The best reason to side with the under may just be that Saint Joe’s and VCU both played in tournaments games as their last outings. The posted total is about 143, and both Davidson-Saint Joe’s and Duquesne-VCU finished with under 140 combined points. Saint Joe’s won 70-58 vs. Davidson on Friday (128 combined points), and VCU won 71-66 vs. Duquesne (137). Both teams just went through the grind of tighter, more deliberate tournament play that typically leads to lower scoring.

I also like the under due to this being a rematch of a regular season meeting on January 19 that finished with VCU’s 79-72 win and total of 151. However, that game was played on VCU’s home court and in a typical regular-season context. Saturday is neutral floor in Pittsburgh and an Atlantic 10 semifinal, so there is more incentive for both coaches to slow things down and limit their rotation. Possessions should be more valuable in this game.

The fact that both teams are pretty good doesn’t hurt the under either. VCU comes in at 25-7 and Saint Joe’s is 22-10, so there is no bad team expected to get blown out and let it all hang out here. Saint Joe’s just held Davidson to 58 points, while VCU held Duquesne to 66. Both defenses should be in form. 

Take the UNDER here on Saturday. 

Jim's Play: Take: 607. Saint Joe's/ VCU UNDER

NC State and Virginia have a decent UNDER case tonight due to the total ranging from 151.5 to 152.5 points. That is a large number for any game in Charlottesville when Virginia can control tempo for extended stretches. A lot of betting previews have the game being listed in that neighborhood already so the market is anticipating points scored which creates potential value on the under if the game plays even slightly slower than advertised.

The best reason to expect an under is game environment and game script. This game is at John Paul Jones Arena and Virginia is favored by about 5.5 to 6.5 points. Those two factors usually lead to a game script where Virginia tries to dictate pace, force NC State to execute in the half court, and avoid playing in a track meet. Virginia getting a lead also helps the under because it lengthens possessions and limits transition opportunities for the team falling behind.

NC State also offers up some situational reasons to go under. The Wolfpack just played in a highly emotional rivalry game where they blewout North Carolina. In that game, they played one of their best of the season and shot the ball extremely well while only turning the ball over four times. NC State will have a hard time matching that level of offensive efficiency right away on the road against a ranked opponent and even a slight decrease in shooting percentages can matter against a low 150s total.

While a lot of previews mention Virginia’s improved offense and propensity to score more points than previous UVA teams, that is exactly why the total is getting pushed up to where it is. If either team goes into a cold shooting slump from three or Virginia’s defense forces NC State into late-clock situations, this game could end up in the 74-70 / 75-71 neighborhood and stay under most posted totals.

Jim's Play: 615. NC St/Virginia UNDER 

Florida Atlantic University and North Texas under is one I like because the total has actually hovered around 140.5 for this game throughout the week. UNT games have a tendency to come down to defense and tempo control/tough half-court possessions, especially at home. I’ve seen several previews list UNT as a small favorite with a 140.5 total in Denton. Why is that detail important for an under bet? Simply because UNT’s game doesn’t exactly revolve around putting up crazy numbers. They have proved to be far better at preventing points than facilitating them (UNT is allowing 66.6 points per game, which ranks top-25 nationally in one publication). FAU does score more points, but they have also been less consistent on the defensive end and away from home. Games often slow down on the road against disciplined teams that force you to execute in the half-court. Bottom line: The offenses aren’t great enough on both sides to push well past 140. Last angle: venue/style of play. North Texas at home has turned plenty of games into defensive phone-booth fights throughout their wins in Denton the past few seasons. Even if you’ve read some handicap previews for this matchup, they too mention what likely will be a defensive battle in the Super Pit. Limit turnovers, limit FAU’s fast-break opportunities and force the Owls to score over a set defense and this game has a chance to stay in the 60s/low 70s on both sides of the ball and stay UNDER the posted number.

