After picking up 4 Units last night, here's two barking dogs tonight.
Wisconsin (-12.5) at Indiana
The Badgers are just 3-5 on the road this season with their only wins at Michigan, Penn State and Northwestern.
Wisconsin is a disciplined team, but the Hoosiers have the ability to disrupt their opponents at home, nearly beating Purdue earlier this year and taking down Minnesota.
Tom Crean’s team always gives strong effort at home.
Take the Hoosier for 4 Units.
Arizona at California (-11.5)
The Wildcats have lost four out of five, and you’d think now would be the time to bet against them facing a Cal team that’s atop the Pac 10.
But, this has been the most unpredictable conference this season, so don’t be surprised if a talent ‘Zona team rises up to keep it close on the road.
Take Arizona for 3 Units.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Feb. 24 Plays
We’re looking to turn things around tonight with plenty of the plate to satisfy.
Ohio State (-7.5) at Penn State
This line is skewed by the fact that the Nittany Lions have won two straight Big Ten games on the road.
The Buckeyes at 11-4 in conference play are still eyeing a Big Ten title, and minus a hiccup against Purdue at home, have been playing very well lately.
OSU has been impressive in its last three roadies, winning at Michigan State, Illinois and Indiana in relatively easy fashion.
Penn State only has one consistent option on offense and tends to go long stretches without scoring, especially against a strong defense like OSU.
Take the Buckeyes for 3 Units.
Florida State (-2.5) at North Carolina
This line would have looked stupid a couple of months ago, and it still does a little bit. The Tar Heels are floundering near the bottom of the ACC, while FSU is 7-5.
Still I like North Carolina getting points at home coming off of a pair of road losses.
Take the Tar Heels for 4 Units.
Pittsburgh (-1) at Notre Dame
With Harangody out, the Irish have actually been playing better offense. His fadeaway 20-footers have been exchanged for more shots for Tory Jackson and Tim Abromaitis.
ND can get really hot from the outside at home, and although Pitt does a good job defensively, sometimes that doesn't matter.
The Panthers’ streaky shooting is always scary on the road, and the Irish are a tough out at home.
Take ND for 3 Units.
San Diego State at BYU 141.5
Jimmer Fredette is as pure as the driven snow, and the Aztecs’ balance scoring gives them a lot of options if players get into foul trouble.
Take the over for 2 Units.
Ohio State (-7.5) at Penn State
This line is skewed by the fact that the Nittany Lions have won two straight Big Ten games on the road.
The Buckeyes at 11-4 in conference play are still eyeing a Big Ten title, and minus a hiccup against Purdue at home, have been playing very well lately.
OSU has been impressive in its last three roadies, winning at Michigan State, Illinois and Indiana in relatively easy fashion.
Penn State only has one consistent option on offense and tends to go long stretches without scoring, especially against a strong defense like OSU.
Take the Buckeyes for 3 Units.
Florida State (-2.5) at North Carolina
This line would have looked stupid a couple of months ago, and it still does a little bit. The Tar Heels are floundering near the bottom of the ACC, while FSU is 7-5.
Still I like North Carolina getting points at home coming off of a pair of road losses.
Take the Tar Heels for 4 Units.
Pittsburgh (-1) at Notre Dame
With Harangody out, the Irish have actually been playing better offense. His fadeaway 20-footers have been exchanged for more shots for Tory Jackson and Tim Abromaitis.
ND can get really hot from the outside at home, and although Pitt does a good job defensively, sometimes that doesn't matter.
The Panthers’ streaky shooting is always scary on the road, and the Irish are a tough out at home.
Take ND for 3 Units.
San Diego State at BYU 141.5
Jimmer Fredette is as pure as the driven snow, and the Aztecs’ balance scoring gives them a lot of options if players get into foul trouble.
Take the over for 2 Units.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Feb. 21 Plays
After receiving valid complaints about a lack of recent plays, we’re back with plays on every Big Ten, Big East, A-10, Pac 10 and ACC game today. We have 26 Units in play.
Ohio State at Michigan State 135.5
The Buckeyes and Spartans have both gotten on track in the Big Ten with their defense. They both have talent and an ability to score, but are committed to their coaches’ philosophies of defense first.
Ohio State has held its last five opponents to 41 percent shooting and MSU broke its three-game slide with strong defense in two road victories.
This will be a grind and take the under for 4 Units.
Villanova (-2) at Pittsburgh
This is a tough matchup for a Pittsburgh team that is thin in its front line and doesn’t have near the talent in the backcourt that the Wildcats do.
