2017 NCAA Tournament Betting News and Notes

How to stream March Madness tournament
By The Associated Press

The 67-game March Madness basketball tournament begins Tuesday, with many games taking place during the day when you're, ahem, supposed to be working.

Fortunately for you - but not your bosses - all NCAA Tournament games will be available online. For many of the early round games, though, you'll need a password through your cable or satellite TV subscription. The television networks no longer offer a stand-alone subscription you can buy without cable.

HAPPY STREAMING

The best places to watch: http://www.ncaa.com/marchmadness or the NCAA March Madness Live app. All the games will be there, regardless of where they are televised.

CBS is televising 24 games, including the national championship and the Final Four. These games won't require a cable or satellite password through the app or website, but they are viewable only on phones, tablets and computers - not streaming devices such as Apple TV, Roku or Fire TV.

You'll need a password for the remaining games, which are split among the Turner-owned cable channels - TBS, TNT and truTV. There's a three-hour grace period on most devices. You could get some 40 devices to watch all the games for free, but getting cable service might be cheaper. Streaming devices are OK for watching, but there's no grace period. Games also will be available on individual apps for TBS, TNT and truTV - again with a password.

On desktops and laptops, the March Madness website will have a ''boss button'' on the upper right corner. One click replaces the game with a fake screenshot of a note-taking or PowerPoint-like app.

NO PASSWORD?

Consider subscribing to an online television package.

If you want just the CBS games and don't have an antenna, you can get CBS All Access starting at $6 a month. This service is required to watch CBS games on a streaming TV device. You can time the free week trial to watch the Final Four games on April 1 and the championship on April 3, if that's all you want. Make sure your local station is included. CBS says it has deals covering more than 90 percent of the U.S. population, but that won't help if you're in that 10 percent.

For the Turner channels, you can get Sling TV for $25 a month, DirecTV Now at $35 or PlayStation Vue for $30 or $40, depending on the market. All three offer weeklong trials as well. For Sling TV, get the ''Orange'' package with the ''Comedy Plus Extra'' add-on, or sign up for the ''Blue'' option. Same price either way.

Sony's PlayStation Vue is the only service to offer both Turner and CBS, but only in selected markets. The availability of CBS stations is impressive, compared with other networks, but it's short of what CBS All Access offers. Sony says the 99 CBS stations it has through Vue covers 60 percent of the U.S. population.

KEEPING UP

If you subscribe through PlayStation Vue and have a PlayStation 4 device, you can watch three channels on the same screen at once. This means you can keep up with games being televised simultaneously on different channels, or have a talk show taking up one of the three streams. You choose which stream gets the audio. If you're watching Vue on something other than the PlayStation 4, it's just one game at a time.

The March Madness app on Apple TV offers two games simultaneously, one with audio. You can have multiple browsers open on some devices, or you can just watch simultaneously on a phone and a personal computer.

RAISING THE STAKES

If your office isn't doing a March Madness pool, there are plenty of options online. You can set up your own challenge group with friends, family or co-workers, or you can join an existing public group. Yahoo, for instance, has groups organized around specific schools. ESPN is offering prizes , including a trip to Hawaii.

The NCAA's official bracket challenge promises to integrate links to live video streams from the tournament. There's also an option to award bonus points for correctly picking upsets.

THERE'S MORE

Westwood One's radio coverage of all games will be available through the March Madness app on phones and tablets and the tournament's website on PCs - no password needed. No streaming TV devices. This year, live audio is also available on Amazon Alexa speakers, such as the Echo. Just ask with a voice command.

On desktops and laptops, a shot-chart feature will let you see where players made shots during a game, updated in real time. It's an optional graphical overlay over the live video stream, so you won't miss the action.

On Apple TV, March Madness fans will get a special navigation tool resembling the traditional NCAA bracket. Just click on the matchup you're interested in for stats, highlights and a link to the full game.

Bracket Analysis
By Brian Edwards
VegasInsider.com

This is our favorite column of the year that we drop every Selection Sunday.

It’s called Bracket Analysis. Let’s do it!

The four No. 1 seeds are Gonzaga (West Region), Kansas (Midwest), Villanova (East) and North Carolina (South). The picks of the Bulldogs, Jayhawks and Wildcats were no-brainers, but some felt that Arizona and Duke had cases to be ahead of the Tar Heels, who lost to Duke twice, including Saturday’s setback in the ACC Tournament semifinals. Meanwhile, Sean Miller’s team beat Oregon on Saturday night to win the Pac-12 Tournament.

Speaking of the Ducks, they lost starting center Chris Boucher to a torn ACL in Las Vegas this past weekend. That fact prompted the Selection Committee to drop Oregon to a No. 3 seed when it was probably slated for a No. 2 seed before the injury. Boucher was averaging 11.8 points, 6.1 rebounds and 2.5 assists per game.

Villanova is a top seed for the third time in school history. The Wildcats are looking to repeat as national champions after winning both the Big East regular-season title and the league tournament at MSG in NYC. They’ll get the Wisconsin-Va. Tech winner in the Round of 32, assuming they don’t become the first No. 1 seed to ever fall against a 16 seed.

Jay Wright’s team has these potential foes in the Sweet 16: fourth-seeded Florida, fifth-seeded Virginia, 12-seed UNC-Wilmington or 13th East Tennessee State. The Buccaneers won at Mississippi State and lost by four at Tennessee. They lost by nine at UNC-Wilmington and by 14 at Dayton.

The Gators will certainly have fresh legs after getting beaten by Vanderbilt in the SEC Tournament quarterfinals. They’ll only have to travel 90 minutes to Orlando, the same city where their Final Four run started in the 2014 NCAA Tournament. I think UF will get past the UVA-UNC-W winner, which could certainly be the Seahawks.

That would provide us with a Villanova-Florida showdown in the East Region semifinals at MSG. These teams met in the 2005 and 2006 NCAA Tournaments. The Wildcats won a 76-65 decision in the Round of 32 in ’05, but the Gators exacted revenge in the ’06 Elite Eight by capturing a 75-62 victory on their way to the school’s first national title.

The other portion of the East Region features No. 2 seed Duke, which is fresh off of Saturday’s win over Notre Dame in the ACC Tournament finals. The Blue Devils face the Troy Trojans, who beat Texas State. 59-53 in the Sun Belt Tournament finals. Mike Krzyzewski’s team would face the Marquette-South Carolina survivor if it knocks off Troy.

I think sixth-seeded SMU will make the Sweet 16 by beating Baylor to set up at date with Duke in NYC. I see form holding in the East with Villanova facing Duke in what will be an epic showdown at the best venue possible.

Let’s turn to the Midwest, where Kansas will face the Miami-Michigan State winner. Like Florida, Bill Self’s team will have fresh legs after its Big 12 Tournament quarterfinals loss to TCU. The Jayhawks were playing without one of their best players, freshman sensation Josh Jackson, who was serving a one-game suspension in the loss to Horned Frogs.

If KU gets to the Sweet 16, possible foes include Purdue (4), Vermont (13), Iowa State (5) and Nevada (12). The Cyclones, who won the Big 12 Tournament by dusting West Virginia in Saturday’s finals in Kansas City, are absolutely on fire. They’ve won nine of their last 10 games while going 8-2 ATS. I think ISU gets to the Sweet 16 where it will meet the Jayhawks, who won 76-72 in Ames but lost to the Cyclones at Allen Fieldhouse by a 92-89 count.

Watch out for a potential upset of Purdue by the Catamounts, who own the nation’s longest winning streak. Vermont, the America East champion, haven’t tasted defeat since Dec. 21 in an 81-69 loss at Butler.

The lower part of the Midwest features a dandy of a 7/10 matchup with Michigan taking on Oklahoma State. The Wolverines were the best story of the weekend. The team plane skidded off the runway at the Detroit airport as it was taking off for the Big Ten Tournament in Washington D.C. The terrifying incident left Michigan to catch a flight the next morning at 6:00 a.m. on the day it was playing Illinois.

John Beilein’s team won four games in four days to win the Big Ten Tourney, including scalps of Purdue, Minnesota and Wisconsin. The Wolverines smoked the Badgers 71-56 in Sunday’s finals. They’ll face the Cowboys on Friday in Indianapolis.

Brad Underwood’s team finished strong down the stretch and has a star in Jawun Evans. Also, Oklahoma State has the nation’s best free-throw shooter (Phil Forte) and outstanding players in Jeffrey Carroll and Leyton Hammonds.

The OSU-Michigan winner will likely face second-seeded Louisville, which takes on Jacksonville State. The Cardinals are certainly in danger of getting sent home in the Round of 32.

Now to the South Region, where North Carolina will take on Arkansas or Seton Hall in Greenville. I see the Tar Heels easily advancing to the Sweet 16, where I believe they’ll meet Butler in Memphis.

Memphis could have an influx of bluebloods in two weeks. There’s a strong chance Kentucky, the No. 2 seed, and UCLA, the third seed, will join UNC at FedEx Forum. If the UK-UCLA South Region semifinal matchup materializes (I say it will), it would be a rematch of an early December game when the Bruins went into Rupp Arena as double-digit underdogs and beat UK by a 97-92 count.

I was in Memphis for the South Region semifinals and finals three years ago when Florida beat Dayton in the Elite Eight. The Flyers, the South’s No. 7 seed, could get back to Memphis again with wins over Wichita State and UK (presumably). UCLA was also in Memphis that year, losing to UF in the Sweet 16. The Bruins hope to return with wins over Kent State and, in my opinion, Cincinnati.

If Gregg Marshall’s Shockers can get past Dayton (more on this great coaching matchup below), it will get a rematch with the ‘Cats, who ended their unbeaten season with a thrilling win in the Round of 32 three years ago. To demonstrate how wrong the committee was in placing Wichita State and its 30-4 record as a 10-seed, the Shockers opened as 7.5-point favorites vs. Dayton. The line was down to 6.5 as of Sunday night.

Finally, let’s check out the West that features Gonzaga, Arizona, FSU and West Va. as its top four seeds. There’s also Northwestern as the endless wait for an NCAA bid finally concluded Sunday when the Wildcats were marked as the 8-seed. They’ll take on Vanderbilt, which has won seven of its last nine games while going 8-1 ATS. The NW-Vandy winner will meet Gonzaga. If Gonzaga gets to the West semifinals, I think Notre Dame will be waiting for it.

FSU and Florida Gulf Coast will play a 3/14 game in Orlando. The Seminoles went unbeaten at home this year, but they’ve had all sorts of problems playing on the road and at neutral venues. Leonard Hamilton’s team better be on upset alert. This program hasn’t been to an Elite Eight since 1993 and hasn’t gone to the Final Four since 1972. FSU is in the field for the first time in five years.

I think sixth-seeded Maryland will get to the Sweet 16 with victories over Xavier and the FSU-FGC survivor. The Terrapins will get Arizona in the West semifinals after the Wildcats slip past VCU in a nail-biter.

I think the West is the weakest region and Arizona will beat Notre Dame in the finals to get to the Final Four. If that happens, Sean Miller will finally be able to shake the label of ‘the best coach never to make the Final Four.’

The Westgate SuperBook in Las Vegas has tabbed Duke as the 5/1 ‘chalk’ to win the Tournament. UNC has the second-shortest odds (6/1), followed by Kentucky, Villanova and Kansas, who each have 8/1 odds. The next-shortest odds belong to Gonzaga (10/1), Louisville (12/1), Arizona (12/1), UCLA (12/1) and Oregon (25/1).

B.E.’s Bonus Nuggets

Florida is making its 19th NCAA Tournament appearance. The Gators have been to five Final Fours, eight Elite Eights and three national-title games, winning it all twice. They have a stellar 42-17 overall record in the Tournament.

Best Round of 64 matchups

1-Oklahoma State vs. Michigan
2-Minnesota vs. Middle Tennessee
3-Princeton vs. Notre Dame
4-Dayton vs. Wichita State
5-Northwestern vs. Vanderbilt

Best Coaching Matchups

1-Jim Larranaga (Miami) vs. Tom Izzo (Michigan State)
2-Archie Miller (Dayton) vs. Gregg Marshall (Wichita State)
3-John Beilein (Michigan) vs. Brad Underwood (Oklahoma State)
4-Buzz Williams (Va. Tech) vs. Greg Gard (Wisconsin)
5-Tony Bennett (Virginia) vs. Kevin Keatts (UNC-Wilmington)

I think Gonzaga will be the first No. 1 seed eliminated. The Vanderbilt-Northwestern could pull the trick. If Mark Few’s team makes the Sweet 16, it will go down against either West Virginia or Notre Dame. Granted, the Fighting Irish face a stern test against Princeton, but I think it will find a way to survive and I really like the Irish’s chances to get to a third consecutive Elite Eight. With all that said, Wisconsin is a very dangerous No. 8 seed that has tons of NCAA Tournament experience (and success) from its core group of players. By the way, how the hell are the Badgers an eight seed? I think Villanova will slip past UW, but the Tournament’s No. 1 overall seed shouldn’t have to face a team as good as the Badgers during the first weekend.

Most Dangerous Double-Digit Seeds: Oklahoma State, VCU and Middle Tennessee.

Teams with a No. 5 seed or lower that can get (or stay) hot and win the national title: Iowa State, Michigan, Notre Dame and Oklahoma State.

