At 5:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (650) minus the points versus the Old Dominion Monarchs (649). THE SITUATION: Western Kentucky (17-6) had their two-game winning streak snapped last night in a 71-69 upset loss to the Monarchs as a 7-point favorite. Old Dominion (15-6) has won four games in a row.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HILLTOPPERS MINUS THE POINTS: Western Kentucky made only 39.6% of their shots last night in what was the worst shooting effort in their last ten games. But they have rebounded to cover the point spread in 26 of their last 38 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games after a loss to a conference rival. Additionally, Western Kentucky has covered the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games after a narrow loss by 6 points or less — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after an upset loss as a home favorite. They should play better in this one — they are still averaging a 48.3% field goal percentage along with an opponent’s field goal mark of 40.9% in their last five games even after last night. They dropped to 10-2 at home but they are outscoring their visitors by +10.7 PPG. The Hilltoppers have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. They also have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games as a favorite. Old Dominion has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 road games after an upset win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after an upset win against a Conference USA foe where they were an underdog getting at least 6 points. Despite pulling the upset on the road last night, the Monarchs are not as good on the road as they are at home. Old Dominion ranks 156th in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency — and they improve to 139th when playing on their home court. But the Monarchs fall to 189th in the nation when playing on the road. They have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 road games as an underdog — and they are just 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 road games against teams who are winning at least 60% of their games at home. Furthermore, Old Dominion is 4-10-1 ATS in their last 15 games against teams with a winning record — and they are 3-8-1 ATS in their last 12 games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Western Kentucky has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when avenging a same-season loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing with revenge from a narrow loss by three points or less. 25* CBB Conference USA Game of the Year with the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (650) minus the points versus the Old Dominion Monarchs (649). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Ohio State Buckeyes (636) minus the points versus the Illinois Fighting Illini (635). THE SITUATION: Ohio State (18-7) has lost three straight games after their 73-57 loss at home to Iowa on February 28th as a 2-point favorite. Illinois (19-6) has won three in a row with their 76-53 upset victory against Michigan on Tuesday as an 8.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCKEYES MINUS THE POINTS: Ohio State should bounce-back — they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a straight-up loss. They have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a double-digit loss a home — and they are 8-3-1 ATS in their last 12 games after a point spread loss. The Buckeyes may have lost at home to the Hawkeyes but they have still covered the point spread in 14 of their last 20 games on their home court — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on the road. Illinois experienced their best win of the season on Tuesday — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a win by at least 20 points. And while they have covered the point spread in four of their last five games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last six games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six contests. They are still without their best player and senior point guard leader in Ayo Dosunmu — they will miss his 21.0 PPG along with his 6.3 Rebounds-Per-Game and 5.3 Assists-Per-Game in this one. The Illini have failed to cover the point spread in 28 of their last 42 road games as an underdog of up to three points.

FINAL TAKE: Illinois will be motivated to avenge an 87-81 upset loss to the Buckeyes on January 16th — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games on the road when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed at least 85 points. 10* CBB Illinois-Ohio State ESPN Special with the Ohio State Buckeyes (636) minus the points versus the Illinois Fighting Illini (635). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Georgia Bulldogs (628) plus the points versus the Alabama Crimson Tide (627). THE SITUATION: Georgia (14-10) has lost two of their last three games after their 91-70 upset loss at home to South Carolina as a 5-point favorite last Saturday. Alabama (20-6) has won three straight and six of their last seven with their 70-58 win against Auburn as a 10.5-point favorite on Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS PLUS THE POINTS: Georgia should respond with a big effort after their embarrassing 21-point loss to the Gamecocks. The Bulldogs made only 36.7% of their shots which was the lowest field goal percentage in their last nine games — and they allowed South Carolina to hit 53.6% of their shots which was the highest opponent’s field goal percentage in their last four games. Georgia has covered the point spread in 21 of their last 27 games after a loss by at least 20 points. The Bulldogs have also covered the point spread in 15 of their last 21 games after allowing at least 90 points in their last game. They stay at home where they are 12-4 this season — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games as an underdog. Additionally, Georgia has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. Alabama held the Tigers to just 39.6% shooting in what was the best defensive effort in their last seven games. And while they only made 39.7% of their shots, that was the best shooting mark in their last three contests. The Tide have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after a win at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread win. Alabama has also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after not allowing more than 60 points in their last game. They go back on the road where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight road games when favored. Additionally, the Crimson Tide have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Georgia will be looking to avenge a 115-82 loss in Tuscaloosa on February 13th as an 11.5-point underdog. The Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 15 opportunities to avenge a same-season loss — and they have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 26 games when playing with revenge from a double-digit loss. 10* CBB Alabama-Georgia CBS-TV Special with the Georgia Bulldogs (628) plus the points versus the Alabama Crimson Tide (627). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:05 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Indiana State Sycamores (689) and the Loyola-Illinois Ramblers (690) in the Semifinals of the Missouri Valley Conference Tournament. THE SITUATION: Indiana State (15-9) advanced to the Semifinals of the MVC tournament yesterday with their 53-43 win against Evansville as a 6.5-point favorite. Loyola-Illinois (22-4) won their fourth in a row yesterday with a 73-49 win against Southern Illinois as a 17-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Ramblers scored more than 65 points for the first time since February 13th yesterday — it had been five straight games since they had topped that threshold. They made 47.4% of their shots which was the best shooting effort in their last five games. But Loyola-Illinois is still making only 41.1% of their shots over their last five games which is generating just 60.4 PPG over that span. They have played 10 of their last 14 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread win. Additionally, the Ramblers have played 5 straight games Under the Total after a win by at least 20 points — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after not allowing more than 50 points in their last game. They have also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when playing their second game in three days on the road. Loyola is an elite defensive team that has the best Adjusted Defensive Efficiency when playing away from home in true road games or on neutral courts — they are allowing 57.3 PPG on 40.1% shooting in those 13 games. They have not allowed more than 58 points in 16 straight games — and they have then played 16 of their last 22 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 65 points in three straight games. The Ramblers have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total against teams winning at least 60% of their games — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total as a favorite. Indiana State made 40.4% of their shots yesterday which was the best shooting mark in their last three games.  The Sycamores have played 13 of their last 16 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 16 of their last 21 games Under the Total after a point spread win. Additionally, Indiana State has played 7 straight games Under the Total after not allowing more than 60 points — and they have played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total when playing with no more than one day between games. They have held their last five opponents to 59.8 PPG. The Sycamores are 71st in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they improve to 63rd when playing away from home. But while they rank 187th in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency, they fall to 217th in their true road games or games played on a neutral court. Indiana State has played 14 of their last 16 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Both these teams play at a slow pace — the Sycamores average 68.1 possessions-per-game away from home while the Ramblers average 65.8 possessions (319th nationally) away from home. The local Noon PM ET tip won’t help the shooting. And while Indiana State will be looking to avenge a 58-48 loss at home to Loyola on January 11th, they have then played 7 straight games Under the Total when playing with revenge from a same-season loss. 25* CBB Missouri Valley Conference Tournament Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Indiana State Sycamores (689) and the Loyola-Illinois Ramblers (690). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Nevada Wolf Pack (858) minus the point spread versus the Colorado State Rams (857). THE SITUATION: Nevada (14-9) has lost two straight games after their 87-66 loss at Utah State as a 9.5-point favorite on Sunday. Colorado State (17-4) has won five straight games after their 87-73 win against New Mexico as a 19-point favorite on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WOLF PACK MINUS THE POINTS: Nevada should respond with a strong effort tonight as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a double-digit loss. The Wolf Pack have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after losing two in a row. Nevada gave up 75 and 87 points in their two losses at Utah State last week. The Wolf Pack have covered the point spread in 6 straight games after allowing at least 75 points in two straight games — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after losing two of their last three games. They return home where they are 8-2 this season with an average winning margin of +8.4 PPG. Nevada has covered the point spread in 6 straight games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 home games against a team with a winning percentage of 60% or better on the road. They have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 home games when favored by up to 6 points. Colorado State has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after winning at least four in a row — and they have failed to cover the potion spread in 19 of their last 27 games on the road after winning at least five games in a row. They go back on the road where they are not as good as they are at home. The Rams rank 76th in Adjusted Net Efficiency — and they improve to 62nd when playing at home. But Colorado State falls to 113th nationally in Adjusted Net Efficiency when playing on the road. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 road games with the Total set in the 140 to 144.5 point range. This is the Rams’ first road game since February 6th after playing their last three games at home — and they are just 7-20-3 ATS in the last 30 road games after playing at least three straight games at home.

FINAL TAKE: Colorado State can not afford to lose this game with them on the NCAA Tournament bubble — and that pressure may not help them tonight. Nevada has covered the point spread in 18 of their last 26 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or better. The Wolf Pack have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when favored. 10* CBB Friday Late Show Bailout with the Nevada Wolf Pack (858) minus the point spread versus the Colorado State Rams (857). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Toledo Rockets (828) minus the points versus the Ball State Cardinals (827). THE SITUATION: Toledo (19-7) looks to bounce back from an 81-79 upset loss at Central Michigan as a 17-point favorite on Tuesday. Ball State (10-11) won their third straight game on Tuesday with their 100-65 blowout win against Eastern Michigan as an 8-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE ROCKETS MINUS THE POINTS: Toledo made only 43.9% of their shots against the Chippewas which was the lowest field goal percentage in their last four games. They also allowed Central Michigan to make 47.9% of their shots which was the highest opponent field goal percentage in their last four contests. The Rockets have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. They return home where they are 11-1 with an average winning margin of +15.7 PPG. They make 48.0% of their shots at home which is generating 82.4 PPG. They also hold their guests to just 40.4% shooting. Toledo has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight home games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on the road. The Rockets are 16th in the nation by making 38.4% of their 3-pointers. The Cardinals are one of the best teams defending the perimeter as they rank 29th nationally by holding their opponents to just 30.3% shooting from behind the arc. But they are vulnerable against teams that attack the glass — they allow their opponents to pull down 33.2% of their missed shots, 305th nationally. Toledo is third in the MAC by rebounding 31.5% of their misses when playing at home. The Rockets have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a losing record — and they have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 24 games when favored. Ball State held the Eagles to just 36.7% shooting on Tuesday in what was the best defensive effort in their last five games. But the Cardinals have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a double-digit win against a conference rival — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win by at least 30 points against a conference foe. Ball State has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread victory. The Cardinals have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games on the road after winning at least two in a row. Now they go back on the road for the first time since January 30th (not a typo) — they have played seven straight games at home. Ball State has failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 19 road games after playing at least three straight games at home. They are just 3-7 on the road while making only 42.9% of their shots for 69.7 PPG — those numbers are a far cry from the 52.1% shooting they enjoyed on Tuesday on their home court. The Cardinals play their best basketball at home. They rank 141st in Adjusted Net Efficiency — they climb to 125th when playing at home. But Ball State falls to 194th in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency when playing on the road. They have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games as an underdog. The Cardinals have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court. Ball State has failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 24 games against a team with  a winning percentage over 60% — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games with the Total set in the 150s.

FINAL TAKE: Ball State upset Toledo in their previous meeting on February 6th in an 81-67 victory as a 9-point underdog. The Rockets made only 7 of 32 shots from behind the arc — but they make 38.7% of their 3-pointers at home. 25* CBB Mid-American Conference Game of the Year with the Toledo Rockets (828) minus the points versus the Ball State Cardinals (827). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Oklahoma Sooners (750) minus the points versus the Texas Longhorns (749). THE SITUATION: Oklahoma (14-8) has lost three in a row after their 79-75 upset loss at Oklahoma State as a 2.5-point favorite on Monday. Texas (15-7) has won four of their last six games after their 81-67 win at Iowa State as a 12.5-point favorite on Monday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SOONERS MINUS THE POINTS: Oklahoma lost their third straight close game on Monday — their three losses were by a combined 13 points. The Regression Gods should be making a visit to Norman soon. They allowed the Cowboys to make 52.9% of their shots which was the highest opponent’s field goal percentage in their last 19 games. The Sooners have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after an upset loss. Oklahoma has also covered the point spread in 29 of their last 42 home games after losing two in a row against Big 12 foes. And while this is the Sooners’ third game since Saturday, they have covered the point spread in 29 of their last 44 home games when playing their third game in seven or fewer days. Oklahoma does return home where they are 10-2 with an average winning margin of +15.1 PPG scoring average. The Sooners hold their visitors to 39.2% shooting — and they are scoring a healthy 80.2 PPG at home. While they rank 28th in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency, they improve to 16th in that metric when evaluating how teams play on their home court. Oklahoma has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 home games with the Total set in the 140s. Furthermore, the Sooners have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 home games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. And in their last 9 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher, Oklahoma has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games. Texas made 51% of their shots on Tuesday against the Cyclones which was the best shooting effort in their last three games. Yet the Longhorns have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread victory. Additionally, Texas has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a double-digit victory — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a win by 10 or more points on the road. Furthermore, the Longhorns have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after winning two of their last three games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games after winning four or five of their last six games after winning four or five of their last six. Texas has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games with the Total set in the 140s. And in their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%, the Longhorns are just 1-6-1 ATS.

FINAL TAKE: Oklahoma won the first meeting between these two teams on January 26th by an 80-70score with the Longhorns undermanned given COVID issues at the time. But Texas has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when attempting to avenge a same-season loss. 25* CBB Thursday ESPN Game of the Year with the Oklahoma Sooners (750) minus the points versus the Texas Longhorns (749). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Maryland Terrapins (691) and the Northwestern Wildcats (692). THE SITUATION: Maryland (15-10) has won five games in a row with their 73-55 win against Michigan State as a 2.5-point favorite on Sunday. Northwestern (7-14) snapped a 13-game losing streak last Thursday with a 67-59 upset win at Minnesota as a 5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Terrapins made 48.8% of their shots against Sparty which was the best shooting effort in their last four games. Maryland has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a win against a Big Ten foe. The final score finished below the 134 total — and the Terrapins have played 29 of their last 43 games Under the Total after playing their last game Under the Total. This is Maryland’s second game since February 21st — and they have played 9 of their last 11 games Under the Total when playing their second game in eight or more days. Head coach Mark Turgeon has his team sacrifice offense rebounds of getting back on defense — they rank 323rd in the nation by pulling down only 21.5% of their missed shots. The Terrapins have rebounded only three and six boards in each of their last two games — and they have then played 10 of their last 15 games Under the Total after not rebounding more than nine offensive rebounds in two straight games. Maryland now goes back on the road where they have striking home/road splits. When playing at home, the Terrapins rank 15th in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency and 95th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. But when playing on the road, Maryland sees their Adjusted Offensive Efficiency plumes to 104th in the nation — but their Adjusted Defensive Efficiency skyrockets to 15th best nationally. The Terrapins have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total on the road. Turgeon has his team playing great defense — they have the sixth-best Adjusted Defensive Efficiency over their last ten games. In their last five games, Maryland has held these opponents to 58.8 PPG on 35.9% shooting. The Terrapins have played 15 of their last 21 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less — and they have played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total with the number in the 130s. Northwestern has played 17 of their last 24 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 22 of their last 29 games Under the Total after an upset win as a road underdog. The Wildcats have also played 31 of their last 44 games Under the Total after a win on the road. Furthermore, Northwestern has played 26 of their last 35 games Under the Total after a win on the road against a conference rival — and they have played 27 of their last 39 home games Under the Total after beating a Big Ten foe. They return home where they hold their opponents to just 40.6% shooting. But while the Wildcats rank 88th nationally in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency, they drop to 157th nationally when playing at home. The Under is 15-5-1 in Northwestern’s last 21 home games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on the road — and they have played 6 of their last 8 home games Under the Total as an underdog getting 3.5 to 6 points. The Wildcats only made 42.2% of their shots in their upset win over the Gophers — but that was the best shooting effort in their last four games. Northwestern is scoring only 62.0 PPG in their last five games on 40.1% shooting which is far below their 71.5 PPG and 43.7% marks for the season. The Wildcats have played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage in the 60-80% range.

FINAL TAKE: Northwestern has played 4 straight Unders as an underdog — and Maryland has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when favored. 25* CBB Big Ten Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Maryland Terrapins (691) and the Northwestern Wildcats (692). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Wisconsin-Milwaukee Phoenix (653) and the Wright State Raiders (654) in the Quarterfinals of the Horizon League tournament. THE SITUATION: Wisconsin-Milwaukee (9-11) snapped a five-game losing streak last Thursday in the opening round of the Horizon League tournament with their 84-72 win against IUPUI as a 4-point favorite. Wright State (18-5) plays for the first time since February 20th when they won at Northern Kentucky, 77-71, as a 9-point favorite. The Raiders host this tournament game.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Phoenix have played eight straight Overs after their win in the Horizon League tournament last week — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after playing at least two straight Overs. Wisconsin-Milwaukee has also played 4 straight games Over the Total after a point spread victory. They have also played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after scoring at least 80 points in their last game. The Phoenix are playing definitively better on offense. While they rank 200th in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency this season, they climb to 144th nationally when assessing their performance in their last ten games. They are scoring 83.4 PPG over their last five contests which is +8.3 PPG above their season average. But they are also allowing 85.6 PPG in these last five games which are +9.9 PPG above their season defensive average. They go on the road where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total — and they have played 8 of their last 10 road games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. Wisconsin-Milwaukee has also played 7 of their last 10 road games Over the Total as a double-digit underdog. Wright State has played 26 of their last 42 games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 20 of their last 30 games Over the Total after winning four of their last five games. And while they have not covered the point spread in their last four games, they have then played 10 of their last 14 games Over the Total after not covering the point spread in at least two straight. I did have initial concerns about the Raiders’ long layoff — but they probably will not shoot worse than the 43.5% clip they managed against the Norse in their last game which was the lowest field goal percentage in their last ten games. Wright State may be cold in the first half — but don’t give up on the Over until this one is over! The Raiders will get plenty of second-chance scoring opportunities tonight as they pull down 34.3% of their missed shots which is the 25th best mark in the nation. This is a great shooting team — they make 37.2% of their 3-pointers, 35th nationally, and 53.8% of their shots inside the arc, 45th nationally — and playing on their familiar home court without a full house should help them get back into rhythm. I am playing more Overs this season without fans in the stands — and they are playing a Phoenix team that ranks 321st in the nation by allowing their opponents to make 37.8% of their 3-pointers. Let’s trust the Horizon League’s second-most efficient offense to figure it out — and they will have fresh legs. Wright State has played 5 of their last 7 home games Over the Total with the number in the 150s — and they have played 5 of their last 7 home games Over the Total as a double-digit favorite. Defense has been a concern as of late — they are allowing 74.4 PPG on 45.0% shooting in their last five games which is well above the 66.3 PPG and 40.0% they allow for the season.

FINAL TAKE: Wisconsin-Milwaukee will be looking to avenge a 92-82 loss at Wright State on February 13th — and they have played 6 straight games Over the Total when playing with same-season revenge. The Phoenix has also played 9 of their last 11 games Over the Total when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed at least 80 points. 25* CBB Horizon League Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Wisconsin-Milwaukee Phoenix (653) and the Wright State Raiders (654). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Oklahoma Sooners (845) minus the point(s) versus the Oklahoma State Cowboys (846). THE SITUATION: Oklahoma (14-7) lost their second-straight game on Saturday in a 94-90 loss in overtime at home to the Cowboys. Oklahoma State (16-6) has won four games in a row.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SOONERS MINUS THE POINT(S): Oklahoma should bounce-back with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after an upset loss. Additionally, the Sooners have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after losing two in a row. Oklahoma travels to Stillwater for this rematch — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. The Sooners are a defense-first team that ranks 39th in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency and 19th in opponent’s field goal percentage inside the arc. They are led by senior point guard Austin Reaves who leads the team in scoring, rebounds, and assists. Oklahoma has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher. They also have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 31 games with the total set in the 140s. And in their last 20 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range, the Sooners have covered the point spread in 14 of these contests. Oklahoma State may be due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after an upset win — and they have failed to cover the point spread 13 of their last 20 games after an upset victory against a Big 12 rival as an underdog getting at least 6 points. Additionally, the Cowboys have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after scoring at least 90 points in their last game. Furthermore, Oklahoma State has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 home games after winning at least two in a row — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight home games after winning at least three in a row. The quick turnaround will not help either as the Cowboys have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games when playing with one day or less of rest. Oklahoma State is overvalued when playing at home. They rank 32nd in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency — but while they are 34th nationally on the road, they plummet to 51st nationally when playing at home in Stillwater. The Cowboys have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a losing record on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 8 home games as an underdog getting up to 3 points.

FINAL TAKE: Oklahoma has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing with revenge — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when avenging an upset loss as a home favorite. 25* CBB Big Monday ESPN Game of the Month with the Oklahoma Sooners (845) minus (or plus) the point(s) versus the Oklahoma State Cowboys (846). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Syracuse Orange (840) plus the point(s) versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (839). THE SITUATION: Syracuse (13-8) has lost two in a row after their 84-77 loss at Georgia Tech on Saturday as a 4.5-point underdog. North Carolina (15-8) has won three of their last four games with their 78-70 upset win against Florida State as a 2-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE ORANGE PLUS THE POINT(S): Syracuse allowed the Yellow Jackets to make 50% of their shots on the heels of allowing Duke to shoot over 53% against them last Monday in an 85-71 loss. The Orange have covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after allowing at least 80 points in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing their last two opponents to make at least 50% of their shots. Now after playing their last two games on the road, Syracuse returns home where they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 home games as an underdog. The Orange are better at home according to the laptops. While Syracuse ranks 68th in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency, they climb to 47th nationally when playing at home. The Orange have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. North Carolina may be due for a letdown after their big win against the Seminoles. The Tar Heels are 9-19-1 ATS in their last 29 games after a straight-up win — and they are 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 games after a point spread victory. North Carolina hits the road again for the first time since February 13th after playing their last four games at home. The Tar Heels rank 27th nationally in Adjusted Net Efficiency — but they fall to 64th in that metric when evaluating how teams play on the road. North Carolina has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 road games when favored by up to 6 points. The Tar Heels are also just 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher.

FINAL TAKE: Syracuse will be looking to avenge an 81-75 loss at North Carolina as a 4-point underdog on January 12th. The Orange have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when avenging a loss. 10* CBB Monday Daily Discounted Deal with the Syracuse Orange (840) plus the point(s) versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (839). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Lafayette Leopards (1511) minus the points versus the Lehigh Mountain Hawks (1512). THE SITUATION: Lafayette (8-5) has won three of their last four games with their 75-69 win at home against the Mountain Hawks yesterday. Lehigh (4-9) has now lost four of their last five games.

