20-11 Providence Friars and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Bluejays. 

The Bluejays dropped three of their last four, iincluding a 91-83 road setback to Marquette on Saturday. 

Providence closed with six straight wins, including an 86-75 road victory over St. John’s in its finale. 

These teams split a pair of meetings this year, with Providence scoring the narrow 68-66 road win in the latest on February 22nd. 

The Bluejays lost point guard Maurice Watson Jr. in late January and then went 6-7 down the stretch. The Conference tournament is a chance for a new start though, note that Creighton did finish by averaging 83.5 PPG and conceding 72.9. Marcus Foster leads the team with 18.5 PPG. The team would go on to connnecton on a blistering 51.2 percent from the floor this year and was 40.3 percent from range. 

Providence averages 70.6 PPG and concedes 66.5. Rodney Bullock led the team with 16.1 points and 6.4 boards per game. The Friars are now in the mix for a tournament invite after the late season surge, but I think they’ll struggle to match pace with this elite Creighton offense.

I’ll point out as well that the Bluejays are 5-2 ATS off a loss against a conference rival this season and 15-7 ATS as a favorite, while Providence is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after scoring 86 points or more.

I’m banking on Creighton’s offense to be the difference maker tonight, play on the Bluejays.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Temple (3:30 EST).

The 14-17 East Carolina Pirates are getting ready to battle the 16-15 Temple Owls and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Owls.

The Pirates were 6-12 in league play, while Temple went 7-11. 

Both teams struggled down the stretch of the regular season, losing three of their final five. However, Temple did manage to “right the ship” after winning its final two of the regular season.

These teams split a pair of games this year with both winning comfortably on its home floor. 

I’ll point out though that ECU is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine neutral court games, while Temple is 10-6 ATS in all neutral court games the last two seasons. 

The Owls are clearly the “hotter” of these two evenly matched teams at the moment, coming into the conference tournament on two straight victories. I expect that momentum to get carried over here. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* C-USA PERFECT STORM is on Florida Atlantic (9:00 EST).

The 10-19 FAU Owls get ready to battle the 17-14 Marshall Thundering Herd on Wednesday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Owls.

The Owls play with revenge after falling to Marshall by 17 earlier in the season. 

FAU though has performed well in this spot for bettors of late, going 3-1 ATS in its last four as an udnerdog and 12-8 ATS in its last 20 after allowing 80 points or more.

Marshall on the other hand has not done well in this position, going 0-3 ATS in its last three conference tournament games (in fact it’s 0-9 ATS in its last nine games played in the month of March) and just 1-2 ATS in its last three when playing on a neutral court.

I think the Owls can match pace and keep this one a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* MWC PERFECT STORM is on San Jose State (2:00 EST).

The 14-15 San Jose State Spartans get ready to battle the 14-15 Utah State Aggies on Wednesday afternoon in the Mountain West Conference Tournament from Las Vegas and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the Spartans.

SJSU backed its way into the tournament by losing four straight, including a 74-62 defeat at Wyoming on Saturday. Utah State also closed the season with a loss, dropping a 66-59 decision to UNLV on the road on Saturday. 

To say this is a “revenge” game for San Jose State would be a bit of an understatement, as the Aggies have won the last ten straight in the series, including an 81-75 road victory in the only matchup this year back on February 22nd.

SJSU averages 72.2 PPG and allows 74.5. Brandon Clarke leads the nightly charge with 17.9 points and 8.7 rebounds per contest. 

Utah State averages just 71.8 PPG and concedes 70.6. Jalen Moore leads all scorers with 16.6 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that the Spartans are 2-1 ATS this season after three or more consecutive losses, while Utah State is already 1-3 ATS in its last four after scoring 60 points or less.

I think the Spartans have the firepower to take this one down to the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ACC PERFECT STORM is on Syracuse (12:00 EST)

The 20-10 Miami Florida Hurricanes are getting ready to battle the 18-13 Syracuse Orange and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors Syracuse.

These teams played at the start of the year and the Orange would notch the 70-55 home win. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a repeat performance here. 

Miami comes in with zero momentum after dropping its final two games of the year. Davon Reed leads the team with 15.3 PPG, while Ja’Quan Newton chips in 13.9. 

The Hurricanes average 72 PPG and concede just 63.4.

The Orange average 76.4 PPG and concede 70.7. Andrew White III scored 40 points in his teams 90-61 regular season finale over Georgia Tech. 

I’ll point out thought that Miami Florida is just 1-3 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a road loss in which it scored 56 points or less, while Syracuse is 2-1 ATS in its last three after scoring 88 points or more.

I think the Orange carry over the momentum from their push to close the regular season and find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on Syracuse.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ACC ROUND 1 SIDE OF THE YEAR is on Boston College (2:30 EST).

The 18-12 Wake Forest Demon Deacons are getting ready to take on the 9-22 Boston College Eagles in the first round of the 2017 ACC Tournament from the Barclays Center in New York and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the underdog.