Jim's Play: 859. FAU/North Texas UNDER

This is a nice matchup for an Over around 154.5, as Arkansas State plays with pace and scores points while South Alabama’s offensive trademarks (efficiency, free throws) can provide floor coverage during potential droughts. Arkansas State scores 83.3 points per game while ALSO allowing 78.0 points per game per their opponents, which is exactly the defensive profile you look for when conference games turn into shootouts with both squads hitting shots. South Alabama scores right at 74 points per game while shooting 46.9% from the field, so they don’t have to grind down the shot clock to find buckets. Another strong “Over” indicator in this game is free throws. Arkansas State makes 18.6 free throws per game (and South Alabama is good at drawing fouls too) which can help elevate the total late with “clock-stop” points even in the event of one team struggling from beyond the arc. Throw in South Alabama’s defense allows plenty of three-point attempts (teams shoot 35.2%) and Arkansas State makes threes at a high volume (8.6 made per game), and you’ve got a game with the potential for quick scores. With the total sitting in the mid-150s and recent meetings providing at least SOME shootout ability (one game went OVER 95 points last season at 95-78), I feel like the safest way to the Over is Arkansas State playing with pace and South Alabama responding with enough efficiency to keep both teams in the 80s/70s.

Jim's Play: 815. Arkansas State/ S0.Alabama OVER

Washington State travels to Seattle U Tuesday, Dec. 30, 2025 (7:00 p.m. PT) at Climate Pledge Arena. The total is sitting in the mid-to-high 140s (about 147.5) which feels a little rich for how this one can play out.  The biggest “Under” angle is tempo/shot quality: Seattle plays on the slow side (67.7 possessions/40) and tends to draw opponents into long, methodical half-court possessions, while Washington State is faster than Seattle but not a true track meet (71.4 possessions/40). From there, you’re hoping Seattle’s defense can keep WSU out of rhythm (the Redhawks are allowing about 69.1 points per game) and WSU’s offense can leave points on the table with empty possessions in a road environment. Put it together and you get a game script where possessions are a little tighter than the total suggests, both teams have to earn looks late in the clock and the “easy” points (transition, quick threes, second-chance runouts) aren’t as plentiful, good ingredients for an Under.

Jim's Play: 649. Wash St/Seattle UNDER 

Cy-Hawk continues with a Thursday night meeting, which bodes well for an under and lower-scoring affair. Iowa has offensive reputation and identity but the Hawkeyes rarely play at the same level of pace and efficiency away from Iowa City against a tough and engaged defense like Iowa State. The Cyclones under T.J. Otzelberger have relied on full court pressure, toughness and half-court defense to grind possessions, forcing opponents to burn their shot clock for difficult looks. That’s a style that bodes well for an under: clean transition opportunities at a premium for Iowa, more time for the opponent with each possession and a premium on every trip. Meanwhile, Iowa State’s offense has been more functional than explosive in the first half of the season, relying on offensive rebounds, free throws and opportunistic threes more than a barrage of shot-making. In a rivalry game, you also have to assume both coaches tighten their rotations, prioritize shot selection and ball security and play a slower tempo to keep the other team from making a big run. Add in crowd atmosphere and physicality that typically comes with this in-state rivalry and a whistle that should allow some contact and you have the makings of a defensive, half-court affair that favors the under.

Jim's Play: 677. Iowa / Iowa State UNDER 

Santa Clara and New Mexico meet on Saturday in a matchup that has a good chance to land under the total because of both teams’ defensive tendencies and how they like to operate in the half court. New Mexico usually gets the reputation of a fast, athletic Mountain West team, but in recent seasons they’ve been more selective with their tempo, working through their primary scorers in set actions rather than trying to run for 40 minutes. Santa Clara, meanwhile, typically plays a more methodical West Coast Conference style, relying on solid spacing, ball movement, and inside-out offense rather than constant transition. That approach often leads to longer possessions, a lot of time used on the shot clock, and fewer total trips up and down the floor.