REASONS TO TAKE THE LEOPARDS MINUS THE POINTS: Lafayette should build off their momentum from yesterday as they are 22-10-1 ATS in their last 33 games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 24 games after a win against a Patriot League foe. The Leopards have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when playing with one day or less of rest. They now go on the road where the metrics say they play better. Lafayette ranks 234rd nationally in Adjusted Net Efficiency — but while they are 236th when at home, they climb to 217th when on the road. The Leopards are 20-8-1 ATS in their last 29 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 road games with the number in the 140s. Additionally, Lafayette has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games against teams with a losing record at home — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games as a favorite. The Leopards have the second-best Adjusted Offensive Efficiency numbers in the Patriot League — and they lead the conference by nailing 37.5% of their 3-pointers on the road. Lehigh has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a loss on the road to a conference rival. The Mountain Lions have also failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 26 games when playing day or less of rest. Lehigh is 1-4 at home where they are getting outscored by -13.0 PPG — and they have retained more value as a road underdog yesterday. The Mountains Lions are 306th in Adjusted Net Efficiency — but they are even worse at home with a 337th ranking as compared to their 268th rating when playing on the road. Lehigh has failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight home games — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight home games as an underdog. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 home games with the Total set in the 145 to 149.5 point range. This is not a good basketball team — they rank 10th in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency and 8th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in the Patriot League. They have allowed their last five opponents to make 48.4% of their shots while making only 37.3% of their shots over that span. The Mountain Lions have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or better — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Lehigh has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 opportunities to avenge a loss. The Mountain Lions beat the Leopards on January 2nd but have since lost the next two meetings this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games when motivated by double-revenge. 25* CBB Patriot League Game of the Month with the Lafayette Leopards (1511) minus the points versus the Lehigh Mountain Hawks (1512). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the North Dakota State Bison (811) and the South Dakota Coyotes (812). THE SITUATION: North Dakota State (12-11) has lost three of their last four games after their 80-71 loss at South Dakota yesterday. South Dakota (13-9) has now won two games in a row.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Bison only made 40.9% of their shots yesterday in what was the worst shooting effort in their last four games. They did nail 10 shots from behind the arc after making 11 shots from 3-point range in their previous game against South Dakota State — and they have played 16 of their last 22 games Over the Total after making at least 10 shots from 3-point range in two straight contests. They should shoot better this afternoon playing in the same gym for the second-straight day. As it is, they have played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total when playing with one day of rest. They have also played 4 straight games Over the Total on the road against teams with a winning record at home. Furthermore, North Dakota State has played 4 of their last 5 road games Over the Total as a favorite of up to 3 points — and they have played 10 of their last 11 road games Over the Total when priced in the +/- 3-point range. The Bison have also played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record. South Dakota has played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and the Over is 3-1-1 in their last 5 games after a point spread victory. The Coyotes’ 47.2% shooting percentage was their lowest in three games — so they should shoot as well or better. But holding the Bison to 40.9% shooting was the best defensive effort in their last five contests. South Dakota has now played 4 straight games Over the Total on their home court — and they have played 5 of their last 6 home games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage at 40% or less on the road. The Coyotes average 83.0 PPG on their home court on 52.0% shooting. But their defense is faltering as they have allowed their last five opponents to make 46.3% of their shots which is generating 82.8 PPG. South Dakota has played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 8 of their last 11 games Over the Total as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: North Dakota State has played 8 of their last 12 games Over the Total when avenging a loss on the road. 25* CBB Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the North Dakota State Bison (811) and the South Dakota Coyotes (812). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Pittsburgh Panthers (807) plus the points versus the North Carolina State (808). THE SITUATION: Pittsburgh (9-9) has lost four in a row after their 79-72 loss to Florida State as a 7-point underdog back on February 20th. NC State (11-9) has won three in a row with their 68-61 upset win at Virginia as an 11.5-point underdog on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PANTHERS PLUS THE POINTS: This is a good spot to fade the Wolfpack after they played their best defensive game of the season by holding the Cavaliers to just 37.0% shooting. NC State is still allowing their ACC opponents to make 47.1% of their shots which is generating 73.0 PPG. The Wolfpack have failed to cover the spread in 14 of their last 19 games at home after a point spread win. Now after playing their last three games on the road, they return home for the first time since February 13th. But NC State does not retain a big home-court advantage. Let’s get out one of my secret weapons: net efficiency rating home/road splits. The metrics I lean on rate the Wolfpack as the 62nd team in the nation Adjusted Net Efficiency. But while NC State is 36th nationally on the road in Adjusted Net Efficiency, they plummet to just 97th nationally in Adjusted Net Efficiency when playing at home. That helps to explain why the Wolfpack are 0-5-1 ATS in their last 6 games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight home games when favored. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 13 home games when favored by 6.5 to 12 points. Pittsburgh has not played in eight days — and they have since lost Xavier Johnson and Au’Diese Toney who decided to transfer from the program. Those two players account for 28.6 PPG — and that is why we are getting a few more points in this game than what the laptops are projecting. These kinds of absences tend to get overrated by the betting public. Head coach Jeff Capel still has his leading scorer in Justin Champagne who is scoring 18.8 PPG — and this is an opportunity for other players to step up. Often disgruntled players leaving a program is addition by subtraction (ask Duke). Even with Johnson and Toney, the Panthers shot only 38.2% from the field which was the worst shooting effort in their last five games. Pitt has covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after losing two in a row at home. Now after playing their last two games at home, they go back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games after playing their last two at home. The Panthers rank 83rd in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — but while they drop to 109th at home, they rise to 68th when playing on the road. They have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Pitt is 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games against teams with a winning record — and they are 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games as an underdog. NC State has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as a favorite — and they are 2-8-2 ATS in their last 12 games against teams with a winning record. 10* CBB Sunday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Pittsburgh Panthers (807) plus the points versus the North Carolina State (808). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the CS-Northridge Matadors (771) plus the points versus the CS-Bakersfield Roadrunners (772). THE SITUATION: CS-Northridge (8-10) has lost three of their last four games after their 84-58 loss at CS-Bakersfield last night as an 8-point underdog. CS-Bakersfield (15-9) snapped a two-game losing streak with the victory.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MATADORS PLUS THE POINTS: Just a bad night for CS-Northridge as they made only 39.0% of their shots — and they allowed the Roadrunners to shoot 54.1% from the field in what was the worst defensive effort in their last eight games. But head coach Mike Gottfried’s team has rebounded to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a loss by at least 20 points. The Matadors usually are competitive against good teams as they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher. CS-Northridge is also 19-7-1 ATS in their last 27 road games against teams who win at least 60% of their games at home. Additionally, the Matadors have covered the point spread 12 of their last 17 road games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 road games as a dog getting 6.5 to 12 points. CS-Bakersfield had their best shooting effort in ten games with their 54.5% clip last night. They also enjoyed the best defensive effort in their last ten games by holding the Matadors to 39.0% shooting. They raced out to a 47-22 halftime lead — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after holding a halftime lead of at least 20 points. Additionally, the Roadrunners have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a win by at least 20 points. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 home games after not allowing more than 60 points in their last game. CS-Bakersfield remains just 8-18-1 ATS in their last 27 games at home — and they are only 7-15-1 ATS in their last 23 home games when favored. The Roadrunners are just 4-12-1 ATS in their last 17 games against teams with a losing record.

FINAL TAKE: CS-Northridge has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 road games when avenging a loss by at least 20 points. Last night was an outlier — the Matadors will play better and we are getting two more points of value from last night’s point spread. 25* CBB Big West Underdog of the Year with the CS-Northridge Matadors (771) plus the points versus the CS-Bakersfield Roadrunners (772). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Portland State Pilots (643) plus the points versus the Northern Colorado Bears (644). THE SITUATION: Portland State (8-10) had their four-game winning streak snapped on Thursday in a 66-64 loss at Northern Colorado in a pick ‘em matchup. Northern Colorado (10-8) has won two in a row.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PILOTS PLUS THE POINTS: Portland State made only 32.8% of their shots on Thursday in the worst shooting effort in their last 14 games. They should shoot better this afternoon being more familiar with the gym. As it is, the Pilots have covered the point spread 8 of their last 11 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after a straight-up loss on the road to a conference foe. They have also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games after a point spread loss. Additionally, head coach Barret Peery’s team has been very good playing on short rest. They have covered the point spread in 19 of their last 24 games when playing with one day or less of rest including six straight games under those circumstances. Portland State has also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games when playing their second game on the road in three days. Peery has his team do the little things to create more scoring opportunities — so they should be in good shape in this rematch if they can approach making 40% of their shots. The Pilots lead the Big Sky by pulling down 32.5% of their missed shots. They also lead the conference in forcing turnovers in 25.7% of their opponent’s possessions — and the Bears are 8th in the Big Sky by turning the ball over in 19.1% of their possessions. Portland State may be just 1-6 on the road but they are losing these games by an average of -1.5 PPG. They hold their home hosts to just 42.8% shooting. The Pilots are 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 road games — and they are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 road games as an underdog. Northern Colorado played their best defensive game of the season by holding the Pilots to 32.8% shooting. This is the Bears’ third game since Monday — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 home games when playing their third home game in seven days. They rank 237th in Adjusted Net Efficiency by the deeper metrics — but they fall to 255th in the Adjusted Net Efficiency when playing at home. Northern Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games with the Total in the 130s. The Bears have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a losing record on the road — and they have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight home games when favored. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when favored overall.

FINAL TAKE: Portland State has covered the point spread in 21 of their last 26 games when playing with revenge including five of these last seven situations. They also have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 18 games when avenging a loss on the road. 25* CBB Big Sky Underdog of the Year with the Portland State Pilots (643) plus the points versus the Northern Colorado Bears (644). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (847) and the Troy Trojans (848). THE SITUATION: Coastal Carolina (13-6) snapped a three-game losing streak on Sunday in a 65-55 win against Georgia Southern as a 6-point favorite. Troy (10-14) has lost five in a row after their 65-53 loss at Georgia State as a 10-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Chanticleers have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a straight-up win. Coastal Carolina has played six straight Unders — and not only have they played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after playing an Under in their last game but they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after playing at least two straight Unders in a row. The Chanticleers have the second-best defense in the Sun Belt in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. They have held their last five opponents to just 63.8 PPG on 37.1% shooting from the field — as compared to their 67.0 PPG and 39.2% opponent’s offensive marks for the season. They go back on the road where they are making only 40.8% of their shots. Coastal Carolina has played 5 straight games Under the Total on the road — and they have played 4 straight road games Under the Total when favored. Additionally, the Chanticleers have played 5 straight Unders when favored — and the Under is 5-1-1 in their last 7 games when playing a team with a losing record. Troy has played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. And while the Trojans have not covered the point spread in two straight games, they have then played 10 of their last 12 games Under the Total after not covering the point spread in their last two games. Troy has also played 18 of their last 27 games Under the Total when playing their second game in seven days. They return home where they have the second-best Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in Sun Belt play. They hold their guests to 36.7% on their home court which is resulting in only 59.7 PPG. The Trojans only hit 41.6% of their shots at home. Troy has played 4 of their last 5 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record on the road. The Trojans can struggle to score — they are averaging only 60.8 PPG on 39.7% shooting in their last five games. Troy has played 14 of their last 20 games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played 10 of their last 13 games Under the Total against teams who are winning at least 60% of their games.

FINAL TAKE: Troy will be playing with revenge from a 70-65 loss at Coastal Carolina on January 23rd as a 10-point underdog. The Trojans have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total when avenging a same-season loss. Troy also lost the January 22nd meeting between these two teams — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total when motivated by double-revenge. 25* CBB Sun Belt Conference Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (847) and the Troy Trojans (848). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Morehead State Eagles (742) minus the points versus the Tennessee State Tigers (741). THE SITUATION: Morehead State (18-7) has won two in a row with their 56-48 win at SIU-Edwardsville on Monday as a 13-point favorite. Tennessee State (4-17) has lost seven of their last eight games with their 77-76 loss to Jacksonville State as a 7-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE EAGLES MINUS THE POINTS: Morehead State should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after a straight-up win. They also have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread loss. They return home for the first time since February 6th where they are 10-1 this season with an average winning margin of +11.2 PPG. The Eagles hold their guests to just 59.1 PPG on 38.4% shooting from the field. Morehead State has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home — and they have coved the point spread in 4 straight games at home against a team with a losing record on the road. Tennessee State allowed Jacksonville State to make 52.8% of their shots — they were the fourth opponent in their last five games who shot at least 50% from the field against them. The Tigers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss. They go back on the road for the first time since February 6th after playing their last four games at home. Tennessee State has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight road games after playing their last three games at home. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 22 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 11 road games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: The Tigers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as an underdog. The Eagles have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when favored — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against a team with a losing record. 10* CBB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Morehead State Eagles (742) minus the points versus the Tennessee State Tigers (741). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (749) and the Houston Cougars (750). THE SITUATION: Western Kentucky (15-4) has won six games in a row after their 89-66 win against Rice as a 9.5-point favorite back on February 13th. Houston (18-3) has won three of their last four games with their 90-52 victory against Cincinnati as a 12.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Hilltoppers made 56.5% of their shots against the Owls after shooting 50.9% from the field in their previous game at home against Rice. Western Kentucky has played 5 of their last 8 games Under the Total after making at least 50% of their shots in two straight games — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after scoring at least 80 points in their last game. Additionally, the Hilltoppers have played 11 of their last 17 games Under the Total after a win at home — and they have played 6 straight Unders after winning two in a row on their home court. Western Kentucky has also played 10 of their last 12 games on the road Under the Total after two wins in a row against conference opponents — and they have played 17 of their last 24 games on the road Under the Total after playing a game that finished Over the Total (146.5 versus Rice 2/13). The Hilltoppers may be rusty on offense with the almost-two-week layoff. As it is, they have only scored 64.6 PPG on 38.4% shooting in their last five games which is almost 5.0 PPG below their season average. And while they rank 103rd nationally in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency at home, they fall to 149th in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency when playing on the road. But their defense travels — Western Kentucky ranks 57th in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency compared to their 132nd ranking  when playing at home. They hold their home hosts to 41.8% shooting. The Hilltoppers have played 22 of their last 33 games Under the Total on the road — including seven of their last nine games. They also have played 5 straight road games Under the Total as an underdog. Houston has played 11 of their last 12 games Under the Total after a win at home by at least 20 points — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after scoring at least 80 points in their last game. The Cougars also held the Bearcats to just 30.0% shooting. Head coach Kelvin Sampson has one of the best defensive teams in the nation. Houston ranks 4th in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency while leading the nation with an opponent’s effective field goal percentage of 42.2%. The Cougars have the second-best Adjusted Defensive Efficiency in the nation when playing at home where they limit their opponents to just 34.1% shooting and 54.2 PPG. Houston has played 14 of their last 20 home games Under the Total — and the Under is 38-14-1 in the last 52 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. The Under is also 16-5-1 in the Cougars’ last 22 home games against teams who are winning at least 60% of their games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Houston has played 19 of their last 26 games Under the Total against teams who are winning at least 60% of their games — and Western Kentucky has played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. 25* CBB Thursday ESPN2 Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (749) and the Houston Cougars (750). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the South Carolina Gamecocks (681) plus the points versus the Mississippi State Bulldogs (682). THE SITUATION: South Carolina (5-11) has lost five straight games with their 93-78 loss at home to Missouri as a 4-point underdog on Saturday. Mississippi State (12-11) snapped a two-game losing streak on Saturday with their 66-56 win at Ole Miss as a 5.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GAMECOCKS PLUS THE POINTS: South Carolina allowed the Tigers to make 57.6% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last nine games. The Gamecocks have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after a double-digit loss to a conference opponent — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a loss by 10 for more points at home. South Carolina has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after allowing at least 90 points in their last game. They stay go back on the road where they are ranked 80th in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency — as compared to their ranking at home of just 129th in Adjusted Net Efficiency. The Gamecocks have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 road games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 7 straight games on the road as a dog getting 3.5 to 6 points. Mississippi State has failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread win. The Bulldogs have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after a win on the road. They return home where they are just 8-5 and likely overvalued. The analytics rank Mississippi State as 80th in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency when playing at home as compared to their ranking of 16th in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency when they are playing on the road. The Bulldogs have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on the road. Furthermore, Mississippi State has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as a favorite.

FINAL TAKE: South Carolina is avenging a 75-59 upset loss at home to Mississippi State as a 3-point favorite on February 6th — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games when playing with revenge from a loss at home. 20* CBB Wednesday Daily Discounted Deal with the South Carolina Gamecocks (681) plus the points versus the Mississippi State Bulldogs (682). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Syracuse Orange (857) and the Duke Blue Devils (858). THE SITUATION: Syracuse (13-6) has won three in a row with their 75-67 win against Notre Dame as a 1.5-point favorite on Saturday. Duke (10-8) has won three in a row as well with their 66-65 upset win against Virginia as a 3-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Orange only made 43.5% of their shots against the Fighting Irish but still rallied from a 20-point deficit to win that game. Syracuse has then played 9 of their last 11 road games Over the Total after a win. They also have played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total when playing with one day of rest. Head coach Jim Boeheim’s team does not fit his typical profile — they are much better on offense than they are on defense. The Orange ranks 38th in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — and they rank 29th nationally in this metric when playing on the road. Yet Syracuse is only 84th nationally in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they plummet to 186th in the nation in this metric when playing away from home. Boeheim’s 2-3 zone is not working this season — and it remains as vulnerable as ever to offensive rebounding with the open space around the rim it leaves vulnerable. Not only do the Orange allow their opponents to pull down 31.1% of their missed shots, 279th nationally, but home teams are getting second-chance scoring opportunities in a whopping 37.5% of their missed shots which is 340th in the nation. Syracuse has played 15 of their last 18 games Over the Total on the road — and they have played 6 straight road games Over the Total as an underdog of up to six points. They are allowing 78.0 PPG when playing on the road. And while the Orange have played three straight Unders, the Orange have played 6 straight games Over the Total after playing at least two straight Unders. Additionally, Syracuse has played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 14 of their last 18 games Over the Total as an underdog. Duke has played 10 of their last 13 games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 12 straight home games Over the Total after a win against an ACC rival. They have also played 7 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a point spread win. The Blue Devils shot 51.0% from the field against the Cavaliers’ pack-line defense which was actually the worst shooting effort in their last five games. Duke is averaging 79.0 PPG over their last five games on 52.5% shooting over that span — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after making at least 50% of their shots in three straight games. While the Blue Devils have been pilloried for being one of the blue blood programs suffering a down season, they have under the radar regarding how good they are on offense. They rank 14th in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — and they have improved to 10th in the nation in that metric over their last ten games to demonstrate they do not miss freshman Jalen Johnson who left the team. But Duke struggles on the end of the court as they rank just 135th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency when playing at home. The Over is 19-6-1 in the Blue Devils’ last 26 home games including eight of their last ten home games finishing Over the Total. Duke has also played 7 straight games Over the Total at home against teams who are not winning at least 40% of their games on the road. The Blue Devils pound the offensive glass as well to take advantage of their missed shots against the Boeheim 2-3 zone — they rebound 33.6% of their missed shots at home, 67th nationally. Duke has played 18 of their last 26 games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or better — and they have played 31 of their last 43 games Over the Total as a favorite.

FINAL TAKE: The Blue Devils have played 13 of their last 19 home games Over the Total with the number in the 140s — and the Orange has played 10 of their last 13 road games Over the Total with the number in the 140 to 149.5 point range. 25* CBB Big Monday ESPN Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Syracuse Orange (857) and the Duke Blue Devils (858). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the West Virginia Mountaineers (653) and the Texas Longhorns (654). THE SITUATION: West Virginia (14-6) had their three-game winning streak snapped last Saturday in their 91-90 upset loss in double-overtime against Oklahoma as a 4-point favorite. Texas (13-5) has won two games in a row after their 70-55 win against TCU as an 11.5-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Mountaineers made only 42.4% of their shots on Saturday which was the lowest shooting mark in their last four games. West Virginia has played 8 of their last 11 games Over the Total after a game at home where both teams scored at least 85 points. The Mountaineers have played six straight Overs while scoring at least 82 points in three straight games. They have then played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after scoring at least 75 points in three straight games — and they have played 8 of their last 12 games Over the Total after playing at least three straight Overs. West Virginia has also played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total when playing their second game in the last eight days. The Mountaineers tend to play higher-scoring games because they generate additional scoring opportunities. They are 10th in the nation by rebounding 36.2% of their missed shots. They are also 30th nationally by forcing turnovers in 21.9% of their opponent’s possessions when playing on the road. West Virginia has played 8 of their last 9 games Over the Total on the road — and they have played 6 straight road games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. In their last five games, the Mountaineers are scoring 83.8 PPG. But they have also allowed their last five opponents to make 45.4% of their shots which is generating 79.6 PPG. West Virginia ranks 9th in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency which would make them one of head coach Bob Huggins’ best offensive teams in his career. But he has had many better teams on the defensive end of the court — this group ranks only 64th nationally in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. The Mountaineers have played 5 straight games Over the Total as an underdog — and the Over is 15-5-1 in their last 21 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. They have also played 11 of their last 14 games Over the Total with the number in the 140s. Texas has played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a win by at least 15 points — and they have played 11 of their last 15 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 55 points in their last contest. The Longhorns are an excellent defensive team who ranks 26th in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. But COVID pauses and now ice storms and power outages may be taking their toll on Shaka Smart’s team. While they hold their opponents to 67.6 PPG on 40.5% shooting, their last five opponents have made 44.6% of their shots which is generating 74.0 PPG. Texas has played 6 of their last 7 home games Over the Total — and they have played 11 of their last 16 home games Over the Total when favored by up to 6 points. The Longhorns have played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total when favored — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60%.

FINAL TAKE: Texas won the first meeting between these two teams on January 9th when they upset West Virginia in Morgantown by a 1.5-point underdog. The Mountaineers have played 6 straight games Over the Total when avenging an upset loss as a home favorite. 25* CBB ABC-TV Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the West Virginia Mountaineers (653) and the Texas Longhorns (654). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (636) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the North Carolina State Wolfpack (635). THE SITUATION: Wake Forest (6-10) has lost two games in a row with their 84-60 loss to Duke on Wednesday as a 6-point underdog. NC State (9-9) snapped a two-game losing streak with a 74-73 upset win at Pittsburgh on Wednesday as a 4.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE DEMON DEACONS PLUS (OR MINUS) THE POINTS: Wake Forest allowed a Blue Devils team (seemingly liberated from freshman Jalen Johnson after he opted-out for the rest of the season) to make 54.1% of their shots from the field in what was the worst defensive effort this season. The Demon Deacons have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a loss to a conference rival. Wake Forest has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit loss at home — and they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 18 home games after a loss by at least 20 points. The Demon Deacons have also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after losing two in a row to ACC opponents. Wake Forest stays at home where they are 5-3 with an average winning margin of +6.5 PPG. The Demon Deacons have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games on their home court — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Wake Forest has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 home games when priced in the +/- 3-point range. NC State nailed 56.9% of their shots on Wednesday which was the best shooting effort for them this season. But the Wolfpack have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after an upset win — and they are 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games after a point spread loss. NC State stays on the road where they are just 3-5 this season. They are just 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games on the road — and they are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. The Wolfpack are far from 100% for this game. They have already lost their leading scorer, Devon Daniels, to a season-ending knee injury last month. Thomas Allen did not play against the Panthers — he has led the team in scoring in three of his last nine starts. Braxton Beverly is dealing with back and hip issues — while he scored 12 points on Wednesday, he is questionable for this game. NC State has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a losing record.

FINAL TAKE: The Wolfpack won the previous meeting between these two teams on January 27th in a 72-67 win as a 7.5-point favorite. The Demon Deacons have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 opportunities to avenge a loss. 10* CBB Saturday Afternoon Discounted Deal with the Wake Forest Demon Deacons (636) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the North Carolina State Wolfpack (635). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (606) plus the points versus the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (605). THE SITUATION: Miami (7-12) has lost two straight games as well as six of their last seven contests after their 71-61 loss at Notre Dame last Sunday as a 7-point underdog. Georgia Tech (10-8) snapped a two-game losing streak on Sunday with their 71-65 victory against Pittsburgh as a 5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HURRICANES PLUS THE POINTS: Miami shot just 32.4% from the field on Sunday against the Irish in what was the worst shooting effort of the season. They should shoot better this afternoon. The Hurricanes have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 home games after a loss on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 home games after a loss on the road against a conference rival. Additionally, Miami has covered the point spread in 7 straight games at home after two straight losses to ACC foes — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9  home games after losing three of their last four games. Head coach Jim Larranaga’s team has been riddled with injuries this season — at one point, they were down to just six scholarship players. These absences have opened space for rising sophomores, Isaiah Wong and Harlond Beverly, to step into scoring and leadership roles. They return home were they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games while holding their guests to just 41.9% shooting. The Hurricanes are better on their home court where they rank 116th in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency as compared to their 186nd ranking in Adjusted Net Efficiency on the road. They have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 home games as an underdog of up to 6 points. One thing this Miami team will not do is put the Yellow Jackets on the line — they are second best in the nation in free throw rate. Georgia Tech has failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 33 road games when playing with five or six days off since their last game. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games with the Total set in the 130s. They are just 2-5 on the road while only making 44.3% of their shots. The Yellow Jackets allow their home hosts to make 40.5% of their 3-pointers, 316th in the nation, and these home teams are pulling down 33.5% of their missed shots, 307th nationally. Georgia Tech has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 road games when favored by 3.5 to 6 points. Head coach Josh Pastner’s team has faltered on defense as well as of late — their last five opponents have made 48.2% of their baskets.

FINAL TAKE: The Yellow Jackets have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a losing record. The Hurricanes have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a winning record. 10* CBB Saturday Afternoon Tipoff with the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (606) plus the points versus the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (605). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Stetson Hatters (307094) minus the points versus the Jacksonville Dolphins (307093). THE SITUATION: Stetson (8-11) has lost two of their last three games after their 83-75 upset loss at Kennesaw State as a 6.5-point favorite on Saturday. Jacksonville (10-12) has lost eight of their last nine games with their 71-69 loss to Lipscomb as a 7-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HATTERS MINUS THE POINTS: Stetson allowed Kennesaw State to make 49.0% of their shots in what was the worst defensive effort in their last seven games. The Hatters have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a loss on the road. Stetson has also covered the points spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing with five or six days of rest. Now after playing their last two games, the Hatters return home where they are 5-3 with an average winning wagon of +12.1 PPG. Stetson has covered the point spread in 6 straight games after playing their last two games on the road. They also have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 home games with the Total set in the 130 to 134.5 point range — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 home games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on the road. The Hatter hold their visitors to just 42.6% shooting which translates into just 63.0 PPG on their home court. Stetson is much better at home — they rank 198th in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency at home as opposed to their 257th mark on the road. They are also averaging 47.2% shooting and 78.6 PPG over their last five games which are both improvements over their 70.1 PPGand 41.9% shooting averages for the season.

At 7:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Wisconsin Badgers (740) minus the points versus the Iowa Hawkeyes (739). THE SITUATION: Wisconsin (15-7) has lost two of their last three games after their 67-59 loss at home to Michigan on Sunday as a +0.5-point underdog. Iowa (15-6) has won two in a row after their 88-58 blowout win at home against Iowa as a 6.5-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BADGERS MINUS (OR PLUS) THE POINT(S): The Hawkeyes played one of their best games of the season on Saturday. They held the Spartans to just 35.5% shooting in what was the best defensive effort in their last eight games — and their 49.2% field goal percentage was the best shooting mark in their last four games. But Iowa is just 5-11-1 ATS in their last 17 games after a win by at least 20 points — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win by at least 30 points. The Hawkeyes have nailed 13 and 11 shots from behind the arc in their last two games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 games on the road after converting at least 10 shots from 3-point land in two straight games. They go back on the road where they are just 4-4 — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games away from home. Iowa is also a rough 19-40-2 ATS in their last 61 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court. The Hawkeyes have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 road games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Wisconsin should respond with a strong effort tonight — they are 10-1-2 ATS in their last 13 games after a straight-up loss. The Badgers have also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after a loss to a Big Ten rival — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread loss. They stay at home where they remain ranked 5th in the nation in Adjusted Net Efficiency. Wisconsin is 10-3 at home with an average winning margin of +13.2 PPG — they hold their opponents to 39.1% shooting and only 60.3 PPG. And while Iowa scores 87.4 PPG, the Badgers have covered the point spread in 51 of their last 84 home games against teams who average at least 77 PPG.

