Recent College Basketball Top Notch Pick Results

Monday, April 4, 2005:

Illinois (+2.5) over North Carolina:  The number 1 team in the country is getting points in the championship game and we'll grab them.  North Carolina is a slightly more talented team than the Illini, but Illinois plays much better as a team.  Daren Williams is an outstanding defender and should be able to limit what Carolina's point guard Felton can do.  When Felton has been shut down this season, the Tarheels have shown their most weakness.  Illinois plays the better defense between the the two as they allow 10 points less a game than Carolina.  Illinois also has a strong enough front court to keep the strong front court from Carolina from dominating the game.  Illinois has gone 3-1 ATS in their last 4 games and Carolina has gone just 2-7-1 ATS in their last 10 games.  We'll take the Illini tonight as they should be able to play better team basketball to win the game.  Loss:  Close game as this one losses by one basket.

Saturday, April 2, 2005:

Michigan State (+5) over North Carolina:  The Spartans have shocked many people en route to getting in the Final Four, but they have done in by beating quality teams (Kentucky and Duke).  Michigan State has been one of the hottest teams in the country over the last few months and have demonstrated it ATS by going 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games (a perfect 4-0 ATS in the tourney).  North Carolina on the other hand has not been blowing opponents out as much as they had done earlier in the season and they have struggled mightily ATS by going just 1-7-1 in their last 9 games.  Jawad William's has struggled shooting in the tourney and that has kept them from covering.  The Spartans should be able to keep this one close enough if not pull off the upset thanks to their stellar foul shooting.  We'll take the 5 points in this contest.  Loss:  The Spartans can't hold the halftime lead.

Sunday, March 27, 2005:

Wisconsin (+10) over N. Carolina:  The Tarheels should have enough talent to win this contest, but the Badgers should be able to keep it close enough to cover with their hard to crack type of play.  N. Carolina has been able to win, but not blow out opponents as they have gone just 1-6-1 ATS in their last 8 games.  Wisconsin is one of the best defensive teams in the country as they were dominant on defense in the second half against N.C. State.  The Tarheels are a different beast to tame, but Wisconsin should be albe to limit them enough to get the ATS win.  Win:  The Badgers lose by just 6 for our 5th CBB Top Notch Pick win in a row!

Saturday, March 26, 2005:

W. Virginia (+8.5) over Louisville:  The Cardinals have been shooting light's out in this tournament so far, but W. Virginia should be good enough on defense to slow down the attack.  W. Virginia has gone 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games, including a perfect 3-0 in the tourney. Louisville has gone just 2-3 ATS in their last 5.  Coming off an impressive win against Washington, we feel the books are laying too many points.  One of Louisville's threats in Dean will not be 100% for this game and his ankle may be a key factor affecting his shot.  We'll take our chances that the Mountaineers can keep it a 3 possession game.  Win:  The Mountaineers blow the lead, but hand on to cover.

Friday, March 25, 2005:

Michigan St. (+4.5) over Duke:  The earlier meeting between these two teams was won by Duke, but we like the Spartans to turn that around in this contest.  Duke has been less than impressive in their first two wins of the tourney and the Spartan's have taken care of business.  Michigan St. is strong defensively and will attack the middle to get to Duke's bench.  Michigan State is far superior in depth so I expect a physical contest.  Michigan State has gone 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games and since 2000, Michigan State has gone 7-4 ATS in the post season.  We like Izzo's ability to coach in these situations.  Duke is always a tough out in tourney, but they are in big match up trouble tonight.  Win:  Michigan St. wins by 10 for the upset victory!

Wisconsin (+2) over N.C. State:  The Wolfpack has surprised people in the tourney so far, but we are suprised to see them favored here.  Wisconsin is a solid team that can shut teams down defensively, especially from the 3 point line.  Teams have shot just 24% from beyond the arc against the Badgers on nueteral courts this season.  Hodge has carried the Wolfpack on his back, but he has yet to face a frustrating defense like the Badgers can play as they allow just 59.5 points per game this season.  Rebounding should be a huge factor for the Badgers as well, as they out rebound opponents by 3 a game this season and the Wolfpack get out rebounded by 2.  Win:  Wisconsin blows out the Pack in the second half in route to the upset win!