Scottie Reynolds has been a thorn in the side of the Panthers since he arrived in Philadelphia and the Cats will be able to spread the court and penetrate the Pittsburgh defense and finish at the rim.
Pittsburgh outside shooting struggles will not be helped by Villanova’s tight man-to-man defense.
Take Villanova for 3 Units.
Dayton (-4) at Duquesne
The Dukes were supposed to be a dark horse contender for the A10 title, but things didn’t go as planned early in the schedule. However, they have won three of their last four in conference, and they start a crucial home stretch in their schedule.
The Flyers have struggled on the road in conference, losing three of their last four. This is a dangerous game for Dayton, and their inconsistent play could bite them in this one.
Take Duquesne for 2 Units.
Marquette at Cincinnati (-1.5)
These two teams showdown with NCAA Tournament hopes on the line.
Marquette starts a three-game road trip, while the Bearcats are licking their wounds from a loss at South Florida.
The Golden Eagles have won their last two conference road games, and have been in every one of their Big East road games this season.
Buzz Williams does a good job of refocusing his team after losses and if Marquette is going to separate itself from the pack in the middle of the Big East a win here would go a long way.
Take Marquette for 3 Units.
Northwestern at Wisconsin 121.5
Neither team has anything resembling transition offense and neither team gambles on defense, making teams work late into the shot clock for offense.
The only danger is that both teams shoot pretty well from 3-point range, but it won’t be an up-and-down game, so this should be a low-scoring affair even if these teams shoot well from deep.
Take the under for 4 Units.
St. Bonaventure at La Salle (-4)
The only team that either of these teams has beaten in each of their last six contests of Fordham, which is winless in the A10.
This one is a toss-up, so we’ll lean towards the home team here. Take La Salle for 1 Unit.
St. Louis at Massachusetts 127.5
The Billikens have won five straight games because of their uncanny ability to slow down the game and make teams use the whole shot clock to score.
UMass likes to get up and down the floor, but will have to be patient in this one as SLU won’t allow many transition points.
The way to get a road win is with strong defense and Rick Majerus knows that.
Take the under for 3 Units.
Arizona State at Arizona 127.5
The Wildcats average 75 points per game at home and this should be a faster game than usual with both teams wanting to make plays in a rivalry game.
ASU has some strong outside shooting and Arizona’s Nic Wise is a good facilitator for the Wildcats’ offense.
This game will be played in the 70s. Take the over for 3 Units.
Virginia Tech at Duke (-13)
The Blue Devils have been destroying teams at home lately and this is a big win to maintain control of the ACC lead.
The Hokies have played a weak schedule, and although they’ve won five straight the only really strong win was over Wake Forest at home.
Tech will get exposed by the Blue Devils’ defense in this one.
Take Duke for 3 Units.
Ohio State at Michigan State 135.5
The Buckeyes and Spartans have both gotten on track in the Big Ten with their defense. They both have talent and an ability to score, but are committed to their coaches’ philosophies of defense first.
Ohio State has held its last five opponents to 41 percent shooting and MSU broke its three-game slide with strong defense in two road victories.
This will be a grind and take the under for 4 Units.
Villanova (-2) at Pittsburgh
This is a tough matchup for a Pittsburgh team that is thin in its front line and doesn’t have near the talent in the backcourt that the Wildcats do.
Scottie Reynolds has been a thorn in the side of the Panthers since he arrived in Philadelphia and the Cats will be able to spread the court and penetrate the Pittsburgh defense and finish at the rim.
Pittsburgh outside shooting struggles will not be helped by Villanova’s tight man-to-man defense.
Take Villanova for 3 Units.
Dayton (-4) at Duquesne
The Dukes were supposed to be a dark horse contender for the A10 title, but things didn’t go as planned early in the schedule. However, they have won three of their last four in conference, and they start a crucial home stretch in their schedule.
The Flyers have struggled on the road in conference, losing three of their last four. This is a dangerous game for Dayton, and their inconsistent play could bite them in this one.
Take Duquesne for 2 Units.
Marquette at Cincinnati (-1.5)
These two teams showdown with NCAA Tournament hopes on the line.
Marquette starts a three-game road trip, while the Bearcats are licking their wounds from a loss at South Florida.
The Golden Eagles have won their last two conference road games, and have been in every one of their Big East road games this season.
Buzz Williams does a good job of refocusing his team after losses and if Marquette is going to separate itself from the pack in the middle of the Big East a win here would go a long way.
Take Marquette for 3 Units.
Northwestern at Wisconsin 121.5
Neither team has anything resembling transition offense and neither team gambles on defense, making teams work late into the shot clock for offense.