This is a “double revenge” scenario for BC, which lost 79-66 to Wake Forest in the first matchup this year and 85-80 at home in the second contest.

Beating a team three times in one year is tough even for really great teams and Wake Forest is decent, but I think it’s safe to say that not many would classify the Demon Deacons as “great.”

Wake would actually notch a few quality wins down the stretch, beating Louisville 88-81 and Virginia Tech 89-84. Note that the Demon Deacons average 82.1 PPG and conceded 77.2.

BC averages 72.3 PPG and concedes 77.9. The Eagles closed out a miserable season by losing 14 straight. One bright spot was Jerome Robinson, who averaged a team-high 18.7 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that Wake is just 2-10 ATS in its last 12 neutral site games and only 1-5 ATS in its last six following an ATS loss, while BC is 2-1 ATS in its last three after a three games or more winless streak.

Boston College has a decent offense, putting up 80 points against the Demon Deacons in the last matchup. I think Robinson and company will keep this one competitive once again, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on Northern Illinois (7:00 EST).

The 15-16 Northern Illinois Huskies are at Eastern Michigan to take on the 15-16 Eagles and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

These teams are pretty evenly matched as they head into the first round of the MAC Tournament. Northern Illinois stumbled down the stretch, losing three straight to close the year, including an 87-82 setback at Ball State on Friday, while EMU also suffered a loss in its finale, falling 60-56 at home to Toldedo on Friday. Note that these teams split a pair of games this year, each winning on its home floor.

Eugene German was a bright spot for NIU in the loss to Ball State, finishing with 17 points. Note that the Huskies average 72.3 PPG and concede 70.6. 

EMU averages 78.5 PPG and concedes 72.9. The Eagles shot just 37.7 percent from the floor in the loss on Friday though and were only 4 of 18 from range. 

I’ll point out that Northern Illinois is 7-2 ATS in its last nine after three or more consecutive SU losses and 8-6 ATS on the road, while Eastern Michigan is just 4-7 ATS at home and just 2-10 ATS in its last 12 after scoring 60 points or less.

Both teams have struggled down the stretch, but the conference tournament gives each an opportunity to turn over a new leaf. I’m expecting a battle down to the wire and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. Play on Northern Illinois.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BLOWOUT SUPER SIDE is on Wisconsin (6:00 EST).

The 23-7 Minnesota Golden Gophers are in Wisconsin to take on the 22-8 Badgers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Minnesota is rolling no doubt, it’s won eight straight, most recently an 88-73 home victory over Nebraska.

The Badgers though will be looking to atone for their shocking 59-57 loss to Iowa on Thursday.

Note that the Badgers beat the Golden Gophers 78-76 in OT earlier in the season, getting the straight-up victory, but unable to cover against the spread. 

Minnesota averages 76.5 PPG and concedes 69.1. Nate Mason had 25 points in the win over Nebraska. 

Bronson Koenig was a lone bright spot in the seback to Iowa for Wisconsin, he’d finish with 19 points. Koenig has now reached 17 points or more in three straight games. 

Wisconsin though has lost three straight and five of its last six to fall to 11-6 in league play. Note that the Badgers average 72.6 PPG and concede 62. 

It’s Senior Night in Wisconsin and the place is going to be rocking. The Badgers have a chance to finish off the season strong with a big win in front of the home town crowd over a tough opponent and that’s exactly what I’m expecting. I think Wisconsin’s tough defensive play turns out to be the difference. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BAIL-OUT BLOWOUT is on Colorado State (8:00 EST).

The 21-9 Colorado State Rams are in Nevada to take on the 24-6 Wolfpack and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

This is a big game, as both teams are 13-4 and the winner will be crowned the Mountain West regular season champ. Both teams are likely to be included in the NCAA tournament, but that’s not 100% guaranteed for the loser. 

The Rams come in having won seven in a row, while Nevada has won five in a row. 

The revenge factor does not come into play here, as this is the first time the teams have faced each other this season.

Colorado State comes in off a dramatic win over Wyoming, as Prentiss Nixon hit a three pointer with six seconds left to lift the Rams to victory. Colorado State shot 51 percent from the floor and only committed six turnovers, while forcing 11. 

Nevada handled SJSU in its latest action, cruising to the 82-67 victory. Marcus Marshall had 20 points. 

I’ll point out that Colorado State is 10-1 ATS on the road this year and a perfect 2-0 ATS as a road dog in the 6.5 to nine points range, while Nevada is just 5-7 ATS after scoring 80 points or more this season.

I like the Rams to at the very least, keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* WCC TOURNEY RND 1 GAME OF THE YEAR is on San Francisco (6:30 EST).

The 20-11 San Francisco Dons are ready to battle the 16-15 Santa Clara Broncos as the No. four/five seeds. 

Both teams finished 10-8 in league play and each handed the other a loss away from home.