FINAL TAKE: Wisconsin has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games with the Total set in the 140s. Iowa has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. They might be undermanned for this game with CJ Fredricks questionable with a leg injury. 10* CBB Thursday Daily Discounted Deal with the Wisconsin Badgers (740) minus the points versus the Iowa Hawkeyes (739). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Vermont Catamounts (307059) and the Maryland-Baltimore County Retrievers (307060). THE SITUATION: Vermont (9-3) has won seven straight games after their 61-57 win against Stony Brook on Sunday. UMBC (13-4) has won three in a row with their 60-48 win at Stony Brook back on February 8th as a 3-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: Vermont held Stony Brook to just 32% shooting — and they have then played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total after holding their last opponent to 33% or less shooting in their last game. The Catamounts are 15th in the nation with an opponent’s effective field goal percentage of 45.1%. Vermont has also played 18 of their last 26 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. The Catamounts have still covered the point spread in four of their last six games — and they have played 10 of their last 12 games Under the Total on the road after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Vermont goes back on the road where they have played 5 straight games Under the Total with the number set in the 135.5 to 139.5 point range. The Catamounts have also played 6 of their last 7 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or better at home. Furthermore, Vermont has played 13 of their last 18 road games Under the Total as a favorite — and they have played 4 straight road games Under the Total when favored in the 3.5 to 6 point range. The Catamounts should see their stout defense of late travel — they have held their last five opponents to just 53.8 PPG on 31.8% shooting from the field. UMBC held Stony Brook to 32.0% shooting in their last game — and they have played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total after not allowing their last opponent to shoot better than 33%. Additionally, the Retrievers have played 5 straight Unders after not allowing more than 50 points in their last contest. UMBC is also playing outstanding defense right now — they have held their last five opponents to just 60.4 PPG on 37.5% shooting. The Retrievers rank 17th in the nation with an opponent’s effective field goal percentage of 45.1%. But will UMBC be rusty with their shooting playing their first game in ten days? They are only making 42.1% of their shots in their last five games which is resulting in only 65.6 PPG. The Retrievers have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread loss. They have also played 12 of their last 16 games Under the Total after winning three of their last four games. They return home where they have played 5 of their last 6 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record on the road. UMBC has also played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: The Retrievers have played 14 of their last 19 games Under the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 4 straight Unders against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Vermont has played 9 of their last 13 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. 25* CBB America East Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Vermont Catamounts (307059) and the Maryland-Baltimore County Retrievers (307060). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Wofford Terriers (690) minus the points versus the Citadel Bulldogs (689). THE SITUATION: Wofford (12-8) has lost two in a row after their 71-49 loss at East Tennessee State on Saturday as a 2-point underdog. The Citadel (11-8) saw their two-game winning streak end on Saturday in a 70-66 loss at UT-Chattanooga as a 10-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TERRIERS MINUS THE POINTS: Wofford made only 34.0% of their shots on Saturday in what was the worst shooting effort in their last ten games. They also allowed the Buccaneers to shoot 49.0% from the field in what was the highest opponent’s field goal percentage in their last three games. The Terriers should play better as they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after not scoring more than 50 points in their last game. And while they only managed 21 points in the first half against East Tennessee State, they have then covered the point spread in 27 of their last 40 games when playing at home after not scoring more than 25 points in the first half of their last game. Wofford has only covered the point spread twice in their last seven games — but they have then covered the point spread in 35 of their last 54 games after failing to cover the point spread in five or six of their last seven games. The Terriers return home where they torch the nets at a 52.5% clip which generates 83.2 PPG. Wofford is 7-3 on their home court while outscoring their opponents by +13.1 PPG. The Citadel allows their home hosts to shoot 50.4% from the field which is producing 90.7 PPG. The Bulldogs are 1-5 on the road with an average losing margin of -8.7 PPG. The Citadel is just 5-15-1 ATS in their last 21 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 25 of their last 36 games against a Southern Conference opponent. The Bulldogs have also failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games after a loss on the road. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher at home.

FINAL TAKE: Wofford will be looking to avenge a 77-69 upset loss at the Citadel as an 8.5-point favorite on January 7th. The Terriers have covered the point spread in 35 of their last 55 games when avenging an upset loss — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games when playing with revenge from an upset loss where they were laying at least 7 points. 10* CBB Wednesday Daily Discounted Deal with the Wofford Terriers (690) minus the points versus the Citadel Bulldogs (689). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:30 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Butler Bulldogs (672) minus the points versus the Marquette Golden Eagles (671). THE SITUATION: Butler (7-11) saw their two-game winning streak snapped on Saturday in a 78-63 loss at Georgetown as a 1.5-point underdog. Marquette (9-12) has lost three in a row after their 57-51 loss at Seton Hall as a 6.5-point underdog on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS MINUS THE POINTS: Butler made only 39.0% of their shots on Saturday in what was the worst shooting effort in their last four games. The Bulldogs have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up loss. And while Butler has lost four of their last six games, they have then covered the point spread in 14 of their last 22 games after losing four or five of their last six contests. They return home where they are 6-3 this season — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games on their home court. The Bulldogs have also covered the point spread in 4 straight home games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less on the road. Butler has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a losing record — and they have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games in expected close contests when they are listed in the +/- 3-point range. Head coach LeVall Jordan’s team ranks 27th in the nation by holding their opponents to rebounding only 23.3% of their missed shots. This skill will come in handy against this Golden Eagles team that rebounds 30.4% of their misses shots, ranking 97th nationally. Marquette lost to the Pirates on Sunday despite holding them to just 37.0% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last five games. The Golden Eagles have still allowed their last five opponents to make 46.6% of their shots. Marquette has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread loss. Furthermore, the Golden Eagles have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after a loss by 6 points or less. Marquette is slumping with six losses in their last seven games while only covering the point spread twice in their last eight games. That is not a good sign for them tonight. They have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after losing at least four or five of their last six games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after failing to cover the point spread in four or five of their last six contests. They stay on the road for the third game of a rough five-game road trip. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games away from home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games against teams who are winning at least 60% of their home games. The Golden Eagles are just 3-5 on the road — and they allow their home hosts to make 38.1% of their 3-pointers, 282nd in the nation. Marquette has not covered the point spread in 4 straight games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: The Golden Eagles miss freshman Justin Lewis who has missed the last two games doe to a leg injury that leaves him questionable tonight. While he is is scoring only 8.1 PPG, he is one of their best defenders. Butler will be motivated to avenge a 70-67 loss at Marquette on February 2nd as a 4.5-point underdog. The Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games at home when playing with revenge. 25* CBB Wednesday FS1-TV Game of the Year with the Butler Bulldogs (672) minus the points versus the Marquette Golden Eagles (671). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Saint Peter’s Peacocks (820) minus the points versus the Fairfield Stags (819). THE SITUATION: Saint Peter’s (9-7) had won three of their last four games before getting upset at home yesterday to the Stags, 55-50, despite being an 11-point favorite. Fairfield (5-13) has pulled off two straight upset victories.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PEACOCKS MINUS THE POINTS: When Saint Peter’s struggles, it is because they can’t make baskets. The Peacocks made only 32.7% of their shots yesterday which was the third-lowest shooting mark for them all season and their worst shooting effort when playing at home. Leading scorer KC Ndefo was in foul trouble all game and played only 22 minutes — so the reset today will help. These two teams went into halftime yesterday with the score tied, 17-17. Saint Peter’s has covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games after not scoring more than 25 points in the first half of their last game. Saint Peter’s has also covered the point spread in 3 of their last 4 home games after playing at home where they did not score more than 60 points. Head coach Shaheen Holloway’s group does play ferocious defense — Saint Peter’s ranks second in the nation by holding their opponents to just 41.2% shooting inside the arc. They held Fairfield to 37.3% shooting which was actually the highest opponent field goal percentage they allowed in their last six games. The Peacocks’ also force turnovers in 22.0% of their opponent’s possessions which is 42nd in the country. The Stags are loose with the basketball — they turn the ball over in 21.2% of their possessions away from, 245th in the nation. They turned the ball over 17 times yesterday accounting for 27.7% of their possessions. Saint Peter’s should get plenty of easy scoring chances tonight — they just need to make more than just 2 of 17 shots from behind the arc as they did yesterday. The Peacocks have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games on their home court — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. They suffered their first loss at home in six games yesterday — but they are still outscoring their visitors by +7.9 PPG due to their defense that holds their opponents to 55.8 PPG on 35.4% shooting. Saint Peter’s has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games when favored by 9.5 to 12 points. Fairfield is 6-19-1 ATS in their last 26 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 17 games after a point spread loss. The Stags have also failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after an upset win as a road underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after an upset win against a conference opponent. Fairfield’s defensive effort was out of the ordinary — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after holding their previous opponent to 33% of less shooting. The Stags have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after not allowing more than 55 points in their last game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 32 games after not allowing more than 50 points. They allow their home hosts to made 45.3% of their shots which results in 70.0 PPG — and they allow conference foes to shoot 46.5%. Fairfield may not crack 50 points in this rematch either as they score only 58.0 PPG on the road on 38.4% shooting. The Stags have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 road games against teams who are winning at least 60% of their shots at home. Fairfield has also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 road games with the Total under 130.

FINAL TAKE: Four of Saint Peter’s nine wins have been by double-digits — so they have been able to generate enough offense to cover 10 or so points. The Peacocks have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games when playing with same-season revenge — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games when avenging an upset loss as a home favorite laying 7 or more points. Saint Peter’s has also covered the point spread in 6 straight home games when playing with revenge from a loss where they did not score more than 60 points. 25* CBB Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Game of the Year with the Saint Peter’s Peacocks (820) minus the points versus the Fairfield Stags (819). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Stanford Cardinal (774) minus the points versus the Utah Utes (773). THE SITUATION: Stanford (12-8) looks to bounce-back from their 69-51 loss at home to Colorado on Thursday as a 1-point underdog. Utah (9-7) has won their last three games after their 76-75 win at California as a 4-point favorite on Thursday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CARDINAL MINUS THE POINTS: We had Stanford on Thursday against the Buffaloes — and they were a big disappointment after making only 39.6% of their shots in what was the worst shooting effort in their last seven games. We don’t want to chase our losers — but we also do not want to forego good investment opportunities simply because we were burned in the past. Examining the team trends regarding the personality of a team is helpful to avoid these pitfalls. The Cardinal has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after not scoring more than 60 points in their last game. Stanford has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a loss at home. The Cardinal has not covered the point spread in two straight games as well as four of their last five contests — but they have then covered the point spread in 4 straight games after not covering the point spread in their last two games and they have covered the point spread in 22 of their last 31 home games after only covering the point spread once in their last five games. Stanford stays at home where they are 5-2 this season while making 49.9% of their shots — so they should shoot better tonight. The Cardinal has covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 home games after playing their last game at home in Palo Alto — and they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 home games when favored or listed as a pick ‘em. Utah made 51.1% of their shots on Thursday in the best shooting effort in their last four games. The Utes have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win against a Pac-12 opponent. The Utes have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up win where they failed to cover the point spread as the favorite. Utah stays on the road where they are just 3-4 — and they allow their home hosts to make 48.7% of their shots so I am reasonably confident that the Cardinal shoots better tonight. The Utes have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 road games with the Total set in the 130s.

FINAL TAKE: Utah has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 road games as an underdog. 10* CBB Saturday Late Show Bailout with the Stanford Cardinal (774) minus the points versus the Utah Utes (773). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Weber State Wildcats (687) minus the point(s) versus the Montana Grizzlies (688). THE SITUATION: Weber State (11-5) had their four-game winning streak snapped on Thursday in their 80-67 upset loss at Montana as a 2-point favorite. Montana (8-9) has won two of their last three games.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WILDCATS MINUS THE POINT(S): Weber State allowed the Grizzlies to shoot 52.6% from the field in what was the worst defensive effort of their season. The Wildcats have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games after allowing at least 80 points in their last game. Weber State did themselves no favors on the other end of the court either as they made only 44% of their shots in the worst shooting effort in their last five games. The Wildcats have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after an upset loss to a conference opponent. They also have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they are 26-9-2 ATS in their last 37 games after a point spread loss. They have still covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games as a favorite. Montana enjoyed the best shooting day in their last seven contests with that 52.6% clip. But they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread win. And in their last 12 games at home after a win on their home court, the Grizzlies have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of those contests. They are 5-2 on their home court this season — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 home games. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Weber State has covered the point spread in 40 of their last 63 games when avenging a loss on the road by at least 10 points — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games when playing with revenge from an upset loss. 10* CBB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Weber State Wildcats (687) minus the point(s) versus the Montana Grizzlies (688). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Charlotte 49ers (673) plus the points versus the Old Dominion Monarchs (674). THE SITUATION: Charlotte (9-10) suffered their third-straight upset loss on Wednesday in their 78-76 loss in overtime at home to the Monarchs. Old Dominion (10-5) has won three of their last four games.

REASONS TO TAKE THE 49ERS PLUS THE POINTS: Charlotte also lost to Middle Tennessee on the road by a basket over this recent stretch of tough luck. But they need to tighten things up on defense after allowing Old Dominion to make 61.7% of their shots in the worst defensive effort of their season. The 49ers have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after allowing their last opponent to make at least 60% of their shots. Charlotte has been resilient — they are 15-7-1 ATS in their last 23 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after a loss at home against a conference rival. They are also 22-8-2 ATS in the last 32 games after a point spread loss. And in their last 6 opportunities to redeem themselves from an upset loss at home, the 49ers have covered the point spread in all 6 occasions. The 49ers have not covered the point spread in four straight games — but they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after only covering the point spread once in their last five games. Charlotte has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as an underdog. Old Dominion has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games are a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after a point spread victory. The Monarch’s 61.7% shooting clip on Wednesday was the best shooting effort of their season. But they have failed to cover the point spread in 28 of their last 42 games after a close win by 3 points or less — and this includes them failing to cover the point spread in seven of these last ten situations. They host this rematch where they are 6-1 — but they only have net winning margin of +3.7 PPG in these seven games. Old Dominion has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games as the favorite.

FINAL TAKE: Old Dominion has covered the point spread in all 3 of their opportunities to avenge a loss at home this season — and they have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 24 games when playing with revenge from a loss where they allowed at least 75 points. Don’t be surprised if the 49ers finally win a close game again (five games have finished in overtime for them this season) — but take the points for the insurance. 20* CBB Don’t Need the Points (but take the points) Underdog Special with the Charlotte 49ers (673) plus the points versus the Old Dominion Monarchs (674). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the VMI Keydets (616) minus the points versus the Samford Bears (615). VMI (10-10) has lost two of their last three games after their 74-72 loss at Western Carolina on Wednesday as a 1.5-point underdog. Samford (6-10) has lost three straight games as well as seven of their last eight with their 77-70 loss to Mercer as a 4.5-point underdog on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE KEYDETS MINUS THE POINTS: VMI allowed the Catamounts to make 45.2% of their shots in what was the worst defensive effort in their last four games. They should play better this afternoon since they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games after a straight-up loss — including covering the point spread in seven of these last eight situations. The Keydets have also covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a loss to a Southern Conference rival — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a loss on the road. This is VMI’s just second game since February 3rd — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games if they are not playing more than their second game in the last week. They return home where they are 9-1 this season with an average winning margin of +16.1 PPG. They make 50.6% of their shots at home which is generating 89.2 PPG — and they hold their guests to just 40.8% shooting from the field. The Keydets have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 home games including their last seven games. They also have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 17 home games against teams with a winning percentage below 40% on the road. This is VMI’s first home game in their last four games after playing their last three contests on the road. Their last home game was on January 27th — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 home games after playing at least their last three games on the road. The Keydets are one of the best 3-point shooting teams in the nation as they are 24th nationally with a 38.2% shooting mark from behind the arc — and they improve to a 43.6% shooting percentage from downtown when playing in their own gym, 10th best in the nation. Defending the perimeter is an area of weakness for the Bulldogs as they rank 332nd nationally by allowing their opponents to nail 47.7% of their 3-pointers when they are playing on the road. Samford is also 323rd in the nation with an opponent's free throw attempt-to-field goal attempt ratio of 41.0% — and VMI makes 78.7% of their free throws at home, ranking 23rd nationally. The Bulldogs make 47.3% of their shots on Wednesday in a losing effort which was the best shooting effort in their last seven games. But Samford has failed to cover the point spread in 20 of their last 26 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 19 games after losing two in a row. The Bulldogs have surrendered at least 77 points in their last two games — and they have then failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games after allowing at least 75 points in two straight contests. They go back on the road where they are just 2-5 this season — and they are 7-18-1 ATS in their last 26 road games. Additionally, Samford has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games on the road with the total set in the 150s — and they are 4-16-1 ATS in their last 21 road games against teams with a winning record at home. The Bulldogs make only 29.4% of their 3-pointers, 313th nationally, so it may be difficult for them to stay competitive in this one. VMI averages 11 made 3-pointers per game — and Samford has failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 28 games after 15 games into the season against teams who average at least 8 made 3s per contest. The Bulldogs have also failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games with the Total in the 150s — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 30 games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: VMI will be motivated to avenge an 84-71 loss at Samford as a 2.5-point underdog on December 30th — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games when playing with revenge. 25* CBB Southern Conference Game of the Year with the VMI Keydets (616) minus the points versus the Samford Bears (615). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the UAB Blazers (869) and the Louisiana Tech (870). THE SITUATION: UAB (16-2) has won six straight games with their 75-60 win against UTEP as an 8.5-point favorite last Saturday. Louisiana Tech (15-6) saw their four-game winning streak snapped last Saturday in their 57-55 loss at North Texas as a 4-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Blazers made 53.8% of their shots last Saturday in what was the best shooting effort in their last 13 games. UAB has played 14 of their last 17 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Additionally, while the Blazers have covered the point spread in their last two games as a favorite, they have then played 7 straight games Under the Total after covering the point spread in their last two games as a favorite. They are likely going to not shoot as well tonight as they did against the Miners — their 45.2% effective field goal percentage when playing on the road, 287th in the nation. They make only 41.5% of their shots on the road which translates into just 62.7 PPG. But UAB holds their home hosts to only 56.7 PPG on 41.4% shooting. The Blazers rank 25th in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they improve to 23rd in the nation in true road games in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. UAB has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total on the road — and they have played 5 straight road games Under the Total as an underdog. Furthermore, the Blazers have played 21 of their last 30 games Under the Total with the number set in the 130s — including playing Unders in six of these last seven games. Louisiana Tech has played a decisive 51 of their last 82 games Under the Total after a loss on the road to a conference rival. The Bulldogs have also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread win. And while Louisiana Tech has covered the point spread in their last two games, they have then played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total after covering the point spread in two of their last three games. This is the Bulldogs’ second game since last Friday — and they have played 9 of their last 12 games Under the Total when playing just their second game in the last seven days. Louisiana Tech has not allowed more than 63 points in five straight games — and they have then played 4 straight games Under the Total after not allowing more than 65 points in at least three straight games. They have held their last five opponents to just 60.0 PPG on 39.9% shooting from the field. But they are scoring only 67.4 PPG in these previous five games. They return home where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total — and they have played 19 of their last 27 home games Under the Total as a favorite of 3 points or less.

FINAL TAKE: Louisiana Tech has played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher — and the Under is 7-2-1 in UAB’s last 10 games against teams with a winning percentage of at least 60%. 25* CBB Conference USA Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the UAB Blazers (869) and the Louisiana Tech (870). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the Stanford Cardinal (718) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus Colorado Buffaloes (717). THE SITUATION: Stanford (12-7) has won two games in a row after their 76-70 win against California as a 10.5-point favorite on Sunday. Colorado (15-5) has won two straight games as well as four of their last five contests with their 78-49 win against Oregon State as a 13-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CARDINAL PLUS THE POINT(S): The Buffaloes made 55.8% of their shots for the second-straight game to defeat the Beavers. But Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 30 games after making at least 50% of their shots in two straight games. They also held Oregon State to just 32.7% shooting in what was the best defensive effort in their last 15 games. But the Buffaloes have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after allowing no more than 50 points in their last game. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a double-digit win against a Pac-12 foe — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after winning at least 15 of their last 20 games. Now after getting rich at home in the high-altitude of Boulder where they are 8-1 this season after a four-game homestand, they go back on the road for the first time since January 23rd. Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 15 games after winning their previous two games at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 11 games on the road after winning their last two games at home. Furthermore, the Buffaloes have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 18 road games after playing at least three straight games at home. Colorado ranks 7th in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency when playing at home fueled by them nailing 44.0% of their 3-pointers in Boulder, 8th best in the nation. But in their eight true road games on their opponent’s home court, the Buffaloes make only 29.7% of their 3-pointers, 269th in the nation, while falling to 68th nationally in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency in true road games. Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 42 of their last 56 road games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 35 of their last 47 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Stanford has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 home games after a win at home — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight home games after a win at home against a Pac-12 foe. They have also covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 home games after winning at least two in a row. The Cardinal made 58.3% of their shots against the Golden Bears — but that was the third straight game when they shot at least 51.9% from the field — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after shooting at least 55% in their last contest. This is a very tough team to beat if they are making their shots as they rank 18th in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. They are also 9th in the nation in getting to the free-throw line. They are 5-1 at home where they are making 51.4% of their shots while holding their guests to 41.1% shooting. Stanford is 35-17-1 ATS in their last 53 games at home — and they are 20-8-1 ATS in their last 29 home games against teams with a winning record on the road.

FINAL TAKE: The Cardinal will be looking to avenge a 77-64 loss at Colorado on January 16th — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games when playing with same-season revenge. Stanford has also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 home games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. 25* CBB Thursday ESPNU Game of the Year with the Stanford Cardinal (718) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus Colorado Buffaloes (717). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (670) plus the points versus the Virginia Cavaliers (669). THE SITUATION: Georgia Tech (9-6) has won two of their last three games with their 82-80 win against Notre Dame as a 3.5-point favorite on Saturday. Virginia (13-3) has won nine of their last ten with their 73-66 victory against Pittsburgh as an 11-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE YELLOW JACKETS PLUS THE POINTS: Georgia Tech should build off their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games after a straight-up win at home — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after a home win against an ACC rival. They also have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a win by 6 points or less. Additionally, the Yellow Jackets have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games after not covering the point spread — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win at home as a favorite where they did not cover the point spread. Georgia Tech shot a season-high 58.3% from the field on Saturday which would usually give me pause — but that was the fifth time in their last nine games where they shot at least 50% from the field. Furthermore, good offensive efforts are usually a good sign for this team as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games after shooting at least 55% from the field — including both times this season. They stay at home on North Avenue in Atlanta where they rank 22nd in the nation in adjusted offensive efficiency. The Yellow Jackets are 7-2 at home with an average winning margin of +8.6 net PPG. Georgia Tech scores 83.0 PPG at home where they make 48.7% of their shots. The Yellow Jackets have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight home games as an underdog. They did allow the Fighting Irish to make 59.3% of their shots on Saturday which was the worst defensive effort of their season — but they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after allowing at least 80 points in their last game. And while Georgia Tech has not covered the point spread in two straight games, they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after not covering the point spread in two straight contests. This is a program that has covered the point spread in 50 of their last 74 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning record. Virginia made 53.2% of their shots on Saturday against Pitt which was the best shooting effort in their last five games. The Cavaliers have allowed only 27 and 24 points in the first half in two straight games — and they have then failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 23 games after not allowing more than 30 points in the first half in two straight games. Virginia has been favored in ten straight games since their showdown with Gonzaga — but not only have they failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after being favored in at least four straight games, they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after being favored in at least five straight games. They go back on the road where they are just 4-3 this season — and they are 3-8-2 ATS in their last 13 games against teams with a winning record at home. The Cavaliers are just 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games when favored — and they are 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Georgia Tech will be looking to avenge a narrow 64-62 loss to the Cavaliers in Charlottesville on January 23rd as an 8.5-point favorite — and they have covered the point spread in 33 of their last 53 games when playing with revenge from a loss by 3 points or less. 25* CBB ACC Underdog of the Year with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (670) plus the points versus the Virginia Cavaliers (669). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the UNC-Greensboro Spartans (646) minus the point(s) versus the Furman Paladins (645). THE SITUATION: UNC-Greensboro (13-6) saw their two-game winning streak snapped on Monday in their 68-49 loss at Furman as a 4-point underdog. Furman (12-6) has won two of their last three games.

REASONS TO TAKE UNC-GREENSBORO MINUS POINT(S): The Spartans only made 29% of their shots on Monday in what was the worst shooting effort of the season. UNC-Greensboro should respond with a better effort today — they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after not scoring more than 50 points in their last game. Sparty missed 16 of their 18 shots from behind the arc in that game — but they have then covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after not making more than 30% of their 3-point shots in their last game. UNC-Greensboro has also covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. The Spartans should get back to business in this one as they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after winning five or six of their last seven games. And while this is UNC-Greensboro’s second game since last Wednesday, they have then covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games when playing just their second game in seven days. They return home for this rematch where they hold their opponents to just 40% shooting — and they rank 21st in the nation in adjusted defensive efficiency when playing on their home court. Furman has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread victory. And while the Paladins’ last two opponents have only committed 12 and 7 personal fouls in two straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after playing two straight games where their opponent did not commit more than 15 personal fouls. Holding UNC-Greensboro to just 29.0% shooting was the best defensive effort of the season. They return home where they are just 4-5. Furman has an effective field goal percentage of 62.3% when playing at home which is third-best in the nation — but their eFG drops to 53.3% when playing away from home which is the 42nd best mark (still good, but not uber-elite) in road games on their opponent’s home court. The Paladins have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home.