Thursday, March 24, 2005:

Illinois (-9.5) over Wisconsin Milwaukee:  The Illini have the best record in the country and should be able to show it here we like them to dominate this game.  Illinois has gone 7-4-1 ATS after a win ATS this season and average 17 points a game more than opponents this season.  Illinois has not shot well from 3's in the tourney so far and that should be able to turn itself around this evening.  They also are a better team at handling the ball, so the pressing and turnovers will be minimized against the pressure defense of Wisc. Milw.  Illinois has gone 6-2-1 ATS against non-conference teams this season.  Wisconsin Milwaukee has gone 3-5 ATS after winning 2 in a row ATS this season and does not match up well against the Illini.  Win:  Illinois leads most of the game and wins by 14.

Sunday, March 20, 2005:

Villanova (+1) over Florida:  This game should be contested throughout, but we think Nova should be able to come out on top.  Villanova played in a tougher conference and has the match up edge in key categories in close games.  Villanova can shoot better from the line, cause more turnovers, and play better defense.  Villanova has been stellar ATS over their last 9 games as they have gone 7-2 ATS.  Florida on the other hand has gone just 4-5 ATS in their last 9 games.  Florida nearly lost to a much lesser Ohio team in the first round and Villanova had their game won in the first half against New Mexico.  We'll take Nova to advance.  Win:  Villanova cruises to an 11 point victory.

Saturday, March 19, 2005:

UAB (+7) over Arizona:  The Blazers high energy play should cause problems for the Wildcats, much as it did in their first game against LSU.  UAB has a pressing type of play that forces a lot of turnovers and make teams work to get the ball up the court.  Taking this into account and looking at Arizona's star having asthma problems in their first game, it should be a very tough game for Arizona.  UAB should be able to cause more turnovers and be stronger off the bench.  The Blazers have won 4 games in a row ATS and 6 of their last 8 overall.  Arizona is just 3-4 ATS in their last 7 games and have only outscored opponents by an average of 3 points in their last 5 games.  Loss:  UAB stinks as they get ran by Zona.

 Cincinnati (+3) over Kentucky:  The Bearcats will be fired up for more than the obvious reason being it is a tournament game.  The are playing a close rival and their star scoring leader Jason Maxiell should have a huge game against a team he has been yearning to play.  Cincinnati matches up well versus the Wildcats and has a better offense, better FT shooting, and rebound better.  Kentucky has not played their best basketball coming into this contest as they have lost 3 games in a row ATS.  Kentucky has only averaged 1 point scoring better than their opponent in their last 5 games as they have allowed opponents to shoot nearly 40% from the field.  Loss:  Cincinnati blows halftime lead and losses.

Friday, March 18, 2005:

Stanford (+2) over Mississippi St.:  These two teams seem to have played opposite in the weeks leading into the tourney.  Stanford has gone 7-2 ATS in their last 9 games and finished the season strong by almost beating a No. 1 seed in Washington in the Pac 10 tournament.  Mississippi St. on the other hand went just 2-8 ATS in their last 10 games and their perimeter defense has been suspect.  Mississippi St. has had to deal with injury issues and discipline problems as well.  Stanford has injury issues as well, but should be able to pull off a win with clutch free throw shooting and the ability to force turnovers.  Loss:  This one started well, but Stanford folds in the second half.

Thursday, March 17, 2005:

Winthrop (+13.5) over Gonzaga:  America loves Gonzaga in the tourney and we love the points they are giving in this one.  Winthrop has the nation's longest winning streak, so you know they can play.  Winthrop won a total of 27 and will have a match up edge both in defense and in their bench play.  Winthrop was in the tourney a few years ago, so the tournament experience shouldn't leave them shell shocked from it.  Gonzaga has managed to win by an average of just 7 points on neutral sites this season and may have trouble with Winthrop in the opening round.  Win:  Winthrop plays close the whole game and covers easy.

Creighton (+2) over West Virginia:  I'm guessing W.V. is the favorites here based on what they did in the Big East Tournament, but I think Creighton has what it takes to beat the Mountaineers.  Creighton has played very well on nuetral sites as they have outscored opponents by an average of 14, while WV has only averaged 6 point victories on nuetral sites.  Creighton has won 5 games in a row, both SU and ATS.  The win streak is mostly due in part to their sound defense that has allowed just 56.6 points per game in those 5 contests.  PUSH:  Last second dunk pushes this one in W.V.'s favor.