I suggest buying the following future tickets for small amounts (remember, these teams don’t have to win it all for you to profit, as there will be all sorts of hedge scenarios to ensure making money if these schools advance to the Sweet 16): Iowa State (60/1), Michigan (65/1), Notre Dame (80/1) and Oklahoma State (100/1). (those odds courtesy of Sportsbook.ag as of Sunday night)

Plenty of movement in NCAA Tournament opening round odds
By Patrick Everson
Covers.com

Bust out your brackets, folks. The NCAA Tournament field of 68 is all set, and now the betting boards throughout Nevada and at offshore sportsbooks are bursting with opening lines. Covers checks the numbers on several intriguing games on the Thursday/Friday docket, with insights from Johnny Avello at Wynn Las Vegas, Ed Salmons at the Westgate Las Vegas Superbook and Scott Kaminsky at offshore site TheGreek.com.

No. 12 Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders vs. No. 5 Minnesota Golden Gophers (-2)

Every year, much hay is made about where a 12-5 upset might come from, and this year, many analysts and bettors are on the Middle Tennessee State bandwagon. Winning 10 in a row and 20 of 21 games tends to get people’s attention (15-6 ATS). The Blue Raiders (30-4 SU, 23-10 ATS) rolled through the Conference USA tournament with three victories, all by double digits and all covers, capped by Sunday’s 83-72 title-game win over Marshall as a 10-point favorite.

Minnesota won eight of its last nine regular-season games (7-2 ATS) and reached the Big 10 semifinals. The Gophers (24-9 SU, 19-12 ATS) fell in that tournament’s semifinal, 84-77 catching 4 points against eventual champion Michigan.

The Superbook opened the Gophers at -1, while The Greek posted -1.5 but had to make a move in short order for this 4 p.m. ET Thursday affair in the South Region.
“They took +1.5 on Middle Tennessee State, so I went right to pick,” Kaminsky said. “Middle Tennessee will probably win the game. And that’s not even an upset.”
Added Avello: “I could see the players taking Middle Tennessee.”

Indeed, he opened Minnesota -2 at the Wynn, went to 1.5 very quickly and then to 1.

No. 12 Nevada Wolf Pack vs. No. 5 Iowa State (-7)

Thursday night brings another interesting 12-5 matchup, a 9:57 p.m. ET tipoff in the Midwest Region. Nevada, the Mountain West Conference regular-season and tournament champion, has won nine consecutive games SU and is equally hot ATS, cashing in all nine games. The Wolf Pack (28-6 SU, 23-10-1 ATS) won the MWC final Saturday, 79-71 over Colorado State as a 5.5-point favorite.

Iowa State has been nearly as hot, winning nine of its last 10 while going 8-2 ATS, including a 3-0 SU and ATS run through the Big 12 tournament as the No. 4 seed. The Cyclones (23-10 SU, 18-12 ATS) capped that run with an 80-74 victory over West Virginia as a 4-point underdog in Saturday’s final.

“I liked Nevada, until the Wolf Pack grabbed this matchup,” said Avello, who opened Iowa State -7 and actually saw a little Nevada money bring it down to 6.5. “I think Nevada has had a spectacular year, but this is a bad matchup. This Iowa State team is very athletic, so we’ll see if Nevada can hang with them.”

No. 9 Vanderbilt Commodores vs. No. 8 Northwestern Wildcats (+1)

Northwestern is the NCAA Tournament darling, in the field for the first time in school history. The Wildcats (23-11 SU, 19-12 ATS) got through two games in the Big 10 tournament, but got walloped in Saturday’s semifinals 76-48 catching 4.5 points against Wisconsin. Still, Northwestern is in the NCAAs, opening at 4:30 p.m. ET Thursday in the West Region.

Vanderbilt got two big victories over Florida in less than a week’s time, which helped seal its Big Dance berth. The Commodores (19-15 SU, 20-12 ATS) topped the Gators in the regular-season finale 73-71 getting 3.5 points at home, routed Texas A&M 66-41 giving 3 points to open the SEC tourney, then beat Florida again 72-62 in overtime as a 5.5-point pup in the SEC quarterfinals.

Vandy then fell in the semis, 76-62 as a 3.5-point favorite against Arkansas.

“I don’t like the way Northwestern finished the season,” Avello said of the blowout loss to Wisconsin. “A blowout Big 10 tournament loss, and they’re going against a team that finished pretty well.”

No. 9 Virginia Tech Hokies vs. No. 8 Wisconsin Badgers (-4.5)

Wisconsin struggled late in the regular season, with a 1-5 SU and ATS skid, but closed out with an easy home win over Minnesota, then made a run in the Big 10 tournament. The Badgers (25-9 SU, 15-16 ATS) dropped Indiana and Northwestern to reach Sunday’s final, where they lost to Michigan 71-56 as a 2-point ‘dog.

Virginia Tech won three of its last four regular-season games, then bested Wake Forest 99-90 as a 3-point underdog to open ACC tourney play. The Hokies (22-10 SU, 16-11-1 ATS) then gave Florida State a fair run in the ACC quarterfinals, losing 74-68 as an 8-point pup.

Salmons said the Superbook opened the Badgers at -4.5, and they were bet up to 5 for this 9:40 ET Thursday contest in the East Region.

No. 12 North Carolina-Wilmington Seahawks vs. No. 5 Virginia Cavaliers (-9)

Virginia won four of its last five SU and ATS, including a regular-season victory over North Carolina, one of the NCAA Tournament’s four No. 1 seeds. The Cavaliers (22-10 SU, 18-10 ATS) got a win over Pittsburgh to open the ACC tournament, then lost in the quarterfinals to Notre Dame, 71-58 as a 3.5-point favorite.

UNC-Wilmington, the Colonial Athletic Association champion, has won seven straight and nine of 11. The Seahawks (29-5 SU, 14-15-1 ATS) bested Charleston 78-69 as a 2.5-point chalk in the CAA final on March 6.

“Wilmington is an offensive team, and you’ve got a defensive team in Virginia. Those are the kinds of matchups that are a little bit trickier,” Kaminsky said, noting the Seahawks average 85.2 ppg, while Virginia allows just 55.6 ppg, No. 1 in the country. “In most sports, defense controls the game, so expect Virginia to control the game. It’ll be interesting to see Wilmington try to play a game they’re not used to. It’s gonna be very difficult. Virginia is the better team and will try to dictate the tempo.”

It will be an early start for both teams in this Midwest Region tilt, set for 12:40 p.m. ET on Thursday.

No. 10 Wichita State Shockers vs. No. 7 Dayton Flyers (+7)

Wichita State is arguably the hottest team in the field, as the winner of 15 consecutive games (11-4 ATS) heading into this 7:10 p.m. ET Friday night clash in the South Region. The Shockers won the Missouri Valley Conference tournament, drubbing Illinois State 71-51 in the March 5 final as a 7-point chalk.

Dayton (24-7 SU, 19-10 ATS) made a nine-game late-season surge, which helped offset the fact that it lost its last two games: the regular-season finale at George Washington and, as the Atlantic 10’s No. 1 seed, its tournament opener to No. 9 seed Davidson, 73-67 laying 4 points.

“I just took a good play on Dayton,” Avello said shortly after posting his numbers Sunday night, noting he adjusted the opener from Shockers -7 to -6.5, and later the line went to 6. “The Flyers had a great season, but lost in their tournament. The question was, would they get in? Wichita State has been there many times, they have good tournament experience. I look for that game to stay close.”

Kaminsky is keen on the team with the lesser seed.

“Wichita is a very, very good team,” Kaminsky said, adding The Greek opened the Shockers -6.5, then adjusted down to 6. “Dayton is gonna have to play an exceptional game to win, because Wichita is a solid team.”

No. 10 Oklahoma State Cowboys vs. No. 7 Michigan Wolverines (-1)

Michigan had its team plane slide off the runway in an aborted takeoff en route to the Big Ten tournament, but John Beilein’s troops were flying high by Sunday afternoon. The Wolverines (24-11 SU, 16-16 ATS) entered the conference tourney seeded eighth, then won and cashed four games in four days, capped by a 71-56 victory over Wisconsin getting 2 points.

Oklahoma State (20-12 SU, 16-10-1 ATS) went on a late-season 10-1 SU spree (9-2 ATS), but lost its last three games. That included opening the Big 12 tourney with a 92-83 setback to eventual champ Iowa State, with the Cowboys a 1.5-point favorite.

Salmons said the Superbook opened Michigan -1 for one of the first games on deck Friday, at 12:15 p.m. ET in the Midwest Region. The number remained at -1 late Sunday evening.

No. 9 Michigan State Spartans vs. No. 8 Miami Hurricanes (-2)

Tom Izzo salvaged a subpar Michigan State season by getting his team back into the NCAA Tournament, but will it be a long stay? The Spartans (19-14 SU, 17-15 ATS) lost three of their last four, including a quarterfinal Big 10 setback to Minnesota, 63-58 as a 1.5-point pup.

Miami (21-11 SU, 11-19 ATS) also dropped three of its last four, with the last a bashing at the hands of North Carolina in the ACC quarterfinals, 78-53 getting 8.5 points. Prior to that was when the Hurricanes likely locked in their NCAA bid, with an 8-2 SU run that included home victories over North Carolina and Duke.

“I don’t think Michigan State has a lot of talent, even though the pointspread is very close,” Kaminsky said of this 9:20 p.m. ET Friday start in the Midwest Region. “I think Miami will beat the Spartans.”

NCAA Tournament Team Previews
By Dave Essler

East

Villanova - Last years' champ with a ton of experience, which matters a lot. Butler beat them twice, so there is perhaps the blueprint of a team that will push them. What the Bulldogs have that most other 'Nova opponents didn't is experience. That means not getting flustered if the WIldcats go on a run, which they always do.

Mt. St. Marys - There aren't many conference's worse than the NEC, but there aren't many teams that played a better non-conference schedule than the Mountaineers. They're not going to outrun anyone, and their small, relying on defense more often than not. They'll create some turnover with teams that aren't careful or taking them seriously.

New Orleans – The Southland Champ who although one of the most experienced teams in the nation, and also played a very good non-conference schedule, is probably in big trouble against a running team. That was evidence in the early season losses to Oklahoma State, Tulsa, and USC.

Wisconsin - An up and down and the really down year for the Badgers. They came down the regular season stretch losing five of seven and just weren't a dominant team, especially on the road. They bring a lot of experience, but couldn't defend the perimeter and were perhaps the worst Badger FT shooting team in my memory. And the Sunday game in the Big 10 is very relevant IMO, and defending the perimeter was a problem once again.

Virginia Tech – The Hokies are matched up with the Badgers perhaps BECAUSE they shoot very well from the perimeter. For a perimeter team, V-Tech gets to the line quite a bit and shoots from it well. This is a team that beat Michigan in Ann Arbor, and has a thin bench, which against a slow Badgers’ team won’t be an issue. This all comes down to whether or not the Badgers can score, as V-Tech’s defense isn’t great, but they do play in the ACC which has far more offense to contend with than Wisconsin does.

UNC Wilmington - These guys are another "Winthrop" - play fast, outscore people, and they do not turn the ball over. They gave Duke all they wanted last year in the first round, and have everyone back, so they're a Cinderella candidate for sure.

Virginia – They are what they are without the talent they’ve had in the past. They don’t have Brogdon and Gill which is exactly why we had a GOY on Notre Dame against them in the ACC Tournament.

Florida – We know the loss of Egbunu is a big deal, and where it should and has shown up is more on defense than offense. Their interior defense is vulnerable. The one thing they do have going here is that the game is in Orlando – three of their eight losses this season were to Vanderbilt, so there’s your blueprint. They’re playing a bit quicker under White than they did under Donovan, so although they’re winning, they’re a bit different than in years’ past.

ETSU - Another very quick and very experienced team, and one that doesn't rely totally on the three-ball to score. They have had some turnover issues, and the downside is that they played in the Southern Conference - I look at them as a poor mens' UNC Wilmington, who actually beat them this season, as fate would have it.

SMU – I tried to fade this team all year figuring the coaching change would eventually and/or somehow show up, and of course it did not. I was very high on Cincinnati and we saw what they did against SMU Sunday – nothing. The Mustangs are an awful good #6 seed, perhaps victimized a bit by the Conference they play in. They get to play Friday (having played Sunday) and won’t be playing a rested team.

Baylor – At one time this team was ranked as high as #1 in the nation, so although they’ve fallen off a bit from a bettors perspective, they’re still dangerous. Motely is capable of taking over a game, and they play slow and great defense, but they’ve got some inexperience at the guard position(s) so I’m not seeing them being around too terribly long, especially against a team that has an inside defensive presence and can make them run.

New Mexico State – The WAC champion – a team that just didn’t play anyone all season and tends to turn the ball over, which is surprising because they’ve got some experience, especially in the back court. They do have some length at center behind Eli Chuha, and if they’re going to be competitive against Baylor they’re going to need those guys – but Baylor is probably just a bad matchup for the Aggies.

South Carolina - To me a team headed in the wrong direction as many of Frank Martins' teams have done over the years. He wears them out - yes, they can play defense, but they're vulnerable to teams that can either shoot over them, or run with them.

Marquette – Exactly the type of matchup that could give South Carolina problems, especially since Marquette can play defense and South Carolina struggles to score. I won’t discount them too much for losing to Seton Hall in the Big East tournament because the Pirates are on the uptick. Marquette has the depth and plays quick enough to play with the Gamecocks. The games’ in Greenville, but that’s the only upside for SC.

Duke - This is a year that not many people are giving Duke a chance, which might make them that much more dangerous. They'll go exactly as far as Allen and Kennard take them, and nearly every team that beat Duke just committed to shutting down the arc and dealing with the consequences. It will be interesting to see how much four games in four days takes out of them, but they do have the benefit of playing Friday.