FINAL TAKE: Furman has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. UNC-Greensboro has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and they have covered the point spread in 7 straight games when favored. 10* CBB Furman-UNC-Greensboro EPNU Special with the UNC-Greensboro Spartans (646) minus the point(s) versus the Furman Paladins (645). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the West Virginia Mountaineers (625) and the Texas Tech Red Raiders (626). THE SITUATION: West Virginia (13-5) has won four of their last five games after their 91-79 win against Kansas on Saturday as a 2.5-point favorite. Texas Tech (14-5) has won three in a row with their 73-62 victory at Kansas State as a 15.5-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Mountaineers have played 6 straight games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 4 straight Overs after a point spread victory. Additionally, West Virginia has played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total after playing a game at home where both teams scored at least 75 points. The Mountaineers shot 50% from the field on Saturday which initially gave me pause that it was an outlier performance. But this is one of Bob Huggins’ best shooting teams in his career — they are second in the Big 12 by making 42.9% of their 3-pointers. They are making 46.7% of their shots over their last five games which is resulting in an 80.8 PPG scoring average. Huggins also deploys a style of play that generates more scoring opportunities even if their shots are not falling. West Virginia pulls down 36.1% of their missed shots, 10th in the nation. They also force turnovers in 20.4% of their opponent’s possessions. The Mountaineers have played 9 of their last 12 games Over the Total with the Total set in the 140s — and they have played 4 straight games on the road with the number in the 140 to 149.5 range. Furthermore, West Virginia has played 7 of their last 8 road games Over the Total — and they have played 5 straight road games Over the Total. Texas Tech has played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a point spread victory. The Red Raiders have also played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a victory where they did not cover the point spread as a favorite. Texas Tech made 47.1% of their shots on Saturday — the best shooting effort in their last six games. Again, that gave me an initial pause. Yet the Red Raiders only scored 30 points in the first half in that game after scoring a mere 25 points in their previous game against Oklahoma. Texas Tech has played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after failing to score more than 30 points in the first half in two straight games. And the Red Raiders’ defensive play has not been quite as stingy as of late — they have allowed their last five opponents to make 44.1% of their shots resulting in 68.2 PPG which is a sharp uptick from the 61.7 PPG they allow on 40.5% shooting for the season. Texas Tech has allowed their last two opponents to score just 52 and 62 points — but they have then played 33 of their last 49 home games Over the Total after not allowing more than 65 points in two straight games. The Red Raiders also create a bench of additional scoring opportunities if their shots are not falling. They are 24th in the nation by pulling down 34.7% of their missed shots. They are seventh in the nation by forcing turnovers in 24.9% of their opponent’s possessions. And head coach Chris Beard’s team is 14th in the nation in getting to the free-throw line. Texas Tech has played 6 of their last 8 games Over Total when favored — and 3 of their 4 games this season against teams winning 60 to 80% of their games finished Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: The Red Raiders will be looking to avenge an 88-87 loss to the Mountaineers in Morgantown on January 25th. Texas Tech has played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total when attempting to avenge a same-season loss. 25* CBB Tuesday ESPN Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the West Virginia Mountaineers (625) and the Texas Tech Red Raiders (626). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Kansas Jayhawks (864) minus the points versus the Oklahoma State Cowboys (863). THE SITUATION: Kansas (12-7) has lost five of their last seven games after their 91-79 loss at West Virginia on Saturday as a 2.5-point underdog. Oklahoma State (12-5) has won three of their last four games after their 75-67 win in double-overtime against Texas on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE JAYHAWKS MINUS THE POINTS: Kansas allowed the Mountaineers to make 50% of their shots — that was just the fourth time all season that they have allowed an opponent to shoot 50% or better from the field. The Jayhawks are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games after allowing their last opponent to score at least 90 points in their last game. The five losses for head coach Bill Self’s team were all on the road during this recent tough stretch of games — and the two wins were their only two games at home at Allen Fieldhouse. This is just their third game at home since January 9th. Playing at home will help — Kansas is 8-1 on their home court this season while outscoring their opponents by +12.1 PPG. The Jayhawks should play much better on the defensive end of the court as they hold their guests to just 38.5% shooting which is resulting in just 60.8 PPG. This team has been very reliable under Self when bouncing-back from losses. Kansas is 46-21-3 ATS in their last 70 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after a loss to a Big 12 rival. The Jayhawks have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after a double-digit loss — and they have covered the point spread in 22 of their last 31 games after a loss on the road by 10 or more points. Kansas has only covered the point spread twice in their last eight games — but they have covered the point spread in 31 of their last 47 games after failing to cover the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games including covering the point spread in four of these last five situations. Playing at home should help the Jayhawks get a few more whistles (even without fans) as their opponents have only been called for 12 and 13 personal fouls in their last two games. Kansas has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after playing two straight games where their opponents did not get call for more than 15 personal fouls in their last game. Oklahoma State held the Longhorns to just 25.3% shooting which was the best defensive effort of their season. But the Cowboys have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after holding their previous opponent to no better than 33% shooting. Additionally, Oklahoma State has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after an upset victory — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after an upset win as a home dog. Furthermore, the Cowboys are just 2-6-1 ATS in their last 9 games after a straight-win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after winning three of their last four games. Now Oklahoma State goes back on the road for just the third time since January 9th. The Cowboys have failed to cover the point spread in 50 of their last 77 road games as an underdog of 6 points or less — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games as an underdog in the 3.5 to 6 point range. Oklahoma State has been living on the edge as they have allowed their last two opponents to attempt 11 and 12 more shots from the field. The Cowboys have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games after taking at least 10 fewer shots than their opponent in two straight contests.

FINAL TAKE: Kansas will be motivated to avenge a 75-70 upset loss at Oklahoma State as a 3.5-point underdog on January 12th — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when avenging an upset loss. 25* CBB Big Monday ESPN Game of the Year with the Kansas Jayhawks (864) minus the points versus the Oklahoma State Cowboys (863). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 3:30 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Mississippi State Bulldogs (671) plus the points versus the South Carolina Gamecocks (672). THE SITUATION: Mississippi State (10-9) has lost four of their last five games after their 61-45 loss at Arkansas on Tuesday as a 7.5-point underdog. South Carolina (5-6) has won two of their last three games with their 72-66 upset win at Florida as an 8.5-point underdog on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS PLUS THE POINTS: Mississippi State made only 30.6% of their shots on Tuesday which was the worst shooting effort in their last 18 games going back to their opening game of the season on November 25th. Head coach Ben Howland’s team should respond with a strong effort this afternoon — they are 39-19-1 ATS in their last 59 games after a straight-up loss including covering the point spread in 15 of their last 19 games after a loss. The Bulldogs have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a double-digit loss to a conference rival — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a loss by at least 15 points. Additionally, Mississippi State has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after a loss on the road. And in their last 12 games after a loss to an SEC opponent, the Bulldogs have responded to cover the point spread 10 times. Howland’s team plays consistently well on the defensive end of the court — they have held their last three opponents to just 37.0% or worse shooting. They have held their last five opponents to just 39.9% shooting which has resulted in only 63.6 PPG. This strong defense travels — Mississippi State has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 road games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Their game with the Razorbacks finished well below the 144 point total — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after playing a game that finished Under the Total. Furthermore, the Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after not scoring more than 60 points — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after not scoring more than 55 points. Mississippi State should get plenty of second-chance scoring opportunities — they rank 6th in the nation by pulling down 36.8% of their missed shots. The Gamecocks are vulnerable in this area as they rank 11th in the SEC with a 33.2% defensive rebounding rate — and they allow their opponents to pull down 30.7% of their misses overall which is 264th in the nation. South Carolina may be due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread loss. They return home where they have played only four times this season — and they make only 42.2% of their shots at home. The Gamecocks have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 30 of their last 48 home games with the Total set in the 140 to 144.5 point range — including four of these last six situations. And in their last 47 home games when favored by 3 points or less, South Carolina has failed to cover the point spread 31 times.

FINAL TAKE: Head coach Frank Martin’s team also likes to crash the glass — they are 11th in the nation in offensive rebounding rate. But the Bulldogs are a better defensive rebounding team that limits their opponents to just 26.2% second-chance opportunities. Mississippi State out-rebounds their opponents by +7.7 RPG — and South Carolina has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against opponents with a +7.0 or better RPG clip. 25* CBB SEC Underdog of the Year with the Mississippi State Bulldogs (671) plus the points versus the South Carolina Gamecocks (672). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the North Carolina State Wolfpack (605) and the Boston College Eagles (606). THE SITUATION: NC State (7-7) has lost two straight games as well as five of their last seven contests with their 65-57 loss at home to Virginia on Wednesday as a 7-point underdog. Boston College (3-10) has lost five of their last six games with their 80-70 loss at Notre Dame as a 4.5-point underdog back on January 16th.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: NC State made only 43.4% of their shots against the tough Cavaliers’ defense on Wednesday — that was the worst offensive effort in their last five games. They did get 23 points from Jericole Hellems. The junior has averaged 23.5 PPG in his last two games taking over the role as the team’s go-to scorer after the season-ending ACL injury to Devon Daniels on January 28th in the game against Wake Forest. Daniels was averaging 16.5 PPG. D.J. Funderburk also scored 9 points in 17 minutes of play after not playing in the previous game at Syracuse for an undisclosed university issue. Head coach Kevin Keatts’ team should still generate plenty of offense even without Daniels. They rank 53rd in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. They generate offense from their defense — they are 15th in the nation by forcing turnovers in 23.3% of their opponent’s possessions. This is an area of weakness for the Eagles who are 188th in the country with a 19.5% turnover rate. NC State has played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total after losing two in a row against conference opponents — and they have played 6 straight games on the road after losing at least three of their last four games. But defense is also an issue for Keatts’ team as they rank 14th in the ACC in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. The Wolfpack go back on the road where they are allowing their opponents to make 50.7% of their shots which is translating into 80.0 PPG. They have played 7 straight road games Over the Total — and they have played 11 of their last 14 road games Over the Total with the number set in the 140s. NC State has also allowed their last five opponents to shoot 52.5% from the field and 79.6 PPG. Boston College has not played in about three weeks — they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total when playing with at least seven days of rest. The Eagles may be rusty with their shooting — but they are going to play at a fast pace with fresh legs. Boston College is second in the ACC in tempo — and the defensive pressure from the Wolfpack will contribute to a frenetic pace. NC State allows their opponents to make 46.8% of their shots for the season — and the Eagles have played 28 of their last 39 games Over the Total against teams with a defensive field goal percentage of 45% or higher. Boston College has played 4 straight games Over the Total after a double-digit loss — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after allowing at least 80 points in their last game. Defense is an issue for Jim Christian’s team as well as they rank 315th in the nation in opponent’s effective field goal percentage while allowing their opponents to make 54.3% of their shots inside the arc, 313th in the nation. The Eagles return home where their defense does not improve much as they allow their guests to generate an effective field goal percentage of 53.7%, 301st in the country, by allowing these visitors to make 52.7% of their 2-pointers and 36.9% of their 3-pointers. Boston College has played 5 of their last 7 home games Over the Total — and they have played 28 of their last 40 home games Over the Total with the number set at 145 to 149.5.

FINAL TAKE: NC State has played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage in the 20 to 40% range. It may be sloppy — but expect a fast pace between these two teams with suspect defenses. 25* CBB ACC Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the North Carolina State Wolfpack (605) and the Boston College Eagles (606). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the UAB Blazers (876) minus the points versus the UTEP Miners (875). THE SITUATION: UAB (14-2) has won four in a row after their 63-52 win against Middle Tennessee as a 15-point favorite on Sunday. UTEP (8-8) snapped a two-game losing streak with a 69-51 win against UTSA as a 4-point favorite on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UAB MINUS THE POINTS: The Blazers made only 38.5% of their shots against the Blue Raiders which was the worst shooting effort in their last ten games. UAB has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread loss. The Blazers have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 home games after a win against a conference rival. The Blazers are rolling with all four of their wins on their current streak being by double-digits — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after winning at least two in a row by double-digits. They return home where they shoot better — they make 47.1% of their shots which generated 78.1 PPG. UAB is 11-1 at home with an average winning margin of +19.5 PPG. They hold their opponents to just 38.1% shooting and only 58.6 PPG. The Blazers have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 home games when favored — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games against teams who are not winning more than 40% on the road. UAB has also covered the point spread in 37 of their last 54 home games when laying 6.5 to 9.5 points. UTEP held the Roadrunners to just 29.5% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last ten games. But the Miners have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a win against a Conference USA rival. UTEP goes back on the road where they are just 2-6 while making only 39.2% of their shots which is resulting in them scoring 64.7 PPG. The Miners also allow their home hosts to make 47.6% of their shots which is why this one may be a blowout. UTEP has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games on the road with the total set in the 130 to 134.5 point range.

FINAL TAKE: UTEP has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games as an underdog — and UAB is 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games against teams with a losing record. 10* CBB Blowout Bookie Buster with the UAB Blazers (876) minus the points versus the UTEP Miners (875). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Washington Huskies (745) and the Oregon State Beavers (746). THE SITUATION: Washington (3-12) had their two-game winning streak snapped on Sunday with their 77-62 upset loss at home to Washington State as a 1.5-point favorite. Oregon State (8-7) has lost their last two games with their 57-52 loss at UCLA as an 11.5-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Huskies made only 38.2% of their shots against the Cougars which was the worst shooting effort in their last four games. Washington has played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a double-digit loss at home. They also have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after an upset loss to a conference rival. Additionally, the Huskies have played 5 straight games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 4 straight games Over the Total after a point spread loss. The defense for head coach Mike Hopkins’ team has been the bigger issue this season — the 77 points they allowed against Washington State was actually the fewest in their last nine games. The Cougars have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after allowing at least 75 points in two straight games. Over their last five games, Washington is scoring 74.6 PPG — but they are allowing 82.4 PPG with those five opponents making 46.9% of their shots. Now this team goes back on the road where they are 0-8 this season. They allow their home hosts to make 47.1% of their shots which translates into 82.7 PPG. Hopkins is a Jim Boeheim disciple with his using the 2-3 zone defense that he has made a staple at Syracuse. Defensive rebounding is a weakness with that scheme — and the Huskies are allowing their opponents to rebound 39.1% of their missed shots which is 304th worst in the nation. But the 2-3 zone is intended to force ill-advised outside shots — yet Washington is seeing their home hosts nail 39.7% of their 3-pointers which is 343rd in the nation. The Huskies have played 7 straight games Over the Total on the road — and they have played 7 straight road games Over the Total as an underdog. Oregon State should take advantage of both these vulnerabilities. The Beavers pull down a healthy 29.0% of their shots on the offensive glass — and they make 35.4% of their 3-pointers at home. Oregon State has also played 15 of their last 23 games Over the Total after a loss to a conference rival. Furthermore, the Beavers have played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total after failing to score at least 60 points in their last game — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total after scoring no more than 55 points in their last contest. Oregon State did hold the Bruins to just 32.7% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last thirteen games. The Beavers return home where they are 7-4 while scoring 75.5 PPG. Oregon State has played 4 of their last 5 home games Over the Total — and they have played 8 of their last 12 home games Over the Total with the number set in the 140 to 144.5 point range. The Beavers have also played 9 of their last 13 home games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage below 40% on the road. Furthermore, Oregon State has played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total against teams not winning more than 40% of their games. And in their last 18 games with the Total set in the 140s, the Beavers have played 13 of these games Over the Total.

FINAL TAKE: Washington has played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 9 of their last 11 games Over the Total against Pac-12 opponents. The Huskies allow 77.3 PPG — and Oregon State has played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total against teams who allow at least 77 PPG. 25* CBB Pac-12 Total of the Year with Over the Total in the game between the Washington Huskies (745) and the Oregon State Beavers (746). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the East Tennessee State Buccaneers (677) plus the points versus the Mercer Bears (678). THE SITUATION: East Tennessee State (9-6) had their four-game winning streak snapped on Monday with their 67-62 loss at Wofford as a 2-point underdog. Mercer (10-6) has lost their last two games after their 72-69 loss at Wofford on Saturday as a 4-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BUCCANEERS PLUS THE POINTS: East Tennessee State should bounce-back with a strong effort. The Buccaneers have covered the point spread in 8 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread loss. East Tennessee State has also covered the point spread in 24 of their last 33 games on the road after a loss to a conference rival. They allowed Wofford to make 51% of their shots which was their worst defensive effort of the season. Yet the Buccaneers allowed The Citadel to shoot 53.8% from the field in their previous game which was their worst defensive effort — but they have then covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after allowing their last two opponents to make at least 50% of their shots. East Tennessee State has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after winning at least three of their last four games. The stay on the road where they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 16 road games with the Total set in the 140s. They also have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 road games against teams who are winning at least 60% of their home games. Mercer has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after a point spread cover where they lost the game as an underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 home games after a straight-up loss. The Bears return home where they are 6-1 this season — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on their home court. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games at home against teams not winning more than 40% of their games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Mercer has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams who are winning at least 60% of their games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games when favored. East Tennessee State has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. 25* CBB Southern Conference Underdog of the Year with the East Tennessee State Buccaneers (677) plus the points versus the Mercer Bears (678). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:30 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the South Carolina Gamecocks (673) plus the points versus the Florida Gators (674). THE SITUATION: South Carolina (4-6) has lost four of their last five games after their 93-81 upset loss at Vanderbilt as a 4-point underdog on Saturday. Florida (10-4) has won their last four games with their 85-80 upset win at West Virginia as a 4-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GAMECOCKS PLUS THE POINTS: South Carolina should play better tonight — they have covered the point spewed in 9 of their last 11 games after a double-digit loss to a conference rival. They have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a point spread loss. The Gamecocks have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after losing four or five of their last six games. Head coach Frank Martin expects to have Trae Hannibal available for this game after he took a rough fall early in that game again the Commodores — he is listed as probable despite a sore back. South Carolina stays on the road where they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games with the Total set in the 150 to 154.5 point range. The Gamecocks have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. Florida has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after a win on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after a win by 6 points or less. The Gators have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread victory. Florida has covered point spread expectations in three of their last four games — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 17 home games after covering the point spread in at least two of their last three games. They return home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 home games when favored by 6.5 to 12 points.

FINAL TAKE: The Gators have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 22 games against teams with a losing record — and the Gamecocks have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 road games as an underdog. 10* CBB Wednesday Daily Discounted Deal with the South Carolina Gamecocks (673) plus the points versus the Florida Gators (674). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Clemson Tigers (624) plus the points versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (623). THE SITUATION: Clemson (10-5) has lost four of their last five games after their 79-53 loss at Duke on Saturday as a 5.5-point underdog. North Carolina (11-5) has won three straight games as well as five of their last six of their last seven games with their 75-65 victory at Pittsburgh as a 3.5-point last Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TIGERS PLUS THE POINTS: Clemson has played three of their last four games on the road — so getting back home where they are 6-1 with an average winning margin of +7.2 PPG will help head coach Brad Brownell’s team. The Tigers have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 28 of their last 42 home games after a loss by 15 or more points. They have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after losing four of their last five games. Clemson has not made more than 35.8% of their shots in three straight games — but they have covered the point spread in 14 of their last 22 games after not shooting better than 37% in at least two straight games. The Tigers’ defense should keep them in this game (even if their shots continue to not fall) — they hold their guests to just 41.2% shooting at home and they rank 20th in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency on their home court. Clemson should get good scoring opportunities in transition against this Tar Heels’ team that has been uncharacteristically loose with the basketball for a Roy Williams-coached team. North Carolina turns the ball over in 20.6% of their possessions which is 242nd in the nation — and they are even worse on the road by turning the ball over in 23.1% of their possessions, 296th in the nation. The Tigers are 30th in the nation by forcing turnovers in 23.6% of their opponent’s possessions. Clemson is 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 home games — and they have covered the point spread in 21 of their last 31 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. The Tigers have also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 home games as an underdog. North Carolina has failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after winning at least three games in a row. And they may be rusty after not playing since last Tuesday. The Tar Heels have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games when playing just their second game in eight days. They stay on the road where they are 5-5 but where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games. The Tar Heels have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 road games when favored by up to 6 points. Additionally, North Carolina has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games with the Total set in the 130s — and they are just 2-5-1 ATS in their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%.

FINAL TAKE: The Tar Heels have failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 34 games when favored. This is a desperate Clemson team that needs a win. Expect a close game. 10* CBB Tuesday Daily Discounted Deal with the Clemson Tigers (624) plus the points versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (623). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Valparaiso Crusaders (863) and the Evansville Purple Aces (864). THE SITUATION: Valparaiso (6-10) saw their three-game winning streak snapped yesterday with their 70-52 loss at Evansville as a 1-point underdog. Evansville (7-8) ended a three-game losing streak with the victory.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Crusaders allowed the Purple Aces to nail 60.4% of their shots from the field which was their worst defensive effort of the season. Valparaiso holds their home hosts to just 42.6% shooting — so they should play better on the defensive end of the court. The Crusaders have played 12 of their last 14 games Under the Total after allowing their last opponent to make at least 55% of their shots. Valparaiso also made 47.5% of their shots in that game which was their best field goal percentage in their last nine contests. The Crusaders are 10th in the Missouri Valley Conference in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. While they score 67.9 PPG on the season with a 41.2% field goal percentage, they have averaged just 64.2 PPG along with a 38.9% field goal percentage in their last five games. Valparaiso's scoring average drops to 63.0 PPG along with a 40.8% shooting percentage in their nine road games. They have played 5 straight road games Under the Total — and they have played 6 straight road games Under the Total with a winning record at home. They also have played 6 straight road games Under the Total as an underdog. Additionally, the Crusaders have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a loss — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a loss by at least 15 points. They also have played 28 of their last 37 games Under the Total after a loss on the road where they did not score at least 60 points. Evansville enjoyed their best shooting effort of the season yesterday — and it was only the second time all season where they shot better than 48.9% of their shots. The Purple Aces make only 42.0% of their shots. Evansville has also allowed their last four opponents to make at least 47.5% of their shots — and they have played 10 of their last 15 games Under the Total after allowing their last three opponents to make at last 47% of their shots. The Purple Aces have played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up win. And while this is their second game since January 17th, they have played 4 straight Unders when playing their second game in eight days. They stay at home where they hold their opponents to 62.2 PPG which is -6.1 PPG below their season average. Evansville has played 8 of their last 10 games Under the Total at home — and they have played 10 of their last 12 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage at 40% or less on the road. The Purple Aces have also played 4 of their last 5 home games Under the Total as a favorite.

FINAL TAKE: Despite both these teams overachieving with their shooting yesterday, that result still finished below the 126.5 Total. There were only 59 possessions for both teams in that game. If the tempo is similar to that again tonight, this game should finish well below the number. Valparaiso has played 20 of their last 28 games Under the Total after when listed in the +/- 3-point range. 25* CBB Missouri Valley Conference Total of the Year with Under the Total in the game between the Valparaiso Crusaders (863) and the Evansville Purple Aces (864). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Air Force Falcons (717) and the San Jose State Spartans (718). THE SITUATION: Air Force (4-11) will be looking to avenge their 59-58 upset loss to the Spartans on Thursday as a 6-point favorite. San Jose State (4-11) has pulled off two straight upset victories with that victory.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Falcons made only 40.7% of their shots which was their lowest field goal percentage in their last seven games. Even more ominous for Air Force, while the Spartans made 50% of their shots on Thursday, that was still the second-best defensive effort for the Falcons in their last six games. Air Force has allowed their last five opponents to nail 51.8% of their shots which has resulted in 78.8 PPG. They have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss. Air Force stays on the road where they have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total — and they have played 7 of their last 9 road games Over the Total against teams with a losing record at home. Furthermore, the Falcons have played 4 of their last 5 road games Over the Total when favored — and they have played 20 of their last 28 games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage below 40%. Additionally, Air Force has played 13 of their last 18 games Over the Total with the number set in the 130s — and San Jose State has played 16 of their last 20 games Over the Total with the Over/Under in the 130 to 139.5 point range. The Spartans have played 18 of their last 23 games Over the Total after an upset win as a home underdog. The Over is also 20-8-1 in San Jose State’s last 29 games after a straight-up win — and the Over is 16-7-3 in their last 26 games after a point spread victory. By holding Air Force to 40.7% shooting, the Spartans played their best defensive game in their last seven contests. Yet they have still allowed their last five opponents to make 48.2% of their shots — and they allow their visitors to average 81.7 PPG when they are playing at home. San Jose State has played 7 of their last 10 home games Over the Total — and they have played 9 of their last 12 home games Over the Total against teams not winning more than 40% of their road games.

FINAL TAKE: Air Force has played 9 of their last 10 games Over the Total when playing with revenge — and they have played 6 straight Overs when avenging a loss where they did not score more than 60 points. 20* CBB Saturday Afternoon Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the Air Force Falcons (717) and the San Jose State Spartans (718). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the California Golden Bears (687) and the Arizona Wildcats (688). THE SITUATION: California (7-11) has lost three straight games with their 72-68 loss at Arizona State as a 9.5-point underdog on Thursday. Arizona (12-4) saw their three-game winning streak end on Thursday in a 73-64 loss to Stanford as a 9-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Golden Bears made only 39.3% of their shots which was their worst shooting effort in their last six games. Cal did get their leading scorer back in that game against the Sun Devils with Matt Bradley scoring 26 points with 10 rebounds. The Golden Bears have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 8 of their last 11 games Over the Total after a point spread victory. And while that game finished Over the 135 point total, Cal has then played 9 of their last 11 games Over the Total after playing an Over. The Bears stay on the road where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total. Cal scores a healthy 73.4 PPG on 47.6% shooting on the road. But their defense has been a mess playing away from home — they have an opponent’s effective field goal percentage of 56.4% with their opponents making 42.6% of their 3-pointers when they are playing on the road, ranking 298th and 333rd in the nation. The Golden Bears have played 4 straight road games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court. Cal has also played 9 of their last 11 games Over the Total with the number set in the 130s. Arizona has played 5 straight games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 7 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a point spread loss. The Wildcats have also played 6 of their last 9 games Over the Total after an upset loss at home against a Pac-12 foe. Arizona made only 41.5% of their shots which was their lowest field goal percentage in their last five games. The Wildcats rank 16th in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency — so they should shoot better this afternoon. But this is a tired basketball team playing their second game in three days and fourth in the last nine days. Injuries are not helping matters — they lost a rotation player with Jemarl Baker’s season-ending injury and Bennedict Mathurin played 25 minutes off the bench while scoring 10 points after suffering a right ankle sprain on Monday. Fatigue will impact the Wildcats’ effort on defense and likely lead to them fouling more. Arizona allowed the Cardinal to shoot 49.1% from the field in what was their worst defensive effort in five games. The Wildcats have played 4 straight Overs when playing their second game in three days. They stay at home where they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total as a favorite — and they have played 8 of their last 9 home games with the Total set in the 130s. They score 76.8 PPG at home — and in their last five games, Arizona is scoring 80.4 PPG on 48.4% shooting.