The Dons looked great in non-conference play, picking up quailty wins over teams like Utah, but would then open conference action by losing four of their first five. San Francisco responded though by winning seven of their next eight, before then dropping three of its final five. 

The Dons come in with some momentum though after handling Pepperdine 75-65 on the road in their final regular season contest.

Keep your eyes on Ronny Boyce, who leads San Francisco with 12.8 PPG. Also note, I think it’s important to point out that the Dons make 9.3 shots from range per game, which is second in the conference and 33rd in the nation.

This year has already been a success for the Broncos, who have won five more games than they did a season ago and clinched a winning league record after going 7-11 last year. 

Santa Clara though lost two of three to end the season, including a deflating 14 point setback at Saint Mary’s in the regular season finale. The Broncos lead the conference in 3-pointers made with 9.6 per contest, but note that they’re ninth overall in scoring with just 66.5 PPG. 

I’ll point out that San Francisco is 5-1 ATS in its last six when playing on five or six days rest, while Santa Clara is just 1-2 ATS in its last three in the same position and already 1-4 ATS in all tournament games this season.

I think the Dons are the better all around team and I have a hard time seeing the Broncos matching pace down the stretch. Play on San Francisco.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* 33-Club Play is on Rutgers (12:00 EST).

The 18-12 Illinois Fighting Illini are at Rutgers to take on the 13-17 Scarlet Knights and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Knights have lost six straight, but they’re out to play the role of spoiler this afternoon, as despite coming into this one on a four-game win streak, the Illini still find themselves on the big dance bubble. 

To say this is a revenge game would be a bit of an understatement too, as Illinois has won all four meetings against Rutgers since both became a part of the Big Ten. 

Even with a win today though, Illinois is guaranteed nothing as far as the NCAA Tournament. Take note that the selection committee didn’t put one Big Ten team in their debut top 16 rankings earlier in the month, so perhaps only running the conference tournament table would ensure its inclusion.

The Fighting Illini have been hot, but it’s not too hard to imagine the team finally getting caught looking ahead to what could be and past their lowly opponent this afternoon. 

Despite finishing with the last seed in the confernce tournament, the Scarlet Knights will be playing for pride today in the final home game of the year. One player to keep your eyes on is sophomore guard Corey Sanders who averages 12.9 points and 3.3 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Illinois is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after a three game or more unbeaten streak, while Rutgers is 2-1 ATS in its last three in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent if scoring less than 67 points in that contest.

I think the home side at the very least takes this one down to the wire and sneaks in through the back door down the stretch. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SITUATIONAL STUNNER is on Brown (7:00 EST).

This looks like a good spot to pull the trigger on the lowly Brown Bears.

Neither of these teams will be playing in any postseason tournaments. Columbia comes to town off a win, but had lost five in a row previous to that.

Columbia beat Brown 83-78 at home back on February 4th, so this does indeed set up as a “revenge” scenario.

Brown is currently tied for last in the Ivy with Cornell and Dartmouth, so a win on senior night would go a long way in making sure it can claw its way out of the basement.

Besides, the Lions are also going to be get caught “looking ahead” to their season finale tomorrow at Yale.

It’s a perfect set of situational factors to take advantage of. Also note that Columbia is just 1-3 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival, while Brown is a perfect 2-0 ATS after scoring 60 points or less and 6-4 ATS when playing with five or six days rest.

I’m jumping on the revenge minded home side on Senior Night, play on Brown.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* Oddsmaker’s Error is on Iowa (9:00 EST).

The 16-13 Iowa Hawkeyes are in Wisconsin to take on the 22-7 Badgers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Iowa comes to town off a great 83-69 road win over Maryland, while Wisconsin enters off a deflating 84-74 loss at Michigan State.

The Hawkeyes are looking to roll towards the finish line, they’ve now won two straight. The Hawkeyes would shoot 48.4 percent from the floor in the win over the Terps and a monster 61.6 percent from range. They also looked sharp defensively, holding Maryland to 44.8 percent from the floor and just 32.4 percent from beyond the arc. 

Iowa averages 80.6 PPG overall, while conceding 77.7. Peter Jok leads the nightly charge with 20.6 PPG.

Wisconsin averages just 73.1 PPG, but concedes just 62.1. Nigel Hayes led all scorers with 22 in the loss to MSU.

I’ll point out though that the road team is 5-1 ATS the last six in this series and the dog is 8-2 ATS the last ten in this series. 

The Badgers are the team struggling right now, they’ve given up 82 and 84 points over their last two games. Iowa’s offense is firing on all cylinders, I’m going to grab the points and expect a nail-biter.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-EAST PERFECT STORM is on Xavier (9:00 EST).

The 17-11 Marquette Eagles are at Xavier to take on the 18-11 Musketeers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Marquette enters off a 73-69 loss to Providence, while the Musketeers come in off an 88-79 loss to Butler.