On the defensive end, both sides have the personnel to make life difficult. Santa Clara generally brings good size on the wings and a capable rim protector, which helps them contest threes and funnel drives into traffic. New Mexico’s guards can pressure the ball and disrupt rhythm, forcing opponents into late-clock looks and limiting easy catch-and-shoot opportunities. In a game where both coaches know they’re facing a quality opponent, you can expect more emphasis on shot selection, taking care of the ball, and limiting transition chances, rather than trading early-clock threes. If this turns into the type of physical, half-court battle it projects to be, with both teams having to work for clean looks and rely on their defense to stay in it, the pace and efficiency combination points more toward a modest final score and the game staying under the posted total.

Jim's Play: 729. Santa Clara/New Mexico UNDER

After a long college basketball season that started back in November, we have finally arrived at the NCAA Championship game between Houston and Florida.  The 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball National Championship features a compelling clash between two No. 1 seeds: the Florida Gators (35-4) and the Houston Cougars (35-4). Both teams showcased resilience in the Final Four, each mounting significant comebacks to secure their spots in the title game. Florida overcame a nine-point deficit to defeat Auburn 79-73, while Houston rallied from a 14-point shortfall to edge out Duke 70-67. The Cougars were down 11 points with under two minutes to play and had that improbable comeback late. Florida boasts a potent offense, averaging 85 points per game this season. Senior guard Walter Clayton Jr. has been instrumental, delivering back-to-back 30-point performances in the Elite Eight and Final Four, a feat last achieved by Larry Bird in 1979. The Gators demonstrated grit, notably overcoming a 10-point deficit with under six minutes remaining against Texas Tech in the Elite Eight. Houston prides itself on a stifling defense, leading the nation by allowing just 58 points per game. Graduate guard L.J. Cryer has been pivotal, scoring 26 points against Duke, including crucial free throws in the final moments. The Cougars' path has been marked by resilience, highlighted by their dramatic comeback against Duke, closing the game on a 9-0 run.  Florida's Offense vs. Houston's Defense: The Gators' high-scoring offense, led by Clayton Jr., will be tested against the Cougars' top-ranked defense. Houston's ability to contain Clayton will be crucial. Both teams excel in rebounding. Florida ranks fifth nationally in offensive rebounding percentage (38.9%), while Houston's physicality under the boards has been a hallmark. This championship showdown promises an exhilarating battle between Florida's dynamic offense and Houston's formidable defense. Both teams have displayed remarkable resilience throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a memorable conclusion to the 2025 NCAA Men's Basketball season. This game looks to be a great defensive battle and as such I'm taking the UNDER tonight in this contest.

The stage is set for a thrilling Final Four clash between two of college basketball’s elite programs: the Houston Cougars and the Duke Blue Devils. It’s a showdown of contrasting styles—Duke’s offensive firepower meets Houston’s lockdown defense. Duke enters the contest boasting the most efficient offense in the nation. Leading the charge is freshman phenom Cooper Flagg, who’s been sensational throughout the season, averaging 18.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, 4.2 assists, 1.4 steals, and 1.3 blocks per game. Supporting him is fellow freshman Kon Knueppel, a reliable scorer with 14.4 points per game and a 40.1% shooting clip from three-point range. Houston counters with the nation’s top-ranked defense and an elite 3-point shooting percentage (39.7%). Senior guard L.J. Cryer leads the way offensively with 15.4 points per game, hitting nearly 42% of his shots from deep. Junior guard Emanuel Sharp adds 12.7 points per game, giving Houston multiple perimeter threats. Cooper Flagg vs. Joseph Tugler: This battle in the paint is one to watch. Flagg will be tested by Joseph Tugler, a strong, physical defender with a massive 7-foot-6 wingspan. Tugler's defensive presence could disrupt Flagg’s rhythm and alter Duke’s offensive flow. Both teams are lethal from long range. Houston features sharp-shooters like Milos Uzan (44.5%), Cryer (41.9%), and Sharp (41.5%). On the other side, Duke counters with Tyrese Proctor (41.2%) and Knueppel. Whichever team can get hot from beyond the arc may swing the momentum. Duke is averaging close to 92 points per game during the tournament, showcasing explosive scoring capabilities. Houston, however, has held opponents to just 56.5 points per game over its four tournament victories. This is a textbook matchup between offensive firepower and defensive grit. Duke’s Defense is No Slouch. While known for its explosive offense, Duke also ranks among the top defensive teams in the country, giving up only 62.6 points per game—seventh nationally. Their ability to limit second-chance opportunities and contest shots effectively adds another layer of resistance. Houston thrives on a deliberate, methodical tempo that limits the number of possessions per game. They prefer to grind games out in the half court, emphasizing defensive execution and forcing opponents into uncomfortable offensive sets. This slower pace often keeps scoring totals down, even against more potent offenses. Both teams are great defensively and I look or Houston to do it's best to slow this game down and not get into a run and gun shootout. Take the UNDER.

