Standout Picks and Longshots for the Thursday Clashes in March Madness Tournament
Gear Up for the Madness! Here are our top bets for Thursday's action in the 2025 March Mania:
- First up, we've got the over (152.5) in the clash between Wisconsin and Montana. The Badgers have the 13th highest adjusted offensive efficiency in the nation, and their meetings against non-conference opponents have repeatedly surpassed this total. Montana, on the other hand, struggles defensively, particularly in defending isolation plays and mid-range shots, which will play right into the strengths of the Badgers' star guard, John Blackwell.
- Next up, we're backing the over in the Clemson vs. McNeese State matchup (134.0). These teams combine for nearly 20 points more per game than the listed total, with Clemson averaging 7.5 more points than their South Carolina sports betting odds, and McNeese seeing an average of 6.8 more points than Thursday's total.
- Our third over pick is in the Drake vs. Missouri game. Although Drake leads the nation in points allowed per game, the combined average scoring of these teams is 143.75 points, while their average defensive points allowed totals are a mere 143.4 points. We're riding the over in this one.
Top Dog Picks:
- Yale (+7.5) against Texas A&M: The Aggies have thrived off second-chance opportunities and free throws, but Yale boasts solid defensive rebounding percentages and ranks among the top college basketball teams for fewest fouls. Take the Bulldogs to keep the Aggies at bay.
- Utah State (+5.5) against UCLA: Utas State's field goal and three-point percentages make them a force to be reckoned with. The Bruins, meanwhile, have stumbled in their last eight games, giving the Aggies the edge in this tightly-contested battle.
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The source of our expertise:* With a degree in Writing, Editing, and Media from Florida State University, our sports writing specialist, Zachary Kelley, brings extensive knowledge of both professional and collegiate football and baseball to the table, as well as a keen interest in the legalization aspect of sports betting. Follow Zach for insightful sports analysis and expert picks.
- In the world of sports betting, the odds for the over in Wisconsin vs. Montana's matchup on March 143 are worth considering, considering the Badgers' offensive efficiency and Montana's defensive struggles.
- On the same day, the over in the Clemson vs. McNeese State game seems promising, given that these teams consistently score more points than their listed total, with Clemson leading the charge.
- The Drake vs. Missouri game also seems to favor the over, as their combined average scoring is higher than the listed total, despite Drake's strong defensive reputation.
- In the realm of college basketball betting, Yale (+7.5) could surprise Texas A&M, as they have solid defensive rebounding percentages and a low foul rate, which could hinder the Aggies' advantage in second-chance opportunities and free throws.
- In a close contest, Utah State (+5.5) could edge out UCLA, given their strong field goal and three-point percentages, coupled with UCLA's recent struggles. However, remember that betting on sports involves risk, so always gamble responsibly and check local laws.