This is a big game for both teams, but note that this sets up as a revenge scenario for the home side after it was embarrassed 83-61 at Marquette earlier in the year.

The Golden Eagles let a late lead slip away in the loss to Providence last weekend. Marquette averages 82 PPG and concedes 74.1.

The Musketeers average 74.7 PPG and concede 71.4. One player to keep your eyes on today and who I think will be a difference maker in tonight’s contest is Trevon Blulett, who sat out in the first game against the Golden Eagles. Blulett had 21 points in the loss to the Bulldogs on Saturday. 

Xavier is still on the bubble, likely needing to win its final two games to get invited to the Big Dance. 

I’ll point out that Marquette is just 1-4 ATS in its last five against teams with winning records, while take note that the favorite is 4-1 ATS in the last five in this series overall. 

After scoring 79 points against Butlers tough defense, I’m expecting the Musketeers to carry that momentum over here. Play on Xavier.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* ACC PERFECT STORM is on Boston College (8:00 EST).

The 9-20 Boston College Eagles are at Notre Dame to take on the 22-7 Fighting Irish and while I won’t be so bold as to predict an outright upset, I do definitely think that the visitors can catch the home side a bit complacent and expect them to keep this one a lot closer than what Las Vegas is leading us to believe.

The Eagles come into this one with nothing to lose, except perhaps just one more game. BC enters on a 12 game losing streak and is just 2-14 in ACC action.

The Irish are rolling towards the tournament having won five in a row. Notre Dame is now 11-5 in league play this year. 

Not surprisingly, this is a “revenge” game for the visitors after they fell in a competitive 84-76 fight earlier in the season.

The Eagles average 72.7 PPG, while conceding 77.7. Two players average in double figures in Jerome Robinson (19.3) and Ky Bowman (14.5).

Notre Dame averages 78.9 PPG and concedes 69.3. Four players average in double figures for the Irish, led by Bonzie Colson with 16.8 PPG. 

I’ll point out though that BC is 10-4 ATS in its last 14 against teams with a winning percentage above .600 and 5-2 ATS in the last seven in this series overall, while Notre Dame is 0-2 ATS this year against teams with losing records.

Boston College has been outscored by just 12.0 PPG over its last 12 games. The Irish have a much more important game at Louisville on the weekend and I think will be caught looking ahead to that one. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* BIG-TEN PERFECT STORM is on Northwestern (7:00 EST).

The 19-10 Michigan Wolverines are in Northwestern to take on the 20-9 Wildcats and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Michigan looks poised for a letdown here after winning five of its last six games.

Conversely, the Wildcats will be risking life and limb tonight as they’ve lost two straight.

The Wolverines are led by Derrick Walton Jr., who has averages 18 points, 6.3 boards and 5 assists over his last nine outings. 

Note though that Michigan has not won back-to-back road games all year. 

Northwestern will be especially motivated tonight after the way it fell to Indiana in its last game, succumbing 63-62 after blowing a 7-point lead with just under two minutes to play. After going just 1-5 SU in its last six, clearly a  win today against the Wolverines would put Northwestern back firmly in the NCAA tournament conversation. Bryant McIntosh was a bright spot in the loss to the Hoosiers, finishing with 22 points. “We’re going to keep fighting,” Wildcats’ head coach Chris Collins said earlier in the week. “Our guys are hurting right now and I want them to hurt but make no mistake we’re going to fight back.”

I’ll point out that Michigan is just 9-13 ATS against teams with winning records this year and only 2-7 ATS on the road, while Northwestern is 10-7 ATS as a favorite this season and 15-7 ATS against schools with winning records.

I’m expecting the hungry home side to find a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Play on Northwestern.

Good luck…Larry

My A-10 PERFECT STORM is on St. Joseph’s (7:00 EST).

The 19-9 Rhode Island Rames are at St. Joseph’s to take on the 10-18 Hawks and while I’ll stop short in calling for an outright upset, I do think that the hungry home side will at the very least, take this one down to the wire and comfortably sneak in through the back door with the ample spread that it’s been afforded in this matchup.

St. Joe’s comes in desperate after losing eight straight, most recently a hard-fought 61-60 setback at St. Louis on Saturday.

Conversely, the Rams come in complacent after winning three in a row, most recently over VCU. The Rams already smoked the Hawks at home 88-58 on January 3rd, so it’s not too hard to imagine the visitors getting caught “looking past” their lowly opponent today. 

I won’t try to convince you that the Rams are overrated and the Hawks have gotten some bad breaks this season, as that’s not the case. Rhode Island is the better team, but I think the situation favors the home side. The long losing streak, the final home game and the revenge factor are all big time motivational factors working in favor of the Hawks tonight.

But also note that Rhode Island is just 5-6 ATS on the road this year, while St. Joseph’s is 7-5 ATS this season off a loss against a conference rival.