Sunday, March 13, 2005:

Wisconsin (+7) over Illinois:  The Illini should have enough to win this one, but Wisconsin should be able to put up a pretty good fight.  Wisconsin is prided on their defense and they allow the lowest points per game average in the Big 10.  This coupled with the fact that Illinois has shot poorly this weekend should keep Wisconsin within striking distance.  Wisconsin also should have an edge off the bench and on the boards.   Illinois has lost 3 games in a row ATS and haven't been as sharp as they have been all season.  With outside distractions to deal with, Wisconsin should be able to play their way under this high point spread.  Loss:  This one lost in the final minute as the Badgers were down just 6.

Saturday, March 12, 2005:

  Georgia Tech (+9) over North Carolina:  We are going to jump on the Jackets band wagon on this one as they are playing their best basketball of the season.  North Carolina looked as if it could care less about the tournament than Tech because they almost definitely have a #1 seed in the NCAA locked up.  Tech has to win to have their hopes of getting back to the final four even in grasp.  Since 2001, Tech has gone 7-2 ATS in their meetings with Carolina and are 3-1 ATS in their last 4 games.  Tech seems to play excellent on neutral sites as they are averaging a shooting percentage of 50% on neutral courts this season.  North Carolina has lost 4 in a row ATS and seems to be laying too many points here.  Win:  Tech pulls off the upset to win SU!

Friday, March 11, 2005:

Virginia Tech (+8.5) over Georgia Tech:  Virginia Tech got the better of matchup between these two clubs earlier this season by winning SU as 18 point dogs on Georgia Tech's home floor.  Georgia Tech has dealt with injury issues all season and are the healthiest they have been, but they have still gone just 3-7 ATS in their last 10 games.  Virginia Tech has been able to maintain their surprising high level of play this season by going a nice 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games.  Virginia Tech has gone 11-6 ATS after 2 straight wins since the 2000 season and are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games with SU wins over Duke and Maryland.  Loss:  Georgia Tech pulls away in second half.

Wednesday, March 9, 2005:

Houston (-4) over S. Florida:  Houston has proven they are a better team than S. Florida this season, both in conference record and in SU meetings.  Houston won both meetings convincingly this season and boast a much better conference record.  Houston has fared well as favorites as they are 7-3 ATS this season, making them a combined 16-10-2 since the 2000 season.  S. Florida has gone just 8-13 ATS as 3->6.5 point dogs since the 2000 season.  S. Florida is dealing with injury issues and has gone just 2-5 SU in their last 5 games.  Houston has gone 6-3 SU in their last 9 games and should be able to win convincingly tonight.  Loss:  S. Florida pulls off the upset.

Tuesday, March 8, 2005:

Montana State (+3) over Montana:  In this Big Sky conference tournament game on a neutral site, it's hard to go against Montana State getting 3 points.  In both of their meetings this season, Montana State was able to come up with the victory on both their home court and on the road.  Montana State plays better defense and turns the ball over less than Montana.  These teams have very similar records, so we don't see the 3 point advantage given here.  Montana State has actually dominated the last ATS mark in their last 9 meetings by going 7-2 ATS.  Loss:  Montana St. closes in late, but can't cover.

Sunday, March 6, 2005:

Duke (+7.5) over North Carolina:  North Carolina should receive most of the media attention for this game and we think that's a little too much point spread to be laying out.  In a rivalry game, points seem to be at premiums, especially with two closely matched teams.  Duke has gone 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games and have played tough against big opponent on the road this season so far.  Duke should be able to handle the pressure of playing on the road.  Duke has enough talent and coaching to stay close with Tarheels as they did by beating them on their own home court earlier this season.  Win:  Duke nearly pull off the upset and losses by just 2.

Saturday, March 5, 2005:

West Virginia (-2.5) over Seton Hall:  West Virginia has favored well in these situations they are in today and should be able to be victorious.  West Virginia has gone 7-4 since the 2000 season after both winning 4 games in a row SU and 3 games in a row ATS.  West Virginia has gone 4-1 ATS as PK->2.5 point favorites on the road since the 2000 season.  This season West Virginia has gone 4-0 ATS when facing a poor offensive team (one that averages less than 64 points per game).  Seton Hall has gone just 6-12 ATS as home dogs since the 2000 season and are just 1-10 ATS so far at home this season.  Loss:  Close loss as Seton Hall wins by a duece.