The stage is set for a high-octane SEC showdown as the Florida Gators and the Auburn Tigers battle for a spot in the national championship game. Both teams have had dominant seasons and bring explosive offenses and disciplined coaching into this Final Four matchup. Under head coach Todd Golden, Florida posted a 34-4 record and finished second in the SEC. The Gators are one of the nation’s most potent offensive teams, averaging 85.4 points per game, good for fourth nationally. Senior guard Walter Clayton Jr. has been the engine of their attack, averaging 18.1 points and 4.2 assists per game. Led by veteran coach Bruce Pearl, Auburn compiled a 32-5 record and won the SEC regular-season title. They average 83.2 points per game (12th nationally) and are anchored by dominant forward Johni Broome, who averages 18.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks per contest. Florida holds a slight edge on offense, averaging 85.4 points to Auburn’s 83.2. Auburn allows 69.2 points per game, slightly better than Florida’s 69.7. 

The Tigers have shown exceptional consistency on the defensive end, allowing 70 points or fewer in all six of their SEC and NCAA Tournament games leading up to the Final Four. Their ability to control tempo and limit quality looks has been a major factor in their postseason success. Florida ranks among the nation’s best in defending both the two-point and three-point shot. Their perimeter defense makes it difficult for opponents to get hot from deep, and their length inside challenges finishes at the rim. The game will be played at the Alamodome, a large football stadium converted for basketball. These types of venues can affect shooting accuracy due to unusual sightlines and depth perception issues, especially on three-point attempts. In high-pressure games like the Final Four, teams often emphasize defensive execution and deliberate offensive sets over fast-break scoring. That leads to fewer possessions and lower-scoring outcomes, especially in the early stages of the game when nerves are high. Both teams proved they can play defense and with the stadium being a converted football stadium and the stakes at hand, I'm sticking with the UNDER here today. 

Take : UNDER the Total

The UCF Knights and the Cincinnati Bearcats are set to clash in the quarterfinals of the College Basketball Crown tournament on Thursday, April 3, 2025, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The UCF Knights (18-16) secured their spot in the quarterfinals with a narrow 76-75 victory over Oregon State. In that game, three players—Tyler Hendricks, Nils Machowski, and Darius Johnson—each contributed 15 points. Notably, leading scorer Keyshawn Hall, who averages 18.8 points per game, did not participate in the matchup against Oregon State. The Cincinnati Bearcats (19-15) advanced by defeating DePaul 83-61 in their opening game of the tournament. Cincinnati showcased a balanced offense with six players scoring in double figures, led by Dillon Mitchell's 15 points and seven rebounds. UCF averages 79.2 points per game, shooting 42.4% from the field and 33.8% from three-point range. Cincinnati averages 70.9 points per game with a field goal percentage of 44.8% and 32% from beyond the arc. Knights allow an average of 80 points per game, while the Bearcats have a stronger defensive record, conceding 65.6 points per game. Cincinnati has dominated recent matchups, winning the last five games against UCF. Their most recent encounter was on February 5, 2025, where the Bearcats triumphed 93-83. I expect much the same this time around as we should see plenty of points scored in this contest. Play the OVER.