FINAL TAKE: The Wildcats have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total as a favorite. California has played 7 of their last 9 games Over the Total as an underdog — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. 25* CBB Pac-12 Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the California Golden Bears (687) and the Arizona Wildcats (688). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Saint Peter’s Peacocks (870) minus the points versus the Manhattan Jaspers (869). THE SITUATION: Saint Peter’s (7-6) has lost three of their last four games after their 47-40 loss at Siena on Saturday as a 4-point underdog. Manhattan (5-4) has won three straight games in a row — all upset victories — after their 58-55 win against Niagara as a 1.5-point underdog back on January 16th.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PEACOCKS MINUS THE POINTS: Saint Peter’s made only 26.8% of their shots which was the lowest field goal percentage for them all season. They only scored 18 points in the first half as well — but they have then covered the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after not scoring more than 25 points in the first half of their last game. The Peacocks have also covered the point spread in 26 of their last 43 games after not making more than 33% of their shots in their last game. They also made only 4 of their 8 free throws in that game — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after not making more than 53% of their free throws in their last game. Shooting the basketball is not the strength of head coach Shaheen Holloway’s team. But he has his group ferocious defense — Saint Peter’s ranks fifth in the nation by holding their opponents to just 41.2% shooting inside the arc. The Peacocks’ also force turnovers in 22.1% of their opponent’s possessions which is 40th in the country. The Jaspers are loose with the basketball — they turn the ball over in 22.0% of their possessions, 304th in the nation. Saint Peter’s should get plenty of easy scoring chances tonight. They should play better as they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after losing three of their last four games. Now after playing their last seven games on the road, they return home for just the fourth time all season. The Peacocks are 3-0 on their home court while holding their guests to just 36.9% shooting and only 57.0 PPG. Saint Peter’s has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games on their home court — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games at home when favored. Manhattan will likely be rusty having not played in two weeks — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 28 games after not playing for at least seven days. The Jaspers made 41.7% of their shots in that game which was the shooting effort in their last seven contests. Manhattan has won four of their last five games with two straight upset wins against Niagara precedent by an upset victory against Quinnipiac — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after winning four or five of their last six games. They have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games after playing their last two at home as an underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after pulling off upsets in two straight games as a home dog. Now they go back on the road for just the fourth time this season. In their three road games, they have made only 32.8% of their shots. The Jaspers rank just 347th in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. Manhattan has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 road games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: The Jaspers have not played much of a schedule yet this season — Niagara was the best team they have played so far this season with them ranking 237th in the nation according to the metrics by Ken Pomeroy. Manhattan has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. Saint Peter’s ranks 164th by Pomeroy. Holloway deploys a deep bench that has ten players who average more than 10 minutes-per-game. The Peacocks have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 21 games against teams with a losing record. 25* CBB Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Game of the Month with the Saint Peter’s Peacocks (870) minus the points versus the Manhattan Jaspers (869). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Weber State Wildcats (755) and the Idaho Vandals (756). THE SITUATION: Weber State (7-4) had their four-game winning streak snapped on Saturday in their 77-72 loss at Southern Utah in a pick ‘em contest. Idaho (0-11) remained winless back on January 16th in their last game which ended in a 75-61 loss to Northern Colorado as an 8.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Wildcats made only 39.4% of their shots which was their lowest field goal percentage in their last eight games. Weber State can shoot the basketball (per usual) — this year, they rank 40th in the nation with an effective field goal percentage of 54.2%. They have played 14 of their last 19 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a point spread setback. Additionally, the Wildcats have played 6 straight Overs after a loss by six points or less. Over their last five games, Weber State is scoring 90.2 PPG while nailing 53.3% of their shots. They stay on the road where they are allowing their home hosts to score 74.8 PPG. The Wildcats have 7 of their last 9 road games Over the Total against teams who are not winning more than 40% of their games at home. Weber State has also played a decisive 41 of their last 60 road games Over the Total when favored. Idaho has played 22 of their last 32 home games Over the Total after playing their last game at home as an underdog. The Vandals had made at least 50.9% of their shots in three straight games before running into Northern Colorado who held them to 54 points on 39.6% shooting in their first meeting on January 14th before making only 42% of their shots two days later the last time they were on the court. Idaho has played 14 of their last 19 games Over the Total after not scoring more than 65 points in two straight games. Head coach Zac Claus will likely want his team passing more after they dished out just 10 and 6 assists respectively in those last two games. The Vandals have played 11 of their last 17 games Over the Total after not assisting on more than 12 baskets in two straight games. Those two games finished Under the Total — but Idaho has played 8 of their last 13 games Over the Total after playing at least two straight Unders. Defense is an issue for this team — they have the nation’s 333rd worst Adjusted Defensive Efficiency number which worsens to a 334th mark in the nation when they are playing at home. Their visitors nail 44.2% of their shots from 3-point land when playing at home.

FINAL TAKE: Idaho has played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record. Weber State has played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total against teams with a losing record — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total as a double-digit favorite. 25* CBB Big Sky Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Weber State Wildcats (755) and the Idaho Vandals (756). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing the USC Trojans (714) minus the points versus the Oregon State Beavers (713). THE SITUATION: USC (12-3) has won seven of their last eight games with their 76-68 win at California on Saturday as an 8.5-point favorite. Oregon State (8-5) pulled off their third straight upset victory on Saturday with their 75-64 win at Oregon as a 9-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TROJANS MINUS THE POINTS: The Beavers held the Ducks to just 38.9% shooting from the field in what was the best defensive effort in their last seven games. Four of those opponents made at least 50% of their shots — so I am not ready to consider this team a defensive juggernaut. An emotional letdown is likely — Oregon State has failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 23 games after an upset win by at least 10 points. The Beavers have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after pulling off an upset as a dog getting at least 6 points. Oregon State started this run by upsetting Arizona State before handing the Trojans their lone loss in their last eight games in a 58-56 win as a 9.5-point dog on January 19th. But the Beavers have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 15 games after upsetting two straight opponents. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after not allowing more than 65 points in two straight games. This will be Oregon State’s just third true road game this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games on the road with the total set in the 130s. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning record. USC has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 13 games after a point spread loss. And while the Trojans have only covered the point spread once in their last five games, they have then covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after not covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. They return home where they are 8-1 this season with an average winning margin of +14.2 PPG. USC is averaging 80.1 PPG when playing at home while making 47.7% of their shots. They are also holding their guests to just 38.5% shooting. They have covered the point spread in 3 of their 4 home games this season when laying 9.5 to 12 points. And while this game is their first home game since playing their last two games on the road where they were favored, the Trojans have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 13 games after being a road favorite in their last two contests.

FINAL TAKE: USC has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games when avenging a same-season loss. 10* CBB Oregon State-USC ESPNU Special with the USC Trojans (714) minus the points versus the Oregon State Beavers (713). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Seton Hall Pirates (670) plus the points versus the Creighton Bluejays (669). THE SITUATION: Seton Hall (9-6) has lost two of their last three games with their 76074 loss at Villanova as a 9-point underdog last Tuesday. Creighton (11-4) snapped a two-game losing streak on Saturday in their 74-66 win against UConn as a 7.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PIRATES PLUS THE POINTS: The Pirates have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a point spread win. And while their game with the Wildcats flew Over the 140 point total, they have then covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after playing a game that finished Over the Total. Seton Hall returns home where they are 5-1 with an average winning margin of +13.3 PPG. They are scoring 77.3 PPG at home while making 47.6% of their shots. They are also holding their opponents to just 39.9% shooting on their home court. The Pirates have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on their home court — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games with the Total set at 145 to 149.5. Additionally, Seton Hall has covered the point spread in 23 of their last 33 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 home games when getting the points. The Pirates have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Creighton has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games are a win against a conference rival. And with their contest against the Huskies going Over the 135.5 point total, the Bluejays have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after playing a game that finished Over the Total. Now Creighton goes back on the road where they are 3-2 this season. They have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games on the road when favored — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight road games when favored by up to 4 points. The Bluejays have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Seton Hall is looking to avenge an 89-53 loss to Creighton on January 6th. The Bluejays nailed 59.6% of their shots in that game including making 13 of their 24 shots from downtown. But Creighton played at home in that game where they make 37.1% of their 3-pointers while ranking 7th in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. Yet the Bluejays make only 34.9% of their 3-pointers away from home, 109th in the nation, while dropping to 55th in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency. The Pirates have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing with revenge from a double-digit loss. 25* CBB Wednesday FS1-TV Game of the Month with the Seton Hall Pirates (670) plus the points versus the Creighton Bluejays (669). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Connecticut Huskies (634) minus the points versus the Butler Bulldogs (633). THE SITUATION: UConn (7-3) has lost two games in a row with their 74-66 loss at Creighton on Saturday as a 7.5-point underdog. Butler (5-7) has won two straight games after they upset DePaul on the road last Tuesday as a 2-point underdog by a 67-53 score.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HUSKIES MINUS THE POINTS: UConn lost their previous game to St. John’s on January 18th before the loss to the Bluejays — and they have rebounded to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after losing two in a two to Big East opponents. The Huskies have also covered the point spread in 23 of their last 35 games when playing just their second game in eight days. Head coach Dan Hurley’s team may have played their worst game of the season Saturday. They made only 36.5% of their shots which was their lowest shooting percentage in their last six games. They also allowed Creighton to make 51.1% of their shots which was their worst defensive effort in the last nine games. UConn has not covered the point spread in two straight games — but they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after not covering the point spread in their previous two games. They return home where they are scoring 79.4 PPG — and they are limiting their guests to just 41.9% shooting from the field. The Huskies have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games at home. Additionally, they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when favored — and they are 12-4-1 ATS in their last 17 games against teams with a losing record. Butler did play their best game of the season against the Blue Demons — their 50.0% field goal percentage was a season-high and their 33.3% opponent’s field goal percentage was a season-best as well. The Bulldogs have covered the point spread in their last two games after they upset Creighton by a 70-66 score as a 7-point underdog in their previous game — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after covering the point spread in their last two games. They stay on the road where they are 1-5 with an average losing margin of -8.2 PPG. They allow their home hosts to make 47.1% of their shots. Butler has failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games on the road after playing a game on the road. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games as an underdog in the 3.5 to 6 point range. Additionally, the Bulldogs are just 5-12-1 ATS in their last 18 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%.

FINAL TAKE: Butler will be looking to avenge a 72-60 loss at home to UConn on January 9th as a 1.5-point underdog. The Bulldogs have failed to cover the point spread in 33 of their last 51 when attempting to avenge a loss at home — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games when playing with revenge from a double-digit loss. 25* CBB Tuesday FS1-TV Game of the Month with the Connecticut Huskies (634) minus the points versus the Butler Bulldogs (633). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Pittsburgh Panthers (620) plus the points versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (619). THE SITUATION: Pittsburgh (8-3) had their three-game winning streak snapped on Saturday in their 76-75 upset loss at Wake Forest as a 4.5-point favorite. North Carolina (10-5) has won two straight as well as five of their last six games with their 86-76 win against NC State on Saturday as a 6-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PANTHERS MINUS THE POINTS: Pittsburgh allowed the Demon Deacons to make 46.4% of their shots in that game which was the highest opponent field goal percentage in their last four games. The Panthers have still covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after winning three of their last four contests. They return home where they are 5-2 with an average winning margin of +8.9 PPG. They are holding their guests to just 40.8% shooting from the field — so they should play better defense in this one. Pitt has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 home games with the Total set in the 140 to 144.5 point range. Additionally, the Panthers have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games as an underdog. North Carolina has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when favored. The Tar Heels have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after winning two in a row. Furthermore, North Carolina has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after a win at home where both teams scored at least 75 points. After playing their last two games at home in Chapel Hill, they go back on the road where they are 4-5 where they are only outscoring their hosts by +1.4 PPG — and they make only 42.9% of their shots away from home. The Tar Heels have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 road games when favored by up to 6 points. Furthermore, North Carolina has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games after playing at home in their last two games. The Tar Heels have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when favored.

FINAL TAKE: Both of these two teams crash the glass — North Carolina outrebounds their opponents by +11.4 Rebounds-Per-Game while Pitt outrebounds their opponents by +7.0 RPG. The Tar Heels have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games against teams who outrebound their opponents by at least +4.0 RPG — and the Panthers have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games against teams who outrebound their opponents by at least +4.0 RPG. 10* CBB Tuesday Daily Discounted Deal with the Pittsburgh Panthers (620) plus the points versus the North Carolina Tar Heels (619). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (834) minus the points versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (833). THE SITUATION: Miami (6-7) has lost two of their last three games after their 83-57 loss at Syracuse as a 3.5-point underdog on Tuesday. Notre Dame (4-8) snapped a four-game losing streak last Saturday with their 80-70 victory against Boston College as a 4.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HURRICANES MINUS THE POINTS: Miami allowed the Orange to make 52.5% of their shots in what was the worst defensive effort of the season. Head coach Jim Larranaga’s team should bounce-back as the Hurricanes have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a loss — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games at home after a loss to a conference rival. Additionally, Miami has covered the point spread in 6 straight home games after allowing at least 80 points in their last game. They return home where they are 5-4 this season while holding their opponents to just 39.5% shooting which has resulted in just 64.2 PPG. Injuries have impacted the Hurricanes this season — this is a better team than their record. But this group is at full strength now and poised to make a run to try to make the NCAA Tournament. They have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 17 games on their home court. The Hurricanes only made 39.3% of their shots against Syracuse including just 4 of their 25 shots from behind the arc. Perhaps the Irish are just what the proverbial doctor ordered. Notre Dame ranks 212th in adjusted defensive efficiency and 12th in the ACC in that metric. They also allow their opponent to nail 38.0% of their 3-pointers, 308th in the nation. The Irish made 47.7% of their shots last Saturday against the Eagles in what was the best shooting effort in their last five games. But Notre Dame has failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after a double-digit win at home. And while they converted on 14 of their 31 shots behind the arc last week, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after making at least 13 shots from 3-point land in their last game. The Fighting Irish may be rusty in this game with eight days off since last taking the court. Head coach Mike Brey’s team has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games when playing with at least seven games between games. They go back on the road where they are just 1-7 this season with an average losing margin of -7.7 PPG. The Irish are making only 41% of their 3-point attempts. They have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning record at home.

FINAL TAKE: Notre Dame has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games as an underdog — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Miami (FL) is 11-5-1 ATS in their last 17 games at home as the favorite. 20* CBB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Miami (FL) Hurricanes (834) minus the points versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (833). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the CS-Northridge Matadors (756) plus the points versus the UC-Santa Barbara Gauchos (755). THE SITUATION: CS-Northridge (5-5) looks to bounce-back from an embarrassing 105-58 loss home to the Gauchos yesterday as a 9.5-point underdog. UC-Santa Barbara (8-3) has won five games in a row.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MATADORS PLUS THE POINTS: I almost pulled the trigger on CS-Northridge yesterday but could not get confirmation on the status of their leading scorer, T.J. Starks, who is listed as questionable after not playing in their previous game at CS-Fullerton which ended in a 85-77 loss last Sunday. Thankfully, we avoided that train wreck as the Matadors (not Mustangs, Frank) allowed UC-Santa Barbara to make 60.9% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort of the season. CS-Northridge also only made 36.7% of their shots which was the worst shooting effort in their last three games. But the silver lining is that Starks returned to action and scored 29 points. The Texas A&M transfer just needs help tonight — and look for head coach Mike Gottfried to coax a much better effort from his team. The Matadors have bounced-back to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a point spread loss. Additionally, CS-Northridge has covered the point spread in 6 straight games after a home loss to a Big West opponent — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a loss by at least 20 points. The Matadors have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on their home court — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games as an underdog. CS-Northridge has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. UC-Santa Barbara enjoyed their best shooting night of the season with that 60.9% clip. And by holding the Matadors to 36.7% shooting, that was the Gauchos’ second-best defensive effort in their last nine games. But UC-Santa Barbara has failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after a win on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after a double-digit win on the road. The Gauchos have also failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after scoring at least 95 points in their last game. UC-Santa Barbara has still failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games on the road (with last night being the exception) — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 road games when laying 9.5 to 12 points.

FINAL TAKE: CS-Northridge has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 home games when avenging a loss by at least 20 points — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 20 games when avenging a loss where they allowed at least 75 points. 25* CBB Big West Underdog of the Month with the CS-Northridge Matadors (756) plus the points versus the UC-Santa Barbara Gauchos (755). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:05 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Sacramento State Hornets (650) plus the points versus the Montana Grizzlies (649). THE SITUATION: Sacramento State (5-3) has lost two of their last three games after their 78-66 loss to the Grizzlies on Thursday as a 3-point underdog. Montana (6-7) has won four of their last five games.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HORNETS PLUS THE POINTS: Sacramento State allowed the Grizzlies to make 49% of their shots in what was their worst defensive effort of the season. But the Hornets have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 17 of their last 25 games after a loss to a conference opponent. Sacramento State has also covered the point spread in 17 of their last 23 games after losing two of their last three games. They stay at home where they are 4-1 this season with an average winning margin of +20.2 net PPG. The Hornets have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 home games against teams with a winning percentage at 40% or less on the road. Montana has failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 19 games after winning four of their last five games. The Grizzlies have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing just their second game in seven days. Montana has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games with the Total set at 129.5 or less. They are just 2-5 on the road with a shooting percentage of 42.3%. They have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. The Grizzlies have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games when favored.

FINAL TAKE: Montana has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games at home. Sacramento State has covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games when attempting to avenge a same-season loss. 10* CBB Don’t Need the Points (but take the points) Underdog Special with the Sacramento State Hornets (650) plus the points versus the Montana Grizzlies (649). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the San Jose State Spartans (647) and the New Mexico Lobos (648). San Jose State (2-11) looks to avenge a 67-51 loss to the Lobos on their temporary neutral court in the Texas panhandle on Thursday as an 8-point underdog. New Mexico (5-8) snapped a two-game losing streak.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Spartans made only 40% of their shots — yet that was the best shooting effort in their last four games. San Jose State has played 4 straight games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 4 straight games Under the Total after a point spread loss. The Spartans have also played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total after a loss by at least 15 points. They have played 4 straight games Under the Total on a neutral court. They have also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total on the road. They are making only 39.5% of their shots in their last five games which is resulting in 59.6 PPG. They have also played 5 straight games Under the Total as an underdog. New Mexico made 47.9% of their shots on Thursday which was the best shooting effort in their last six contests. But the Under is 4-0-1 in their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and the Under is 5-0-1 in their last 6 games after a point spread victory. They are only scoring 57.0 PPG over their last five games with a field goal percentage of just 37.2% over that span. They also have played 5 straight games Under the Total when playing on a neutral court (which is a close approximation to their temporary home in Texas without fans).

FINAL TAKE: San Jose State has played 6 of their last 9 games Under the Total when playing with revenge — and they have played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total when avenging a loss where they allowed at least 60 points. 10* CBB Saturday Afternoon Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the San Jose State Spartans (647) and the New Mexico Lobos (648). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Eastern Washington Eagles (633) minus the points versus Northern Colorado Bears (634). THE SITUATION: Eastern Washington (3-6) has lost two games in a row after their 78-76 upset loss at Northern Colorado on Thursday as a 2.5-point favorite. Northern Colorado (8-6) has won three games in a row after that victory.

REASONS TO TAKE THE EAGLES MINUS THE POINTS: Eastern Washington should avenge that upset loss this afternoon. The Eagles are 12-5-1 ATS in their last 18 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss. Eastern Washington has also covered the point spread in 15 of their last 23 games when playing with one day of rest — and they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games on the road playing their second game in three days. This will be an ornery group after suffering two straight upset losses after getting upset against Southern Utah last Saturday by a 99-94 score as a 5-point favorite. The Eagles are the reigning Big Sky champions who have two of the best players in the conference in Kim Aiken and preseason conference MVP Jacob Davison. This team embraced a very challenging non-conference schedule to begin the season with 3-point losses to Arizona and Washington State along with a 5-point loss to Saint Mary’s. But this team needs a conference win now. They allowed the Bears to make 46% of their shots which was the second-worst defensive effort of the season — after allowing Southern Utah to make 56.1% of their shots last Saturday — so a better defensive effort is likely. The Eagles have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after losing two games in a row to Big Sky rivals. Eastern Washington has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 6 straight road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. The Eagles have also covered the point spread in 20 of their last 28 games against teams with a winning record. Northern Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after upsetting a conference rival — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 after an upset win at home. And while the Bears have covered the point spread in three straight games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after covering the point spread in three straight games. They host this game again but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games at home. Northern Colorado has also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games against teams with a losing record on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 home games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 6 points.

FINAL TAKE: Eastern Washington has covered the point spread in 37 of their last 57 games when avenging an upset loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games when motivated by same-season revenge. 25* CBB Big Sky Conference Game of the Month with the Eastern Washington Eagles (633) minus the points versus Northern Colorado Bears (634). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the CS-Bakersfield (865) and UC-Irvine (866). THE SITUATION: CS-Bakersfield (9-4) has won five straight games after their 83-72 win at Hawai’i on Saturday as a 1.5-point underdog. UC-Riverside (6-3) has won three of their last four games with their 70-53 win at Cal-Poly Slo on Saturday as a 10-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Under is 5-2-1 in the UC-Riverside’s last 8 games after a straight-up win — and they have played 33 of their last 45 games Under the Total after a win on the road. The Highlanders held the Mustangs to just 30.9% shooting after limiting them to 30% shooting the day before. UC-Riverside has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after holding their last two opponents to no better than 37% from the field. Over their last five games, the Highlanders are allowing only 65.4 PPG on 39.0% shooting from the field. They return home where the Under is 4-1-1 in their last 6 games. The Under is also 11-5-1 in their last 17 home games as a favorite. CS-Bakersfield has played 5 straight games Under the Total after a win on the road against a conference rival — and they have played 8 straight games Under the Total after a double-digit win against a Big West foe. The Roadrunners have also played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total after a point spread victory. Now they stay on the road where they have played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total on the road. They also have played 7 of their last 8 games Under the Total with the number set at 129.5 or lower.

FINAL TAKE: CS-Bakersfield has played 7 of their last 9 games Under the Total as an underdog — and UC-Riverside has played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total as a favorite. 10* CBB Friday Daily Discounted O/U Deal with Under the Total in the game between the CS-Bakersfield (865) and UC-Irvine (866). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Troy Trojans (837) and the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (838). THE SITUATION: Troy (6-7) has lost three games in a row with their 63-56 loss at Georgia Southern as a 6-point underdog on Saturday. Coastal Carolina (9-3) saw their two-game winning streak snapped on Saturday in their 71-68 loss a Georgia State as a 7-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Trojans made 48.9% of their shots against the Eagles which was much higher than the 37.7% shooting percentage they are saddled with in their ten road games. They are scoring only 56.8 PPG on the road. Troy has played 6 straight games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 7 straight games Under the Total after a point spread loss. Their game with Georgia Southern still finished Under the 128.5 point total — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total after playing their last game Under the Total. The Trojans are playing better on defense as of late as they have held their last five opponents to just 40.3% shooting which is resulting in just 62.2 PPG. They stay on the road where they have played 9 of their last 10 games Under the Total — and they have played 35 of their last 52 road games Under the Total as an underdog. Troy has also played 9 of their last 11 games Under the Total as an underdog overall. Coastal Carolina has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a loss where they covered the point spread as an underdog. The Chanticleers have also played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a point spread win. And while they have still won five of their last seven games, Coastal Carolina has then played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after winning five or six of their last seven games. This is a team that was playing at a faster pace in their soft non-conference schedule — six of their first eight games saw at least 75 possessions for both teams. The Chanticleers have not seen more than 72 possessions for both teams in their last four games. They started Sun Belt Conference play in their last five games — they are scoring 74.4 PPG with a 41.8% shooting percentage which is a big dropoff from their 87.1 PPG scoring average along with a 49.2% shooting percentage overall which includes those seven non-conference games. Additionally, Coastal Carolina has played 8 of their last 11 home games Under the Total with the number set in the 135 to 139.5 point range.