Troy – They’re a nice team that won the Sun Belt, but they just didn’t play anyone all season. They’ve got tons of experience, but not enough talent to give Duke much trouble on a good day. They don’t make a lot of mistakes, so if Duke doesn’t take them seriously they could stay within the number, but there’s no upset here.

West

Gonzaga – It seems like they’re still being disrespected for being in the West Coast Conference. The loss to BYU was probably the best and worst thing that could happen. It takes the pressure of off them, but also show how they CAN be beaten. They beat Florida (with Egbunu), Iowa State, and Arizona, who they may well get a rematch with in San Jose.

South Dakota State - The Summit League champions that play little or no defense. They rely on making three's and getting to the line (a great FT shooting team) and do have some length. But, this is a team that although they played some decent teams in the pre-conference season, were killed by them. They got hot at the right time and had the benefit of the Summit League Tournament in their back yard. They just don’t have a defense. Because they can shoot over the Zags, this could be high scoring.

Northwestern – First tournament experience and that announcement was one of the cool things of Selection Sunday. Personally I’m not sure they should be in based on beating Michigan and Dayton, really, and we crushed late by Wisconsin who was crushed by Michigan. They’ll play really slow and really good defense, but if they struggle to score things get ugly against the wrong type of team – teams that can shoot over them.

Vanderbilt – These guys beat Florida three times and were not overly dominant away from home – and I’m not sure they are a lesser team than Northwestern, since they’ve got exactly the type of team that can beat N’Western. However, they are away from home, and even they’re conference tournament was in their back yard. I still think it’s a matchup issue for the Wildcats, but that emotion that they’ll play with might be enough to have this game be as close as it’s supposed to be.

Notre Dame – I’m still upset about that ATS loss to Duke. But, all that aside this is a dangerous #5 seed with a ton of experience and one of the most dangerous players in the game. We have learned that one player can carry a team pretty far in these things. Although I’m not down on them by any means – and they did play in the ACC – but down the stretch they didn’t play the best teams. If they’re going to get beat, especially because they’re not deep - it’s by a team that will force them to run, which is hard to do – they didn’t have any bad losses.

Princeton – Not much changes from year to year with these guys. A slow team that just shoot’s three’s and in fact score 42% of their points from behind the arc, good for 4th in the nation. They’ve got experience and in fact most of the same team that lost in the NIT to V-Tech in the first round last year – they played some good team last Fall, and we’re in every game, so once again we can’t over look them. But, Princeton is not the type of team that’s going to force the pace, in fact far from it. The Tigers COULD beat Notre Dame – I don’t think they’re a 5/12 difference, but from a matchup we have to like Notre Dame.

West Virginia – Looking at their schedule, or anyone in that Conference – it’s hard to fathom that the worst team they’ve played since Christmas is Texas. There’s no blueprint to beat these guys. We know they’re going to pressure the ball until they drop, so any game they lose is going to be to a team that can protect the ball. They’re not a great FT shooting team which at some point will haunt them.

Bucknell – The one thing they will do with WVU is run – which I suppose can be a plus since that’s at least one thing not new to them. The Bison did beat Vanderbilt, so the talent is there – and the coaching – but not having played a really good team since the start of Patriot League play is going to make this one tough to win. Covering the number might not be quite so difficult

Maryland – Another Big Ten team that is in my opinion not deserving of a #6 seed. They’re just very young and they’re only going to go as far as Trimble takes them. I don’t see a great win for them, and in fact lose five of seven down the stretch and were bounced by Northwestern – so not coming in hot my any means.

Xavier – We know they’ve been downgraded since they lose Sumner, but perhaps they’ve had time to adjust to that by now since they beat Butler and almost beat Creighton in the Big East Tournament. I guess my takeaway here is that it wouldn’t surprise me at all to see them beat the Terps.

Florida State – Perhaps the worst #3 seed in the history of seeds. They’ve got NBA talent but ABA mentality which is not unlike the Seminoles football team. Can you tell I don’t like them? In my opinion they’re completely the beneficiary of playing in the ACC. They beat UVA on the road way back when, and we don’t think that’s a great win anymore, and don’t have a good road win, period.

Florida Gulf Coast - These guys are best remembered for their Cinderella run that got Andy Enfield a job in SoCal. In truth, Dooley has built them back up and they are almost a mirror image of that team, and played Baylor, Florida, and Michigan State - so playing anyone is not going to intimidate. The problem is they may not sneak up on anyone this time. Beating FSU here is far from a stretch, especially in Orlando.

St. Marys - Throw out the losses to the Gonzaga, and they've got the one in-season loss to Texas-Arlington. UTA is very experienced and forced them to run, so there's your kryptonite. Teams that will want to go toe-to-toe in a slow game have little or no chance against the Gaels. They beat Dayton early in the season and had no problem beating BYU - so maybe an under rated sleeper team here. A lot of people have been discounting them since the brackets were announced – I’m not ready to do that. They’re a match up issue for some teams, for sure.

VCU – A team people are high on, and one that I’ve been down on. Not down as in I don’t like them, just “off” as in I don’t think they’re nearly as talented as they’ve been in the past, and not the old Shaka Smart past. The A-10 wasn’t as good as in years’ past, top to bottom, either. They’ve got the experience, for sure – this game will be won by the team that controls the pace. SMC wants to walk, and VCU wants to run.

Arizona - The WIldcats' inexperience will prove at some point to be their undoing, and it's the same oer rated Arizona team year after year. They didn't really have any great marquee wins, perhaps at UCLA earlier in the season - but lost to Gonzaga and Butler. They've got tons of length, few weaknesses, and get to the FT line - but a team with experience that can shoot over them and not turn the ball over is where I see them having a tough time. The pundits don’t seem to agree, and they’ve been installed as 12:1 to win it all.

North Dakota – They rolled through the Big Sky, and this is one of the faster-paced teams in the nation. But, they aren’t what I’d call a run ‘n shoot team – as they do score the bulk of their points inside. However, with Baldwin and Hooker both shooting over 40% from behind the arc, they certainly can score with anyone. They don’t have an overwhelming defense and they’re not a deep team, but a dangerous one.

Midwest

Kansas - All their losses (WVU, Indiana, Iowa State) were to either very athletic teams and/or teams that will run with them - and just played better that particular night. Losing early in the Big 12 Tournament is potentially a huge plus, giving them a ton of rest – and the books seem committee agrees, giving them a #1 seed ,and the books to, do – installing them as 8:1 to win it all. Only Duke and UNC have better odds, or worse, depending on your perspective.

UC Davis – It’s their first ever NCAA Tournament bid, and they beat Irvine at the buzzer to get here. Of interest is it’s the same Irvine team that beat THEM by 30 a few weeks ago. They’ve got experience, but they’re tiny and are simply going to struggle to score.

NC Central – The best team in one of the worst Conferences (MEAC). But, aside from last years’ mess, being here is not new to them. The almost beat Ohio State and did beat Missouri. I know that everyone beat Missouri, but it’s not a team that should lose to a MEAC school. The almost beat LSU on the road as wel.They are THE most experienced team in the nation – they’re competition aside, and it has to be factored in, but they do play extremely sound defense.

Miami - A team that most gave up for dead after a poor start to the season, but wins over Duke (who was shorthanded), UVA (at a time they were in free fall), and UNC earlier propel them in. I don't think they'll last, if for no other reason than the fact that they've got a short bench and two Freshman in the backcourt, particularly in a weekend game with little rest, if they get that far.

Michigan State – Clearly this isn’t a time of year when it’s easy to bet against a Tom Izzo team, one that opened 12:1 to win it all and now sits a to 100:1. Perhaps If it weren’t for Izzo they may not have made the Tournament, and I have to wonder how much energy they expended mentally just to get here. Remember, they were beaten by the Badgers in the Big 10 Tournament in a game people thought they’d win, and they really needed to. If this is a coin flip of a game, I’ll take the ACC – but perhaps one of the more unpredictable games, other than it should be low scoring.

Iowa State - Almost everyone’s sleeper team, but they’re from the Big 12 so almost anyone in that Conference can beat anyone not in it. They’ve got a TON of experience, but I have to wonder whether a team that SO relies on three point shots to win six (or even four) straight games. They did win down the stretch, but most of their road wins were against the lower half of the conference. It was pretty easy all season and will be now – teams that defend the perimeter will have a chance, others won’t.

Nevada – It’s the MWC champion, and it’s not SDSU or Boise State. They’ll play extremely fast, and they’ve got one of the shortest benches known to man. They’ll be a tough team to bet on or against, depending on the matchup. The committee knows what it’s doing – because these guys have TALENT and can shoot with anyone – and in spite of their strength of schedule, they do defend the arc. And they run like the wind, so this could be a great 1H bet – I was looking to bet on these guys and was hoping for a better matchup to do it.

Purdue - I have not been as high on this team all season as many people have. They shoot really well, but I’ve found them to be like many past Ohio State teams, soft. They don’t get to the line as much as they should. Like many teams, they’ll go as far as Swanigan takes them – Michigan beat them twice, so perhaps a team that can slow them down a bit and just outscore them has a chance.

Vermont – They’re a very methodical and well coached team that does a lot of things well, and haven’t lost since December 21st to Butler. They do have some length and aren’t going to beat themselves, so if they’re allowed to keep a game slow enough, they can beat anyone. And Vermont would be exactly the type of team that could give Purdue trouble, so this is far from and auto-advance for the Boilermakers. The only disadvantage here is that this game is in Milwaukee, so Purdue might have some fans.

Creighton - A #6 seed that opened against an #11 seed as a slight favorite and may well be a slight underdog when all is said and done. I think winning a couple of games in the Big East Tournament got them in – because they just didn’t have many marquee wins before Watson went down, and certainly didn’t after he got hurt. Of course anyone that shoots like they do is always dangerous, but tough to bet on.

Rhode Island – Another Sunday game – and a team that’s going to win with defense. They’ll play slow, and teams that have beat them, and not many lately, have forced them to run. They’re conference losses were twice to Dayton, to LaSalle, and Richmond, all teams that play faster. Creighton does fit that bill, but fortunately URI has the benefit of playing Friday and not Thursday. I suspect this is a low scoring game since Creighton will be pushed on the arc, but URI is at a significant length disadvantage inside. But, even with the extra rest, they’re still playing in Sacramento. Tough draw.

Oregon – No Boucher is certainly going to devalue this team, now to the point where a team that once people thought had a #1 seed chance is now 25:1 to win it all. Let’s not forget they played Arizona to a 3 point game without Boucher, and after the first weekend this tournament becomes more about coaching and less about the players, and the Ducks have a great coach.

Iona – The Gaels are the anti-Princeton in that nothing changes from year to year, except Iona does it with speed. Iona was off this season, finishing third in the MAAC – but experience and coaching won them the Tournament Title. The MAAC was way off this season. I just don’t think the Gaels have enough defense to give Oregon a huge scare, and the total will be big, perhaps too big, because Altman isn’t dumb enough to play run and shoot with these guys, especially down a man. - I think most people expected Monmouth to come out of the MAAC, but alas here is Iona, again.

Michigan – I don’t know if a team could possibly be more over valued by bettors and under valued by the committee than Michigan, since they came in a #7 seed. Their defense was a huge problem most of the season, and clearly they’ve been better lately, but I just don’t see how there’s not somewhat of a letdown and somewhat of a regression to the defense at some point.

Oklahoma State - These guys are probably the best #10 seed in the history of seeds. Nobody took them very seriously early on, and fortunately me and my clients did. They made us a lot of money. They played very much like SF Austin did, and Underwood has had my vote for coach of the year for some time. They don’t play a lot of defense, but some of that is the conference they play in, but they’ve got one of the best players in the nation (Evans) and four others that shoot over 40% from behind the arc. They play quick and can beat anyone – so this game will be a total battle for tempo, and that’s where the extra Cowboys rest gives them a bit of an advantage, IMO.

Louisville - A team I never count out. But, it's pretty clear that teams that beat them are the ones that can simply shoot over them and play reasonable defense. Such as Notre Dame, UVA, and Wake. Anyone that can play that kind of defense, plays in that Conference, and has a great coach – is quite capable of beating anyone.

Jacksonville State - It might not be a HUGE surprise that they won the OVC, or at least to those that follow them. They're capable in their own sphere of influence. They're very thin off the bench and play very, very slow. They beat Tulsa to start the season - but this is a team that will struggle to defend and if they're made to run, probably not your Cinderella.

South

North Carolina - Losing Kenny Williams might have had a bigger impact if it had been later rather than sooner. They've had plenty of time to secure a "new" rotation. It might have hurt them defensively more than offensively. Lots of talking heads have them playing Duke in the Finals – that would certainly annoy a lot of people. They’re 6:1 (only Duke is better at 5:1) favorites to win it all. Interesting that both favorites to win it all are NOT #1 seeds. They get some extra rest losing to Duke on a Friday – and my only question with these guys is the second game of the week(s) because they play so fast. If they run into a team they can’t pressure or slows them down, that’s where they could struggle.

Texas Southern – The best team in the worst conference, but these guys won’t be intimidated by anyone. They played the third toughest non-conference schedule – and they are TINY. They can put the ball in the hole, but I’m not sure they can stop many teams from scoring. That’s the downside here for UNC is that if they get worn out chasing these guys for 40 minutes before they play Sunday.

Arkansas – Finally, the Hogs get some respect. They’re not that far removed from other Arkansas teams in that they’re deadly at home and not so much on the road. Clearly these are neutral site games, however. They’ve been fine until they have to play the upper echelon teams, losing to Florida, Kentucky, and getting beaten by Oklahoma State out of the Big 12 when they played out of the SEC. They play fast, they score inside, and they’re very experienced.