The 2025 NCAA Tournament’s South Regional Final brings a high-stakes clash between two powerhouse programs as the No. 2 seed Michigan State Spartans face off against the No. 1 seed Auburn Tigers on Sunday in Atlanta. Tip-off is set for 5:05 PM ET at State Farm Arena, and a trip to the Final Four in San Antonio is on the line. Michigan State Spartans (30-6) under Tom Izzo has once again led his Spartans deep into March, relying on a disciplined, defense-first approach. Michigan State has allowed just over 67 points per game this season while holding opponents to 40% shooting from the field. Offensively, they average 78 points per game, with solid ball movement and efficient perimeter play. Freshman guard Jase Richardson has emerged as a clutch performer, dropping 20 points in the Sweet 16 win over Ole Miss. Tyson Walker and A.J. Hoggard provide veteran leadership in the backcourt, while Malik Hall anchors the frontcourt with grit and experience. The Auburn Tigers (31-5) led by Bruce Pearl. The Tigers have ridden a high-octane offense to the brink of the Final Four. Auburn averages nearly 84 points per game, powered by a deep and athletic rotation. In their Sweet 16 comeback win over Michigan, the Tigers showed resilience behind Johni Broome’s 22 points and 16 rebounds. Guards Denver Jones and freshman sensation Tahaad Pettiford have given Auburn perimeter scoring punch, while their defense has held opponents to under 70 points per contest. Auburn also boasts one of the nation’s top shot-blocking teams, averaging six swats per game. Both teams are battle-tested. Michigan State thrives in gritty, close games, while Auburn can explode offensively in spurts. Whichever team dictates pace will hold the upper hand. Expect a physical, tightly contested battle with shifting momentum. Michigan State’s defense will slow Auburn’s tempo early, but the Tigers’ athleticism and depth may wear down the Spartans over 40 minutes. This looks to be a grind out game with every point being important. I'm taking the UNDER. 

The Midwest Region's Elite Eight matchup features the No. 2 seed Tennessee Volunteers (30–7) against the No. 1 seed Houston Cougars (33–4). Both teams are renowned for their defensive prowess and disciplined playstyles, setting the stage for a highly competitive battle with a Final Four berth at stake. Tennessee Volunteers are 30–7 under Head Coach Rick Barnes. Tennessee secured their Elite Eight spot by defeating Kentucky 78–65, showcasing their defensive strength and balanced scoring. Houston is 33–4 under Head Coach Kelvin Sampson. Houston advanced by narrowly edging out Purdue 62–60, demonstrating resilience and clutch performance in critical moments. Houston allows 88.0 points per 100 possessions. Tennessee allows 89.3 points per 100 possessions. Houston averages 123.4 points per 100 possessions. Tennessee averages 121.1 points per 100 possessions. Pace of play: Houston 61.6 possessions per 40 minutes. Tennessee: 63.7 possessions per 40 minutes. Both teams exhibit elite defenses and methodical offensive approaches, often resulting in low-scoring, possession-controlled games. Tennessee Volunteers: Zakai Zeigler (Guard): Instrumental in the Sweet 16 victory over Kentucky with 18 points and 10 assists, Zeigler's playmaking and defensive tenacity are vital for Tennessee's success. Chaz Lanier (Guard): Contributed 17 points against Kentucky, providing a reliable scoring option from the perimeter. Felix Okpara (Center): Anchors the defense with shot-blocking ability and added 11 rebounds in the previous game, effectively controlling the paint. Houston Cougars: L.J. Cryer (Guard): Averaging 15.3 points per game, Cryer's scoring prowess and experience are crucial for Houston's offensive rhythm. Milos Uzan (Guard): Delivered a game-high 22 points, including the game-winning layup against Purdue, showcasing his clutch performance under pressure. Jamal Shead (Guard): Provides leadership and stability in the backcourt, facilitating the offense and contributing defensively. This Elite Eight clash is anticipated to be a defensive battle, with both teams excelling in limiting opponents' scoring opportunities. Houston's slight edge in offensive efficiency and superior three-point shooting (39.8%) could be pivotal. This looks to be a close game and slow pace. I'm taking UNDER as my Elite 8 Total of the Year. 