The only danger is that both teams shoot pretty well from 3-point range, but it won’t be an up-and-down game, so this should be a low-scoring affair even if these teams shoot well from deep.
Take the under for 4 Units.
St. Bonaventure at La Salle (-4)
The only team that either of these teams has beaten in each of their last six contests of Fordham, which is winless in the A10.
This one is a toss-up, so we’ll lean towards the home team here. Take La Salle for 1 Unit.
St. Louis at Massachusetts 127.5
The Billikens have won five straight games because of their uncanny ability to slow down the game and make teams use the whole shot clock to score.
UMass likes to get up and down the floor, but will have to be patient in this one as SLU won’t allow many transition points.
The way to get a road win is with strong defense and Rick Majerus knows that.
Take the under for 3 Units.
Arizona State at Arizona 127.5
The Wildcats average 75 points per game at home and this should be a faster game than usual with both teams wanting to make plays in a rivalry game.
ASU has some strong outside shooting and Arizona’s Nic Wise is a good facilitator for the Wildcats’ offense.
This game will be played in the 70s. Take the over for 3 Units.
Virginia Tech at Duke (-13)
The Blue Devils have been destroying teams at home lately and this is a big win to maintain control of the ACC lead.
The Hokies have played a weak schedule, and although they’ve won five straight the only really strong win was over Wake Forest at home.
Tech will get exposed by the Blue Devils’ defense in this one.
Take Duke for 3 Units.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Feb. 19 Plays
Syracuse at Georgetown (-1.5)
Both of these teams are coming off of disappointing losses and the Hoyas welcome the Orange after losing to them in the Carrier Dome earlier this season.
The key to the Hoyas’ success so far this season has been Chris Wright. In four of the last five games that Wright has not scored in double figures, Georgetown has lost.
Although Syracuse limited Wright to just seven points in their last meeting, he should be able to find better open shots against the Syracuse zone at home.
Take the Hoyas for 3 Units.
Pittsburgh at Marquette (-6.5)
This is a big game for the Golden Eagles as it will be the last regular season game against a ranked opponent.
Although Marquette tends to shoot well at home, especially from 3-point range the Eagles will struggle to pull away in this one because of their weak perimeter defense and height disadvantage.
The Panthers should be able to stay in this one with second-chance points and a solid game from Ashton Gibbs.
Take Pitt for 2 Units.
Wisconsin at Minnesota 125
If there’s one thing Wisconsin excels at it is limiting their opponents’ fast break points.
Even though Minnesota loves to get out and run to use their depth to an advantage, the Badgers always take good shots and limit their turnovers.
Take the under for 3 Units.
Both of these teams are coming off of disappointing losses and the Hoyas welcome the Orange after losing to them in the Carrier Dome earlier this season.
The key to the Hoyas’ success so far this season has been Chris Wright. In four of the last five games that Wright has not scored in double figures, Georgetown has lost.
Although Syracuse limited Wright to just seven points in their last meeting, he should be able to find better open shots against the Syracuse zone at home.
Take the Hoyas for 3 Units.
Pittsburgh at Marquette (-6.5)
This is a big game for the Golden Eagles as it will be the last regular season game against a ranked opponent.
Although Marquette tends to shoot well at home, especially from 3-point range the Eagles will struggle to pull away in this one because of their weak perimeter defense and height disadvantage.
The Panthers should be able to stay in this one with second-chance points and a solid game from Ashton Gibbs.
Take Pitt for 2 Units.
Wisconsin at Minnesota 125
If there’s one thing Wisconsin excels at it is limiting their opponents’ fast break points.
Even though Minnesota loves to get out and run to use their depth to an advantage, the Badgers always take good shots and limit their turnovers.
Take the under for 3 Units.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Feb. 15 Plays
After a brief hiatus, we’re back with two plays on Big Monday.
Connecticut at Villanova 154.5
The Huskies are in a free fall at 3-7 in their last 10 games. The missing component in those games has been consistent offense and a go-to scorer.
Meanwhile Villanova is atop the Big East standings with a high-powered offense.
If UConn wants to stay in this game, it won’t try to score with the Wildcats, and the Huskies’ ability to rebound will limit Nova’s second-chance opportunities.
Expect this one to be somewhat low-scoring for a Villanova game. Take the under for 4 Units.
Virginia at Maryland (-9)
The Terrapins are coming off of a blowout at the hands of ACC-leading Duke and now host a surprising Virginia team that is 5-4 in the conference.
The Cavaliers has played well on the road in conference this season, and their defense is what has kept them in game.