Seton Hall – The Pirates are kind of a trendy team right now, and I get that. But, they’re pretty thin off the bench and don’t shoot FT’s well at all, so Arkansas could be a very tough team for them to play right now. They don’t see too much of the speed Arkansas has, and the three teams in the Big East that play fast (Creighton, St. Johns, and Marquette) all beat them.

Minnesota – The Gophers were rolling along just fine til they were crushed by Wisconsin in the season finale and then ran into Michigan in the Tournament. They fell way behind in that game and to their credit they made a game of it, of sorts. They play quick and as all “Pitino” teams to, play good defense. They’ve got issues scoring at times – and they’re young, which could be their biggest drawback.

MTSU – They Conference USA champs that played their way in but this is a team that might have been an at-large team anyway, having beaten UNCW, Vanderbilt, Ole Miss, and Belmont. These guys beat Michigan State in last years’ tournament, so they’re also not sneaking up on anyone. They’re very experienced and very methodical – the one thing I will concern myself with is they’ve got a Freshman PG, so I’ll have to consider how Dixon might do on a bigger stage. They’re going to want to control the tempo and slow Minnesota down – so again, whoever wins that battel probably wins the game.

Butler – Their claim to fame this season, if nothing else, is beating Villanova twice. For some reason I’ve never been sold on this team being as solid as previous Bulldog teams, but yet their stats say they are, beyond the wins and losses. They have a TON of experience and just are not going to beat themselves, and in fact their offense is a bit more efficient than previous years.

Winthrop - This could be your dangerous "little team nobody wants to play" - they play fast, shoot three's - and are VERY experienced. Perhaps not in terms of playing on a bigger stage, but they're Senior-laden with no expectations. They're tiny - but they played Dayton and FSU (hanging 86 points on the Noles) so this could be an "over" team that will fight to the finish. I was hoping they’d draw a less disciplined team than Butler, but that could mean this game goes over.

Cincinnati – This is a team I was very high on most of the season and was somewhat surprised at how easily SMU beat them, and again that was a Sunday game so less rest for these guys. And having to play in Sacramento. A team like Wake would probably push them more than KSU since Wake can shoot over them, as SMU did. But, they’re still a very dangerous team and one with a chip on their shoulder after that beating – and this season they found an offense (until they played SMU)

Kansas State – Clearly a beneficiary of playing in the Big 12, but, they pushed WVU to the bitter end in the Tournament so they’ve got some confidence here. My problem with them is that Wake will have had a couple more days rest. If Wake can up-tempo the game they’ve got every chance to win, and I love the fact that they live at the line. That means that much of this one (as many CBB games are) could well boil down to how it’s officiated. It’s quite the interesting match up in that K-State doesn’t defend the perimeter well (and Wake shoots from it well) and Wake just doesn’t play enough defense to be considered seriously. K-State’s had turnover issues, but Wake’s not a pressure defense – so lean Wildcats here.

UCLA – A team that was 80:1 last April that’s now 12:1. Yes, they’ve got one-and-done Ball, and they play quick (very) but they’re not very deep off the bench, so this is another team that could struggle in the second game of a week if they have to work too hard in the first one. Not that they will here, but Arizona beat them twice, so there’s your blueprint of a team that might give them trouble.

Kent – Kent was 2000:1 to win it all when the odds came out last April, and now that they’ve actually made the Dance they’re 5000:1. Not that it matters, I just found it comical. They weren’t even close to being the best team in the MAC, just played four straight games and now travel to Sacramento – so they probably ought to leave the plane running. Hate that for them.

Dayton – Another case where they’re the 7th seed and yet a touchdown underdog to the 10th seed. If you’d tell me before any game that I could take Dayton and that many points I’d probably do it without even knowing who they play. In fact, they didn’t lose a game by that many points all season.

Witchita State – This one’s all about the committee and the “metrics” that have the Shockers as a top ten team in the nation. Now, I do not think that they suck, but, their strength of schedule (weak) simply has to be accounted for. Yes, they’ve got a great coach (so does Dayton) and tons of experience and a deep bench – however, they are a 10 seed for a reason – probably a game I’ll watch. Witchita is bigger, Dayton has more depth – pick your poison.

Kentucky – They are what they are – since Calipari has them playing defense, I do think that perhaps they’re being over looked a bit as far as a Final Four team. Yes, I know they’d have to probably beat North Carolina to get there and I’m not saying they will, it’s just that it’s certainly not a stretch.

Northern Kentucky - So no Valpo out of the Horizon League, and NKU is only two years removed from a middle-of-the-road A-Sun team. That speaks volumes about Coach Brannen, because they surely haven't turned the roster THAT much. They've got some experience in the back court but it seems to me like they're a huge beneficiary of not having to play Valpo OR Oakland in the Horizon League Tournament.

Expert tips for filling out a winning NCAA Tournament bracket
By Covers.com

Al McCordie

"For pools that are local, rather than national, my No. 1 Bracket Tip is to consider the team or teams that other entrants might pick for their Final Four (and eventual champion), and then avoid picking such teams. That is because it's difficult to win a Tournament pool if your entry is vastly similar to other entries. You have to separate yourself from the herd. So, if you live in ACC Country, avoid picking teams like North Carolina and Louisville. If you're in the heartland, steer clear of Kansas and if you're on the West Coast, select teams other than Gonzaga and UCLA."

Teddy Covers

"Many office pool players work too much on picking the early round upsets and not enough on their Final Four teams. The vast majority of Final Four teams are top seeded teams; No. 1, No. 2 or No. 3 seeds. I generally pick at least two No. 1 seeds to make the Final Four. They earned those top seeds because they've been the best teams in college basketball all season, which is why I rarely call for a No. 1 seed to get upset before the Sweet 16 round at the earliest in my own brackets.

"Additionally, remember, the bigger pool that you are in, the more chances you’ll need to take and the more upsets you should pick, particularly upsets that build big points on the second weekend of the tournament, as we go from the Sweet 16 to the Elite Eight, then the Final Four. For smaller pools, a more conservative strategy is the superior choice. You don’t have as much competition to worry about, and there’s much less of a need to pick a bunch of upsets in order to surpass your opposition."

Dave Cokin

"My main advice is to put circles around the teams that play the best defense. The last 15 national champions have all been teams ranked in the top 40 nationally in defensive efficiency. "

Power Sports

"Avoid picking a ton of upsets in the First Round. It's tempting, but there simply have been fewer and fewer the last few years because the mid-majors have gotten progressively weaker. When going for an upset, try and focus on teams from better conferences."

Will Rogers

"My advice would be to focus on upsets in the 2nd Round or Sweet 16 as opposed to the 1st Round. I find that is often the difference between a winning and losing bracket!"

Ben Burns

"Ignore the seeding. I believe a lot of bettors get hung up about what seed a team is. For example, some start worrying about how No. 4 teams have done against No. 13 seeds historically. Every matchup is unique though, so the fact that some No. 13 seed upset a No. 4 seed previously has no relevance to me. If you like the favorite, lay the points. If you like the underdog, take them. Likewise, when filling out your bracket. If you feel that underdog is going to win, don't let its seeding prevent you from taking it to advance."

Jesse Schule

"I believe the secret to filling out a bracket (or even handicapping games during the tournament), is to be realistic about upsets. We all know that there will be some big surprises, but you don't want to over do it. When a smaller school upsets one of the top ranked teams, everyone talks about it. That tends to overshadow the fact that for every big favorite that loses, several others go on to win. I think you need to be careful not to fall in love with the dogs. "

Marc Lawrence

"One of the things I look to do is seek out deeply experienced teams with five returning starters back from last year’s squad. These teams play with the calmness of a ‘been there, don’t that’ mentality."

Larry Ness

"Look for experienced teams to advance. Teams heavy with senior leadership flourish in these types of tournaments. That is also true of experienced coaches."

Art Aronson

"My one tip would be to remember this before filling out your bracket: Beyond the top three seeds, teams for the most part do not have a shot at the National Title. Whatsoever. In fact, only one title has been won by a No. 4, 6 and 8 respectively. No other seed in the history of the event has won the tournament."

Zack Cimini

"My tip would be not to over analyze---don't pick too many upsets. Picking that way will eliminate you even faster than rolling with the main hitters."

Steve Merril

"Everyone loves to find those big first round upsets, however most bracket contests double the points each round, so unless you get the Final Four or the Finals correct, all those first and second round upset picks do not matter. It is fun to pick long shots, but historically the best teams win the tournament. In fact, a No. 1 seed has reached the finals in 24 of the past 32 years."

Best & Worst NCAA Draws
By Joe Nelson
VegasInsider.com

Dissecting the bracket and the decisions of the selection committee is certainly a fun topic Monday morning.

Here is a quick early reaction look at some of the favorable and unfavorable draws in the bracket. Neither is indicative of ultimate success in the tournament but some teams seem to have been dealt better paths than others.

Worst Draws

Kentucky (#2 South): Kentucky’s case to be seeded as a #1 isn’t a strong one even with a long winning streak to claim the SEC regular season and tournament titles. However they did beat the North Carolina team that wound up as the #1 seed in the South region where the Wildcats were placed. The coinciding 7-10 matchup in Indianapolis is certainly a scary one for the Wildcats with Wichita State lurking as a very dangerous team as a #10 seed. Recall that in the 2014 tournament it was a #8 seeded Kentucky team that knocked off the then 35-0 Shockers in the Round of the 32. Wichita State has tournament wins over Kansas and Arizona the past two years and they won’t be intimidated by the matchup should the Shockers get by a Dayton squad playing very close to home. If Kentucky advances to the Sweet 16 they could see a very dangerous UCLA squad that won in Lexington in December and they would potentially have to beat North Carolina again to get to the Final Four in a loaded South region.

Virginia (#5 East): The Cavaliers have fallen short of expectations in several recent NCAA Tournaments as a highly seeded team and it will be an uphill battle to have much more success this season with more modest seeding and a challenging path. UNC-Wilmington was the projected #12 seed that no one wanted to see and while the great contrast in pace with Virginia could favor the slower Cavaliers it is still a difficult matchup for a Virginia squad that closed the season going 6-7 with great inconsistency after a 16-3 start. Given that the team that Virginia tied with for fifth place in the ACC just got a favorable #2 seed while a Louisville team Virginia beat twice also got a #2 seed it is a tough placement with not all that much separation between the top teams in the ACC this season. Should the Cavaliers get by the Round of 64 upset threat they’ll draw a Florida team that also looks deserving of stronger seeding and that game would be a two-hour drive from Gainesville in Orlando. Win that game and the defending national champion and overall #1 seed Villanova is likely to be waiting for the Cavaliers in a brutally tough path as Tony Bennett seems unlikely to improve on his marginal Big Dance track record.

Notre Dame (#5 West): The Irish were a tough luck loser in a very tight ACC Championship game Saturday night and while Duke was rewarded with one of the best draws in the tournament by winning that coin-flip game, Notre Dame is in a challenging spot. The Ivy League has a few recent upsets under its belt including Yale beating Baylor last season and Princeton completed a perfect season in the league looking like one of the top contenders out of the conference in recent years even with a scare in the new Ivy League tournament. Should the Irish survive that game a very tough West Virginia squad that was in the Big XII championship game is likely to be up next though the Mountaineers have a difficult first round test with Bucknell. Notre Dame is also heading to Buffalo to play Thursday, losing out on preferable venues in Milwaukee or Indianapolis and playing reasonably close to Princeton’s home base, not to mention facing some potential travel headaches with the weather and drawing an early daytime time slot. Should the Irish get to the Sweet 16 they will get sent to the west coast in San Jose to possibly play top seeded Gonzaga as another Elite 8 run would require some impressive wins.

SMU (#6 East): Despite complete dominance in the AAC the lack of standout non-conference wins buried a SMU squad that more than passes the eye test into just a #6 seed. Tulsa is a good location draw for the Mustangs but they are stuck facing a First Four winner in the Tuesday matchup between USC and Providence. Both are capable teams and USC actually beat SMU early in the season, a win that is likely the primary reason the Trojans barely snuck into the field. In a fairly unprecedented situation the winner of that matchup will get two days off before a Friday game unlike in past seasons where the Tuesday winner typically played Thursday, certainly a big break for the winner of that game with the hectic travel to get to Dayton for Tuesday’s game. Baylor isn’t the most daunting of #3 seeds in this grouping but Duke is certainly a formidable #2 seed in the bottom portion of the East region if SMU is hoping to make a deep run and that potential game would be on the east coast in New York City when the Mustangs certainly would have preferred a path through Kansas City or Memphis. Adding insult to the seeding is that the Cincinnati squad SMU bested twice in the last month also got a #6 seed.

Wisconsin (#8 East): The Badgers have won more NCAA Tournament games over the past three seasons (11) than any team in the country and were almost universally projected to be on the 6-seed line prior to the Big Ten Championship game. In past years that late start game on Selection Sunday has had little to no impact on the Selection Committee’s decisions. It seems this year the committee might have made a last minute swaps among Big Ten teams with Michigan taking the title as Wisconsin fell all the way to a #8 seed. To make matters worse they’ll leave town in the middle of a snowstorm in the Midwest only to head into a snowstorm in Buffalo with a short turnaround for a late Thursday night game. Virginia Tech isn’t necessarily the most daunting matchup but a veteran team that can certainly get a minor upset and Hokies coach Buzz Williams has plenty of familiarity with Wisconsin from his days at Marquette. If the Badgers hope to make it six Sweet 16 trips in seven seasons they’ll only have to beat the defending national champions in Villanova, the committee’s overall #1 seed. Wisconsin’s resume deserved scrutiny after what looked like a decent set of non-conference wins regressed in value as the season went on and it appears the team was penalized heavily for losing five of the final seven regular season games. However considering where Minnesota (#5) and Maryland (#6) were seeded, Wisconsin certainly has a valid gripe with this placement, going 3-0 vs. those two teams that they finished ahead of in the Big Ten standings.