The Elite Eight clash between the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils and No. 2 seed Alabama Crimson Tide is set for Saturday night at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, with tipoff at 8:49 p.m. ET. Duke comes in with a 34-3 record, driven by an efficient and balanced roster. Freshman sensation Cooper Flagg has led the way, averaging 19 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game. His performance in the Sweet 16 — 30 points, six rebounds, seven assists, and three blocks — was nothing short of elite, proving he’s built for March. Alabama (28-8) brings one of the most potent offenses in the country, fresh off a 113-88 win over BYU where they set an NCAA Tournament record with 25 made three-pointers. Senior guard Mark Sears exploded for 34 points, hitting 10 from beyond the arc. Alabama’s experience and tempo-heavy attack make them a unique threat. The defining battle could be between Duke’s top-ranked two-point defense (holding opponents to 43.2%) and Alabama’s explosive two-point offense (converting 60.1%). Another critical factor will be Alabama’s outside shooting against Duke’s strong perimeter defense, which has limited opponents to around 30% from deep. Duke leads the all-time series 8-3 and has won seven straight matchups against Alabama. However, these teams haven’t met since 2013, and both programs have evolved significantly since then. This game pits Duke’s polished, defensive-minded approach against Alabama’s free-flowing, high-octane offense. The outcome may depend on whether Duke can limit Alabama’s three-point barrage and slow down their pace. Either way, this one has all the makings of a classic.  I look for both teams to dictate the pace at times. And as such, I'm expecting this game to get enough points to go over the total. 

The No. 1 seed Florida Gators face off against the No. 3 seed Texas Tech Red Raiders in a high-stakes Elite Eight showdown at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Tipoff is scheduled for 6:09 p.m. ET. Florida rides into this game on a nine-game win streak, including a dominant 87-71 Sweet 16 victory over Maryland. The Gators showed off their depth with six players scoring in double figures and a +18 margin on the glass. They’ve been one of the tournament’s most efficient offensive teams, averaging 85.4 points per game heading into the round. Florida’s success comes from balance — several players are shooting 35.7% or better from beyond the arc — and a stingy defense that has held opponents to just 25.8% shooting from deep during the tournament. Texas Tech punched their ticket to the Elite Eight with an 85-83 overtime comeback win over Arkansas, erasing a 16-point deficit. JT Toppin, Darrion Williams, and Christian Anderson combined for 62 points, carrying the Red Raiders through a nail-biting finish. However, Texas Tech’s outside shooting has dipped in the tournament. They’ve connected on just 25.0% of their three-point attempts, down from a season average of 36.7%. The possible absence of guard Chance McMillian due to an oblique injury could also impact their rotation. The spotlight will be on how Texas Tech’s offense handles Florida’s elite defense. Florida ranks second in adjusted offensive efficiency (129.2 points per 100 possessions) and ninth in adjusted defensive efficiency (92.9 points allowed per 100 possessions). One key battle will be at point guard: Elijah Hawkins for Texas Tech vs. Walter Clayton Jr. for Florida. Whoever controls the pace and tempo could shift the game’s direction dramatically.  Florida is an offensive machine and I don't see anyone keeping them down. Tech will have to keep pace or get blowout on Saturday. I'm taking OVER.

