Published Mar 20, 10:04pm ET by
Keith McCarthy - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Mar 20, 10:04pm ET
St. Louis and Michigan meet in a very exciting second round matchup. Both teams won by over 20 points in the first round, entering this game with a lot of momentum. The Wolverines are favored.
|
|
|---|---|
| Michigan Wolverines | -900 |
| St. Louis Billikens | +600 |
St. Louis proved they may have been under-seeded in a dominant win over Georgia. The Billikens jumped ahead early and led by more than 20 points for the vast majority of the game. They were better on all fronts than the Bulldogs, out-rebounding them 47-36 and out-assisting them 27-9. The balanced attack of St. Louis has real potential to make a deep run in the tourney, but they'll need to be at their best to topple Michigan.
For More March Madness Betting Odds and Predictions, See the Full Hub
Michigan got a mini-scare from Howard in the first half before pulling away and eventually winning by over 20 points. They need to avoid a slow start in the second round against a red-hot St. Louis team or they could take an early exit from the tournament. Statistically, the Wolverines are one of the best teams in the country. If they stick to their usual game plan, they can wear the Billikens down and continue into the 2nd weekend.
All four 9-seeds won in the first round, with St. Louis being the most impressive of the four. With a 29-5 record and that smattering of Georgia under their belts, the Billikens have what it takes to take Michigan down to the wire. Despite how dominant the Wolverines have been this season, this game will likely wind up as a very close one. Ultimately, Michigan's sheer talent and experience should give them enough of an edge to survive.
|
Pick
Michigan Wolverines (-900)
|
New Player Bonus
50% up to $1000
|