Oklahoma State (#10 Midwest): The Cowboys were a slight favorite when they faced the eventual Big XII tournament champion Iowa State in Kansas City last Thursday. While the Cyclones deserve credit for winning that game and a great title run, Iowa State is a #5 seed while Oklahoma State is a #10 despite profiles that don’t look too far apart aside from two recent head-to-head losses for the Cowboys. Not only is Oklahoma State a double-digit seed but they draw a dangerous Michigan squad that just rolled through the Big Ten tournament and the game is a very reasonable drive south from Ann Arbor in Indianapolis as well. Win that game and a date with Louisville is likely waiting with the Cardinals a difficult potential matchup with the reckless pace of the Cowboys and Louisville’s size and ability to create turnovers with its defensive pressure. The committee’s lack of respect for Wichita State hurt Oklahoma State as a 17-point win in Wichita should have counted as a high quality win for the Cowboys and ultimately going 0-7 vs. Kansas, Iowa State, and Baylor was hard to overlook for a team that probably deserved to be placed a big higher.

Best Draws

Duke (#2 East): The Blue Devils had an amazing run in the ACC Tournament but recall that Duke had to play four games in four days because four teams finished ahead of them in the ACC standings. This seeding is essentially calling Duke one of the top eight teams in the country despite the Blue Devils finishing in a tie for fifth place in their own conference. Clearly the committee heavily discounted the losses Duke took without Coach K but the non-conference resume really wasn’t all that appealing with the win over Florida being the only top 30 win as this is a generous seeding for a team that is talent rich but still was losers of eight games including two against non-tournament teams. Before last week’s great run in Brooklyn Duke lost in three of the final four games of the regular season and that was with Coach K back as the Blue Devils weren’t penalized for a late season slide like many other teams in the field seem to have been. This is a great draw with a pair of presumed bubble teams South Carolina and Marquette fairly unthreatening in the 7/10 pairing and Baylor looking like the weakest of the #3 seeds in the bottom half of the East bracket. Duke won’t be playing in its home state this season but they are less than a four-hour drive from Greenville and while South Carolina would have a venue advantage in a potential Round of 32 matchup and despite finishing sixth in the Sun Belt Troy is the best of the #15 seeds but all things considered this is a great draw for Duke who opens the tournament as Las Vegas favorite to win it all.

Florida State (#3 West): If Florida State wants to make it to the Final Four they’ll have to do it on the west coast but they get their opening pod games in Orlando with a #3 seed which looks generous relative to ACC peers Notre Dame and Virginia who were both saddled with difficult #5 draws despite reasonably similar regular season results in the ACC. Non-conference wins over Florida and Minnesota pulled some weight for the Seminoles who closed the season on just a 7-6 run including losing three games to teams that didn’t make the NCAA Tournament field and losing to Notre Dame twice, the team that got a #5 seed and was seconds away from winning the ACC Tournament title. Add that the 6/11 pairing in Orlando features an incredibly over-seeded Maryland team as well as a Xavier team that really struggled down the stretch after losing one of its best players and this is a great draw for the Seminoles to have a great run. #14 seed Florida Gulf Coast is perhaps the most dangerous of the #14 seeds and they will also be close to home and up for the opportunity against a Sunshine State power but it is still a minor hurdle in a great big picture draw.

Butler (#4 South): It’s true that Butler was the clear #2 team in the Big East but behind Villanova it was a pretty tight pack most of the season in the conference. Butler gets a great draw in nearby Milwaukee while opposing a suspect #5 seed in Minnesota, who just lost a starter to injury in the Big Ten tournament. Middle Tennessee State and Winthrop are certainly two of the more viable #12 and #13 seeds for upset runs so this isn’t a completely safe pull for a Bulldogs team on a 5-5 run the last 10 games but all things considered this is a pretty good landing spot for a team that will get a lot of attention as a Final Four sleeper. The South bracket has three marquee top seeds in North Carolina, Kentucky, and UCLA as a Final Four run will require some big wins but this program has made its reputation being a giant-killer and has a win over Arizona and a pair of wins over Villanova this season as they will welcome that challenge. With the South regional semifinal and final games in Memphis Butler is a reasonably 450 miles from home as they should have decent support.

Iowa State (#5 Midwest): The Cyclones have a tricky first game but getting the relatively nearby Milwaukee draw is favorable for a #5 seed and looking at where the rest of the Big XII landed Iowa State is in a decent spot. Purdue has been rather inconsistent and a different team away from home in what could be a great Round of 32 matchup in the Midwest. A a potential Sweet 16 matchup with rival Kansas who the Cyclones played great against in two meetings this season has to be appealing for the Cyclones as well. That game would be in Kansas City in a favorable venue for both teams as a veteran Cyclones team is a threat for a deep run after claiming the Big XII Tournament crown for the third time in four years. Nevada looks like a semi-dangerous first round foe as the modest favorite spread suggests but forcing a west coast squad but the Wolf Pack face a long trip though with a late night time slot. Iowa State’s #5 draw looks pretty favorable as Purdue looks like the weakest #4 seed and this is likely a preferable position compared with where conference rivals with similar resumes West Virginia and Oklahoma State landed.

South Carolina (#7 East): The selection committee punished several teams for late season slides but a 3-6 run to close the season including three losses to teams outside the top 50 seemed to go unnoticed for a South Carolina team that many felt were right on the NCAA Tournament bubble. Michigan’s great late run helped the cause as that was a non-conference win for the Gamecocks back in November and other than a narrow home win over Florida there isn’t much weight on the resume. South Carolina not only gets a pretty favorable #7 seed they get to play in their home state just 100 miles away in Greenville. They also draw a Marquette team that will likely have trouble adjusting to the great contrast in pace that the Gamecocks will present as an elite defensive team. South Carolina has a reasonable shot to advance and get a big opportunity vs. Duke, another matchup where the Gamecocks could have some potential for an upset with a big edge on defense. If the Gamecocks continue to play like they did most of February it won’t matter but Frank Martin’s squad has to be thrilled to not only be in the field but playing about as close to home as anyone with great seeding.

Xavier (#11 West): In the final eight games of the Big East season Xavier only beat lowly DePaul, falling from Big East contender to a NCAA Tournament bubble team. The injury to point guard Edmond Sumner has forced a pair of freshmen into significant action for the Musketeers who did manage to upset Butler in the Big East tournament. That apparently was enough to not only get Xavier into the Big Dance but they also avoided the #11 First Four matchups where conference rival Providence landed while also avoiding a 8/9 matchup with a #1 seed lurking which is where Seton Hall landed from the Big East, with both of those teams beating Xavier in February. Xavier also pulls Maryland as the #6 seed in the pod in a Round of 64 matchup and has opened as just a 2-point underdog in a very winnable matchup despite the contrast in seeding. A potential matchup with Florida State in Orlando won’t be a picnic but Xavier went 2-0 vs. ACC teams in non-conference action and given the alternative landing spots for a team that barely made the field, the Musketeers have a great shot to at least match last season’s tournament result when they were a #2 seed and lost in the Round of 32.

East Regional Snapshot
VegasInsider.com

Odds to win East Regional

Villanova 3/2
Duke 2/1
Virginia 8/1
SMU 8/1
Baylor 8/1
Florida 8/1
Wisconsin 15/1
South Carolina 30/1
Marquette 40/1
Virginia Tech 80/1
USC 80/1
Providence 100/1
UNC-Wilmington 100/1
East Tennessee State 200/1
New Mexico State 500/1
Troy 500/1
Mount St. Mary's 3000/1
New Orleans 3000/1

Favorite: Villanova (31-3 SU, 18-15 ATS)

The Wildcats are seeking their second consecutive championship after knocking off North Carolina at the buzzer to win the 2016 title. Villanova lost two of its top players from last year’s squad, but Jay Wright’s squad didn’t skip a beat by finishing non-conference play undefeated and capturing the Big East tournament title. Villanova will face the winner of Mount St. Mary’s and New Orleans on Thursday as the Wildcats covered in all six tournament victories last season.

Underachiever: Wisconsin (25-9 SU, 15-16 ATS)

The Badgers finished the regular season with the second-best record in the Big 10, but Wisconsin lost six of its final 10 games down the stretch. UW fell in the Big 10 title game to red-hot Michigan, as the Badgers dropped all the way to an eighth seed, where they will face Virginia Tech on Thursday night. The Badgers reached the championship game two seasons ago, but were knocked out in the Sweet 16 last season by Notre Dame following a pair of close victories over Pittsburgh and Xavier.

Keep an Eye on: SMU (30-4 SU, 22-6-1 ATS)

The Mustangs missed out on the NCAA tournament last season due to probation, but SMU is ready to make a run towards the Final Four. SMU captured the American Athletic Conference tournament title by beating Cincinnati to avenge an earlier loss and extend their winning streak to 16 games. The Mustangs will draw the winner of USC and Providence on Friday as SMU owns a remarkable 13-2-1 ATS record during this hot streak with the two ATS losses coming as a favorite of 19 points or more.

Upset-Minded: UNC-Wilmington (29-5 SU, 14-15-1 ATS)

The 12th-seeded Seahawks closed the season by winning nine of its final 10 games to grab the Colonial title for its second straight tournament appearance. Last season, UNCW fell short against Duke in the opening round of the tourney, but covered as 10-point underdogs. The Seahawks draw another ACC foe in Virginia, who suffered a four-game losing streak in February before winning four of their final five contests. Wilmington is listed as an underdog for only the third time this season (+8½), as the Seahawks lost at Clemson in December as nine-point ‘dogs, but beat St. Bonaventure as 3½-point ‘dogs.

Double-Digit Favorites: Duke, Baylor, and Florida

Villanova will likely be the largest favorite once their opponent is determined, but there is still plenty of wood laid in three other matchups. Duke opened as 19-point favorites against Sun Belt champion Troy, as the Blue Devils covered all four games in its road to winning the ACC tournament championship. The Blue Devils put together a 5-10 ATS record as a double-digit favorite this season, including five straight non-covers when laying at least 10 points.

Baylor tips off on Friday in Tulsa against WAC champion New Mexico State as the Bears are laying 12 points. The Bears have been knocked out of the first round in each of the past two tournaments by losing to Yale and Georgia State in the favorite role. Scott Drew’s club struggled to cover heavy numbers this season by posting a 1-4 ATS mark when laying at least 10 points.

Easiest Travel: Florida and South Carolina

The tournament committee does it best to keep the first two rounds as regionalized as possible but the Gators and Gamecocks received terrific travel draws. Florida makes the short trip from Gainesville to Orlando to face East Tennessee State out of the Southern Conference on Thursday. The Gators are making their first tournament appearance since reaching the Final Four in 2014 before falling to eventual champion UConn.

The Gamecocks are back in the Big Dance for the first time since 2004 as they seek their first tournament win since 1973. South Carolina makes the 90-minute drive from Columbia to Greenville to face Marquette in the late tip-off on Friday night. However, the Gamecocks weren’t sharp down the stretch by losing five of their last seven games, with four of those defeats coming away from Columbia.

Toughest Travel: Marquette (19-12 SU, 16-15 ATS)

It seems like a road game for the Eagles, who face South Carolina in Greenville. Marquette failed to win a game in the Big East tournament after losing to Seton Hall, while owning a 2-5 SU and 3-4 ATS record in its last seven games as an underdog away from Milwaukee. The Eagles picked up a road victory against an SEC squad earlier this season by winning at Georgia in December as three-point underdogs, 89-79.

Highest Total: Duke/Troy - 153

Lowest Total: Baylor/New Mexico State – 135½

South Regional Snapshot
VegasInsider.com

Favorite: North Carolina (22-7 SU, 17-14 ATS)

The Tar Heels fell short of an ACC tournament championship as UNC and Kansas are the only top-seeds that failed to receive an automatic bid to the Big Dance. North Carolina looks to avenge a championship loss at the buzzer to Villanova last April as the Tar Heels face Texas Southern in the opening round. Roy Williams’ team closed the season at 5-2 ATS in the final seven games, while posting a 9-6-1 ATS mark as a double-digit favorite this season. However, the Tar Heels have failed to cash in their tournament opening game the last three seasons, as they are laying 26½-points to the Tigers.

Underachiever: Dayton (24-7 SU, 19-10 ATS)

The Flyers hurt their seeding by losing in their Atlantic 10 tournament opener to Davidson, their second consecutive defeat. Dayton slipped to the seventh seed as the Flyers will face Wichita State, the champions of the Missouri Valley on Friday in Indianapolis. The Flyers are listed as six-point underdogs, as Dayton owns a 3-3 SU and 4-2 ATS mark as a ‘dog this season.

Keep an Eye on: Middle Tennessee State (30-4 SU, 23-10 ATS)

The Blue Raiders made the biggest impact on brackets last season by upsetting second-seeded Michigan State in the opening round as 16½-point underdogs. Middle Tennessee State will try to capitalize off last March’s victory as the Blue Raiders posted 30 wins in the regular season and face Minnesota in the 5/12 contest on Thursday afternoon. MTSU closed the season with 10 consecutive victories and an 8-2 ATS mark, while owning a 2-1 ATS and 3-0 SU mark as an underdog.

