NCAA Tournament: First Round - Friday
Photo Credit: USA Today
NCAA Tournament ATS: 5-5 (-0.56 Units) & ML: 2-3 (+0.15 Units)
Betting 1 Unit to Win X - shop the best line
11:15AM CT: Baylor Bears vs. Mississippi State Bulldogs -1.5; Total 145.5
Both of these teams are similar in how they rank across all key categories. Mississippi State will hold a significant edge in rebounding. Baylor struggles with one of the weakest three-point defenses in the nation. If MSU heats up from long range, it could spell serious trouble for Baylor. I favor MSU’s physicality and experience. They’ll need strong offensive performances from Josh Hubbard, Kugel, and Melendez, particularly if they can sink their three-pointers.
Play: Mississippi State -1.5 (-110) [via BetOnline]
1PM CT: Colorado State Rams -1 vs. Memphis Tigers; Total 147.5
I understand CSU made about 50 three pointers against Boise State in the MWC Championship but now they are favored against Memphis? I’m not buying it. Mountain West schools have been getting railed. I thought that would change with Utah State but nope. Memphis was hot to start the season and finished strong as AAC Champions. I like Memphis here along with their experience and size.
Play: Memphis +1.5 (-101) [via BetOnline]
2:15PM CT: Vanderbilt Commadores vs. St. Mary’s Gaels -4.5; Total 136
I think the SEC has another rude awakening. This Saint Mary’s team plays great defense and is one of the best in the country. The Gaels don’t shoot the three well but Vandy is worse from three. St. Mary’s should be able to clamp down on this Vandy offense as well.
Play: St. Mary’s -4.5 (-115) [via BetOnline]
3:00PM CT: North Carolina Tar Heels -1 vs. Ole Miss; Total 155.5
North Carolina proved their good is pretty damn good against San Diego State. Ole Miss has a veteran team but not many with tournament experience. Will the SEC have another let down? Carolina also had an extra day of rest. The Ole Miss offense has been known to go cold as well. What surprised me the most was how well Carolina played defense. If they play with that same type of intensity, they will be successful. I like the Tar Heels who have a ton of momentum going right now.
Play: North Carolina -1 (-115) [via BetOnline]
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