Mid-major report: Two hidden NCB gems
By Ben Burns
Remember the good old days, when betting mid-major studs actually paid off.
For you youngsters, it was a time before Bracket Buster Saturdays, and before teams like George Mason started crashing Final Fours.
These days, betting on mid-major powers like Gonzaga, Davidson and Butler is almost like betting on North Carolina, Duke and UConn. You’re going to be laying big numbers and almost always getting your opponent’s best shot.
The results are far from exciting. Heading into Wednesday’s action, Butler, Davidson and Gonzaga are a combined 19-17-1 against the spread.
With their consistent deep tournament runs, these once hidden mid-major jewels have been transformed into media darlings. And, as we all know, the media creates the public’s perception; the public’s perception sets the line.
But there are still a few mid-major gems ripe for the picking. You just have to dig a little deeper.
Look for emerging mid-major powers, not established ones. And don’t be afraid to look outside of the conferences that are known for producing Cinderellas.
Keep an eye on these potential mid-major gems
Utah State: Statistically, the Aggies (15-1/6-4 ATS) rank among the nation’s elite in offensive execution. They’re shooting 52 percent from the field and out-rebounding their opponents by close to 10 a game.
But their schedule has not been impressive, with a win over Utah being their biggest accomplishment. That’s part of the reason the Aggies have slipped under the radar of the media.
At 15-1, Utah State isn’t even receiving votes in the AP poll.
Meanwhile, coaches that have faced or seen tape of Utah State know exactly how good this team is.
The Aggies are receiving 11 votes in the Coaches’ Poll.
Dayton: The Flyers also have put together a strong start to the season, but aren’t getting much hype from the media.
Dayton is 14-2 with wins over Marquette (by 14 points), Auburn and George Mason. Yet, the Flyers are getting absolutely no respect in the AP Poll. The coaches, in contrast, believe Dayton is right on the brisk of being a Top 25 team.
What does that tell you?
The Flyers’ ho-hum 5-6 record against the spread should them even more attractive to bettors. This defensive-minded team knows how to keep games close and should be a solid play especially as a dog throughout Atlantic 10 play.