Upset-Minded: Kent State (22-13 SU, 16-13-2 ATS)

The Golden Flashes knocked off favored Akron in the MAC championship to finish off an incredible 9-1 SU/ATS run the last 10 games. Kent faces UCLA in the opening round as a 17½-point underdog in Sacramento on Friday, as the Flashes have cashed in seven of their last nine opportunities in the ‘dog role. UCLA heads into this contest failing to cover in nine of its past 12 tries in the favorite role.

Double-Digit Favorites: North Carolina, Kentucky, UCLA, Butler

Kentucky cruised to an SEC championship by routing Arkansas on Sunday, 82-65, as the Wildcats face intra-state squad Northern Kentucky. The Norse is making their first NCAA tournament appearance after capturing the Horizon League title as NKU is a hefty 19½-point underdog. The Wildcats haven’t been successful covering large numbers in the tournament recently by going 2-5 ATS in their last seven March Madness contests.

Butler hasn’t been much of a factor in the NCAA tournament since back-to-back championship appearances in 2010 and 2011. The Bulldogs own a 3-3 record in the Big Dance since 2013 as Butler has won five straight tournament openers since 2010. Butler faces Big South champion Winthrop in the opener on Thursday afternoon as 11-point favorites, as the Bulldogs have put together a 3-7 ATS mark in its last 10 games as a favorite of seven points or more.

Easiest Travel: Minnesota (24-9 SU, 19-12 ATS)

The Golden Gophers put together one of the top turnarounds in college basketball this season by winning 24 games following an 8-23 campaign in 2016. Minnesota was rewarded by the committee by being sent to Milwaukee to face a tough Middle Tennessee State squad on Thursday. The Gophers have dropped two of three since an eight-game winning streak, but knocked off Maryland, Northwestern, and Purdue on the road during Big 10 play.

Toughest Travel: Cincinnati (29-5 SU, 16-14-1 ATS)

The Bearcats have to travel to the west coast for possibly their first two games in Sacramento. Cincinnati doesn’t even know its opponent yet as the Bearcats square off with either Wake Forest or Kansas State, as that winner will be determined on Tuesday. However, UC put together a solid 11-3 record outside of the state of Ohio this season, but has failed to cash in its last three opportunities as a favorite in the NCAA tournament.

Highest Total: UCLA/Kent State – 16½

Lowest Total: Minnesota/Middle Tennessee State – 136

Midwest Regional Snapshot
VegasInsider.com

Favorite: Kansas (28-4 SU, 12-17-1 ATS)

For the third time in four years, Kansas failed to capture the Big 12 tournament championship after losing its quarterfinal game against TCU. The Jayhawks still picked up a top regional seed for the third time in five seasons as Kansas has the luxury of playing in nearby Tulsa for the first two games, then potentially in Kansas City for the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight. KU squares off with the winner of North Carolina Central and New Orleans on Friday as Bill Self’s team has won its last three tournament openers by double-digits.

Underachiever: Michigan State (19-14 SU, 17-15 ATS)

The Spartans started out of the gate at 4-4 this season, in spite of those losses coming to Arizona, Kentucky, Baylor, and Duke. Michigan State was knocked out in the opening round of the tournament last season in surprising fashion as a second seed against upstart Middle Tennessee State as the Spartans draw Miami on Friday. Tom Izzo’s club dropped three of their final four games, while losing eight of their last 10 contests played away from East Lansing.

Keep an Eye on: Iowa State (23-10 SU, 18-12 ATS)

The Cyclones rolled to a Big 12 tournament title for the third time in four seasons, as Iowa State locked up a fifth seed. ISU was shocked as a third seed in 2015 by UAB as 14-point favorites in a 60-59 defeat in the opening round, but the Cyclones reached the Sweet 16 last season before bowing out to Virginia in a 13-point loss. The Cyclones take on Mountain West champion Nevada in the opening round in Milwaukee on Thursday as ISU is a six-point favorite. Iowa State has won eight of its past 10 games in the favorite role, while Nevada has covered nine consecutive contests.

Upset-Minded: Vermont (29-5 SU, 4-4 ATS)

The Catamounts are riding a 21-game winning streak since losing at Butler, 81-69 in late December. Vermont faces another Hoosier State squad in the opening round when it faces Big 10 regular season champion Purdue on Thursday. The Catamounts are back in the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2012, as Vermont won its play-in game before getting blown out by North Carolina.

Double-Digit Favorites: Kansas, Louisville, Oregon

Although the Jayhawks don’t know their opponent yet for their opener, KU is expected to be a hefty favorite. Louisville heads to Indianapolis to face Jacksonville State out of the Ohio Valley on Friday as 19½-point favorites. The second-seeded Cardinals head into this matchup at 2-7 ATS the last nine games overall, including a 1-2 ATS mark as a nine-point favorite or higher. Louisville is back in the tournament for the first time since 2015, but the Cardinals have failed to cash in their last two tourney openers.

Oregon fell short of capturing the Pac-12 tournament title in a three-point loss to Arizona, but the Ducks were rewarded with a third seed and will face Iona. The Ducks travel down the coast to Sacramento as 14½-point favorites against the Gaels. Oregon has won and covered four straight first round tournament games since 2013.

Easiest Travel: Purdue (25-7 SU, 17-11 ATS)

The Boilermakers lost early in the Big 10 tournament to Michigan in overtime, but Purdue won’t have to travel very far for the opening weekend by heading to Milwaukee. Purdue squares off with 13th-seeded Vermont out of the America East, as the Boilermakers are looking to advance to the second round of the tournament for the first time since 2012.

Toughest Travel: Iona (22-12 SU, 14-16-2 ATS)

The Gaels are back in the NCAA tournament for the second straight year, but Iona travels cross-country to face Oregon at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento. To make matters worse, the game tips off at 11 a.m. local time, the second straight year that Iona will draw an early tip out west as it played Iowa State at noon local time in Denver last March and lost, 94-81.

Highest Total: Iowa State/Nevada – 154½

Lowest Total: Louisville/Jacksonville State – 134

West Regional Snapshot
VegasInsider.com

Favorite: Arizona (30-4 SU, 18-14-2 ATS)

Although the Wildcats captured the Pac-12 tournament title over Oregon, Arizona was relegated to the second seed in the West behind Gonzaga. Since losing to the ‘Zags in early December, the Wildcats have won 24 of the last 26 games with the two losses coming in February to Oregon and UCLA. Arizona faces North Dakota out of the Big Sky on Thursday in Salt Lake City as 16½-point favorites, but the Wildcats have posted a 2-4-2 ATS record in its last eight as a double-digit favorite. In the last three tournaments under Sean Miller, the Wildcats own a 2-7 ATS record, including winning four games without covering the number.

Underachiever: Xavier (21-13 SU, 15-18 ATS)

The Musketeers had high hopes this season by posting a 13-2 record in the first two months. However, Xavier lost four of its next five games and also lost standout guard Edmond Sumner to a torn ACL in a late January win at St. John’s. Since Sumner was sidelined, the Musketeers have lost seven of 13 games, while Xavier have compiled a 6-13 ATS record in the last 19 contests overall. However, Xavier has covered four straight games as it faces Maryland on Thursday in Orlando as two-point underdogs. The Terrapins have slowed down of late by losing four of their last six games, while covering only once in this span.

Keep an Eye On: St. Mary’s (28-4 SU, 16-11-2 ATS)

Gonzaga dominated the West Coast Conference this season at 32-1, but St. Mary’s was right behind the Bulldogs by winning 28 games. Three of the Gaels’ four losses came to Gonzaga, while falling to Texas-Arlington at home as 15-point favorites in December. St. Mary’s is back in the NCAA tournament for the first time since 2013 as it faces VCU in the 7/10 matchup on Thursday in Salt Lake City. The Gaels are listed as 4½-point favorites, as St. Mary’s owns a 7-2-1 ATS record in its last 10 opportunities when laying points.

Upset-Minded: Princeton (23-6 SU, 12-10-1 ATS)

The Tigers ran the table in the Ivy League this season by going 14-0, while capturing the inaugural Ivy tournament title against Yale, 71-59. Princeton is riding a 19-game winning streak, as the Tigers overcame a 4-6 start to the season. The Ivy League champion has covered in the first round in each of the past four tournaments, including outright wins by Yale in 2016 and Harvard in 2014 and 2015. Princeton squares off with Notre Dame to tip off the tournament on Thursday afternoon in Buffalo as seven-point underdogs, as the Fighting Irish have reached the Elite Eight the last two seasons.

Double-Digit Favorites: Gonzaga, Arizona, Florida State, and West Virginia

Gonzaga is the largest first round favorite in this region, laying 22½ points to South Dakota State on Thursday in the 1/16 matchup. The Bulldogs lost only once this season, while putting together an impressive 16-6 ATS record when listed as a double-digit favorite.

West Virginia fell short of winning the Big 12 tournament, but the Mountaineers are looking for a bounce-back effort in the Big Dance after getting tripped up by Stephen F. Austin last March. WVU is listed as a 13½-point favorite against Patriot league champion Bucknell on Thursday afternoon in Buffalo. The Mountaineers are riding a 1-6-1 ATS cold streak, including five of those defeats in the favorite role down the stretch.

Easiest Travel: Florida State (25-8 SU, 17-12-2 ATS)

The Seminoles won all 20 games played in the Sunshine State this season, as FSU makes the short trip from Tallahassee to Orlando. FSU faces a team that won’t be traveling far either as the former “Dunk City” Florida Gulf Coast heads to central Florida from Ft. Myers fresh off the Atlantic Sun title. The Seminoles are dancing for the first time since 2012 as they reached the round of 32 before bowing out to Cincinnati. The Eagles last faced the Seminoles in the 2014 NIT, falling short to FSU as 10½-point underdogs, 58-53. However, FGCU has covered in all four NCAA tournament games in its short history, including last season as 22½-point underdogs in an 83-76 loss to North Carolina.

Toughest Travel: VCU (26-8 SU, 12-17-1 ATS)

The Rams have been a tournament darling since reaching the Final Four in 2011 as VCU is in the Big Dance for the sixth consecutive season. VCU picked up an at-large bid despite losing the Atlantic 10 championship to Rhode Island as the Rams will have to travel to Salt Lake City from Richmond to face St. Mary’s on Thursday. The Rams struggled in the role of an underdog this season by posting an 0-4 SU/ATS record, including losses to Dayton and Baylor. However, VCU has compiled a terrific 8-2 ATS mark as an underdog in the tournament since 2011.

Highest Total: Gonzaga/South Dakota State – 153

Lowest Total: VCU/St. Mary’s – 127½

Five March Madness Games Drawing Early Betting Action
Patrick Everson
Covers.com

A day after the NCAA Tournament bracket was unveiled, there were several games drawing bettors’ interest and forcing line moves. Covers checks in on where the action is with Jeff Stoneback, sportsbook manager at The Mirage on the Las Vegas Strip, and with the lines manager for offshore sportsbook GTBets.eu.

No. 13 Vermont Catamounts vs. No. 4 Purdue Boilermakers – Open: -9.5; Move: -9; Move: -8.5

When it comes to final scores, there’s certainly no hotter team than Vermont in the NCAA Tournament. The Catamounts, seeded 13th in the Midwest Region, have won 21 consecutive games, although only eight of those were lined contests, including three in the America East tournament. Vermont (29-5 SU, 4-4 ATS) edged Albany 56-53 as a 10.5-point favorite in Saturday’s conference final.

Fourth-seeded Purdue won the Big Ten regular-season title, but bowed out in the quarterfinals of the conference tournament, losing 74-70 in overtime as a 2.5-point fave against Michigan. Prior to that, the Boilermakers (25-7 SU, 17-10-2 ATS) had an 8-1 SU run (5-2-2 ATS) to cap the regular season.

“This is the region where we’ve taken the most action on games,” Stoneback said of the Midwest. “Vermont opened as a 9.5-point ‘dog, and they’re getting 8.5 points now against Purdue.”

No. 11 Southern California Trojans vs. No. 11 Providence Friars – Open: Pick; Move: -1; Move: -3

These two teams hope to play their way into the field of 64. Providence (20-12 SU and ATS) won its last six regular-season games (5-1 ATS) to land a spot in the NCAA Tournament, despite losing its Big East tournament opener 70-58 as a 2-point underdog to Creighton.

Southern Cal (24-9 SU, 16-16 ATS) had a four-game skid late in the regular season that had some analysts thinking the Trojans wouldn’t get into the Big Dance. But the Men of Troy bounced back with three straight wins, then played UCLA very tough in the Pac-12 tournament quarterfinals, losing 76-74 as a 10-point pup.

“Everyone jumped on USC pretty quickly, pushing the line from pick to Trojans -1,” GTBets’ lines manager said Monday morning. “But that hasn’t deterred the action from remaining at 65 percent on USC.”

In fact, the Trojans moved up to -3 by Monday afternoon and were the only tournament team really catching the attention of professional bettors.

“We’ve seen nothing sharp yet, except on USC,” Stoneback said. “We opened USC -1, and now it’s 2.5.”

The winner of this contest, at 9:10 p.m. ET Wednesday, moves into the East Regional to face No. 6 seed Southern Methodist.

No. 15 Jacksonville State Gamecocks vs. No. 2 Louisville Cardinals – Open: -21; Move: -20

As a 15 seed, Jacksonville State is rightly a huge underdog in this 2:45 p.m. ET Friday game in the Midwest Region. The Gamecocks (20-14 SU, 17-12 ATS) won the Ohio Valley Conference tournament to reach the NCAA Tournament for the first time ever. In the OVC final, fourth-seeded Jacksonville State beat No. 2 seed Tennessee-Martin 66-55 as a 2.5-point chalk.