Maryland likes to get out and score in transition, but Virginia does not surrender many fast break points.
Look for the Cavaliers to keep this one close. Take Virginia for 2 Units.
Connecticut at Villanova 154.5
The Huskies are in a free fall at 3-7 in their last 10 games. The missing component in those games has been consistent offense and a go-to scorer.
Meanwhile Villanova is atop the Big East standings with a high-powered offense.
If UConn wants to stay in this game, it won’t try to score with the Wildcats, and the Huskies’ ability to rebound will limit Nova’s second-chance opportunities.
Expect this one to be somewhat low-scoring for a Villanova game. Take the under for 4 Units.
Virginia at Maryland (-9)
The Terrapins are coming off of a blowout at the hands of ACC-leading Duke and now host a surprising Virginia team that is 5-4 in the conference.
The Cavaliers has played well on the road in conference this season, and their defense is what has kept them in game.
Maryland likes to get out and score in transition, but Virginia does not surrender many fast break points.
Look for the Cavaliers to keep this one close. Take Virginia for 2 Units.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Jan. 11 Plays
Michigan at Minnesota (-8.5)
For some reason the Gophers get a ton of credit from Vegas this season, despite being just 5-5 in the Big Ten.
The Wolverines have been destroyed in their last two games, but these teams are similar in talent and production this season.
They both can score the ball and should get open looks. The Michigan 3-point shot will keep them in this game.
Take the Wolverines for 3 Units.
Notre Dame at Seton Hall (-5.5)
The Irish have been underwhelming on the road in Big East play, losing four of their last five with their only win at South Florida.
The problem, as usual, is the defense for ND and Seton Hall can fill it up, especially at home. Also, Herb Pope will bother ‘Gody with his length.
Take the Hall for 3 Units.
St. Mary’s at Gonzaga 151
The last two times these teams met there wasn’t even a hint of defense. Both of these teams have great outside shooting and Gonzaga’s depth allows them to play a fast-paced game.
The total earlier this season was 171 and expect it to be the same this time around. Take the over for 4 Units.
For some reason the Gophers get a ton of credit from Vegas this season, despite being just 5-5 in the Big Ten.
The Wolverines have been destroyed in their last two games, but these teams are similar in talent and production this season.
They both can score the ball and should get open looks. The Michigan 3-point shot will keep them in this game.
Take the Wolverines for 3 Units.
Notre Dame at Seton Hall (-5.5)
The Irish have been underwhelming on the road in Big East play, losing four of their last five with their only win at South Florida.
The problem, as usual, is the defense for ND and Seton Hall can fill it up, especially at home. Also, Herb Pope will bother ‘Gody with his length.
Take the Hall for 3 Units.
St. Mary’s at Gonzaga 151
The last two times these teams met there wasn’t even a hint of defense. Both of these teams have great outside shooting and Gonzaga’s depth allows them to play a fast-paced game.
The total earlier this season was 171 and expect it to be the same this time around. Take the over for 4 Units.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Feb. 10 Plays
Connecticut at Syracuse (-10.5) 145
The Huskies have been out of sorts recently, and it has started at the defensive end. UConn also doesn't have a go-to scorer, but if the Huskies have any desire to get to the Dance, they'll bring a strong effort tonight.
UConn is one of the few teams that matches up with Syracuse’s length, and the Huskies know their rival well.
That said I have more faith that these teams will be able to score than a do that Connecticut will keep it close.
Take the over for 4 Units and the Huskies for 2 Units.
Baylor (-3) at Nebraska
The Bears lost the lead and a tough game at Texas A&M over the weekend, while Nebraska just ran through the Kansas-Kansas State gantlet 0-2.
Baylor is battle-tested on the at 3-3, with the only losses at A&M, at Kansas and at Colorado.
The Bears aren’t going into a very hostile territory in Lincoln and should get the win. Take Baylor for 4 Units.
The Huskies have been out of sorts recently, and it has started at the defensive end. UConn also doesn't have a go-to scorer, but if the Huskies have any desire to get to the Dance, they'll bring a strong effort tonight.
UConn is one of the few teams that matches up with Syracuse’s length, and the Huskies know their rival well.
That said I have more faith that these teams will be able to score than a do that Connecticut will keep it close.
Take the over for 4 Units and the Huskies for 2 Units.
Baylor (-3) at Nebraska
The Bears lost the lead and a tough game at Texas A&M over the weekend, while Nebraska just ran through the Kansas-Kansas State gantlet 0-2.
Baylor is battle-tested on the at 3-3, with the only losses at A&M, at Kansas and at Colorado.