FINAL TAKE: The Under is 4-0-1 in the Chanticleers’ last 5 games against teams with a losing record. Troy has played 6 straight games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. 25* CBB Sun Belt Conference Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Troy Trojans (837) and the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (838). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the UCLA Bruins (763) and the California Golden Bears (764). THE SITUATION: UCLA (11-2) has won six games in a row with their 81-76 win against Washington on Saturday as a 14.5-point favorite. California (7-8) has won two of their last three games with their 72-63 win at Utah as a 12-point underdog on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Bruins made only 41.4% of their shots against the Huskies in what was the worst shooting effort in their last six games. Mick Cronin has adapted his talent at UCLA to construct this team to be quite different than the grinding-defensive units he had at Cincinnati. This Bruins’ team ranks 10th in the nation adjusted offensive efficiency. They crash the offensive glass still by pulling down 33.3% of their missed shots (46th in the nation). They are also making 38.6% of their 3-pointers which is 29th in the country — and that mark has improved to a 44.6% clip in conference play. The Golden Bears struggle to defend the perimeter — they are allowing their opponents to make 40.4% of their 3-pointers, 334th in the nation. Yet Cronin’s team ranks 119th in the nation in adjusted defensive efficiency after allowing Washington to make 51.7% of their shots. UCLA has played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a win at home — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a win against a Pac-12 rival. Cronin lost one of his best players in Chris Smith to a season-ending injury — but he still has five other players averaging double-digits per game. The Bruins are scoring 79.8 PPG in their last five games on 47.1% shooting from the field. Now they go back on the road where they are scoring 79.4 PPG — but they are allowing 79.8 PPG. UCLA has played 4 straight road games Over the Total — and they have played 4 of their last 5 road games Over the Total against teams winning at least 60% of their games at home. The Bruins have also played 4 of their last 5 road games Over the Total when favored. California has played 8 of their last 9 games Over the Total after a win against a conference opponent — and they have played 7 straight games Over the Total after an upset victory against a Pac-12 foe. The Golden Bears are playing with Matt Bradley — but head coach Mark Fox’s team has found an offensive rhythm without him. Not only have they won two of their last three games after he suffered his ankle injury but they scored 50 points in the second half in their upset victory against the Utes. Cal also held Utah to just 41.2% shooting which was the best defensive effort in their last seven games. Yet the Golden Bears have allowed their last five opponents to make 47.6% of their shots for a 74.8 PPG scoring mark — and their Pac-12 opponents are making 48.6% of their shots against them. Cal ranks 10th in the conference in adjusted defensive efficiency. They return home where the Over is 18-7-1 in their last 26 games — and they have played 5 of their last 6 home games Over the Total against teams with a winning record on the road. The Golden Bears have also played 6 straight games Over the Total as an underdog — and they have played 5 straight games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60%.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams played on December 6th with the Bruins winning at home by a 76-56 score as a 9-point favorite. California has played 16 of their last 22 games Over the Total when avenging a double-digit loss. 25* CBB Thursday ESPNU Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the UCLA Bruins (763) and the California Golden Bears (764). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Miami (OH) RedHawks (610) plus the points versus the Ball State Cardinals (609). THE SITUATION: Miami (OH) (4-4) looks to rebound from their 78-61 loss at Ohio last Tuesday as a 9-point underdog. Ball State (6-5) has won their last two games after their 78-58 win against Northern Illinois on Saturday as a 10.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE REDHAWKS PLUS THE POINTS: Miami allowed the Bobcats to make 57.4% of their shots last week which was their worst defensive mark of the season. The RedHawks made only 40.4% of their shots as well which was their lowest shooting percentage in their last three contests. Now having lost three of their last four games, this is a crucial game for head coach Jack Owens who is running out of time in his fourth year coaching the program. He has seen his team cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after a double-digit loss to a Mid-American Conference rival. And while Miami has played their last two games Under the Total, they have then covered the point spread in 16 of their last 25 games after playing at least two straight Unders. Returning home will help where the RedHawks are 4-1 this season. Miami has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 home games with the Total set in the 130s. They are also 11-4-1 ATS in their last 16 home games as an underdog. This team leads the MAC in protecting their defensive glass as opponents only rebound 25.0% of their missed shots. The Redhawks also force turnovers in 21.1% of their conference opponent’s possessions which is also best in the MAC. The Cardinals can struggle in this area as they are turning the ball over in 18.6% of their possessions, 6th conference play. Ball State held the Huskies to just a 34.9% shooting mark on Saturday which was their best defensive performance of the season. But the Cardinals have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games on the road after winning two games in a row — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after winning two in a row against conference opponents. And while Ball State has covered the point spread in their last two games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after covering the point spread in their last two games. Now this goes back on the road where they are just 3-4 this season. They have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 14 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. The Cardinals have also failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 24 road games when favored by 3.5 to 6 points.

FINAL TAKE: Miami (OH) has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record. Look for this to be a close game with the RedHawks in a position to win. 25* CBB Mid-American Conference Underdog of the Month with the Miami (OH) RedHawks (610) plus the points versus the Ball State Cardinals (609). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 2:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Minnesota Golden Gophers (645) plus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (646). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (10-4) has lost two straight games as well as three of their last four after their 86-71 loss at Iowa as an 11.5-point underdog back last Sunday. Michigan (11-0) remained undefeated on Tuesday with their 77-54 thrashing of Wisconsin at home in Ann Arbor as a 3-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GOLDEN GOPHERS PLUS THE POINTS: We had the Badgers on Tuesday but the Wolverines were on fire with a 51.6% field goal percentage in that game. Michigan also held Wisconsin to just a 30.8% field goal percentage which was their best defensive effort of the season. I thought the Wolverines were underrated to begin the season — and I continue to think that second-year head coach Juwan Howard is underappreciated. The Michigan alum is getting every ounce of talent out of his roster — just wait for when the five-star recruits start coming to Ann Arbor next fall. But this is not the most talented group of players in the Big Ten (or the State of Michigan). They have benefited from a soft early schedule where their 82-57 victory against these Golden Gophers at Crisler Arena on January 6th was their highest-profile victory before their win against the Badgers. The Wolverines have covered the point spread in five straight games as well as eight of their last nine contests — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 19 games after covering the point spread in five straight games. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after covering the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. Now Michigan goes on the road for just the third time this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 13 road games with the Total set in the 140 to 149.5 point range. The Wolverines went to the free-throw line only four times on Tuesday — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after not attempting more than seven free throws in their last game. Minnesota is 30th in the nation with a free throw attempt-to-field goal attempt ratio of 41.5%. They average 26 free throw attempts per game — and Michigan has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games against teams who average at least 25 free throws per game. The Golden Gophers should respond with a big effort as they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 22 games after a loss on the road. Additionally, Minnesota has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 home games after a point spread loss. The Golden Gophers have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after a double-digit loss. Minnesota returns home where they are 10-0 with an average winning margin of +14.8 PPG. Not only do the Gophers score 85.5 PPG on their home court but they hold their guests to just a 37.8% field goal percentage — so expect the Wolverines to struggle to make baskets with the unique sightlines at Williams Arena. Minnesota has covered the point spread in 5 straight games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games at home with the Total set in the 145.5 to 149.5 point range. The Gophers have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 home games getting the points — and they are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 home games as the underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Michigan is outscoring their opponents by +16.2 PPG — but Minnesota has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 home games against teams who are outscoring their opponents by at least +8 PPG. The Golden Gophers have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games when avenging a loss where they gave up at least 75 points. 25* CBB Big Ten Game of the Month with the Minnesota Golden Gophers (645) plus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (646). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Illinois Fighting Illini (602) minus the points versus the Ohio State Buckeyes (601). THE SITUATION: Illinois (9-4) saw their four-game winning streak snapped on Sunday in their 66-63 upset loss at home to Maryland as a 10-point favorite. Ohio State (10-3) has won their last two games after their 81-71 win against Northwestern on Wednesday as an 8.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE ILLINI MINUS THE POINTS: Illinois made only 41% of their shots against the Terrapins in what was their worst shooting effort of the season. They shoot the ball better this afternoon — they rank 11th in the nation with an effective field goal percentage of 57.9% — and they have the ninth-best offense in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency according to the metrics of Ken Pomeroy. The Illini have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games after an upset loss — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games after a loss at home. They should be anxious to take the court again after their game with Nebraska was postponed because of a COVID outbreak within the Cornhuskers program. Illinois stays at home where they are 6-1 this season with an average winning margin of +23.4 PPG. They are making 50.9% of their shots at home which is generating 83.4 PPG — and they are holding their guests to just 36.1% shooting. The Illini are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games when favored — and they are 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Ohio State has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games on the road after a win against a Big Ten rival. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit victory — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after scoring at least 80 points in their last game. They go back on the road where they are just 3-3 this season while being outscored in those games. They are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 road games — and they are 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 road games against teams with a winning record at home. Defense is an issue for head coach Chris Holtmann's team — they rank 60th in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency by Pomeroy. And while they hold their opponents to 40.6% shooting, that mark rises to 45.6% in their road games.

FINAL TAKE: The Buckeyes have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games as an underdog getting 6.5 to 12 points — and the Illini have covered a decisive 32 of their last 44 home games when laying 6.5 to 9 points. 10* CBB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Illinois Fighting Illini (602) minus the points versus the Ohio State Buckeyes (601). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the UAB Blazers (839) and the Charlotte 49ers (840). THE SITUATION: UAB (9-1) has won two games in a row with their 62-58 win against Southern Mississippi as a 13-point favorite on Saturday. Charlotte (5-5) has lost two of their last three games after their 75-72 loss to Belmont Abbey in a non-boarded game on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Blazers have played 10 of their last 11 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 6 straight games Under the Total after a win at home. Additionally, UAB has played 16 of their last 22 games Under the Total after not allowing more than 60 points in their last game — and they have played 6 straight games Under the Total after playing a game that finished Under the Total with that game skimming Under 131 total. The Blazers are limiting their opponents to just a 41.1% effective field goal percentage which is third-best in the nation. They are holding their opponents to just 57.0 PPG this season on 36.7% shooting from the field. Now UAB goes on the road for just the second time this season. They made only 39.3% of their shots against Southern Miss. The Blazers have played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total on the road — and they have also played 37 of their last 56 road games Under the Total as a favorite of 6 points or less — and they have played 8 of their last 9 games Under the Total as a favorite overall. Charlotte has played 4 of their last 5 games Under the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 9 of their last 14 games Under the Total after a loss at home. The 49ers stay at home where they are scoring 67.9 PPG on just 44.4% shooting. Charlotte has played 6 of their last 8 games Under the Total at home — and they have played 5 of their last 7 home games Under the Total against teams with a winning record on the road. The 49ers have also played 7 of their last 8 home games Under the Total as an underdog. Additionally, Charlotte has played 6 of their last 7 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher.

FINAL TAKE: The 49ers have played 8 straight games Under the Total when listed in the +/- 3-point range. Expect a lower-scoring game. 25* CBB Friday ESPNU Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the UAB Blazers (839) and the Charlotte 49ers (840). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the UNC-Greensboro Spartans (769) and the Samford Bulldogs (770). THE SITUATION: UNC-Greensboro (6-5) has lost two of their last three games after their 48-45 upset loss to Wofford last Saturday as a 4.5-point favorite. Samford (5-5) has lost two games in a row after their 73-68 loss at UT-Chattanooga as a 4.5-point underdog back on January 6th.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Bulldogs love to push the pace — they rank 9th in the nation with an adjusted tempo rate that produces 74.1 average possessions per game. The 71 possessions in their last game against the Moccasins are the lowest for them in any game all season. Four of their ten games have seen at least 80 possessions for both teams. Samford has played 21 of their last 27 games Over the Total after a loss to a Southern Conference rival — and they have played 18 of their last 21 games Over the Total after losing two of their last three games . They are scoring 84.9 PPG while making 48.1% of their shots — and they are allowing their opponents to score 77.7 PPG. They return home where they are making 51.8% of their shots en route to scoring 97.5 PPG. They are allowing their guests to score 76.5 PPG. The Bulldogs have played 7 of their last 8 home games Over the Total again teams with a winning percentage over 60% on the road. They also have played 26 of their last 35 home games Over the Total as an underdog — and they have played 10 of their last 11 home games Over the Total as an underdog getting 6.5 to 9 points. UNC-Greensboro has played 8 of their last 10 games Over the Total after a loss to a Southern Conference rival. They made only 34.5% of their shots which was the second-lowest field goal percentage in their last nine games. They also held Wofford to just a 29.6% field goal percentage which was by far their lowest opponent’s field goal percentage of the season. Not only has the Spartans played 14 of their last 17 games Over the Total after failing to score at least 60 points in their last game but they have played 11 of their last 14 games Over the Total after not scoring at least 50 points in their last game. They go back on the road where they are scoring 79.1 PPG while allowing their opponents to score 71.8 PPG. UNC-Greensboro is middle of the pack in averaging 71 possessions per game — but they are willing to engage with teams that like to play faster. The Spartans have played 8 straight games on the road Over the Total — and they have played 5 straight games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. UNC-Greensboro has also played 6 straight road games Over the Total when favored — and they have played 6 of their last 9 road games Over the Total when laying 6.5 to 9 points.

FINAL TAKE: Samford has played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total against teams with a winning record — and they have played 10 of their last 12 games Over the Total with the number set in the 150s. 25* CBB Southern Conference Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the UNC-Greensboro Spartans (769) and the Samford Bulldogs (770). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Boise State Broncos (689) and the Wyoming Cowboys (690). THE SITUATION: Boise State (10-1) has won ten games in a row with their 83-60 win at Wyoming on Monday as a 7-point favorite. Wyoming (7-3) has lost two games in a row.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Broncos’ held the Cowboys to just a 38.9% field goal percentage which was the best defensive effort in their last four games. Boise State has played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after not allowing more than 60 points in their last game. The Broncos have also played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a point spread win. Furthermore, Boise State has played 4 straight games Over the Total after a win by at least 20 points — and they have played 6 straight games Over the Total when playing their second game in three days. The Broncos lead the Mountain West Conference by scoring 81.2 PPG. They have scored at least 80 points in their last two games — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after scoring at least 80 points in two straight games. In their last three games, Boise State is scoring 86.8 PPG while making 48.4% of their shots. They are also scoring 82.3 PPG in their six games away from home. Wyoming has played 16 of their last 21 games Over the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 14 of their last 17 games Over the Total after a point spread loss. The Cowboys have also played 4 straight games Over the Total after a double-digit loss at home. Their 38.9% shooting percentage was their second-lowest mark all season. Wyoming has allowed their last five opponents to make 49.8% of their shots which has translated into 80.8 PPG. They stay at home for this rematch where they are making 46.1% of their shots to average 81.7 PPG. The Over is 5-2-1 in the Cowboys’ last 8 home games — and they have played 12 of their last 16 home games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on the road.

FINAL TAKE: Wyoming has played 20 of their last 28 games Over the Total as an underdog — and Boise State has played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total as a favorite. 25* CBB Wednesday CBS Sports Network Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Boise State Broncos (689) and the Wyoming Cowboys (690). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the UT-Chattanooga Moccasins (668) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Mercer Bears (667). THE SITUATION: UT-Chattanooga (9-3) has lost three of their last four games after their 92-87 upset loss at The Citadel on Saturday as a 6-point underdog. Mercer (7-3) has lost two straight games as well as three of their last four with their 83-80 loss at Furman as a 10.5-point underdog back on January 2nd.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MOCCASINS PLUS (OR MINUS) THE POINT(S): UT-Chattanooga has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after a loss on the road a conference rival — and they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games after a point spread loss. Additionally, the Moccasins have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 home games are a game on the road where both teams scored at least 75 points. They return home where they are 4-1 this season while making 48.1% of their shots. UT-Chattanooga has covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 home games with the Total set in the 150 to 154.5 point range. The Moccasins have also covered the point spread in 28 of their last 42 games as an underdog including all three of their games this season when getting the points. UT-Chattanooga is 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 home games as an underdog. Mercer has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after a loss where they covered the point spread as an underdog. The Bears have also failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after a narrow loss by 6 points or less. Mercer made 55.6% of their shots against Furman which was the best shooting effort in their last six games. They stay on the road where they are favored — yet they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games as a road favorite. And in their last 11 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range, the Bears have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of these contests.

FINAL TAKE: UT-Chattanooga has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. 10* CBB Wednesday Daily Discounted Deal with the UT-Chattanooga Moccasins (668) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Mercer Bears (667). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET Wednesday, we will be playing the Georgia Bulldogs (682) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Auburn Tigers (681). THE SITUATION: Georgia (7-3) has their last three games after falling to Arkansas on Saturday by a 99-69 score as a 5.5-point underdog. Auburn (6-6) has lost four games in a row with their 94-90 loss against Alabama on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE CRIMSON TIDE PLUS (OR MINUS) THE POINT(S): The Bulldogs allowed the Razorbacks to make 52.2% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last nine games. Head coach Mike Crean was not happy with the effort of his team in that 30-point loss — so expect a more spirited effort with his team looking to win their first SEC game of the season. Georgia has covered the point spread in 23 of their last 30 games after a loss by at least 20 points. The Bulldogs have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread loss — and they have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 17 games after allowing at least 90 points in their last game. Georgia returns home where they have covered the point spread in 28 of their last 42 games after losing at least three games in a row. They are 7-1 in Athens this season with an average winning margin of +13.1 net PPG. Crean’s team should play much better on defense as they limit their guests to just 40.7% shooting and 67.0 PPG. The Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 15 of their last 22 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Georgia should score plenty of easy baskets inside against the Tigers — they are 61st in the nation with a 53.9% shooting percentage inside the arc. Auburn allows their opponents to make 52.3% of their 2-pointers which is 242nd in the country. The Bulldogs also pull down 35.6% of their missed shots which is 20th in the nation. The Tigers have been bet into a small favorite as I write this — the likely logic is that their getting freshman Sharife Cooper eligible is a game-changer for this team. The 6’1 guard scored 26 points while adding 9 assists against the Crimson Tide. Yet the laptops still project the Bulldogs to win this game even with Cooper back in the mix. The Tigers have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a point spread loss. They also have failed to cover the point spewed in 6 straight games after allowing at least 85 points. Auburn goes back on the road where they are 2-4 while making only 39.8% of their shots. The Tigers have failed to cover the point spread in 17 of their last 23 games on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 straight games away from home with the Total set in the 155 to 159.5 point range. Auburn has also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court.

FINAL TAKE: Georgia has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games as an underdog including 6 of their last 8 games at home as a dog. The Tigers are 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher. 25* CBB SEC Underdog of the Month with the Georgia Bulldogs (682) plus (or minus) the point(s) versus the Auburn Tigers (681). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Wisconsin Badgers (615) plus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (616). THE SITUATION: Wisconsin (10-2) has won two straight games as well as seven of their last eight contests after their 80-73 win against Indiana in double-overtime as a 9-point favorite last Thursday. Michigan (10-0) remained unbeaten last Wednesday with their 82-57 win against Minnesota as an 8-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BADGERS PLUS THE POINTS: Wisconsin outlasted the Hoosiers despite making only 42.4% of their shots which was their lowest field goal percentage in their last four games. The Badgers should continue their momentum as they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after a win at home against a Big Ten rival — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after winning four of their last five games. Wisconsin’s win against Indiana came on the heels of their 71-59 win at home in Madison against the Golden Gophers team the Wolverines just beat. The Badgers have then covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after winning two in a row on their home court. And while Wisconsin has covered the point spread in five of their last seven games, they have then covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 road games after covering the point spread in four or five of their last six games. Head coach Greg Gard has a veteran team with five seniors who were all in the rotation for the group last year that tied for the Big Ten regular-season title. All five players are averaging at least 9.8 points-per-game this year. Now they go back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games away from home. Michigan has now covered the point spread in their last four games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 3 of their last 4 games after covering the point spread in four straight games. Head coach Juwan Howard’s team has covered the point spread in seven of their last eight games — but that might be setting up this team to suffer a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after covering the point spread in six or seven of their last eight games. Howard is a great coach — and this Wolverines team was undervalued in November and December. But now they are perhaps a tad overvalued. Eight of their ten games have been played at home. Using the Ken Pomeroy ratings, their best non-conference opponents were Central Florida while their best win was against the Golden Gophers in their last game. Michigan has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 home games when laying up to 6 points. The Wolverines have also failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 home games with the total set in the 130 to 139.5 range.

FINAL TAKE: Wisconsin is battle-tested with victories against Louisville and Michigan State as well as that Minnesota team that is the feather in the Wolverines’ cap. The Badgers will be the best defensive team that Michigan will have played this year — and Wisconsin is 9-3-1 ATS in their last 13 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Expect a close game with the Badgers in a position to pull the upset (but take the points for some insurance). 10* CBB Wisconsin-Michigan ESPN Special with the Wisconsin Badgers (615) plus the points versus the Michigan Wolverines (616). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Utah Utes (864) plus the points versus Colorado Buffaloes (863). THE SITUATION: Utah (4-4) has lost three games in a row after their 79-73 loss to Oregon on Saturday as a 2.5-point underdog. Colorado (8-3) has won two of their last three games after their 79-72 win against that Oregon team two earlier on Thursday as a 4.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE UTES PLUS THE POINTS: The Utes’ loss to the Ducks came on the heels of them losing both games in their Los Angeles swing against UCLA and USC. Head coach Larry Krystowiak’s team needs a win — and they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after losing two games in a row to conference rivals. And while Utah has not covered the point spread in their last two games, they have then covered the point spread in 11 of their last 17 games after not covering the point spread in two straight games. They stay at home where they are 4-1 this season with an average winning margin of +14.0 PPG. They are making 47.1% of their shots on their home court while holding their opponents to just 38.9% shooting. They also are 49th in the nation by limiting their guests to just 26.8% shooting from behind the arc on their home court. The Buffaloes are taking 39.0% of their shots from 3-point land when playing away from Boulder. Utah is also good at applying pressure as they are generating turnovers in 22.8% of their opponent’s possessions which is 35th best in the country. The Utes have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 11 games on their home court — and then have covered the point spread in 6 straight home games after losing two of their last three games. Additionally, Utah has covered the point spread in 37 of their last 56 home games when playing their second game in three days. And in their last 57 home games with the Total set in the 135 to 139.5 point range, the Utes have covered the point spread in 36 of these contests. Colorado made 46% of their shots on Thursday in their win over the Ducks which was the best shooting effort in their last four games. The Buffaloes have then failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after a victory against a Pac-12 foe. They go back on the road where they have lost all three of their games this season — and they are making only 43.8% of their shots away from home. Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 41 of their last 55 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 16 of their last 22 road games when favored. The Buffaloes are allowing their last five opponents to make 47.3% of their shots. They have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: Head coach Tad Boyle’s team leads the nation by making 85.6% of their free throws. Yet they are not likely to get many freebies on the charity stripe against this Utah team that is 12th in the nation with a defensive free throw attempt-to-field goal attempt ratio of 22.6%. 10* CBB Monday Daily Discounted Deal with the Utah Utes (864) plus the points versus Colorado Buffaloes (863). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the Niagara Purple Eagles (686) minus the points versus the Rider Broncs (685). THE SITUATION: Niagara (4-5) looks to rebound from getting upset at home last night to the Broncs by a 76-70 score as a 6.5-point favorite. Rider (3-7) won just their third game of the season with the victory.

REASONS TO TAKE THE PURPLE EAGLES MINUS THE POINTS: Niagara has bounced-back to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread defeat. They stay at home for this game where they have covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games at home — and they have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Rider made 54.7% of their shots last night which was their best shooting performance of the season. But they just 8-17-2 ATS in their last 27 games after a point spread win. They have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home. And they are only 5-15-2 ATS in their last 22 road games as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: Rider has failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games as an underdog — and Niagara has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games against teams with a winning percentage not better than 40%. Look for the Purple Eagles to make some adjustments on defense this afternoon to avenge last night’s loss. 10* CBB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Niagara Purple Eagles (686) minus the points versus the Rider Broncs (685). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns (848) plus the point(s) versus the Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans (847). THE SITUATION: UL-Louisiana (7-2) saw their seven-game winning streak snapped on Saturday with their 71-59 upset loss at home to Texas State as a 2.5-point favorite. Little Rock (6-3) has won two straight games as well as four of their last five contests with their 75-62 win against UT-Arlington on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE RAGIN’ CAJUNS PLUS THE POINT(S): Lafayette might have played their worst game of the season last Saturday. They made only 34.6% of their shots which was the second-lowest mark all season. They also allowed the Bobcats to hit 60% of their baskets which was the highest opponent’s field goal percentage they have given up this year. The Ragin’ Cajuns have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after allowing their last opponent to shoot at least 60% from the field. Lafayette has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a game where they did not shoot better than 38% while allowing their opponent to nail at least 60% of their shots. The Ragin’ Cajuns have also bounced-back to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after a double-digit loss. Lafayette has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a loss at home to a conference rival — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after getting upset by double-digits as a home favorite. They stay at home where they are 6-1 with an average winning margin of +6.4 PPG. They hold their opponents to just 40.8% shooting which is resulting in 68.6 PPG. The Ragin’ Cajuns have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 home games at home with the Total set in the 150s. Lafayette does a good job of forcing turnovers — their opponents are coughing it up in 20.6% of their possessions which is 81st in the nation. This is a significant area of concern for the Trojans — they are 325th in the nation by turning the ball over in 24.7% of their possessions. Little Rock exposed a vulnerable Mavericks’ defense in their two-game swing last week. They made a whopping 70% of their shots against UT-Arlington in the opener before making 56.1% of their shots on Saturday in what was their best two shooting efforts of the season. And by holding the Mavericks to just 31.8% shooting, the Trojans played their best defensive game of the season. But the Trojans have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after winning at least two straight games in a row at home. And while Little Rock has covered the point spread in their last two games, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games on the road after covering their last two games. They have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games when playing with five or six days of rest. They go back on the road where they are just 1-3 this season while allowing their opponents to make 46.1% of their shots which is resulting in 77.0 PPG. The Trojans are 19th in the nation by making 39.4% of their 3-pointers — but that mark plummets to a 32.1% clip when playing away from their home court this season. Little Rock has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games on the road with the total in the 150-154.5 point range. To compound matters, the Trojans may be without their best player in Markquis Nowell who is listed as doubtful with an undisclosed issue. He leads the team with a 17.0 PPG average while adding 8.9 Assists-Per-Game and 4.7 Rebounds-Per-Game.

FINAL TAKE: Little Rock is just 1-5-1 ATS in their last 7 games against teams with a winning record — and the Ragin’ Cajuns have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or better. 25* CBB Sun Belt Conference Underdog of the Month with the Louisiana-Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns (848) plus the point(s) versus the Arkansas-Little Rock Trojans (847). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 6:00 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the South Alabama Jaguars (843) and the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (844). THE SITUATION: South Alabama (7-4) has lost two of their last three games with their 62-49 loss at Georgia Southern last Saturday as a 2.5-point underdog. Coastal Carolina (7-2) saw their three-game winning streak end on Saturday with their 70-62 loss to Georgia State as a 3-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: The Jaguars made only 34% of their shots on Saturday which was their lowest field goal percentage of the season. Yet they did hold the Eagles to 40.4% shooting which was tied for the best defensive effort in their last seven games. South Alabama has played 5 straight games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 5 of their last 6 games Over the Total after a point spread loss. The Jaguars struggle on defense — they rank 321st in the nation in adjusted defensive efficiency. They are allowing their opponents to make 59.6% of their shots inside the arc which is 334th in the nation — and in their five games away from home, they are allowing teams to connect on 64.5% of their 2-point shots. South Alabama has played 4 of their last 5 games Over the Total on the road — and they have played 6 of their last 7 road games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher at home. The Jaguars do make 49.1% of their shots which is resulting in a healthy 80.8 PPG. Coastal Carolina is scoring 90.7 PPG on 51.6% shooting from the field. Yet they only made 39.6% of their shots on Saturday in what was their worst shooting effort of the season. The Chanticleers have played 12 of their last 16 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss — and they have played 13 of their last 18 games Over the Total after a point spread loss. And while Coastal Carolina has played two straight Unders, they have then played 8 of their last 9 games Over the Total after playing at least two straight games Under the Total. They have also played 7 of their last 10 games Over the Total when playing with five or six days of rest. This team is sixth in the nation by pulling down 39.6% of their missed shots — and they should get plenty of second-chance opportunities against this Jaguars team that is 294th in the nation by allowing their opponents to rebound 32.8% of their misses. The Chanticleers stay at home where they are 7-1 while scoring 92.4 PPG on 52.8% shooting. Coast Carolina has played 5 of their last 8 home games Over the Total as a favorite laying up to 6 points.