Louisville (24-8 SU, 17-12-1 ATS) has been a little up-and-down of late, alternating wins and losses over its last six games while going 1-5 ATS. The Cardinals were seeded fourth in the ACC tourney, losing 81-77 to Duke as a 2-point favorite in the quarterfinals.

Stoneback said the public was on Jacksonville State early at +21, drawing that number down a point to +20.

No. 11 Kansas State Wildcats vs. No. 11 Wake Forest Demon Deacons – Open: +1; Move: Pick; Move: -1; Move: Pick; Move: -1

It’s another play-in game, this one at 9:10 p.m. ET Tuesday night, for the right to play No. 6 seed Cincinnati in the South Region. Wake Forest had a four-game run through the first round of the ACC tournament, including regular-season wins at home over Louisville and on the road against Virginia Tech. But in the second round of the ACC, the Demon Deacons (19-13 SU, 16-14 ATS) fell to VaTech 99-90 laying 3 points.

Kansas State (20-13 SU, 15-12-2 ATS) nearly made it to the Big 12 tournament championship game from the No. 6 seed. The Wildcats upended No. 3 seed Baylor in the quarterfinals, then gave West Virginia all it could handle in a 51-50 loss as a 6-point pup in the semis.

“The public is on Wake, with 3/1 parlays on the Demon Deacons and 60 percent of the side bets,” GTBets’ lines manager said. “But the sharp action has yet to come in.”

No. 12 Princeton Tigers vs. No. 5 Notre Dame Fighting Irish – Open: -7.5; Move: -7; Move: -6.5; Move: -7

Notre Dame has been stout over the past month-plus, winning six in a row as part of an 8-1 SU spree (7-2 ATS) that put it in the ACC championship game. The Fighting Irish (25-9 SU, 18-9-1 ATS) then fell to Duke 75-69 getting 4.5 points.

Princeton (23-6 SU, 12-10-1 ATS) won the Ivy League tournament, dropping Yale 71-59 as a 7-point chalk in the championship game to stretch its winning streak to 19 games. The league title gave the Tigers a spot in one of the NCAA Tournament’s first games Thursday, a 12:15 p.m. ET tipoff in the West Region.

“The Irish opened as a 7.5 point favorite, and after some back and forth, the line has settled at 7,” GTBets’ lines manager said, adding Notre Dame had a 2/1 margin in bets. “Historically, the public loves betting on Notre Dame in any sport, so you might be getting some value in a 7-point Princeton ‘dog.”

68 need-to-know betting notes for 68 NCAA Tournament teams
By Joe Fortenbaugh
Covers.com

As we do each and every year within this column, let’s begin with the basics: A 16-seed has never defeated a 1-seed, only eight 15-seeds have found success against 2-seeds (Middle Tennessee upset No. 2 Michigan State last year), no team seeded 13th or lower has ever advanced to the Elite Eight and only three teams seeded 11th or lower have ever reached the Final Four.

Additionally, no team seeded ninth or lower has ever won the NCAA tournament, with eighth-seeded Villanova (1985) still standing as the biggest shocker in college basketball history to win the Dance.

Now that you’ve officially completed March Madness 101, it’s time to commence your 200-level courses.

1 SEEDS

Villanova Wildcats (31-3 SU, 18-15 ATS, 11-22 O/U): Since the commencement of the 2015-2016 regular season, the UNDER is 43-26-1 (.623) in all lined games featuring Villanova. Additionally, the Wildcats enter March Madness having watched the UNDER cash in 16 of their last 22 contests (.727).

Kansas Jayhawks (28-4 SU, 11-18-1 ATS, 14-16 O/U): Lasted all of 40 minutes in the Big 12 tournament before falling 85-82 vs. TCU as a 9-point favorite. Take note that over the last six years, the UNDER is 5-1 in first-round March Madness games played by the Jayhawks.

North Carolina Tar Heels (27-7 SU, 16-14-2 ATS, 12-19-1 O/U): This is the seventh time the Tar Heels have earned a No. 1 seed under head coach Roy Williams. Of the previous six instances, two resulted in National Championship victories, one resulted in a National Championship defeat, one resulted in a Final Four appearance and the remaining two resulted in trips to the Elite Eight. In addition, be advised that the UNDER is 9-3-1 in UNC’s last 13 outings.

Gonzaga Bulldogs (32-1 SU, 22-7-1 ATS, 15-15 O/U): Over the last seven years, the Bulldogs are 5-2 ATS during the first round of March Madness (UNDER is 4-3 during that stretch).

2 SEEDS

Kentucky Wildcats (29-5 SU, 18-16 ATS, 17-17 O/U): Head coach John Calipari has his Wildcats peaking at just the right time, as Kentucky enters March Madness riding an 11-game winning streak (6-5 ATS). From a totals perspective, be advised that the UNDER has cashed in eight of the Wildcats’ last ten outings.

Arizona Wildcats (30-4 SU, 18-14-2 ATS, 16-17-1 O/U): Sean Miller’s Wildcats storm into the tournament having won nine of their last ten outings, which includes four straight point spread covers and three straight OVERS. Additionally, this program should be plenty motivated to deliver a first-round knockout after falling 65-55 to Wichita State as a 6-seed in last year’s opening round.

Duke Blue Devils (27-8 SU, 15-18-1 ATS, 16-17-1 O/U): Forget everything you thought you knew about this squad prior to last week because Mike Krzyzewski’s program just became the first team in ACC history to win the conference tournament with four victories in four days. The Blue Devils are finally healthy, playing fundamentally sound basketball and enter the Madness having covered the number in four straight matchups. Watch out.

Louisville Cardinals (24-8 SU, 17-12-1 ATS, 14-15-1 O/U): The UNDER is 7-1 in the Cardinals’ last eight opening-round matchups of the NCAA tournament.

3 SEEDS

Oregon Ducks (29-5 SU, 19-14 ATS, 15-18 O/U): Forward Chris Boucher (11.8 points, 6.1 rebounds, 2.5 blocks) is out for the season after suffering a torn ACL in Friday night’s win over California. Oregon has covered the number just twice in its last six outings, but has seen the OVER cash in four of its last five contests.

Florida State Seminoles (25-8 SU, 17-12-2 ATS, 15-15-1 O/U): This is Florida State’s first trip to the Dance since 2012, so motivation and excitement shouldn’t be an issue. However, the Seminoles are just 1-5 ATS over the school’s last six tournament matchups, with the UNDER cashing at the highly profitable record of 5-1 during that same stretch.

UCLA Bruins (29-4 SU, 16-17 ATS, 15-16-2 O/U): Squeaked by USC in the Pac-12 tournament 76-74 despite closing as a 10-point favorite before getting rocked by Arizona 86-75 as a 2.5-point favorite. However, if this team gets hot from deep, look out (40.5% 3-point percentage, eighth in NCAA). Take note that the UNDER has cashed in eight of UCLA’s last ten contests.

Baylor Bears (25-7 SU, 14-13 ATS, 10-16-1 O/U): One-and-done in the Big 12 tournament thanks to a 70-64 loss vs. Kansas State as a 4.5-point favorite, one-and-done in the NCAA tournament last season (79-75 loss vs. Yale as 5.5-point favorite) as well as two years ago (57-56 loss vs. Georgia State as 9.5-point favorite). Exercise extreme caution here.

4 SEEDS

Butler Bulldogs (23-8 SU, 17-12 ATS, 14-13-2 O/U): The Bulldogs have appeared in a minimum of two March Madness games in each of the program’s last five trips to the Dance. And during those five aforementioned trips, Butler has gone an astounding 14-2-2 ATS.

Florida Gators (24-8 SU, 17-13 ATS, 14-16 O/U): A nine-game winning streak from January 25 to February 21 quickly turned into three losses in four outings culminating with a one-and-done conference tournament appearance for the Gators. However, since this is Florida’s first trip to the Dance in three years, expect the Gators to show at least a semblance of pop in the opening rounds.

West Virginia Mountaineers (26-8 SU, 13-15-1 ATS, 16-12-1 O/U): The Mountaineers enter the tournament having covered the point spread just once over the team’s last eight games. Additionally, the UNDER is a perfect 4-0 in West Virginia’s last four March Madness showdowns.

Purdue Boilermakers (25-7 SU, 17-10-2 ATS, 16-12-1 O/U): Had won eight of nine games entering the Big Ten tournament, but bowed out immediately courtesy of a 74-70 overtime loss vs. Michigan as a 2.5-point favorite. The Boilermakers haven’t won a Madness matchup since March of 2012 (72-69 vs. Saint Mary’s), going 0-3 SU and 2-1 ATS since that victory.

5 SEEDS

Note: A 12-seed has defeated a 5-seed in every tournament from 2001-2016, with the exception of 2007.

Virginia Cavaliers (22-10 SU, 18-12 ATS, 10-19-1 O/U): When you think Virginia, you think UNDER. That’s because the Cavaliers execute one of the slowest tempos in the country, as evidenced by the fact that the program ranked just 296th in total field goal attempts this season. As for those UNDERS, note that the UNDER hit in six straight Virginia games to conclude the regular season, with just two OVERS cashing over the team’s final 14 contests.

Minnesota Golden Gophers (24-9 SU, 19-12 ATS, 18-13 O/U): The Gophers covered the number in eight of their final 11 contests entering the NCAA tournament and have seen the OVER cash in 11 of the program’s last 14 outings.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish (25-9 SU, 18-9-1 ATS, 14-13-1 O/U): How’s this for a disciplined, focused program: Notre Dame finished the 2016-2017 regular season ranked first in the country in turnovers per game (9.4) and fifth in personal fouls per game (14.9). Not only that, but no team in all the land is more effective from the free throw line than Notre Dame (79.9%, first in NCAA). Additionally, the Irish transformed a four-game losing streak in late January into an 8-2 SU mark over the school’s final ten games entering the Madness.

Iowa State Cyclones (23-10 SU, 18-12 ATS, 18-12 O/U): Claimed the Big 12 tournament title for the third time in four years with an 80-74 win and cover over West Virginia. Speaking of covers, the Cyclones have covered the number in eight of their last ten outings and enter the tournament having witnessed the OVER cashing in nine straight contests.

6 SEEDS

SMU Mustangs (30-4 SU, 22-6-1 ATS, 16-12-1 O/U): The Mustangs have failed to cover the number in only four of the school’s last 23 contests. Additionally, the OVER has cashed in seven of SMU’s last eight matchups, with that lone dissenter being ruled a push in the AAC championship game against Cincinnati.

Cincinnati Bearcats (29-5 SU, 16-14-1 ATS, 15-16 O/U): Had emerged victorious in 22 of 24 matchups prior to Sunday’s 71-56 defeat in the AAC title game suffered at the hands of SMU. One-and-done in three of their last four trips to the Dance, with no Sweet 16 appearances since the 2011-2012 campaign.

Maryland Terrapins (24-8 SU, 15-12-3 ATS, 14-15-1 O/U): Maryland is just 1-5 ATS over its last six NCAA tournament games and 4-11 ATS over its last 15 showdowns with Big East opposition (vs. Xavier in first round).

Creighton Bluejays (25-9 SU, 19-13 ATS, 13-19 O/U): The Bluejays are an abysmal 1-8-1 ATS over their last ten NCAA tournament showdowns, but have seen the UNDER cash in six of the school’s last seven outings.

7 SEEDS

Saint Mary’s Gaels (28-4 SU, 16-11-2 ATS, 12-17 O/U): The Gaels are a rock-solid 13-4-1 ATS over their last 18 out-of-conference matchups and 5-1-1 ATS over the program’s last seven games overall. In addition, take note that the UNDER is 5-0 in the Gaels’ previous five NCAA tournament games and 4-1 in the program’s last five non-conference showdowns.

South Carolina Gamecocks (22-10 SU, 11-16-2 ATS, 11-17-1 O/U): The Gamecocks failed to cover the spread in nine of the team’s final ten games entering the NCAA tournament. However, be advised that this is South Carolina’s first trip to the Dance since March of 2004 (59-43 loss vs. Memphis), so motivation and focus should not be an issue.

Michigan Wolverines (24-11 SU, 16-16 ATS, 19-12-1 O/U): Without question the most fascinating story entering the Madness, as the Wolverines went from having their team plane skid off the runway in Ypsilanti, Michigan during an aborted takeoff last Wednesday to winning the school’s first Big Ten tournament championship (4-0 SU, 4-0 ATS) as the lowest seed (No. 8 ) to win the postseason tournament in conference history. But can the Wolverines keep the magic flowing for another week?

Dayton Flyers (24-7 SU, 19-10 ATS, 17-12 O/U): The Flyers enter the tournament having covered the point spread in 14 of the school’s last 20 games overall. Additionally, the OVER has cashed in 11 of Dayton’s last 12 contests overall.

8 SEEDS

Wisconsin Badgers (25-9 SU, 15-16 ATS, 12-16-3 O/U): Covered the number only four times over their final 12 games of the season and enter the tournament having dropped six of their last ten matchups overall. Not exactly the form you’re looking for come Dance time.

Miami Hurricanes (21-11 SU, 11-19 ATS, 9-20-1 O/U): The Hurricanes roll into the Dance having dropped three of their last four games and are an alarming 1-4 ATS over their last five tourney showdowns. However, be advised that the UNDER has cashed in six straight Miami matchups and is 5-0-1 in the Hurricanes’ last six neutral site contests.