The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament's Sweet 16 features the No. 3 seed Texas Tech Red Raiders and the No. 10 seed Arkansas Razorbacks on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Chase Center in San Francisco. Tip-off is scheduled for 10:09 PM ET, with television coverage on TBS and truTV. Texas Tech Red Raiders (27-8) have showcased a strong offense throughout the season, ranking fifth nationally in offensive efficiency. They possess a balanced attack, capable of scoring both inside and from the perimeter. Notably, forward J.T. Toppin has been a dominant presence in the paint, averaging 18.1 points and 9.3 rebounds per game. In their recent victory over Drake, Toppin recorded a double-double with 25 points and 12 rebounds. Arkansas Razorbacks (22-13) have embraced the underdog role, advancing to the Sweet 16 with impressive victories over higher-seeded teams. Their defense has been particularly effective, limiting opponents' shooting percentages and disrupting offensive rhythms. Offensively, Arkansas has been solid but will need to improve their three-point shooting and rebounding to compete effectively against Texas Tech. The Razorbacks' defense will be tested by the Red Raiders' versatile offensive strategies, which can adapt to both interior and perimeter scoring. Containing Toppin in the paint while defending against Texas Tech's three-point shooters will be crucial for Arkansas. Arkansas prefers an up-tempo game, capitalizing on fast breaks and transition opportunities. Conversely, Texas Tech is adept at controlling the tempo, often slowing down the game to execute their half-court offense efficiently. The team that dictates the pace is likely to gain a significant advantage. Red Raiders offense has been formidable and I expect them to control this game today. That will force Arkansas to match them with their up-tempo offense. I'll be on the over in this game today. 

The NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament's Sweet 16 features the No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils and the No. 4 seed Arizona Wildcats on Thursday, March 27, 2025, at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Tip-off is scheduled for 9:39 p.m. ET, with television coverage on CBS. This is a rematch from earlier in the season where Duke prevailed, 69-55. Duke Blue Devils (33-3) have  demonstrated dominance throughout the season, currently on a 13-game winning streak. Their offense is led by standout freshman Cooper Flagg, who has fully recovered from an earlier ankle injury and is expected to play without limitations. They average 83.2 ppg while allowing just 61.7 ppg. The Blue Devils have also benefited from a strategic lineup change, with Sion James replacing Caleb Foster, enhancing their performance significantly. Arizona Wildcats (24-12) have shown resilience, overcoming a 15-point deficit to defeat Oregon 87-83 in the Round of 32. Caleb Love has been a pivotal player, delivering consistent performances and leading the team's offense. Arizona's defense has improved notably, preparing them for the physicality of the NCAA Tournament. Arizona averages 82.2 ppg. These are two of the highest scoring teams in the tournament and as such I'm looking for a pretty good shootout today. I'm taking the OVER. 

The NCAA Tournament continues Thursday with a the high-octane Alabama Crimson Tide and the disciplined BYU Cougars. Both teams have looked sharp in the opening rounds and bring very different styles to the court, setting the stage for a classic clash of pace and precision. BYU Cougars — No. 5 Seed (Big 12) are 25-10 and coming off a win over No. 4 seed Kansas State. The Cougars have ridden their perimeter shooting and disciplined ball movement to reach the Sweet 16 for the first time since 2011. Head coach Mark Pope has this team playing smart, unselfish basketball. BYU ranks among the top teams in the nation in assists and three-point attempts, often stretching defenses thin with five-out lineups. Jaxson Robinson — The senior wing has been electric from deep, averaging over 17 points per game in the tournament and shooting above 40% from three. His ability to hit contested shots and create space will be vital. Alabama Crimson Tide — No. 1 Seed (SEC) are 29-6 and coming off a win over No. 8 seed Texas A&M. The Tide enter the Sweet 16 after rolling through their first two opponents with their signature blend of pace, spacing, and athleticism. Nate Oats’ squad continues to be one of the fastest-paced teams in the country, looking to score early and often with a deep arsenal of shooters and slashers.  Mark Sears — The veteran guard has been the engine of Alabama's offense, combining elite shot-making with excellent vision. His ability to break down BYU’s defense and control tempo will be crucial. Alabama wants to run; BYU wants to control tempo. Alabama has been scoring big in this tournament and BYU might have to open it up a bit here to stay close. I'm taking the OVER here in this Sweet 16 matchup.