FINAL TAKE: South Alabama has played 6 of their last 7 games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. 10* CBB Friday Afternoon Discounted O/U Deal with Over the Total in the game between the South Alabama Jaguars (843) and the Coastal Carolina Chanticleers (844). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Thursday, we will be playing Over the Total in the game between the Washington State Cougars (761) and the California Golden Bears (762). THE SITUATION: Washington State (8-1) lost their first game of the season on Saturday in their 86-82 loss at home to Arizona as an 8-point underdog. California (5-6) has lost their last two games with their 73-64 loss at Oregon State on Saturday.

REASONS TO TAKE OVER THE TOTAL: There are two unusual circumstances to this situation that make a mathematical projection for the total in question. First, the Golden Bears will be without their top two scorers in Matt Bradley and Grant Anticevich. Bradley played only 13 minutes on Saturday before injuring his ankle that will keep him out tonight. Anticevich is still recovering from an appendectomy from last month. Their absences remove 28.1 PPG combined from their lineup. And they will be playing a Cougars team that is allowing only 60.8 PPG on 34.2% shooting from the field. But Washington State has played a very soft strength of schedule that is largely responsible for those gaudy defensive numbers. Ken Pomeroy’s metrics calculate that the Cougars’ strength of schedule has been the 309th easiest in the nation. The number is in the high-120s — and dropping. I think it is too low for this Pac-12 clash. California has played 5 of their last 7 games Over the Total after a loss — and they have played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total after a point spread loss. Additionally, the Bears have played 16 of their last 22 home games Over the Total when playing their second game in seven days. Losing Bradley and Anticevich is a two-sided coin because Cal also loses their defensive contributions. As it is, the Golden Bears are allowing their Pac-12 opponents to score 74.4 PPG while making 48.7% of their shots in five games. If Washington State approaches those numbers, this game flies Over. They return home where the players asked to make up for the baskets Bradley and Anticevich would be making will feel more comfortable. This team did make 51.2% of the shots against the Beavers. California has played 6 of their last 8 games Over the Total at home — and they have played 6 straight home games Over the Total as an underdog getting up to 6 points. Washington State has played 12 of their last 14 games Over the Total after a straight-up loss. They have also played 10 of their last 11 games Over the Total after winning four or five of their last six-game. Now they go on the road for the first time all season — and I suspect this will impact their defensive numbers. The Cougars have played 6 of their last 8 road games Over the Total after playing at least three straight games at home. Additionally, Washington State has played 4 straight games Over the Total on the road — and they have played 4 straight road games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage of over 60% at home (Cal is 4-1 at home).

FINAL TAKE: I value team trends for two reasons: (1) they can identify a personality of a team regarding how they respond to certain situations and (2) they can expose biases in how the market perceives certain teams. The latter is particularly in play here. The market tends to overestimate the value of the Washington State defense. That means a soft number for us — which is what I think were are experiencing tonight. Cal has played 9 of their last 13 games Over the Total against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. I think they find enough scoring from their remaining roster to push this game into the 130s. 25* CBB Pac-12 Total of the Month with Over the Total in the game between the Washington State Cougars (761) and the California Golden Bears (762). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Baylor Bears (696) minus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (695). THE SITUATION: Oklahoma (9-0) remained unbeaten this season on Saturday with their 76-65 win at Iowa State as a 15.5-point favorite. Oklahoma (6-2) has won four of their last five games with their 75-71 win against West Virginia on Saturday as a 1.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BEARS MINUS THE POINTS: I think Baylor is undervalued in these spots after coming off one of their worst efforts of the season on Saturday. Baylor did not make a 3-pointer in the first half against the Cyclones before setting for 4 of 19 shooting mark from behind the arc. The Bears shot 47.3% from the field which was the worst shooting effort in their last five games. Baylor is third in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency while making 43.8% of their 3-pointers which is the second-best mark in the nation. They also allowed Iowa State to make 48.1% of their shots which was the second-highest opponent field goal percentage they surrendered all season (and worst since their opening game). Head coach Scott Drew’s team is 5th in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency. They have not covered the point spread in their last two games — but they have then covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after not covering the point spread in two straight games. The Bears have also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a straight-up win. Additionally, Baylor has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after a double-digit win on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a win by at least 10 points against Big 12 foes. They return home where they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games. Oklahoma has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a straight-up win. And while the Sooners raced out to a 38-20 lead at halftime, they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after owning a lead of at least 15 points in their last game. I don’t like this matchup for Oklahoma under head coach Lon Kruger who emphasizes offense over defense. The Sooners are 21st in the nation in Adjusted Offensive Efficiency with their three-guard attack — but this will be the best defensive team they will have faced this season. But Oklahoma ranks 64th in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency while allowing their opponents to make 39.6% of their 3-pointers which is the 320th mark in the nation. Baylor scores 92.9 PPG — and the Sooners have failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games against teams who score at least 77 PPG. Oklahoma has also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games against teams who shoot at least 45% from the field.

FINAL TAKE: Baylor will overwhelm the Sooners’ with their offense playing on their home court — and their defense will make it hard for Oklahoma to keep up. The Bears have covered the point spread in 13 of their last 18 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Baylor has also covered the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games when favored. 10* CBB Oklahoma-Baylor ESPN2 Special with the Baylor Bears (696) minus the points versus the Oklahoma Sooners (695). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the Wichita State Shockers (685) and the Houston Cougars (686). THE SITUATION: Wichita State (6-2) has won five games in a row after their 83-79 upset win at Ole Miss on Saturday as an 8-point underdog. Houston (8-1) rebounded from their first loss of the season at Tulsa by defeating SMU on the road on Sunday by a 74-60 score as a 2-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: The Shockers made 9 of their 20 shots from the behind the arc on Saturday against the Rebels despite going into that game with a 33% shooting percentage from downtown. Expect the Regression Gods to make an appearance tonight — especially against this Cougars team that is 13th in the nation by holding their opponents to just 24.5% shooting from 3-point land. Wichita State made 52% of their shots in that game in what was their best offensive performance of the season. But Wichita State has then played 5 of their last 7 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have played 7 of their last 11 games Under the Total after an upset victory. The Shockers have also played 6 straight games Under the Total after a win on the road. And while Wichita State has scored at least 81 points in three straight games, they have then played 7 of their last 10 games Under the Total after scoring at least 75 points in their last two games. The Shockers allowed Mississippi to make 41.5% of their shots which was the highest opponent’s field goal percentage they allowed in their last four games. Wichita State holds their opponents to 38.9% shooting — and their last five opponents are shooting just 36.0%. Now they go back on the road where they have played 8 of their last 11 games Under the Total — and they have played 7 of their last 9 road games Under the Total against teams with a winning record at home. The Shockers have also played 9 of their last 10 road games Under the Total with the number set in the 135 to 139.5 range. Houston has played 13 of their last 18 games Under the Total after a straight-up win — and they have also played 9 of their last 10 games Under the Total after a double-digit win on the road. The Cougars made 39.1% of their shots which was actually their best shooting mark in their last three games. Houston has only had preseason American Athletic Conference Player of the Year for four games this season — and now Caleb Mills has decided to transfer. Head coach Kelvin Sampson’s team is now, more than ever, defined by their play on defense. They are seventh in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency — and they rank seventh in the nation with an opponent’s effective field goal percentage of 42.0%. They hold their opponents to only 55.0 PPG on their home court on 36.2% shooting. The Under is 21-5-1 in their last 27 home games against teams with a winning record on the road. Houston has also played 7 of their last 9 home games Under the Total as a favorite.

FINAL TAKE: The Cougars have played 12 of their last 13 games Under the Total against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or higher. 25* CBB American Athletic Conference Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the Wichita State Shockers (685) and the Houston Cougars (686). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Xavier (688) minus the points versus the St. John’s (687). THE SITUATION: Xavier (8-2) has lost their last two games after their 85-68 upset loss as a 3-point favorite last Wednesday. St. John’s (6-4) snapped a three-game losing streak back on December 20th with their 94-83 win against Georgetown as a 4-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MUSKETEERS MINUS THE POINTS: Xavier made only 43.1% of their shots which was tied for the third-worst shooting effort this season. The Musketeers had covered the point spread in five straight games before that loss to the Pirates. Xavier has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 games after covering the point spread in at least four of their last five games. The Musketeers have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games when playing with five or six days of rest. Xavier now returns home where they are 7-1 this season with an average winning margin of +12.3 PPG. The Musketeers are making 50.2% of their shots at home which is generating 83.0 PPG. They are also holding their opponents to just 39.7% of their shots when playing on their home court. Xavier matches up quite well against the Red Storm who deploy head coach Mike Anderson’s “40 minutes of hell” full-court press. St. John’s is 29th in the nation by forcing turnovers in 23.5% of their possessions. But the Musketeers get good guard play from seniors Paul Scruggs and Nate Johnson. Xavier only turns the ball over in 16.0% of their possessions which is 37th best in the nation. They have not turned the ball over more than 11 times in four straight games — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after not turning the ball over more than 11 times in their last four. If and when the Musketeers break the Red Storm press, they should torch their defense. St. John’s has an opponent’s effective field goal percentage of 56.7% which is 325th in the nation — and they are allowing their opponents to make 39.6% of their 3-pointers. Xavier has an eFG of 55.9% which is 25th in the country — and they are making 37.2% of their 3-pointers which is 51st in the nation. St. John’s has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a win over a conference rival — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a double-digit victory against a Big East foe. The Red Storm shot 47.6% of their shots which was the best shooting effort in their last five games while making 13 of their 29 shots from behind the arc. But St. John’s has failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after making at least 13 shots from 3-point land in their last game. The Red Storm also held the Hoyas to just 43.5% shooting which was their second-best scoring effort in their last eight games. Anderson’s team may be rusty in this game having not played in 17 days. They go back on the road where they have lost three of their four games while allowing their home hosts to make 50% of their shots. St. John’s have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games on the road as an underdog.

FINAL TAKE: The Red Storm have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% — and Xavier has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning record. 25* CBB Wednesday CBS Sports Network Game of the Month with the Xavier (688) minus the points versus the St. John’s (687). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Kansas Jayhawks (639) minus the points versus the TCU Horned Frogs (640). THE SITUATION: Kansas (8-2) had won eight games in a row before losing at home to Texas on Saturday by an 84-59 score as a 4.5-point favorite. TCU (9-2) has won five straight contests after their 67-60 win at Kansas State on Saturday as a 3.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE JAYHAWKS MINUS THE POINTS: Kansas played their worst game of the season on Saturday. They made only 30.8% of their shots from the field including missing 20 of their 23 shots from behind the arc. That 30.8% field goal percentage was their lowest mark of the season. They also allowed the Longhorns to make 49.2% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last nine games. Kansas has an opponent’s field goal percentage of 40.5% so they should play better tonight. Head coach Bill Self has been remarkably reliable in getting his team to respond with good efforts after bad losses. The Jayhawks have covered the point spread in 9 straight games after a loss by at least 20 points — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a loss by 10 points against a conference rival. Additionally, Kansas is a dominant 43-19-3 ATS in their last 65 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after a point spread setback. They have also covered the point spread in 6 straight games after failing to score at least 60 points in their last game. Perhaps the Jayhawks were primed for a letdown after defeating two ranked teams in Texas Tech and West Virginia in their previous two games. Now they go back on the road where they have covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 games — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 10 road games with the Total set in the 130s. Kansas has also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 road games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% on their home court. TCU is 4-2 at home this season — but with just a +4.8 net points-per-game differential. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games when playing at home. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games at home with the Total set in the 135.5 to 139.5 point range. Additionally, the Horned Frogs have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 16 games after a win over a Big 12 opponent — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games after a point spread victory. TCU has also failed to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 14 games at home after winning at least two games in a row. The Horned Frogs’ best win this season was against Oklahoma State — their losses were against Providence and Oklahoma. Head coach Jamie Dixon’s team is perhaps best at defending the arc — they are holding opponents to just a 28.2% shooting percentage from 3-point land which is 41st in the nation. But Self’s team is not reliant on 3-pointers — they only take 36.2% of their shots from behind the arc which is the 206th most reliant on 3s in the nation. Kansas should dominate the interior in this game with their size — the Horned Frogs allow their opponents to make 49.6% of their shots inside the arc which is 160th. The Jayhawks should also get plenty of second-chance opportunities. Kansas pulls down 35.1% of their missed shots which is 31st in the nation — and TCU ranks 150th by allowing their opponents to pull down 27.1% of their misses.

FINAL TAKE: Marcus Garrett is questionable for Kansas after suffering a head injury against Texas -- Self said he seemed good yesterday (but would be a game-time decision). The point guard is solid but his potential absence is not devastating for this balanced Jayhawks team. TCU is not in Kansas’ league — they rank 76th and 60th in the nation in adjusted offensive and defensive efficiency while the Jayhawks rank 36th and 19th in those metrics. Kansas has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. The Horned Frogs would be more dangerous as a home dog in this spot if they were playing in front of a packed gym full of fans. Alas … 25* CBB Tuesday ESPN Game of the Month with the Kansas Jayhawks (639) minus the points versus the TCU Horned Frogs (640). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the West Virginia Mountaineers (873) minus the point(s) versus the Oklahoma State Cowboys (874). THE SITUATION: West Virginia (8-3) has lost two of their last three games with their 75-71 loss at Oklahoma as a 1.5-point underdog on Saturday. Oklahoma State (7-2) snapped a two-game losing streak on Saturday with their 82-77 win in overtime at Texas Tech as an 8-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE MOUNTAINEERS MINUS THE POINT(S): The Cowboys are a young team with intriguing talent led by freshman Cade Cunningham who might be the first player taken in the next NBA draft. But one of the biggest concerns for young teams is consistency. Upsetting the Red Raiders is Oklahoma State’s best win on their resume so far this season — but they are 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games after a straight-up win. The Cowboys have also failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after a point spread win. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing with one or fewer days of rest. They return home where they are 3-1 this season — but they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games on their home court. Their game with Texas Tech was their first contest since December 20th — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 10 home games when playing not more than their second game in eight days. West Virginia made only 40% of their shots against the Sooners which was the worst shooting effort in their last three games. Head coach Bob Huggins’ team should respond with a strong effort as they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games when playing their game on the road in three days. The Mountaineers’ have a style of play that travels well since they do so many things to generate more shooting opportunities if their shots are not falling. West Virginia is 17th in the nation by pulling down 37.6% of their missed shots. They also force turnovers in 20.5% of their opponent’s possessions which is 72nd in the country. “Press Virginia” should have success against the Cowboys who can be loose with the ball — they are turning the ball over in 19.1% of their possessions which is 147th in the nation. Huggins is dealing with a significant roster shakeup with the loss of Oscar Tshiebwe and Isaiah Cottrell for the season. Cottrell is their top-rated freshman but who was not playing much coming off the bench to offer depth at forward. Tsheibwe leaving the team for personal reasons is more disruptive as he formed a potentially awesome twin-tower front line with forward Derek Culver. That said, Tsheibwe was playing less than 20 minutes-per-game while not producing as much as he did in his freshman season. Huggins has a deep roster — and I suspect the loss will create the opportunity for even more full-court pressure. West Virginia still has a size edge over Oklahoma State with Culver down low.

FINAL TAKE: The Mountaineers were competitive against Gonzaga and Kansas in their other two losses this season. They have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Oklahoma State has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 home games as an underdog getting no more than 6 points. 10* CBB West Virginia-Oklahoma State ESPN2 Special with the West Virginia Mountaineers (873) minus the point(s) versus the Oklahoma State Cowboys (874). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:30 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the Minnesota Golden Gophers (840) minus the point(s) versus the Ohio State Buckeyes (839). THE SITUATION: Minnesota (9-0) saw their three-game winning streak snapped on Thursday in their 71-59 loss at Wisconsin as an 8-point underdog. Ohio State (8-2) has won three of their last four games with their 90-54 win against Nebraska as a 10.5-point favorite on Wednesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GOLDEN GOPHERS MINUS THE POINT(S): Minnesota played one of their worst games of the season against the Badgers. They made only 31.2% of their shots while allowing Wisconsin to make 50.8% of their baskets — and both of those marks were the second-worst for them all season. The Gophers have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss. Additionally, Minnesota has covered the point spread in 15 of their last 20 games after a loss on the road — and they have covered the point spread in 9 straight games after a loss on the road where they did not score more than 60 points. Now after playing their last five games as an underdog, they return home where they are 9-0 this season with an average winning margin of +14.5 PPG. The Gophers make 45.3% of their shots at home — and they hold their guests to just 38.5% shooting. Minnesota has covered the point spread in 4 straight home games — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 home games with the Total set in the 145 to 149.5 point range. And in their last 6 home games after being the dog in their previous three games, the Gophers have covered the point spread in all 6 games. Ohio State has failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games after a double-digit victory. The Buckeyes have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread win. Ohio State held the Cornhuskers to just 28.3% shooting which was their best defensive effort of the season. But now they go back on the road where they experienced both of their losses while allowing their opponents to make 46.5% of their shots. The Buckeyes are 0-3-1 ATS in their last 4 games on the road — and they are 8-21-1 ATS in their last 30 road games against teams with a winning record at home.

FINAL TAKE: Ohio State has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 12 games when listed in the +/- 3-point range — and Minnesota has covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games at home when listed in the +/- 3-point range. 10* CBB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Minnesota Golden Gophers (840) minus the point(s) versus the Ohio State Buckeyes (839). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:00 PM ET on Saturday, we will be playing the USC Trojans (684) minus the points versus the Utah Utes (683). THE SITUATION: USC (5-2) looks to rebound from their 72-62 loss at home to Colorado as a 3.5-point favorite on Thursday. Utah (4-2) come off a narrow 72-70 loss at UCLA on Thursday as a 2.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TROJANS MINUS THE POINTS: We almost took the Bruins on New Year’s Eve but I was concerned that the Utes may show more grit than expected — and that was the case as they rallied in the second half to make that a close game with Mick Cronin’s team. They shot 50% from the field which was their best shooting effort in their last four games. This is the better spot to fade Utah — they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 straight games after a loss to a Pac-12 rival. They are now 0-2 on the road this season — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games away from home. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning percentage of 60% or better on their home court. USC fell to 4-1 at home this season against the Buffaloes — but they have then covered the point spread in 6 straight games after a double-digit loss to a Pac-12 rival. The Trojans have also covered the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a point spread loss. That might have been the worst game that USC has played for head coach Andy Enfield this season. They made only 38.3% of their shots which was the second-worst shooting effort of the season. They also allowed Colorado to make 41.7% of their shots which was the worst defensive effort in their last six games. The Trojans have still covered the point spread in 36 of their last 52 home games against teams with a winning percentage below 40% on the road.

FINAL TAKE: USC has covered the point spread in 14 of their last 20 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. 10* CBB Blowout Bookie Buster with the USC Trojans (684) minus the points versus the Utah Utes (683). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:07 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Iowa Hawkeyes (628) minus the points versus the Northwestern Wildcats (627). THE SITUATION: Iowa (7-2) comes off a 102-95 upset loss at Minnesota on Friday as a 6-point favorite. Northwestern (6-1) pulled off their third-straight upset victory on Saturday when they stunned Ohio State as a 2.5-point home underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HAWKEYES MINUS THE POINTS: Iowa has been remarkably reliable when coming off a straight-up loss under head coach Fran McCaffrey. The Hawkeyes have covered the point spread in 12 of their last 13 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after a loss on the road. Iowa has also covered the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games after a point spread loss. Additionally, the Hawkeyes have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after allowing at least 90 points in their last game — and they have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after a game where both teams scored at least 80 points. Iowa made only 37.2% of their shots which was their worst shooting effort of the season. Now the Hawkeyes return home where they are 7-0 with an average winning margin of +29.5 net PPG. Iowa is making 49.9% of their shots at home which is generating a staggering 96.1 PPG. And while the conventional wisdom on Iowa is that they are not a great defensive team, they hold their guests to 39.9% shooting which is resulting in only 66.6 PPG. The Hawkeyes are 20-4-2 ATS in their last 26 gams at home. They also have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Northwestern has pulled upsets against Michigan State and Indiana before their win over the Buckeyes. The Wildcats have then failed to cover the point spread in 23 of their last 32 games after an upset win at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 19 of their last 26 games after an upset win at home against a Big Ten rival. Additionally, the Wildcats have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a win at home in the Big Ten — and they are 8-21-1 ATS in their last 30 games after a point spread win. Even in the win, Northwestern demonstrated some vulnerabilities in the paint against the Buckeyes — and that is an ominous sign when now facing Luka Garza who is a scoring machine with his 28.8 PPG scoring average on 62.7% shooting and a beast on the boards with a 10.0 RPG average. The Wildcats are an improved team under head coach Chris Collins — but it has not been a complete roster overhaul of bluechip five stars from the team that finished 3-17 in Big Ten play last season. Collins has his team playing at a quicker pace — but that will be a big mistake if they try that against Iowa. Northwestern has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games with the Total set in the 150s.

FINAL TAKE: It may look easy to take this upstart Wildcats team as a double-digit dog to at least keep things close given their recent success — but that is kinda the point. Iowa has covered the point spread in 10 of their last 11 home games when laying double-digits. Trust the oddsmakers on this one — the Hawkeyes’ offensive prowess can produce another blowout at Carver-Hawkeyes Arena. 25* CBB Big Ten Game of the Month with the Iowa Hawkeyes (628) minus the points versus the Northwestern Wildcats (627). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 12:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Michigan State Spartans (752) minus the points versus the Wisconsin Badgers (751). THE SITUATION: Michigan State (6-1) looks to rebound from their first loss of the season on Sunday with their 79-65 upset loss in Evanston against Northwestern as an 8.5-point favorite. Wisconsin (7-1) has won four games in a row with their 67-53 victory over Nebraska on Tuesday as a 13.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE SPARTANS PLUS THE POINT(S): Michigan State probably played their worst game of the season on Sunday. They made only 38.8% of their shots which was the worst shooting marker them this season. They also allowed the Wildcats to make 52.9% of their shots which was their worst defensive performance of the year. Head coach Tom Izzo certainly made defense a priority in practice this week after they allowed Oakland to make 50% of their shots in their previous game. The Spartans have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after allowing their last to opponents to shoot at least 50% from the field. Michigan State has also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after an upset loss as a road favorite. Perhaps the biggest challenge for Izzo with his team this season is replacing the leadership of the departed Cassius Winston. While sophomore Rocket Watts has assumed the starting point guard duties, this group is doing a great job of sharing the basketball. The Spartans are second in the nation by assisting on 73.7% of their field goals. They have generated at least 19 assists in three straight games — and Izzo’s teams have covered the point spread in 10 of their last 12 games after playing two straight games with at least 19 teams assists. Michigan State returns home where they have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. And while it is not often that Sparty plays at home as an underdog, they have then covered the point spread in 11 of their last 14 home games when getting the points. Additionally, Michigan State has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Wisconsin has covered the point spread as a favorite for three straight games — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 22 of their last 34 games after covering the point spread as a favorite for at least three straight contests. The Badgers have held their last three opponents to no better than 38.9% shooting from the field — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 6 games after not allowing their last three opponents to shoot better than 40% from the field. Furthermore, Wisconsin has failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games after winning at least six or seven of their last eight games. The Badgers are 9th in the nation by making 41.9% of their shots from behind the arc — but they may be too reliant on these shots with them making up 39.0% of their shots from the floor. In their lone loss this season against Marquette, they made only 7 of their 24 shots (29.1%) from 3-point land. Perhaps not coincidentally, that game on December 4th was their only game so far this season played away from their home court at the Kohl Center. The Badgers have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last five games on the road after playing their previous three games at home.

FINAL TAKE: The home team has covered the point spread in 8 of the last 11 meetings between these two teams. Look for Michigan State to play one of their best defensive games of the season after their loss to what now looks like a pretty good Northwestern team who followed up their upset win against Sparty with a road win at Indiana. 25* CBB Fox-TV Game of the Month with the Michigan State Spartans (752) minus the points versus the Wisconsin Badgers (751). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Iowa Hawkeyes (680) minus the points versus the Purdue Boilermakers (679). THE SITUATION: Iowa (6-1) looks to bounce-back from their first loss of the season on a neutral court against Gonzaga by a 99-88 score as a 4-point underdog. Purdue (6-2) comes off an 88-78 win over Notre Dame on a neutral court as a 4.5-point favorite on Sunday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HAWKEYES MINUS THE POINTS: Iowa has rebounded to cover the point spread in 11 of their last 12 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 12 straight games are a point spread setback. The Hawkeyes allowed the Bulldogs to make 51.4% of their shots which was their worst defensive effort of the season. But Iowa has covered the point spread in 5 straight games after allowing at least 90 points in their last game. And the Hawkeyes made only 4 of their 22 shots from behind the arc against Gonzaga for a 18% shooting mark. They return home to Iowa City where they make 37.4% of their 3-pointers. Iowa is 19-5-2 ATS in their last 26 games at home — and they are 8-1-2 ATS in their last 11 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. The Hawkeyes are also 17-4-2 ATS in their last 23 home games as a favorite. And in their last 6 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%, Iowa has covered the point spread 5 times. Purdue is just 1-4-1 ATS in their last 6 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after a point spread win. The Boilermakers stay on the road where they are 2-2 away from home at their Mackey Center. Purdue is 4-10-2 ATS in their last 16 games on the road. Furthermore, the Boilermakers are 3-8-2 ATS in their last 13 games as an underdog — and they are 0-4-1 ATS in their last 5 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%.