Arkansas Razorbacks (25-9 SU, 17-15 ATS, 16-16 O/U): Arkansas is dancing for just the second time since the 2008-2009 campaign and enters the tournament having won eight of its previous ten outings. Be advised that the UNDER has cashed in five of the Razorbacks’ last six contests. One-and-done is likely the upside for this squad, as a second-round matchup with top-seeded North Carolina is likely on the horizon.

Northwestern Wildcats (23-11 SU, 19-12 ATS, 11-18-2 O/U): FINALLY! For the first time in school history, Northwestern is dancing! And not only that, the Wildcats are 5-1 ATS over their last six non-conference showdowns. Also note that the UNDER is 10-4 in the Wildcats’ last 14 neutral site matchups. However, be advised that Northwestern’s first-round opponent is a Vanderbilt squad that has covered the number in eight of its last nine games.

9 SEEDS

Vanderbilt Commodores (19-15 SU, 20-12 ATS, 13-18-1 O/U): The UNDER has cashed in each of Vanderbilt’s last three outings as well as in seven of the Commodores’ last eight games overall. Vandy enters the tourney streaking having covered the number in eight of its last nine matchups, but be advised that this squad is 1-5 ATS over its last six March Madness games and 1-6 ATS over its last seven encounters with Big Ten opposition.

Seton Hall Pirates (21-11 SU, 14-16-1 ATS, 14-17 O/U): Get this: Seton Hall is a highly profitable 19-7 ATS over its last 26 games as an underdog and 40-19 ATS over its last 59 outings as an underdog of 0.5-6.5 points. The Pirates opened up offshore as 1-point underdogs for their opening round matchup against Arkansas.

Michigan State Spartans (19-14 SU, 17-15 ATS, 15-17 O/U): Sparty is just 3-8 ATS over its last 11 neutral site games and enters the tournament having dropped three of its last four outings. However, it’s worth noting that the OVER is 21-7 in the last 28 games in which Michigan State has been listed as an underdog. It’s always a risk to discount or discredit Spartans head coach Tom Izzo, who has guided Michigan State to at least two tournament wins in four of the last five seasons.

Virginia Tech Hokies (22-10 SU, 16-11-1 ATS, 14-14 O/U): Virginia Tech enters March Madness having gone 8-1-1 ATS over its last ten matchups and 6-1 ATS over the program’s last seven neutral site games. Additionally, pay close attention to the total in this showdown (vs. Wisconsin), as the UNDER is 5-1 in the Hokies’ last six non-conference outings and 9-1-1 in the Badgers’ last 11 neutral site games.

10 SEEDS

Oklahoma State Cowboys (20-12 SU, 16-10-1 ATS, 15-11-1 O/U): The Cowboys had the unfortunate pleasure of drawing white-hot Michigan in the opening round, which isn’t exactly a cause for celebration for a program that enters the NCAA tournament having lost three straight games. Additionally, note that Okie State is 0-4 ATS over its last four tourney games and 1-4-1 ATS over its last six showdowns with Big Ten opposition.

Wichita State Shockers (30-4 SU, 18-12-1 ATS, 17-14 O/U): Snubbed! How on Earth does a 30-win Wichita State team find itself as a No. 10 seed in this tournament? The Shockers enter March Madness on a 15-game winning streak in which the program has covered the number in seven of its last eight outings. No surprises here, however, as 10-seed Wichita State opens as a 6.5-point favorite over 7-seed Dayton.

Marquette Golden Eagles (19-12 SU, 16-15 ATS, 16-15 O/U): The Golden Eagles have covered the number just once over their last five NCAA tournament outings, but have seen the OVER cash in seven of the program’s last eight neutral site games.

VCU Rams (26-8 SU, 12-17-1 ATS, 17-13 O/U): VCU enters the tourney having covered the number just twice over its last seven outings, but take note, Rams fans, that this squad is a ridiculous 13-2 ATS over its last 15 NCAA tournament games when listed as an underdog. On Sunday evening VCU opened as a 4.5-point underdog vs. Saint Mary’s.

11 SEEDS

Xavier Musketeers (21-13 SU, 15-18 ATS, 15-18 O/U): From February 8 until March 1, Xavier found a way to go 0-7 against the spread. But since that 11-point loss vs. Marquette at the beginning of the month, the Musketeers have covered the number in four straight outings with the UNDER cashing every time as well. Take note that Xavier is 13-3 ATS over its last 16 outings against Big Ten opposition.

Rhode Island Rams (24-9 SU, 18-14 ATS, 16-16 O/U): The Rams enter the tournament on a white-hot tear having won eight straight matchups while covering the spread in six of their last seven outings. However, be advised that Rhode Island is just 4-17-2 ATS over its last 23 games as an underdog. The upside here is that the Rams’ first-round opponent, Creighton, has covered the spread in just one of its last ten NCAA tournament outings.

PLAY-IN TEAM Providence Friars (20-12 SU, 20-12 ATS, 14-16-2 O/U): Concluded the regular season having covered the spread in 11 of their final 13 matchups, but quickly bowed-out of the Big East tournament with a 70-58 loss to Creighton as a 2-point underdog. Take note that the Friars are 13-3 ATS as an underdog over their last 16 neutral site matchups.

PLAY-IN TEAM USC Trojans (24-9 SU, 16-16 ATS, 15-16-1 O/U): The UNDER has cashed in four straight USC games, but be advised that the Trojans are an alarming 2-9 ATS over their last 11 showdowns against teams that feature a winning percentage of .600 or higher.

PLAY-IN TEAM Kansas State Wildcats (20-13 SU, 15-12-2 ATS, 13-16 O/U): The Wildcats have covered the number in four straight outings and have seen the UNDER go 46-22-1 over the program’s last 69 non-conference games. However, be advised that Kansas State has covered the spread just once over its last five NCAA tournament matchups.

PLAY-IN TEAM Wake Forest Demon Deacons (19-13 SU, 16-14 ATS, 21-8-1 O/U): The OVER has cashed in 15 of the Demon Deacons’ last 17 matchups. Additionally, Wake Forest is 5-0 ATS over its last five games against Big 12 opposition.

12 SEEDS

Nevada Wolf Pack (28-6 SU, 23-10-1 ATS, 18-14-2 O/U): A big round of applause for head coach Eric Musselman, who transformed Nevada from a 9-22 doormat in 2014-2015 to a 24-win club in his first year on the job to tournament-bound for the first time since 2007 thanks to a 28-6 mark during the 2016-2017 campaign. Not only that, but the Wolf Pack enter the Dance absolutely on fire thanks to nine straight wins and covers that featured six OVERS in the team’s last seven outings.

Middle Tennessee State Blue Raiders (30-4 SU, 23-10 ATS, 13-20 O/U): Do not, REPEAT, do not overlook these guys. Despite earning a 12-seed with an opening-round date against 5-seed Minnesota, the early money came gushing on the Blue Raiders, with the line moving from Golden Gophers -1.5 all the way to Middle Tennessee -1 in just a matter of hours. And for good reason, too, as the Blue Raiders enter the tournament having won 20 of their last 21 outings with eight ATS covers over the program’s last ten contests.

UNC-Wilmington Seahawks (29-5 SU, 14-15-1 ATS, 16-14 O/U): The Seahawks went from 2006-2015 without earning a berth in the NCAA tournament, but broke through last season and earned a hard-fought, first-round cover against Duke (+10) in the form of a 93-85 defeat. Be advised that the OVER is a perfect 10-0 over UNCW’s last ten games played in the month of March.

Princeton Tigers (23-6 SU, 12-10-1 ATS, 9-13-1 O/U): The Tigers roll into the Dance riding a 19-game winning streak that dates back to December 22 and at one point featured a stretch of 11 UNDERS in 12 games. That’s important to note as Princeton loves to slow the pace and rarely turns the ball over. There’s a reason a smidgeon of early money has come in backing the Tigers over the Notre Dame Fighting Irish: This program has the discipline and the goods from deep to engineer a first-round shocker.

13 SEEDS

Bucknell Bison (26-8 SU, 7-1 ATS, 5-2-1 O/U): Winners of six straight contests entering March Madness, the Bison return to the Dance for the first time since a one-and-done effort vs. Butler back in March of 2013. And while there is certainly upset potential with a team that shot an astounding 54.6% from two-point range this season, be advised that first-round opponent West Virginia is an impressive 19-7 ATS over its last 26 tournament matchups.

East Tennessee State Buccaneers (27-7 SU, 17-13-1 ATS, 15-15-1 O/U): Combine a highly aggressive and opportunistic defense (think blocks, steals) with an overall squad that has won nine of its last 10 games and you get an East Tennessee program that is 5-1 ATS over its last six neutral site matchups. Additionally, note that the Buccaneers are an impressive 28-12 ATS over their last 40 contests played in the month of March.

Vermont Catamounts (29-5 SU, 4-4 ATS, 2-6 O/U): They’re riding the nation’s longest winning streak at 21 straight victories, which dates back to a December 21 loss at Butler. Take note that the UNDER is a perfect 6-0 in Vermont’s last six NCAA tournament outings.

Winthrop Eagles (26-6 SU, 3-4-1 ATS, 6-2 O/U): The Eagles held the opposition to under 47% effective shooting this past season and has seen the UNDER cash 26 times in the school’s last 32 games played on a neutral court.

14 SEEDS

New Mexico State Aggies (28-5 SU, 3-2 ATS, 2-3 O/U): The good news here is that the Aggies have found their way into the Dance for the seventh time since the 2006-2007 campaign. The bad news is that New Mexico State is 0-6 straight-up and 2-4 ATS in those six matchups. The interesting news, however, is that the UNDER is a highly profitable 5-1 in those aforementioned six showdowns.

Florida Gulf Coast Eagles (26-7 SU, 4-0 ATS, 1-3 O/U): Dunk City is back! The team that captivated a nation in March of 2013 is dancing once again, which is good news for backers, as Florida Gulf Coast is 5-0 ATS over its last five tournament outings, with the OVER cashing in four of those contests.

Kent State Golden Flashes (22-13 SU, 16-13-2 ATS, 14-17 O/U): There are two streaks you need to pay attention to when it comes to Kent State: First, the Golden Flashes have covered the number in four straight outings as well as eight of their last nine games overall. Second, the UNDER has cashed in eight of Kent State’s last nine matchups.

Iona Gaels (22-12 SU, 14-16-2 ATS, 19-13 O/U): The OVER has hit in nine of Iona’s last 12 games thanks to a combination of up-tempo offense and defensive indifference. Be advised that Iona has hung 70 or more points on the scoreboard in 11 straight outings.

15 SEEDS

Northern Kentucky Norse (24-10 SU, 20-9-1 ATS, 13-17 O/U): They’re 10-5 ATS over their last 15 games against teams with a winning record, but in all likelihood it’s a one-and-done for the first team set to face the Kentucky Wildcats. However, take note that the OVER has cashed in six of Northern Kentucky’s last seven matchups.

Troy Trojans (22-14 SU, 20-12 ATS, 19-13 O/U): The Trojans have covered the number in four straight outings while watching the UNDER cash in seven of the program’s last nine games. In addition, motivation will be at an all-time high considering this is the school’s first tourney appearance this millennium. Also worth noting is the fact that Troy’s first-round opponent, Duke, is just 1-4 ATS over the last five years in the first round of March Madness.

Jacksonville State Gamecocks (20-14 SU, 17-12 ATS, 9-20 O/U): The UNDER has cashed in 16 of Jacksonville State’s last 18 games.

North Dakota Fighting Hawks (22-9 SU, 17-9-2 ATS, 15-12-1 O/U): The Fighting Hawks are 7-1 ATS over their last eight games when listed as an underdog. Additionally, North Dakota’s first-round opponent, Arizona, is 0-3 ATS over the last three years during the first round of March Madness.

16 SEEDS

Texas Southern Tigers (23-11 SU, 2-6 ATS, 5-3 O/U): This is Texas Southern’s third trip to the Dance since 2014, but be advised that the Tigers went 0-3 ATS during Southwestern Athletic Conference tournament play prior to landing a 16-seed. In addition, take note that the Tigers are 4-12 ATS over the program’s last 16 games when coming off a win over a conference rival.

South Dakota State Jackrabbits (18-16 SU, 14-16-1 ATS, 19-12 O/U): South Dakota State heads to the Dance having covered the number in six of its last seven outings. However, pay particular attention to the total in this game, as the OVER is 22-8 in the Jackrabbits’ last 30 games when listed as an underdog and 18-7 in South Dakota State’s last 25 non-conference matchups.

PLAY-IN TEAM UC Davis Aggies (22-12 SU, 17-12-1 ATS, 12-17-1 O/U): UC Davis is in the tournament for the first time in school history, so emotions should be running high for this one, even if it is a play-in game. The Aggies are 8-1 ATS over their last nine games played on a Wednesday, while the UNDER is 6-1 in UC Davis’ last seven Wednesday outings.

PLAY-IN TEAM North Carolina Central Eagles (25-8 SU, 6-0 ATS, 1-5 O/U): The Eagles are 8-2 ATS over their last ten non-conference matchups while the UNDER is 8-1 in NC Central’s last nine contests played on a neutral court.

PLAY-IN TEAM New Orleans Privateers (20-11 SU, 2-1 ATS, 1-1-1 O/U): The Privateers are 29-13 ATS over their last 42 games played on a neutral court, while the OVER is 12-3 in the school’s last 15 outings played in the month of March.

PLAY-IN TEAM Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers (19-15 SU, 3-3 ATS, 3-3 O/U): Opened the season 1-11, closed the season 17-4. That’s nonconference life as a low-major program. Be advised that the UNDER is 5-1 in the Mountaineers’ last six games when listed as an underdog and 11-2 in the school’s last 13 outings when lined between 130 and 139.5.