The Bears aren’t going into a very hostile territory in Lincoln and should get the win. Take Baylor for 4 Units.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Feb. 9 Play
Only one play in tonight's light schedule of games.
Illinois at Wisconsin 125
The Badgers shot over 50 percent in their last game, but the under still easily hit because of their strong defense.
Wisconsin rarely takes a quick shot, especially at home and Bucky’s positioning on the defensive end should make scoring difficult for an Illinois team that can be streaky on offense.
Take the under for 4 Units.
Illinois at Wisconsin 125
The Badgers shot over 50 percent in their last game, but the under still easily hit because of their strong defense.
Wisconsin rarely takes a quick shot, especially at home and Bucky’s positioning on the defensive end should make scoring difficult for an Illinois team that can be streaky on offense.
Take the under for 4 Units.
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Feb. 6 Plays
Marquette (-2.5) at Providence
The Golden Eagles defeated the Friars by 30 in the Bradley Center in January. But that was more about a hot shooting night from 3-point range, along with a lack of defense by Providence.
Outside shooting has killed Providence in its last five games as it’s allowing 39 percent shooting from 3-point range. That is dangerous against a Marquette team with a bevy of guards who can all shoot from the outside.
Take Marquette for 3 Units.
Villanova at Georgetown (-2)
The usually tough home venue in the Verizon Center will be more like a library as a huge snowstorm in D.C. will limit attendance.
The Hoyas lost a head-scratcher to South Florida earlier this week, and they now face a great backcourt in Villanova.
The Wildcats’ guards have a great ability to dribble drive and draw fouls, which is a bad sign for Greg Monroe, who tends to disappear for long stretches.
The ball pressure of Villanova will neutralize Georgetown’s Chris Wright, which is always trouble for the Hoyas.
Take Villanova for 2 Units.
Oklahoma State at Texas Tech (PK)
The Red Raiders had a rough road trip in Texas last week, but are always tough at home.
This game should be a high-scoring affair, which suits Texas Tech.
The Cowboys are just 2-4 away from home, and don’t have the firepower, outside of James Anderson, to compete with Tech’s offense.
Take the Raiders for 4 Units.
Wisconsin at Michigan (PK)
The Wolverines are still on the bubble for the NCAA Tournament, and will come out strong for this one.
The Badgers are just 2-4 away from home this season, and the Wolverines are tough on their home floor, having already defeated Uconn and taken Michigan State to the final possession.
Wisconsin is running into a tough situation here, and Michigan will get a big game from Manny Harris.
Take the Wolverines for 3 Units.
South Carolina at Tennessee (-9.5)
This line is confusing since the Gamecocks are a tough bunch led by a gritty guard in Devan Downey.
USC can score from the outside and defends well. The danger for Tennessee is to get into a shooting contest with the Gamecock, because shooting is not their strong suit.
Carolina is too disciplined and too tough to get blown out in this one. Take South Carolina for 3 Units.
Seton Hall at Pittsburgh (-4)
The Panthers have struggled with shooting, but their defense is always sound and they are nearly impossible to beat in the Petersen Events Center.
The Hall has lost its last four road games, putting them at 0-4 on the road in Big East play.
They have some talent but aren’t disciplined enough on offense or defense to compete with Pitt.
Take the Panthers for 4 Units.
The Golden Eagles defeated the Friars by 30 in the Bradley Center in January. But that was more about a hot shooting night from 3-point range, along with a lack of defense by Providence.
Outside shooting has killed Providence in its last five games as it’s allowing 39 percent shooting from 3-point range. That is dangerous against a Marquette team with a bevy of guards who can all shoot from the outside.
Take Marquette for 3 Units.
Villanova at Georgetown (-2)
The usually tough home venue in the Verizon Center will be more like a library as a huge snowstorm in D.C. will limit attendance.
The Hoyas lost a head-scratcher to South Florida earlier this week, and they now face a great backcourt in Villanova.
The Wildcats’ guards have a great ability to dribble drive and draw fouls, which is a bad sign for Greg Monroe, who tends to disappear for long stretches.
The ball pressure of Villanova will neutralize Georgetown’s Chris Wright, which is always trouble for the Hoyas.
Take Villanova for 2 Units.
Oklahoma State at Texas Tech (PK)
The Red Raiders had a rough road trip in Texas last week, but are always tough at home.
This game should be a high-scoring affair, which suits Texas Tech.
The Cowboys are just 2-4 away from home, and don’t have the firepower, outside of James Anderson, to compete with Tech’s offense.
Take the Raiders for 4 Units.