FINAL TAKE: Iowa will also have revenge on their minds after they lost at home to Purdue last March 3rd by a 77-68 score despite being a 5-point favorite. Look for the Hawkeyes to avenge that loss with a decisive win. 20* CBB Blowout Bookie Buster with the Iowa Hawkeyes (680) minus the points versus the Purdue Boilermakers (679). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Austin Peay Governors (786) plus the points versus the Murray State Racers (785). THE SITUATION: Austin Peay (4-3) has lost two of their last three games after their 76-70 upset loss to Florida A&M as a 13-point favorite last Tuesday. Murray State (4-2) has won three of their last four games after their 90-49 win against Transylvania last Tuesday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE GOVERNORS PLUS THE POINTS: Austin Peay should respond with a strong effort as they are 11-5-2 ATS in their last 18 games after a straight-up loss. That game with Florida A&M might have been their worst effort of the season. They only made 39.7% of their shots which was the second-lowest mark all season. They also allowed Florida A&M to make 55.6% of their shots which was the second-highest opponent’s field goal percentage they have surrendered all season. The Governors have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after allowing their last opponent to make at least 55% of their shots. This is a good team under head coach Matt Figger in his fourth year in the program. He had two players declare early for the NBA draft in the spring — but Terry Taylor and Jordyn Adams decided to return for their senior and sophomore seasons. Austin Peay was 21-12 with a 14-4 record in the Ohio Valley before the stoppage of play. They are 19-6-1 ATS in their last 26 home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Murray State may be due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 straight games after a win by at least 20 points. The Racers have also failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games on the road after a double-digit win at home. Murray State has played only twice on the road where they have suffered both of their losses. The Racers returned three starters from the team that finished 15-3 in the Ohio Valley and 23-9 overall — but there is only one senior in their rotation. Murray State has failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games on the road as a favorite.

FINAL TAKE: These two teams already played once on December 8th when the Racers embarrassed the Governors on their home court by an 87-57 score. Austin Peay gets to avenge that loss on their home court tonight — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games when playing with revenge from a loss by at least 20 points. 25* CBB Monday ESPNU Game of the Month with the Austin Peay Governors (786) plus the points versus the Murray State Racers (785). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Duke Blue Devils (693) minus the points versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (694). THE SITUATION: Duke (2-2) has lost two of their last three games after their 83-68 upset loss to Illinois back on December 8th as a 3-point favorite. Notre Dame (2-2) has won two of their last three games after their 64-63 upset victory in Rupp Arena against Kentucky on Saturday as a 7.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BLUE DEVILS MINUS THE POINTS: The college basketball observers who pontificate about point spreads think that the oddsmakers have installed Duke as a favorite only because of the reputation of head coach Mike Krzyzewski. Well, he has managed to lead his team to cover point spread expectations in 19 of their last 24 games after an upset loss by double-digits — and they have covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after an upset loss by at least 15 points. Additionally, his Blue Devils are 13-6-1 ATS in their last 20 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 25 of their last 37 games after a loss by at least 10 points. Now of the reasons why Krzyzewski's teams are so reliable after setbacks is the disappointment usually ensures a captive audience from the uber-talented roster he consistently assembles. Duke will be without their most naturally-talented player in Jalen Johnson after the freshman suffered a foot injury. And while this Duke team may lack the elite talent of some of his recent teams, there are still plenty of five-star players at his disposal — and this is one of his deepest teams over the last few seasons. The eight days off between games will help Coach K continue to work with his team in practice. He will fine-tune some issues on defense after the Illini shot 58.6% from the field which was the worst defensive performance of their season. This is the Blue Devils from game away from Cameron Indoor — but Duke has covered the point spread in 5 straight road games after playing at three straight games at home. The Blue Devils have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 road games with the Total set in the 140s. Notre Dame is riding high after their upset victory over another blue blood in Kentucky — but they have then failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after an upset win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win on the road. The Fighting Irish raced out to a 31-9 lead in the first ten minutes of the game before going into halftime with a 22-point lead. But Notre Dame was outscored by a deceive 54-33 margin in the final 30 minutes. And head coach Mike Brey’s teams at South Bend have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after leading by at least 15 points at halftime of their last game. The Irish return home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 13 of their last 16 games after not forcing more than 14 turnovers in at least four straight games. Notre Dame has not forced more than 12 turnovers in any of their four games — and they rank 315th in the nation by only turning the ball over in 13.6% of their opponent’s possessions. Furthermore, the Fighting Irish have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 home games as an underdog or pick ‘em.

FINAL TAKE: This Duke team — despite losses to Michigan State and Illinois — ranks 17th in the nation in both Adjusted Offensive Efficiency and Adjusted Defensive Efficiency according to Ken Pomeroy’s metrics. So take all the negative talk about how down this the Blue Devils team is with a grain or two of salt. Let’s trust KenPom and the oddsmakers’ judgment (and Coach K!). 25* CBB Wednesday ESPN Game of the Month with Duke Blue Devils (693) minus the points versus the Notre Dame Fighting Irish (694). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 7:00 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Illinois Fighting Illini (616) minus the points versus the Minnesota Golden Gophers (615). THE SITUATION: Illinois (4-2) has lost two of their last three games with their 81-78 upset loss at Missouri on Saturday as a 3.5-point favorite. Minnesota (6-0) remained unbeaten to start the season with their 90-61 win over UMKC last Thursday as a 17-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE ILLINI MINUS THE POINTS: Illinois bounced-back to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after an upset loss. Illinois has also covered the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games after a game on the road where both teams scored at least 75 points. This is a battle-tested team whose other loss is to the second-ranked team in the nation in Baylor — and all they did between their losses was crush Duke at Cameron Indoor Arena by an 83-68 score. The Illini have one of the best starting-fives in the nation led by a dynamic inside-out duo of Ayo Dosunmu and Kofi Cockburn. Dosunmu was a preseason All-American who is scoring 24.8 PPG while adding 7.7 Rebounds-Per-game and 5.2 Assists-Per-Game. The 7’0 Cockburn is also an NBA talent who scored 13.3 PPG last season while pulling down 8.8 Assists-Per-Game. They return home to Champagne for only their fourth game on their home court this season — and they have covered the point spread in 30 of their last 42 home games when favored by 6.5 to 9 points. Minnesota is just 2-6-3 ATS in their last 12 games after a straight-up win — and they are 1-4-2 ATS in their last 7 games after a point spread loss. Now the Golden Gophers go on the road for the first time all season — and they gave failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games after playing their last three games at home. Minnesota has not been a great team on the road under head coach Richard Pitino. They have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 7 road games against teams with a winning record at home. The Golden Gophers have also failed to cover the point spread in 34 of their last 47 road games as an underdog in the 6.5 to 9 point range. This team was better than their 15-16 record last year. They certainly got a shot in the arm when Marcus Carr bypassed the NBA to return for his junior season. And Minnesota added two nice transfer players in center Liam Robbins from Drake and guard Both Gach from Utah. Yet this is an untested group whose overtime win last week at home against Boston College was their only game against a power-five conference opponent before tonight.

FINAL TAKE: This will be an angry Illini team after losing to Mizzou — and the Golden Gophers are 1-6-2 ATS in their last 9 games against teams who are winning at least 60% of their games. 25* CBB Tuesday ESPN2 Game of the Month with the Illinois Fighting Illini (616) minus the points versus the Minnesota Golden Gophers (615). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 5:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Providence Friars (609) plus the points versus the TCU Horned Frogs (610). THE SITUATION: Providence (3-2) has won two of their last three games after their 79-67 win over Fairleigh Dickinson last Saturday as a 20.5-point favorite. TCU (4-1) saw their four-game winning streak snapped on Sunday with their 82-72 loss to Oklahoma as a 4-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE FRIARS PLUS THE POINTS: The Friars made only 1 of their 10 shots from behind the arc — and they are making just 21% of their shots from 3-point land this season. The Regression Gods will be visiting this team to see more friendly bounces even if that means they creep into just the low-30s for the 3-point shooting percentages. Look for more passing from Ed Cooley’s team after they only had nine team assists on Saturday. Providence has covered the point spread in 8 of their last 10 games after not getting more than 9 assists in their last game. The Friars have also covered the point spread in 10 of their last 14 games after a straight-up win. They go on the road where they have covered the point spread in 25 of their last 37 games on the road as an underdog getting no more than 3 points. TCU has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games after a loss at home to a Big 12 rival. The Horned Frogs have also failed to cover the point spread in 9 of their last 11 games after allowing at least 80 points in their last game. TCU stays at home where they have failed to cover the point spread in 5 of their last 6 home games when favored. They also have failed to cover the point spread in 21 of their last 31 games with the Total set in the 130s.

FINAL TAKE: Providence has covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning record. 10* CBB Providence-TCU ESPNU Special with the Providence Friars (609) plus the points versus the TCU Horned Frogs (610). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Duke Blue Devils (832) minus the points versus the Illinois Fighting Illini (831). THE SITUATION: Duke (2-1) looks to build off their 76-54 win over Bellermaine last Friday as a 31-point favorite. Illinois (3-1) suffered their first loss of the season last Wednesday in an 82-69 loss to Baylor as a 4.5-point underdog.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BLUE DEVILS MINUS THE POINTS: Duke has covered the point spread in 9 of their last 13 games at home after a game where they won as a favorite but did not cover the point spread. The Blue Devils have also covered the point spread in a decisive 50 of their last 78 home games after a win by at least 20 points. And while Duke has yet to cover the point spread this season, they have then covered the point spread in 11 of their last 13 home games after failing to cover the point spread in three straight games. The Blue Devils lost their top three scorers from last year and did not bring in a top-ten freshman recruit — but don’t feel too bad for head coach Mike Krzyzewski with “only” six of his freshmen class being five-star recruits. This may be the most balanced and deep Duke team in years. And Krzyzewski has the teaching benefit of being able to coach off their loss to Michigan State last week. The Blue Devils have the situational edge with this being their fourth straight game at home in Cameron Indoor Arena — and they have covered the point spread 7 straight games after playing their last three games at home as a favorite. Duke has also covered the point spread in 5 straight home games against teams with a losing record on the road. Illinois may be rusty after last playing a week ago — they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 9 games when playing with five or six days of rest. Many are high on this Illini team that returned all five starters from the team last year that was 21-10. Head coach Brad Underwood has one of the best inside-out duos in the nation in guard Ayo Dosunmu and center Kofi Cockburn. But the cart may be in front of the horse for this team just a little bit right now — this team would have really benefited from the experience of the NCAA Tournament last season. Their 13-point loss to Baylor was their 5th straight failure to cover the point spread against a team with a winning percentage over 60%. This team only beat Ohio in their previous game by 2 points despite being a 16-point favorite. Now they go on the road to play in their first true road game — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning record at home. The Illini have also failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games as an underdog. One of the biggest early weaknesses of this Duke team is that they are turning the ball over in 23.3% of their possessions which is 231st in the nation. Yet Illinois only forces turnovers in just 14.2% of their opponent’s possessions which is 276th in the country.

FINAL TAKE: Illini has a great starting five — but their bench is a question mark after that. Duke is steadily improving — and they have a good bench. Illinois has size — but the Blue Devils will space the floor and use tempo to counter that Illini edge. 10* CBB Tuesday Late Show Bailout with Duke Blue Devils (832) minus the points versus the Illinois Fighting Illini (831). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 4:00 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the North Carolina Tar Heels (716) plus (or minus) the points versus Texas (715) in the finals of the Maui Invitational in Asheville, North Carolina. THE SITUATION: North Carolina (3-0) reached the finals of the Maui Invitational yesterday with their 67-63 win over Stanford as a 4-point favorite. Texas (3-0) joined them in the finals with their 66-44 upset victory over Indiana as a +2.5-point underdog. This game is being played on a neutral court in Asheville.

REASONS TO TAKE THE TAR HEELS PLUS (OR MINUS) THE POINTS: Look for a big emotional letdown from the Longhorns after their easy win over the Hoosiers. Texas has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a win by at least 20 points. Shaka Smart’s team deserves some credit for their defensive effort as they held Indiana to just 23.9% shooting. But Indiana could not hit the side of the barn yesterday — and they deserve blame for their inability to make shots. The Longhorns limited the Hoosiers to only 6 offensive rebounds after holding Davidson to just 3 offensive rebounds in their last game. But Texas has then failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games after not allowing more than 9 offensive rebounds in two straight games. Now here comes the size of another Roy Williams team at North Carolina that is 7th in the nation by pulling down 44.5% of their missed shots. This is a young team for Williams this season — but this tournament is providing him an opportunity to teach in a concentrated setting. His teams have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games when playing with one day or less of rest. Additionally, North Carolina is 9-4-1 ATS in their last 14 games against teams with a winning record.

FINAL TAKE: The Tar Heels are 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games when playing on a neutral court. While the Longhorns are talented, so is this North Carolina team — and their style of play of crashing the glass for second-chance scoring opportunities is a consistent formula to get baskets when playing in tournaments like this. 25* CBB Maui Invitational Game of the Year with the  North Carolina Tar Heels (716) plus (or minus) the points versus Texas (715). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 1:30 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing the Indiana Hoosiers (713) plus the points versus the Stanford Cardinal (714). THE SITUATION: Indiana (2-1) lost their Semifinals game with Texas yesterday in the Maui Invitational in a 66-44 upset loss to Texas as a 2.5-point favorite. Stanford (1-1) lost a nail biter against North Carolina in this tournament yesterday by a 67-63 score as a 4-point underdog. This game will be played on a neutral court in Asheville.

REASONS TO TAKE THE HOOSIERS PLUS THE POINTS: Indiana was feeling very good about themselves after blowing out Providence by a 79-58 score in the opening game of this tournament. But they could not hit the side of a barn yesterday as they made only 23.9% of their shots from the field. That was the worst shooting effort for an Indiana team in the last ten years. But the Hoosiers have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 7 games after failing to make at least 28% of their shots in their last game. They also have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss — and they have covered the point spread in 5 straight games after a point spread setback. Stanford has failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up loss — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 11 games after a narrow loss by 6 points or less. Additionally, the Cardinal has failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games played on a neutral court as a favorite — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 18 games on a neutral court with the total set in the 130 to 134.5 point range.

FINAL TAKE: Stanford feels pretty good about their narrow loss to the Tar Heels — but the Hoosiers have plenty to prove in this game for 3rd place in this tournament. The oddsmakers opened this game with Indiana a small favorite — but the steam has been fading their awful shooting performance yesterday. I suspect the Regression Gods will appear this afternoon to help the Hoosiers make some baskets. 10* CBB Indiana-Stanford ESPN Special with the Indiana Hoosiers (713) plus the points versus the Stanford Cardinal (714). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 9:30 PM ET on Tuesday, we will be playing the Kentucky Wildcats (627) plus the points versus the Kansas Jayhawks (628). THE SITUATION: Kentucky (1-1) looks to bounce back from a 76-64 loss at home to Richmond as a 6.5-point favorite on Sunday. Kansas (1-1) rebounded from their loss to Gonzaga to open the season with a 94-72 thrashing of Saint Joseph’s last Friday as a 20.5-point favorite.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WILDCATS PLUS THE POINTS: Kentucky opened as a small favorite in this game because of their net edge in raw talent — but the market has been all over Kansas of this one. This sets up a nice strong contrarian play with the opportunity to take the better talent as a dog getting four or so points. The Wildcats certainly looked vulnerable against a veteran and savvy Spiders team — but that offered head coach John Calipari some outstanding teaching moments for his young team. I expect a much better effort from this Kentucky team that has four freshmen in their starting lineup. In Calipari I will trust — his teams have covered the point spread in 4 straight games after a straight-up loss and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a loss at home. The Wildcats have also covered the point spread in 5 of their last 6 games after a point spread setback. Kentucky managed only five assists on Sunday which is certainly an issue that Calipari will address in sharing the basketball better. The Wildcats have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 8 games after not registering at least nine assists in their last game. Kentucky did lose their top six scorers from last season — and Keion Brooks is injured for this game after being the team’s only regular returning player from last season. But Calipari also brought in a couple of veteran transfers in seven-footer Olivier Sarr who was a third-team All-ACC player for Wake Forest last season along with Davion Mintz who scored 9.7 PPG for Creighton two years ago. Kansas will be at a size disadvantage in this game as they were against Gonzaga who shot 64.5% against them while retaining a +9 rebound edge against the Jayhawks. Kansas may be due for a letdown as they have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 19 games after a win by at least 15 points — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 straight games after a win by at least 20 points. This Kansas team was poised to make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament last year — but they lost their top two players from that team in Devon Dotson and Udoka Azubuike who accounted for 31.8 PPG. This Jayhawks team lacks a go-to scorer. And while this remains a very good team, the elite talent that Bill Self has been able to attract in the past is starting to thin out given the toll of years of NCAA investigations. Gonzaga simply outclassed them — so much so, that some experts are describing that Bulldogs team as one of the best collegiate teams in the last ten years. Maybe … but they have played two games together, so let’s not overreact.

FINAL TAKE: Kansas may win this game — but Calipari will have his team ready to play their best game of the season.  The Wildcats have covered the point spread in 37 of their last 56 games on a neutral court with the Total set in the 140s — and the Jayhawks have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 23 games with the over/under in the 140 to 149.5 point range. 25* CBB Champions Classic Game of the Year with the Kentucky Wildcats (627) plus the points versus the Kansas Jayhawks (628). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Monday, we will be playing the Mississippi State Bulldogs (872) minus the points versus the Texas State Bobcats (871). THE SITUATION: Mississippi State (0-2) remained winless this season after losing to Liberty on a neutral court in Melbourne, Florida last Thursday as a 4.5-point favorite. Texas State (2-0) remained unbeaten after their 75-63 win over Texas A&M Corpus Christi yesterday.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLDOGS MINUS THE POINTS: Mississippi State needs a win after losing both their games in Florida last week — they also lost to a solid Clemson team. The Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 9 of their last 12 games after a straight-up loss. They have also covered the point spread in 17 of their 22 games after a double-digit loss under head coach Ben Howland. And while they did not cover the point spread in either of those games, they have then covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games after not covering the point spread in two straight games. Rowland led a team that won their third-straight 20-win season last year but the decision of sophomore Robert Woodard to go pro left this team in rebuilding mode. This is a sophomore-laden group with talent that should continue to improve. Tolu Smith, a 6’10 sophomore transfer from Western Kentucky, has averaged 16.0 PPG while adding 9.5 Rebounds-Per-Game. Sophomore guard D.J. Stewart has added 16.0 PPG along with 3.0 Assists-Per-Game. This young team should benefit from the weekend of practice under Howland after their initial two games in Florida. Mississippi State has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games at home — and they have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 home games when favored by 6.5 to 9 points. Additionally, the Bulldogs have covered the point spread in 40 of their last 61 home games with the Total listed in the 135 to 139.5 point range. Mississippi State has also covered the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60%. Texas State faces a challenging travel day playing without rest — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games when playing their second game in three days. Additionally, the Bobcats have failed to cover the point spread in 10 of their last 15 games after a win on the road — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 12 of their last 16 games after a point spread win. This will be this team’s toughest test of the season after opening their season with a win against the private schoool University of Mary Hardin-Baylor. Texas State has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games on the road.

FINAL TAKE: In addition to the situational edge the Bulldogs have for this game having been at home all weekend before hosting this game, they also have a big edge in coaching. Terrence Johnson is the Bobcats’ interim head coach after Danny Kaspar was let go in September after the revelation of several racially-charged comments to his team over the years. No offense to Johnson, but Howland has a significant experience edge who has had extra preparation time for this game — and he needs the win. 25* College Basketball Game of the Month with the Mississippi State Bulldogs (872) minus the points versus the Texas State Bobcats (871). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:00 PM ET on Sunday, we will be playing the South Florida Bulls (822) plus the points versus the Virginia Tech Hokies (821). THE SITUATION: South Florida (2-0) looks to bounce back from an 84-68 loss to Rhode Island as a 1.5-point underdog on Saturday. Virginia Tech (2-0) comes off a triumphant 81-73 upset victory over Villanova as a 9-point underdog yesterday. This game will be played on a neutral court at the Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.

REASONS TO TAKE THE BULLS PLUS THE POINTS: I expect a big emotional letdown from the Hokies after pulling off the big upset over a top-five ranked team in the nation. Virginia Tech pulled a similar upset against Michigan State last year on a neutral court as well. They followed up that game flat for their next three games with a 27-point loss on a neutral court to Dayton followed by a 13-point loss on a neutral court against BYU and then a 14-point loss at home against Duke. As it is, the Hokies have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 6 of their last 8 games after a point spread victory. Additionally, Virginia Tech has failed to cover the point spread in 7 of their last 9 games as a favorite. South Florida should respond with a strong effort as they are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 games after a point spread win. The Bulls were a young team that finished 14-17 for head coach Brian Gregory — and they were without then-sophomore Alexis Yetna who was out the season with an injury. Yetna was the American Athletic Conference Freshmen of the Year two years ago with a 12.3 PPG scoring average along with a 9.6 Rebounds-Per-Game mark. Yetna is back with this team. South Florida is 6-2-1 ATS in their last 9 games against teams with a winning record — and they are 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games as a dog.

FINAL TAKE: The Bulls have covered the point spread in 7 of their last 10 games played on a neutral court. Look for them to catch a flat Hokies team in what should be a close game. 10* CBB Sunday Late Show Bailout with the South Florida Bulls (822) plus the points versus the Virginia Tech Hokies (821). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 8:30 PM ET on Friday, we will be playing the Kansas State Wildcats (158) plus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (157). THE SITUATION: Kansas State (0-1) looks to rebound from an 80-70 loss at home to Drake as a 4.5-point favorite on Wednesday. Colorado (1-0) won their opening game of the season with their 84-61 thumping of South Dakota on Wednesday in Manhattan.

REASONS TO TAKE THE WILDCATS PLUS THE POINTS: Bettors and pundits are down on Kansas State right now with them returning only contributors from the group that was just 11-22 last season. The Wildcats have also been hit with COVID cases which has limited their ability to practice. Expect this team to get plenty out of their game and subsequent practices under head coach Bruce Weber after their loss on Wednesday. Kansas State has covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a double-digit loss at home. They also have covered the point spread in 5 of their last 8 games when playing with just one day of rest. Weber has brought in eight newcomers on the roster. He should get the most out of his roster. The Wildcats have covered the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games as an underdog — and they have covered the point spread in 16 of their last 24 home games as an underdog getting 3.5 to 6 points. Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 6 straight games after a straight-up win — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 games after a point spread victory. Additionally, the Buffaloes have failed to cover the point spread in 14 of their last 19 road games after earning a win on the road. Head coach Tad Boyle has three starters back from the group that finished 21-11 last season. But Boyle’s teams have failed to cover the point spread in 4 of their last 5 road games against teams with a winning percentage of 40% or less at home — and they have failed to cover the point spread in 15 of their last 20 road games as a favorite.

FINAL TAKE: Kansas State has covered the point spread in 6 of their last 7 games against teams with a winning percentage over 60% — and Colorado has failed to cover the point spread in 8 of their last 9 games against teams with a losing record. Look for the Wildcats to play much better with a game under their belts. 10* CBB Friday Late Show Bailout with Kansas State Wildcats (158) plus the points versus the Colorado Buffaloes (157). Best of luck for us — Frank.

At 10:30 PM ET on Wednesday, we will be playing Under the Total in the game between the UCLA Bruins (385) and the San Diego State Aztecs (386). THE SITUATION: UCLA (0-0) returns all five starters that were 19-12 before play was stopped in March due to COVID. San Diego State (30-2) lost three starters including All-American point guard Malachi Flynn who was drafted in the first round by Toronto from the group that was 30-2 before the stoppage.

REASONS TO TAKE UNDER THE TOTAL: I am cautious in these early college basketball games — especially on the opening day during a pandemic. But with the Bruins returning five starters from last year’s team, I am more comfortable relying on the statistics from last year. UCLA was more-and-more beginning to look like Mick Cronin’s teams at Cincinnati who played hard-nosed defense while crashing the glass on offense at a moderate (at best) pace. While the Bruins ranked 100th in the nation in Adjusted Defensive Efficiency, Cronin had his team playing as the 43rd best defensive team in adjusted efficiency in their final ten games. UCLA was not a great offensive team last season either — they ranked 206th in the nation with their 69.3 PPG scoring average while ranking 230th in the nation with an effective field goal percentage of 48.4%. They only made 32.2% of their 3-pointers as well which was 226th in the country. The Bruins were pulling down 34.5% of their missed shots which was 21st in the nation — but the Aztecs usually do a good job of protecting their defensive rim which is a foundation of the program that head coach Brian Dutcher has continued from being the long-time assistant here to Steve Fisher. San Diego State held their opponents to rebounding only 25.4% of their missed shot last year. UCLA has played 34 of their last 45 road games Under the Total with the number set in the 130-139.5 point range — and those numbers tightened to them playing 18 of their last 24 road games Under the Total with the number in the 130-134.5 point range. San Diego State has played 5 of their last 6 games Under the Total at home. Additionally, the Aztecs have played 11 of their last 14 games Under the Total as an underdog — and they have played a decisive 21 of their last 26 home games Under the Total as an underdog at home. Dutcher gets back his 6’10 sophomore rim protector Nathan Mensah this season after he only played 13 games last year before going on the shelf with a blood clot issue. San Diego State held their opponents to just 56.3 PPG when Mensah was healthy — and that number rose to 61.3 PPG after his injury.

FINAL TAKE: The California programs had the least amount of time to practice given state COVID restrictions. I think this dynamic will exacerbate the weaknesses for these California teams early in the season — and that means that the UCLA and San Diego State offensive attacks are likely to be a step or two behind. 25* CBB CBS Sports Network Total of the Month with Under the Total in the game between the UCLA Bruins (385) and the San Diego State Aztecs (386). Best of luck for us — Frank.