Iowa (-3) over Michigan:  The Hawkeyes should be able to come in Michigan and get a road win today.  Iowa has gone 7-3 ATS on Saturdays this season and have momentum as they have won two games in a row SU.  Iowa has feasted on teams that have poor offenses this season as they have gone 7-1 ATS against teams that score less than 64 points a game.  Michigan has gone 4-10 ATS at home so far this season and they are a poor 1-9 ATS off a loss to a conference rival this season (coming off a poor performance that led to a big loss on the road at Northwestern).  Loss:  Michigan pulls off the OT upset.

Boston College (-5.5) over Rutgers:  The Eagles should be able to fly high with an easy win as a tune up for the conference tourneys.  Boston College has gone 4-0 since the 2000 season after losing 3 in a row ATS.  They have also gone 9-5 ATS in March games the past 3 seasons.  What stand out the most in BC's favor is that they are 14-3 ATS as road favorites since the 2000 season, including a perfect 5-0 this season.  Rutgers hasn't fared well as after a win ATS this season as they have gone just 1-6 ATS in that situation.  Rutgers has also gone just 3-11 ATS in conference games this season.  Win:  B.C. flexes their Big East muscles to cover with ease.

Friday, March 4, 2005:

Cornell (+5) over Yale:  We feel like Cornell is the better team here, yet they are still 5 point underdogs.  Cornell matches up very well with Yale as they have a better shooting % from the field and the line, better defense, and a better bench.  Cornell has also played better recently as they have gone 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games, while Yale has lost 3 games in a row SU + ATS.  Yale has also gone just 2-4 ATS as favorites this season so far.  Cornell has gone 29-15-1 ATS as road dogs since the 2000 season (6-2 ATS so far this season in that situation).  Cornell won the earlier meeting this season between these two teams SU + ATS and should be able to repeat the task tonight.  Loss: Cornell's slow start keeps them out or distance.

Thursday, March 3, 2005:

Cal. St. Northridge (-7) over UC Riverside:  Northridge has advantages in the majority of statistical categories and matches up very well against the much lesser Riverside.  Northridge has gone 3-1 ATS in their last 4 games and have outscored opponents by an average of 9 points a game in their last 5 games.  Riverside has gone just 11-26-1 after a win ATS dating back to the 2000 season.  That hasn't been helped by them going 0-5-1 this season in that situation.  Riverside has gone just 3-6-1 ATS at home this season and they have won just 1 games SU in their last 6 (being outscored by an average of 10 points).  With injury issues to deal with, we like the prospects of a blow out tonight.  Win:  Northridge pulls away in the second half for a 10 point win.

California (+11) over Washington:  Washington has the better team and better record, but California should put up a well enough fight tonight to cover the spread.  California plays better defense than Washington and that should help them with the home crowd tonight.  California has won 2 of the last 3 meetings ATS between these two, including an earlier match up this season.  Washington has gone just 2-8 ATS after 3 wins in a row this season.  Washington has gone just 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games overall and we feel that they are laying too many points on the road in this conference match up.  Loss:  Cal can't get out of first half hole.

Wednesday, March 2, 2005:

Kansas State (+16) over Kansas:  Kansas State should be able to hang around long enough in this one to cover.  Kansas has not played well recently as they have gone just 1-3 SU in their last 4 games, losing all 4 ATS.  Kansas has gone 5-10 ATS as 14->16.5 point home favorites since the 2000 season and they have gone just 5-10 ATS this season as home favorites.  Kansas State has covered the spread in the last two meetings between these two in Kansas.  Kansas State has won 2 games in a row SU and are 3-2 ATS in their last 5 games overall.  Kansas State's ability to cause turnovers should keep them close enough tonight.  Win:  Kansas State losses by just 7 points to cover easily!

Tuesday, March 1, 2005:

St. Joes (+7) over G. Washington:  St. Joes may be getting points here due to the injury at the hands of Temple, but that was to a player that didn't play a lot of significant time.  St. Joes has gone 40-23-4 ATS on the road since the 2000 season.  St. Joes has gone 6-3 ATS in their last 9 overall, while GW has gone just 4-5 ATS in their last 9.  G. Washington is also just 4-5 ATS in their last 9 games at home.  St. Joes plays better defense and turns the ball over less than G.W.   St. Joes has outscored their opponents by an average of 9 points a game in their last 5 and should be able to keep this one close.  Win:  St. Joes leads almost the whole way and pulls out the double digit upset on the road!