Grab as many points as you can, play on St. Joe’s.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SEC PERFECT STORM is on Auburn (6:30 EST).

The 17-12 Auburn Tigers are in Georgia to take on the 17-12 Bulldogs and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

Auburn comes to town of a 79-68 home loss to Arkansas and has now lost four of its last five. Georgia enters off an 82-80 home win over LSU and has won four of its last five.

I think the Bulldogs come in a tiny bit complacent and expect the hungry Tigers to at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

Also note that Auburn plays with revenge after dropping the first meeting back in December 96-84. 

The Tigers average 80.1 PPG, while conceding 79.4. 

The Bulldogs average 72.4 PPG and concede 69.8. 

I’ll point out though that Auburn is 7-4 ATS on the road this year and 3-1 ATS in its last four as an underdog, while Georgia is just 3-9 ATS at home and only 4-9 ATS as the favorite.

I’m banking on the desperate visitors to keep this one competitive until the final moments. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Penn State (8:30 EST).

The 16-13 Ohio State Buckeyes are at Penn State to take on the 14-15 Nittany Lions and for a number of different reasons, i think this one favors the home side.

These teams are tied for tenth place in the Big Ten standings. Ohio State enters off an 83-73 win over Wisconsin on Thursday, while Penn State enters off three straight losses, including an 81-71 road loss to the Golden Gophers last weekend. 

So not only will Penn State be looking to get off the schneid after three straight losses, but it’s also out to avenge both losses it suffered to OSU last year (this is the first matchup this season). 

Ohio State averages 72.7 PPG and concedes 69. Jae’Sean Tate leads the nightly charge with 14.1 points and 6.3 boards per game.

Penn State averages 72.1 PPG and concedes 72.2. Tony Carr leads the team with 13.2 points and 4.0 assists per game. 

I’ll point out that Ohio State has struggled in this spot though, going 1-4 ATS in its last five against the conference and only 10-29-1 ATS in its last 40 on the road overall, while Penn State is 5-1-1 ATS in its last seven at home.

I think the Buckeyes come back down to earth after playing one of their best games of the entire season. The Nittany Lions on the other hand will be risking life and limb to break the slide and have a big advantage in playing at home tonight. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Texas A&M (7:00 EST).

The 15-13 Texas A&M Aggies are in Missouri to take on the 7-21 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Aggies won for the second time in three games in a 56-53 home win over Alabama on Saturday, while Missouri lost its fourth straight in a deflating 80-77 road loss at Ole Miss last weekend.

The Tigers put up a fight in the first meeting between the schools, but eventually fell 76-73. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much bigger win today for the Aggies.

Texas A&M averages 71.9 PPG and concedes just 68.8. Tyler Davis leads the nightly charge with 14.3 points and 6.8 boards per game.

Missouris averages 69 PPG and concedes 72. Jordan Barnett leads the team in scoring with 12.6 points and 6.2 boards per contest.

I’ll point out that Texas A&M is 4-0 ATS in its last four road games against teams with a home winning percentage of less than .400 and 4-1 ATS in its last five following an ATS loss, while Missouri is just 1-3 ATS in its last four against teams with winning records.

The Tigers are limping towards the finish line, while the Aggies continue to keep momentum levels high. This one means a lot more to Texas A&M as far as the conference standings are concerned and in my opinion, all signs do indeed point to a lop-sided affair once it’s all said and done. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on South Caroilna (7:00 EST).

The 14-14 Mississippi State Bulldogs are in South Carolina to take on the 21-8 Gamecocks and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Bulldogs come in with zero momentum after six straight losses, most recently a 29 point beatdown setback by Vanderbilt.

The Gameocks on the other hand finally come in with some momentum after snapping a three-game slide with a victory over Tennessee on Saturday. Suffice it to say, I think South Carolina carries that momentum over in this one.

Mississippi State already lost at home 77-73 to South Carolina on February 11th and it clearly won’t get any easier for it on the road in this extremely hostile environment. 19 turnovers was the difference in that one, compared to just 11 for the Gamecocks.

But the Bulldogs have taken a step back since then, last week’s 77-48 loss to Vandy was perhaps the worst effort of the season. 

The Gamecocks are fighting for conference positioning and won’t be taking anything for granted. They sure looked a lot better against the Vols, holding them to 33.3 percent shooting in the 82-55 destruction: “This certainly resembles what we’ve been doing, in terms of defensive intensity,” senior guard Duane Notice said following the win over Tennessee.

Four players reached double-figures in scoring for South Carolina, which clearly doesn’t bode well for the struggling Bulldogs.

I’ll point out that Mississippi State is just 1-2 ATS this year after three or more consecutive SU losses and 0-2 ATS in trying to revenge a home loss against an opponent, while South Carolina is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 60 points or less. 

I think the Bulldogs simply go through the motions today. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* SIDE OF THE WEEK is on Appalachian State (7:00 EST).