Wisconsin at Michigan (PK)
The Wolverines are still on the bubble for the NCAA Tournament, and will come out strong for this one.
The Badgers are just 2-4 away from home this season, and the Wolverines are tough on their home floor, having already defeated Uconn and taken Michigan State to the final possession.
Wisconsin is running into a tough situation here, and Michigan will get a big game from Manny Harris.
Take the Wolverines for 3 Units.
South Carolina at Tennessee (-9.5)
This line is confusing since the Gamecocks are a tough bunch led by a gritty guard in Devan Downey.
USC can score from the outside and defends well. The danger for Tennessee is to get into a shooting contest with the Gamecock, because shooting is not their strong suit.
Carolina is too disciplined and too tough to get blown out in this one. Take South Carolina for 3 Units.
Seton Hall at Pittsburgh (-4)
The Panthers have struggled with shooting, but their defense is always sound and they are nearly impossible to beat in the Petersen Events Center.
The Hall has lost its last four road games, putting them at 0-4 on the road in Big East play.
They have some talent but aren’t disciplined enough on offense or defense to compete with Pitt.
Take the Panthers for 4 Units.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Feb. 4 Plays
We took it on the chin last night, but look to bounce back with 16 Units tonight.
Tennessee (-6.5) at LSU 132
The Vols have been playing poorly lately, but they are still 16-4 and still in the race for the SEC title. Tennessee can’t afford to drop this one, and the Vols defense will give a Tigers team that has averaged just 58 points in its last five games some fits.
LSU’s only chance is to make this a halfcourt game, but there will be too many scoring droughts for the Tigers to stay in this.
Take Tennessee for 2 Units and the under for 3 Units.
Cincinnati at Notre Dame (-3)
Even though the Irish have had a down year, they still have one of the tougher home court advantages in college basketball.
Notre Dame is coming off a pair of losses, including one to previously winless Rutgers. Mike Brey scheduled an extra practice this week, and when he did that last year they crushed a good Louisville team at home.
The Bearcats have won just one game on the road this season and it was at Rutgers. Look for ND’s outside shooting to be the difference. Take the Irish for 4 Units.
California at USC (-1)
The Golden Bears are in the lead in the Pac 10 and have been playing better basketball of late. Cal was the preseason favorite in the conference and Southern Cal seems to have lost some motivation after it was decided they would not compete in postseason play this year.
Cal’s outside shooting should neutralize the Trojans’ defense and Jerome Randle’s penetration should be able to set up open shot.
Take Cal for 3 Units.
Stanford at UCLA (-4.5)
The Bruins seem to be a team that is much improved over the past couple of months. They nearly swept their Oregon trip and now come home to face a Stanford team that has lost five straight road games.
Landry Fields is a great talent for the Cardinal, but UCLA’s defense will be a problem for the Stanford offense.
Take UCLA for 4 Units.
Tennessee (-6.5) at LSU 132
The Vols have been playing poorly lately, but they are still 16-4 and still in the race for the SEC title. Tennessee can’t afford to drop this one, and the Vols defense will give a Tigers team that has averaged just 58 points in its last five games some fits.
LSU’s only chance is to make this a halfcourt game, but there will be too many scoring droughts for the Tigers to stay in this.
Take Tennessee for 2 Units and the under for 3 Units.
Cincinnati at Notre Dame (-3)
Even though the Irish have had a down year, they still have one of the tougher home court advantages in college basketball.
Notre Dame is coming off a pair of losses, including one to previously winless Rutgers. Mike Brey scheduled an extra practice this week, and when he did that last year they crushed a good Louisville team at home.
The Bearcats have won just one game on the road this season and it was at Rutgers. Look for ND’s outside shooting to be the difference. Take the Irish for 4 Units.
California at USC (-1)
The Golden Bears are in the lead in the Pac 10 and have been playing better basketball of late. Cal was the preseason favorite in the conference and Southern Cal seems to have lost some motivation after it was decided they would not compete in postseason play this year.
Cal’s outside shooting should neutralize the Trojans’ defense and Jerome Randle’s penetration should be able to set up open shot.
Take Cal for 3 Units.
Stanford at UCLA (-4.5)
The Bruins seem to be a team that is much improved over the past couple of months. They nearly swept their Oregon trip and now come home to face a Stanford team that has lost five straight road games.
Landry Fields is a great talent for the Cardinal, but UCLA’s defense will be a problem for the Stanford offense.
Take UCLA for 4 Units.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Feb. 3 Plays
After a productive night of picking up 11 Units, including another Jimmer lock, here’s 11 Units.