Massachusetts (+7) over Dayton:  U. Mass should be able to cover on the road this evening as they shoot a better percentage from the field than Dayton does.  U. Mass has won 3 of their last 4 games SU and will be confident coming into this one.  Dayton has gone just 4-8 ATS at home this season and they are just 3-3  SU in their last 6 games, losing 2 in a row ATS.  Dayton has only outscored their opponents by an average of just 2 points in their last 5 games and should struggle to put away a determined UMass team tonight.  Win:  UMass comes to play and losses by just 1 point, but covers easily!

Sunday, February 27, 2005:

Florida (+1) over S. Carolina:  The Gators are playing an important game in conference and should be able to come out with the victory on the road.  Florida has gone 13-6-1 ATS after losing 2 games ATS since 2000 (a nice 4-0-1 ATS the last 2 seasons).  Florida matches up well with the Gamecocks and are a better team point wise, FG% wise, and FT% wise.  Not to mention they rebound the ball better.  Florida has held their own on the road this season going 5-3 ATS as well.  S. Carolina has not fared well in recent contests between these two as they have lost 3 of the last 4 meetings.  Florida has gone 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games, while S. Carolina has gone 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games.  Win:  Florida comes back in the 2nd half to gain the win.

Saturday, February 26, 2005:

 Sienna (+10) over Iona:  Sienna goes on the road in a game that is very winable for them.  Sienna has gone 6-1 ATS against Iona since the 2000 season, including a win both SU and ATS earlier this season.  The last 4 meetings between these two teams have been decided by 3 or less points and today's contest should be no different.  Sienna rebounds the ball better and has a better bench which should keep them in the game.  Iona has gone 1-4 ATS as home favorites of 10->13.5 points since the 2000 season.  These teams have played opposite recently as Sienna is hot winning 2 in a row SU + ATS and Iona has gone just 1-3 ATS in their last 4 overall.  This is a pick from a consensus of formulas that have won 80% of the games it has picked this season.  Win:  Sienna losses by just 3 to cover the spread easily.

Morehead State (+7) over Tennessee Tech:  Morehead State should be able to take care of it's home court and keep this one interesting this evening as they have gone 5-2 ATS at home this season..  Morehead has had some success against Tennessee Tech as they have gone 6-2 ATS in their match ups since the 2000 season.  Morehead State has a better bench and their free throw shooting should keep them in it. Tennessee Tech is vunerable at forward with injury issues and have been out scored by an average of 6 points a game on the road this season.  This is a pick from a consensus of formulas that have won 80% of the games it has picked this season.  PUSH:  Morehead St. losses by 7 as they nearly make us 5-0 on the day.

Jacksonville St. (+12.5) over Tennessee St.:  Jacksonville State hasn't won a road game this season, but they have covered often as they are 8-4 ATS on the road this season.  Since the 2000 season, Jacksonville St. has gone 15-7-1 as road dogs (including a 5-2 mark when playing as 10->13.5 point road dogs).  Jacksonville St. has gone 3-1 ATS in their last 4 on the road and 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games overall.  Tennessee State has not played well recently as they have gone 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall, being outscored by an average of 8 points a game in those contests.  This is a pick from a consensus of formulas that have won 80% of the games it has picked this season.  Win:  Jacksonville St. nearly pulls off the upset as they loss by just 1 point in the last minute of the game.

Utah St. (-17.5) over UC Irvine:  Utah State is a team that has a legitimate chance at an NCAA tourney bid and they should prove it at home tonight.  In January, Utah State won their match-up at UC Irvine by 25 points and that was on the road.  Utah St. has gone 9-4 ATS at home this season and are 7-3 ATS in their last 10 games overall.  Utah St. is usually solid after a home game as they have covered 63% of the time in that situation since the 2000 season.  UC Irvine has gone 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall and should be able to be competitive tonight.  This is a pick from a consensus of formulas that have won 80% of the games it has picked this season.  Win:  Utah State blows out Irvine by an embarrassing 38 points!

Thursday, February 24, 2005:

Toledo (+2) over Ball St.:  Toledo has played much better than Ball St. recently and should be able come out victorious tonight.  Toledo has won 4 games in a row ATS, while Ball St. has lost 5 games in a row SU (1-4 ATS).  Toledo has gone 8-3 ATS after a win this season and they are 7-3 ATS after a home game.  Ball St. has gone just 3-5-1 ATS as home this season.  Toledo matches up really well and should be able to duplicate the victory they had over Ball St. earlier this season.  This is a pick from a consensus of formulas that have won 69% of the games it has picked this season.  Loss:  Another bad luck loss as Ball St. wins by just 4.