The 17-11 Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin Cajuns are at Appalachian State to take on the 8-19 Mountaineers and while I obviously wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can because for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Cajuns come in complacent in my opinion after three straight wins. So far Lafayette averages 80.2 PPG and allows 78. Fank Bartley IV is averaging 15.7 points and 4.4 boards per game. 

Note that the Cajuns have split their last four road games.

The Mountaineers are going to be the much “hungrier” team today, they’ve lost ten of their last 12 and will be looking to make a statement on senior night. So far the team averages just 70.8 PPG, while conceding 77.5. 

Note that App State is a “different” team at home though, having won six of its last ten there. 

I’ll point out as well that Louisiana Lafayette has already struggled mightily in this spot for bettors, going just 3-4 ATS when playing with one days rest and only 1-5 ATS off a win against a conference rival, while Appalachian State is already a perfect 2-0 ATS this year after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games and 2-0 ATS as a home dog in the 3.5 to six points range.

I’m banking on this one coming down to the wire, so grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on USC (6:30 EST).

The 21-7 USC Trojans are in Arizona to take on the 13-16 Sun Devils and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

Arizona State most recently fell 87-75 to UCLA, while USC enters off a 90-77 loss to Arizona on Thursday.

When these teams met earlier in the year, the Trojans would hold on for the 82-79 victory behind 29 points by Elijah Stewart. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a much bigger differential in the second game. 

USC owns a solid offense which averages 78.4 PPG. Defensively the Trojans are pretty mediocre in conceding 73.6. Keep your eyes on big man Bennie Boatwright, who has a combined 43 points over his last two games. 

Arizona State shot just 38.8 percent from the floor in its loss to UCLA and was out-rebounded 49-30. The Sun Devils average 79.1 PPG, but concede 81.8. 

I’ll point out that USC is 2-1 ATS in its last three after allowing 90 points or more, while ASU is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 85 points or more.

I like USC to bounce back and to keep the foot on the gas from start to finish. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on SDSU (8:00 EST).

The 16-11 San Diego Aztecs are at Colorado State to take on the 19-9 Rams and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Rams are tied for first place in the Mountain West and would need to win the tournament to get invited to the Big Dance. 

San Diego State has endured it’s toughest season in quite some time and enters at 8-7 in MWC play, good for sixth spot. 

But when these teams met on January 28th, it was an all out war, one which Colorado State won 78-77. I think it’s payback time today.

The Aztecs have in fact been playing a lot better of late, before stumbling 63-55 at home to Fresno State on Wednesday, they’d won three straight. 

The Rams can’t take anything for granted at this point of the season, but it’s not too hard to imagine the home side finally taking the foot off the gas a little after winning five straight and eight of its last nine. 

SDSU averages 69.7 PPG, but concedes just 63.5.

Colorado State averages 72.8 PPG and concedes 67.1.

The differential between these teams is in fact negligible. 

I’ll point out though that the Aztecs are 2-1 ATS in their last three against teams with winning records, while the Rams are only 1-2 ATS in their last three as a home fav of four points or less or pick.

I like the visitors to take this one down to the wire, play on San Diego State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on TCU (2:00 EST).

The 22-6 West Virginia Mountaineers are at TCU to take on the 17-11 Horned Frogs and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can. 

WVU looks poised for a bit of a letdown here in my opinion after notching its third straight win, most recently a relatively simple 77-62 home victory over Texas.

TCU enters off an 87-68 setback to Kansas earlier in the week. 

Note that this is a “revenge” game for the home side as well after it fell 82-70 at West Virginia earlier in the year.

WVU remains in second in the Big 12 after Jevon Carter posted 24 points in the win over the Longhorns. So far WVU averages 85.3 PG and concedes 66.6.

TCU averages 74.3 PPG and concedes just 69.7. Alex Robinson had 15 points in the loss to the Jayhawks. 

I’ll point out though that West Virginia is just 1-2 ATS in its last three after allowing 62 points or less in its previous contest, while TCU is 2-1 ATS in its last three in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent of 11 points or more. 

With a date at Baylor on Sunday, the team sitting directly ahead of it in the standings, I believe that WVU gets caught “looking ahead” to that more “important” contest.

Grab the points, play on the Horned Frogs.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on the Clemson Tigers (12:00 EST).

The 22-6 Florida State Seminoles are at Clemson to take on the 14-13 Tigers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

The Seminoles enter off a 104-72 beatdown of Boston College, while the Tigers will be looking to get back on track and take out their frustrations after a tough 72-71 loss to Virginia Tech ealirer in the week.

Clemson is also out to atone for an atrocious 109-61 loss to FSU on the road earlier in the month.

Dwayne Bacon led the charge for FSU in its lastest win, finishing with 16 points. The victory snapped a two game skid. Note that the Seminoles average 84.4 PPG and concede 71.5.

Clemson averages 74.7 PPG and concedes 71.4. Marcus Reed had 18 points in the nail-biting setback to the Hokies.