Arkansas at Georgia (-4)
The Bulldogs are a different team at home than on the road. They have 10 losses, but seven of those have come on the road. At home, they’ve defeated Tennessee, Georgia Tech and Illinois. Also, they’ve played better defense at home, allowing just 61 points per game, seven points less than their overall average.
Arkansas is coming off of a pair of wins against the Mississippi teams, and has been playing better. But outside of their last win, the Razorbacks haven’t been consistent on the road.
Trey Thompkins will be a tough matchup for an Arkansas team that is thin at the forward spot.
Take Georgia for 4 Units.
Pittsburgh at West Virginia (-8.5)
The Panthers are beginning a brutal stretch of five games that sees them play the Mountaineers twice, along with Villanova, Marquette and Seton Hall. Pittsburgh has been reeling, losing three of its last four due to a drop in offensive production.
The Mountaineers escaped with a victory at home over Louisville on Saturday, and also have not played their best recently.
Both of these teams stay committed to defense and rebounding, which suggests that neither team will be able to pull away from the other.
People are beginning to doubt the Panthers again, which means it’s a good time to back them as they look to bolster their resume for March.
Take Pitt for 2 Units.
Illinois (-4.5) at Iowa
The Illini are 6-3 and tied for second in the Big Ten mostly because of an easy schedule thus far. But to Illinois’ credit, it has beaten the teams it is supposed to beat with losses only to Purdue, Northwestern and Michigan State. Bruce Weber’s team now faces another expected win at Iowa, which isn’t always an easy place to play.
The problem for Iowa this season has been its defense, as the Hawkeyes are allowing 45 percent shooting from the field. That’s not a good sign against Illinois, which has a number of scorers and likes to get the ball inside for easy looks for its big men, Mike Davis and Mike Tisdale.
Iowa does not match up well with the Illini and this could be a lopsided affair. Take Illinois for 3 Units.
UAB at Memphis (-7)
The Blazers are tied for the lead in Conference USA and just lost their first game in league play. They are tough-minded and backed by a beast in the middle, Elijah Millsap.
The Tigers also just lost to SMU, and will look to rebound but face a tough challenge against the Blazers.
UAB hasn’t wowed anybody on the road this season, earning a lot of close wins, but you can bet the Blazers are ready for the chance to beat Memphis, which once was the bully of this conference.
The Blazers will bring their best shot knowing this could put them in good shape for a conference title. Take UAB for 2 Units.
Wichita State at Northern Iowa 118
The Panthers are a methodical team that likes to work the offense through big man, Jordan Eglseder. They are also committed to playing defense, allowing teams to shoot just 39 percent this season.
The Shockers aren’t exactly a dynamic offense either, and this one should be a grind it out battle.
Both of these teams are near the bottom of the NCAAs in tempo, and the first one to 50 should win this one. Take the under for 2 Units.
Arkansas at Georgia (-4)
The Bulldogs are a different team at home than on the road. They have 10 losses, but seven of those have come on the road. At home, they’ve defeated Tennessee, Georgia Tech and Illinois. Also, they’ve played better defense at home, allowing just 61 points per game, seven points less than their overall average.
Arkansas is coming off of a pair of wins against the Mississippi teams, and has been playing better. But outside of their last win, the Razorbacks haven’t been consistent on the road.
Trey Thompkins will be a tough matchup for an Arkansas team that is thin at the forward spot.
Take Georgia for 4 Units.
Pittsburgh at West Virginia (-8.5)
The Panthers are beginning a brutal stretch of five games that sees them play the Mountaineers twice, along with Villanova, Marquette and Seton Hall. Pittsburgh has been reeling, losing three of its last four due to a drop in offensive production.
The Mountaineers escaped with a victory at home over Louisville on Saturday, and also have not played their best recently.
Both of these teams stay committed to defense and rebounding, which suggests that neither team will be able to pull away from the other.
People are beginning to doubt the Panthers again, which means it’s a good time to back them as they look to bolster their resume for March.
Take Pitt for 2 Units.
Illinois (-4.5) at Iowa
The Illini are 6-3 and tied for second in the Big Ten mostly because of an easy schedule thus far. But to Illinois’ credit, it has beaten the teams it is supposed to beat with losses only to Purdue, Northwestern and Michigan State. Bruce Weber’s team now faces another expected win at Iowa, which isn’t always an easy place to play.
The problem for Iowa this season has been its defense, as the Hawkeyes are allowing 45 percent shooting from the field. That’s not a good sign against Illinois, which has a number of scorers and likes to get the ball inside for easy looks for its big men, Mike Davis and Mike Tisdale.