USC (+7) over UCLA:  We like getting points in rivalry games and this one is definitely a rivalry.  USC has done the job when playing on the road in this rivalry as they have won the last 3 ATS at UCLA.  USC has a better offense than UCLA and they should be able to score enough to cover.  USC has won 2 of their last 3 games SU and ATS, while UCLA has lost 2 of their last 3 games SU and ATS.  UCLA has gone just 2-5 ATS as home favorites this season and should struggle to blow out USC tonight.  This is a pick from a consensus of formulas that have won 69% of the games it has picked this season.  Loss:  USC gets embarrased.

Portland (+7.5) over Gonzaga:  Portland is a big dog at home tonight and we think they should be able to cover the spread.  Portland has gone 5-0-1 ATS in their last 6 meetings with Gonzaga.  Portland has gone 8-3-1 ATS at home this season and are 3-0 ATS after losing two straight this season.  Gonzaga has gone just 2-7 ATS as road favorites this season and are 1-5 ATS after going over this season.  Gonzaga has only outscored opponents by an average of 3 points a game this season, while Portland outscores opponents by an average of 9 at home.  This is a pick from a consensus of formulas that have won 69% of the games it has picked this season.  Loss:  Portland can't hang close enough with Gonzaga's play tonight.

Wednesday, February 23, 2005:

E. Michigan (+10) over Ohio:  This conference game has the makings to be much closer than the line suggests.  E. Michigan has outscored their opponents by an average of 5 points in their last 5 games, while Ohio has been outscored by an average of 6 points in their last 5 games.  E. Michigan has gone 2-0 ATS as road dogs of 10->13.5 this season and have won 3 of their last 5 games SU.  Ohio has lost the last 2 games they have played against E. Michigan, both SU and ATS.  This game is a formula pick from a consensus that has won 69% of the time this season.  Win:  Ohio wins by just 3 as this one covers easily.

Loyola Chicago (+2) over Cleveland St.:  Loyola has been a decent road team so far this season as they have gone 7-4-1 ATS.  Since the 2000 season, Loyola has gone 5-0 ATS as road dogs of PK->2.5 and has gone 11-3 ATS following 3 straight wins ATS.  Loyola is playing their best basketball of the season as they have gone 4-0-1 ATS in their last 5 games.  Cleveland State has gone just 1-8-1 ATS in their last 10 meetings with Loyola, losing 6 in a row.  Cleveland State has lost 3 games in a row, both SU and ATS, and they should have match up struggles tonight.  This game is a formula pick from a consensus that has won 69% of the time this season.  Win:  Loyola get the conference win SU on the road.

Wright State (+7) over Illinois Chicago:  Wright State should be able to hang close in this contest tonight as they have won the last 3 meetings ATS between these two teams.  Wright State has gone 6-1-1 ATS as road dogs this season and are 8-3-1 ATS after a win ATS this season.  Wright State plays better defense and has a better bench than Illinois Chicago.  Illinois Chicago has gone just 3-6 ATS after winning ATS this season and are also just 3-6 ATS in their last 9 games overall.  These teams have very similar records and this one should be closer than the points suggest.  This game is a formula pick from a consensus that has won 69% of the time this season.  Loss:  Wright State doesn't come to compete tonight.

Monday, February 21, 2005:

St. Peters (+5) over Fairfield:  St. Peters is in a good spot to pull off the road upset here as they have played much better than their opponent as of late.  St. Peter's has gone 7-1 SU in their last 8 games overall, while Fairfield has lost 3 in a row.  St. Peter's has gone 7-4-1 ATS on the road this season, losing by an average of just 1.9 points.  Fairfield has dropped 4 games in a row ATS.  These teams have nearly identical records, so we will take the points in this contest.  This is a 3-0 Consensus formula pick made by formulas that have gone a combined 69% this college basketball season.  Win:  St. Peters erases a 12 point halftime deficit and wins outright by 6!