I’ll point out though that FSU is just 1-3 ATS in its last four after scoring 103 points or more, while Clemson is 3-1 ATS in its last four in trying to revenge a blowout loss of 30 points or more to an opponent.

With a game at Duke on Monday, the team currently tied with it in the standings, I believe Floriday State gets caught “looking past” the hungry Tigers today. Play on Clemson.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Brown (7:00 EST).

A couple of cellar dwellers go head-to-head on Friday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors. 

The Bears have lost five in a row, most recently a 66-51 setback at home to conference leading Princeton.

But Brown plays with revenge tonight after falling 77-74 to the Big Green at home less than two weeks ago.

Revenge is a powerful motivating factor and one which I think will prove to be the difference once it’s all said and done. 

Dartmouth is poised for a letdown here after winning three of its last five. 

The Bears actually had a four point lead at half time in the first meeting between the teams, but they were unable to hold it together down the stretch.

Evan Boudreaux had 21 points and 13 boards for Dartmouth, while Steven Speith had 31 points, eight boards, a block, two assists and three steals in the loss for Brown.

I’ll point out though that Brown has been solid in this spot for bettors, going 5-2 ATS in its last seven after scoring 60 points or less and 9-5 ATS in its last 14 after three or more consecutive SU losses, while Dartmouth is already 0-2 ATS this year when playing the role of favorite and just 5-8 ATS in its last 13 off a win against a conference rival. 

I think the home side comes in complacent and the hungry Bears take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Ohio State (9:00 EST).

The 22-5 Wisconsin Badgers are at Ohio State to take on the 15-13 Buckeyes on Thursday night and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I’m going to recommend grabbing as many points as you can as I look for the hungry home side to at the very least, take this one down to the wire.

Ohio State has clearly not had a great season, but it would love nothing more than to get the upset at home over the conference’s No. 1 team. 

UW ended a two-game slide with a 71-60 home win over No. 23 Maryland on Sunday. Nigel Hayes had 21 points, while Ethan Happ added 20. The 60 points given up was its fewest in Big Ten action this year as well. But note, the Badgers haven’t been perfect this season, especially from the free throw line as they shoot just 66.5 percent, ranking them 12th in the conference and 286th in the nation overall.

Thad Matta could very well be on his way out at Ohio State, but his team tried its best last time out, coming up just short in the 58-57 setback to Nebraska last Saturday. Jae’Sean Tate had 14 points and ten boards. 

Note that the Buckeyes have had eight contests decided by two or less points on the season and OSU is just 1-2 in games decided by one point. 

I’ll point out though that Wisconsin is just 3-7 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival and only 3-5 ATS on the road, while Ohio State is 2-1 ATS this season after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games and 3-2 ATS in trying to revenge a road loss against an opponent.

I think the home side catches the Badgers a little flat-footed. Grab the points, play on Ohio State.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Florida International (7:00 EST).

The 11-16 UTSA Roadrunners are at FIU to take on the 6-21 Golden Panthers on Thursday night and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

Neither team will be playing in any postseason tournaments. The Roadrunners come into this one having lost three straight, while the Panthers enter having dropped six of their last seven. 

So where does the motivation come from in a game like this? For me, I think the Panthers have the advantage as they play with revenge after a narrow 68-63 setback at UTSA back on January 12th. 

FIU has been “oh-so-close” as well of late, most recently falling 69-66 to Southern Miss in OT last Thursday. However, the Panthers will be looking to atone for a lacklustre 77-61 setback to Louisiana Tech in their last one. Donte McGill was a bright spot though with 20 points. 

I’ll point out that UTSA is just 2-7 ATS this year against teams with losing records and only 1-2 ATS after allowing 80 points or more, while FIU is 2-1 ATS in its last three off a loss against a conference rival.

Florida Atlantic has four players with average double figures. I think the home side finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night. Lay the points.

Good luck…Larry

My 10* PERFECT STORM is on Northeastern (7:00 EST).

The 14-14 Northeastern Huskies are at Elon to take on the 17-12 Phoenix and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

It’s an important end of the season matchup for both teams, as Northeastern is looking to hold onto sixth spot in the CAA at 7-9. Elon is tied with William & Mary for fourth place at 9-7. 

But I think the Huskies are going to be the “hungrier” team today after three straight losses and dropping five of their last six, including an 85-71 home loss to Charleston on Saturday. 

These teams played against each other on January 26th and the Phoenix managed the 51-49 victory. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting another tightly contested affair this time around as well as the revenge-minded Huskies look for a little payback on the road.

Northeastern averages 71.8 PPG and allows 70.4. TJ Wiliams leads the nightly charge with 21.4 points and 5.1 assists per game.

Elon averages 74.2 PPG and allows 70.9. Tyler Seibring averages 14.1 PPG to lead the team.