Iowa does not match up well with the Illini and this could be a lopsided affair. Take Illinois for 3 Units.
UAB at Memphis (-7)
The Blazers are tied for the lead in Conference USA and just lost their first game in league play. They are tough-minded and backed by a beast in the middle, Elijah Millsap.
The Tigers also just lost to SMU, and will look to rebound but face a tough challenge against the Blazers.
UAB hasn’t wowed anybody on the road this season, earning a lot of close wins, but you can bet the Blazers are ready for the chance to beat Memphis, which once was the bully of this conference.
The Blazers will bring their best shot knowing this could put them in good shape for a conference title. Take UAB for 2 Units.
Wichita State at Northern Iowa 118
The Panthers are a methodical team that likes to work the offense through big man, Jordan Eglseder. They are also committed to playing defense, allowing teams to shoot just 39 percent this season.
The Shockers aren’t exactly a dynamic offense either, and this one should be a grind it out battle.
Both of these teams are near the bottom of the NCAAs in tempo, and the first one to 50 should win this one. Take the under for 2 Units.
Feb. 2 Plays
We’ve gone back to the basic after a rough Saturday and managed to find 15 Units to play tonight, including a Jimmer lock.
Michigan at Northwestern 125
Although the Wolverines are just 3-3 in their last six games, they’ve only allowed one opponent to score more than 60 points. Couple that with the fact that the under has hit in their last eight games and this one should be a low-scoring affair.
Both teams like to disrupt offenses by throwing out exotic defenses, and neither team has been overwhelming shooting the ball recently. In the last five games, Michigan is shooting 37 percent from the floor, while Northwestern in at 41 percent.
Take the under for 4 Units and pray for no overtime.
Michigan State at Wisconsin (-2) 123
Apparently Vegas must be suffering from amnesia or something, because this total is a little curious.
Yes, Sparty opened things up in a win over Northwestern, but MSU now must play at the Kohl Center, where Bucky controls the tempo.
The total in this matchup at East Lansing was 101, and don’t expect it to be much higher this time around. Both teams do have capabilities from long range, but both teams played tough defense and don’t gamble too much, which means offenses will be using a lot of the shot clock.
Also, Sparty’s schedule has been relatively easy up to this point, and they are ripe for the picking in an impossible environment. Tom Izzo has never defeated Bo Ryan at the Kohl Center, and it won’t start now.
Take the under for 4 Units and Wisconsin for a stone-cold, lead-pipe, Jimmer-third-game-bowling-under lock for 5 Units.
Kansas State (-4) at Nebraska
This has all the signs of a letdown game for Kansas State, after they played a gut-wrenching loss against Kansas on Saturday night in primetime.
The Cornhuskers play strong defense and could frustrate a streaky shooting Wildcats team.
If Nebraska is able to keep the Wildcats off of the offensive glass, they could pull the upset here. Take the Huskers for 2 Units.
Michigan at Northwestern 125
Although the Wolverines are just 3-3 in their last six games, they’ve only allowed one opponent to score more than 60 points. Couple that with the fact that the under has hit in their last eight games and this one should be a low-scoring affair.
Both teams like to disrupt offenses by throwing out exotic defenses, and neither team has been overwhelming shooting the ball recently. In the last five games, Michigan is shooting 37 percent from the floor, while Northwestern in at 41 percent.
Take the under for 4 Units and pray for no overtime.
Michigan State at Wisconsin (-2) 123
Apparently Vegas must be suffering from amnesia or something, because this total is a little curious.
Yes, Sparty opened things up in a win over Northwestern, but MSU now must play at the Kohl Center, where Bucky controls the tempo.
The total in this matchup at East Lansing was 101, and don’t expect it to be much higher this time around. Both teams do have capabilities from long range, but both teams played tough defense and don’t gamble too much, which means offenses will be using a lot of the shot clock.
Also, Sparty’s schedule has been relatively easy up to this point, and they are ripe for the picking in an impossible environment. Tom Izzo has never defeated Bo Ryan at the Kohl Center, and it won’t start now.
Take the under for 4 Units and Wisconsin for a stone-cold, lead-pipe, Jimmer-third-game-bowling-under lock for 5 Units.
Kansas State (-4) at Nebraska
This has all the signs of a letdown game for Kansas State, after they played a gut-wrenching loss against Kansas on Saturday night in primetime.
The Cornhuskers play strong defense and could frustrate a streaky shooting Wildcats team.
If Nebraska is able to keep the Wildcats off of the offensive glass, they could pull the upset here. Take the Huskers for 2 Units.
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