New Mexico (+2) over Utah:  New Mexico will be pumped on their home court to pull off the win in conference against the first place Ute's.  Utah has struggled to cover the spread as of late as they have gone just 1-3 ATS in their last 4 games.  New Mexico has gone a hot 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games overall and have won 4 of their last 5 games ATS.  New Mexico has also gone 4-1 ATS after playing 2 previous home games this season.  This is a 3-0 Consensus formula pick made by formulas that have gone a combined 69% this college basketball season.  Win:  Upset is complete as the New Mexico wins the game by 11!

Rice (+2) over Fresno St.:  Rice will be looking to pull of the road win as they should be able to handle a Fresno team that they match up well against.  Rice covered in their first meeting with Fresno this season and should be able to do it today as well.  Fresno St. has gone a miserable 1-8 ATS as home favorites so far this season and they have lost 6 games in a row ATS.  This is a 3-0 Consensus formula pick made by formulas that have gone a combined 69% this college basketball season.  Win:  Rice pulls away in the final minutes for an 8 point victory!

Sunday, February 20, 2005:

St. John's (+2) over Georgetown:  We like the home team getting points in this contest as we think they should win the game outright.  Georgetown has not played well in this situation in the past as they have gone just 2-9 as favorites in a PK->2.5 point game since the 2000 season.  St. John's is 6-3 ATS at home this season and has won 3 in a row ATS.  Georgetown has gone 0-5-1 in the last 6 meetings between these two clubs.  This is a 3-0 Consensus formula pick made by formulas that have gone a combined 69% this college basketball season.  Win:  St. John's leads most of the way and wins easy.

Indiana (-1) over Michigan:  These are two teams that are seemingly heading in opposite directions.  Indiana has played well of late and are usually money versus Michigan as the have gone 6-1-1 ATS in their meetings since the 2000 season.  Michigan has 9 games in a row, mostly due to their lack of talent at the point.  Michigan has gone just 3-9 ATS at home this season and have lost all 4 of the games with a spread of PK->2.5.  We'll take the road team in this conference match up.  This is a 3-0 Consensus formula pick made by formulas that have gone a combined 69% this college basketball season.  Win:  Indiana finishes off Michigan with a strong second half for the win.

Saturday, February 19, 2005:

Kansas State (+4.5) over Oklahoma:  Kansas State is primed into position to pull off the possible upset as they have played Oklahoma tough in recent history.  Kansas State has won 4 of the last 5 meetings ATS.  Okalahoma has lost 5 of their last 6 meetings ATS.  In their last 5 games the Sooners have just 1 more point than their opponents.  This is a 3-0 Consensus formula pick made by formulas that have gone a combined 69% this college basketball season.  Win:  Kansas St. losses at the buzzer by 1, but covers!

 LSU (+2) over Florida:  Here's another game on tap Saturday where we don't think the home teams should be getting points.  LSU has won the last 2 meetings ATS and will be looking for revenge for last years loss to Florida on their home floor.  LSU extracted a little bit of the fury earlier in January, winning in Florida.  LSU has gone 6-1 ATS in their last 7 games and should have an advantage at the charity stripe when the game is on the line.  This is a 3-0 Consensus formula pick made by formulas that have gone a combined 69% this college basketball season.  Win:  LSU pulls off the upset over Florida.

Charlotte (-10) over Tulane:  Here's yet another game on Saturday where we don't think the home teams should be getting as many points as this.points.  Charlotte favored by so much due to their ranking in the top 25, but this seems like a spot for a let down.  Tulane has lost 4 in a row ATS, but have played opponents strong on their home court as they have averaged 4 more rebound than their opponents and have scored about the same as their opponents.  We think this is too many points.  This is a 3-0 Consensus formula pick made by formulas that have gone a combined 69% this college basketball season.  Win:  Charlotte pulls off a 20 point win.

Baylor (+11) over Texas:  Here's another game on tap Saturday where we don't think the home teams should be getting this many points.  Texas has suffered the loss of perhaps their best played and have been outscored on average in their last 5 games.  Baylor has taken two of the last 3 meetings ATS and should be able to hang close enough in this one.  This is a 3-0 Consensus formula pick made by formulas that have gone a combined 69% this college basketball season.  Loss:  Baylor hangs close, but falls by 15 in the last minute.

Pepperdine (+8.5) over St. Mary's Cal.:  Pepperdine comes into this game on the road where they have been able to play many opponents tough.  Pepperdine shoots better from the field, scores more points per game, rebound better, and turn the ball over less than St. Mary's.  Pepperdine has out scored their opponents by 3 a game in their last 5, while St. Mary's was outscored by an average of 5.  This is a 3-0 Consensus formula pick made by formulas that have gone a combined 69% this college basketball season.  Loss:  Pepperdine keep it close, but falls by 12 in the end.