I’ll point out though that Northeastern is already 2-1 ATS this year in revenging a home loss against an opponent and 6-4 ATS against teams with winning records, while Elon is just 1-6 ATS in its last seven as a home fav of 3.5 to six points and only 10-12 ATS in its last 22 games played in the month of February. 

Northeastern has talent, it beat Michigan State and UConn earlier in the year and it also plays with revenge. While I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset obviously, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can.

Good luck…Larry

The second 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on California (9:00 EST).

The 24-4 Oregon Ducks are in California to take on the 18-8 Golden Bears and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the home side.

I think Oregon has a bit of a letdown here after winning three straight, most recently pounding Colorado 101-73 at home.

Conversely, the Bears will be risking life and limb today as they’ve lost two in a row, most recently a 73-68 setback at Stanford as the favorites. 

Note that this one does indeed set up as a “revenge” game for the home side after it fell 86-63 in the first matchup in Oregon.

If the Ducks have had one weakness this year though, it has in fact been their play on the road where they’ve averaged just 73.6 PPG, while conceding 69.4. Dillon Brooks averages 15.4 PPG and had 23 in the win over the Buffs.

The Bears average 72.2 PPG at home, while conceding just 60.3. Jabari Bird had 23 points in the latest setback to the Cardinal.

I’ll point out though that Oregon is just 2-3 ATS this year against good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest, while Cal is 4-2 ATS as an underdog and 2-1 ATS off a loss against a conference rival. 

The Bears are a tough defensive team and they’ll be risking life and limb today to score the upset. I’m expecting this to be a highly competitive affair and look for it to come down to the final possession. Grab as many points as you can, play on Cal.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Louisville (9:00 EST).

The 22-5 Louisville Cardinals are in North Carolina to take on the 23-5 Tar Heels and while I wouldn’t be shocked by an outright upset, I will in the end recommend grabbing as many points as you can as for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

UNC has won two straight, including an impressive 65-41 victory over No. 18 Virginia last time out. 

The Cardinals have won three straight and six of seven, most recently a 94-90 victory over Virginia Tech on Saturday.

If recent history is any precedence, then the Cardinals have to be liking their chances for the upset today as when these teams met in their lone matchup a year ago, Louisville came out on top 71-65. 

Donovan Mitchell had 19 points for the Cardinals in the win over the Hokies. Note that Louisville averages 77.8 PPG and concedes just 64.1 

UNC averages 86.9 PPG and concedes 71. Justin Jackson leads the team with an average of 18.6 PPG.

I’ll point out though that Louisville is 4-1-1 ATS in its last six road games and 6-1 ATS in its last seven following an ATS loss, while UNC is just 2-3 ATS this year after allowing 60 points or less.

The Cardinals have the size to compete with UNC on the boards. This one is coming down to the wire, grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The third 10* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on South Carolina (7:00 EST).

Florida is currently tied for first in the SEC with No. 11 Kentucky with a 12-2 league record.

But I think the Gators have a letdown here after winning eight straight. Conversely, the Gamecocks come in ultra focused and hungry after dropping three of their last four. 

Keep your eyes on Sindarious Thornwell for South Carolina, he’s averaging 20.2 PPG. The Gamecocks average 73 PPG and give up just 64.1. The Gators average 79.5 PPG and allow 65.9. 

These teams met earlier in the year and South Carolina came out on top of a very defenisve affair 57-53. Suffice it to say, I’m expecting a very similar battle this evening. 

I’ll point out that South Carolina is already 4-2 ATS as an underdog this year, while Florida is 0-3 ATS this season as a home fav in the 9.5 to 12 points range.

I think Thornwell has another big game and the desperate visitors take this one down to the wire. Grab the points.

Good luck…Larry

The first 8* pick of my Superstar Triple Play is on Rhode Island (6:00 EST).

The 17-9 Rhode Island Rams are at La Salle to take on the 14-11 Explorers and for a number of different reasons, I think this one favors the visitors.

The Rams look to continue to build momentum after they broke a two-game slide with a 77-74 road win over George Mason on Saturday. 

La Salle also broke a two-game skid with an 83-68 home victory over Saint Joseph’s on Saturday. 

Note that this is a revenge game for Rhode Island after it lost 87-75 at home in the first meeting back on January 12th. 

Stanford Robinson was a stand out for the Rams in their last victory, scoring a career-high 21 points off the bench. So far Rhode Island averages 73.7 PPG and concedes just 66.2.

La Salle averages 77.8 PPG and concedes 77.6. The Explorers shoot a solid 46.6 percent from the floor. 

I’ll point out that Rhode Island is already 5-3 ATS this year off a win against a conference rival and 2-1 ATS after failing to cover the spread in three or more consecutive games, while La Salle is just 2-5 ATS as an underdog this season and only 3-4 ATS off a win against a conference rival. 

I think this is a great spot for the Rams and believe their tough defensive play will prove to be the difference. Play on Rhode Island.

Good luck…Larry