Thursday, February 17, 2005:

Stanford (-7) over USC:  Stanford should be able to handle a much lesser USC team tonight on their home court, just like they did when they won easy at USC earlier this season.  Stanford has gone 4-0 in their last 4 games at home SU and are 3-1 ATS in those games.  Stanford has won 4 of the last 6 meetings between the two ATS.  USC has dropped 5 of their last 6 games, both SU and ATS.  USC has a losing record ATS on the road and Stanford has a winning record ATS at home.  Stanford has won by an average of 10 points at home this season, out rebounding opponents by 4 a games.  We have a consensus of formula's that have won 69% of the time picking the Cardinal as a winner tonight.  Win:  Stanford pulls away in the second half to win by 9.

Wednesday, February 16, 2005:

Loyola Maryland (+17) over Manhattan:  Loyola should be able to keep this one close on the road tonight as they play a Manhattan team that they beat at home by 7 not too long ago.  Loyola rebounds the ball better and has a better bench than Manhattan, which should keep them close enough to cover tonight.  Loyola has out rebounded opponents by 5.8 a game in their last 5, while Manhattan has been out rebounded by 2.5 in their last 5.  Manhattan has gone just 3-5 SU in their last 8 games and Loyola has gone 4-3 ATS in the last 7 meetings between these two.  Win:  Luck is with us tonight as Loyola covers the spread.

Duquesne (+8) over Temple:  Temple seems to be over rated in this contest as they are laying 8 points on the road where they have outscored opponents by just 1 point on average this season.  Temple has lost 3 games in a row SU and are just 1-2 ATS in those three.  Duquesne matches up well with Temple as they have averaged more points per game than Temple and have shot better than their opponents from the field and the free throw line.  Duquesne has out scored opponents by an average of 3 points a game at home this season have gotten good play out of their bench.  Duquesne has gone 3-2 ATS in their last 5 games and should be able to build on that this evening.  Win:  Temple wins by just 7 as we get the cover.

Fordham (+18) over George Washington:  Fordham is in a good position to be able to cover the spread this evening.  Fordham's defense is good enough to keep them in this contest.  Fordham has gone 6-5 SU in conference play, almost as good as GW's 7-3 mark, yet they are still 18 point dogs.  Fordham has out rebounded opponents by an average of 3 a game in their last 5 and have gone 4-1-1 ATS in their last 6 games.  George Washington has gone 3-4 ATS at home this season and are 2-3 ATS in their last 5 games overall, having been out scored by an average of 6 points in those games.  Win:  Fordham keeps within 10 for the perfect 3-0 night in College hoops.

Tuesday, February 15, 2005:

Marshall (+14) over Miami OH:  Marshall didn't play well in their last time out on the road, but they should give a solid effort to keep it close in tonight's contest.  Marshall has a better offense and a better bench than Miami does.  Marshall has won 2 of their last 3 ATS, while Miami has dropped 2 of their last 3 ATS.  Marshall has only been outscored by an average of 4 points in their last 5 games overall.  Miami is playing again without one of their key contributors in Hausfield and they should struggle some with Marshall this evening.  Win:  Marshall battles in the second half and losses by just 8 points to cover.

Monday, February 14, 2005:

W. Carolina (+9) over E. Tennessee St.:  This conference matchup should be closer than the line says as these teams have very similar records SU (W. Carolina actually has a better record by percentage points).  Western Carolina matches up good with E. Tennessee St. as they play better defense, rebound better, and have a better bench.  W. Carolina should be confident as they are coming off a road win at Elon and have gone 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games.  E. Tennessee St. has gone just 1-7 SU in their last 8 games and are dealing with some injury issues.  E. Tennessee St. has gone just 3-4 ATS in their last 7 games overall and we feel they are laying too many points in this contest.  Push:  We escape this one with a push as the line moved up to 9.

Sunday, February 13, 2005:

NC State (+8) over Georgia Tech:  The Wolfpack is playing in probably a make or break game for them to make the NCAA tournament and they may break, but we think they should cover.  NC State has gone 10-1 ATS in their last 11 games in conference as road dogs following a loss.  They have won the last 5 meetings ATS between these two and their desperation today should keep them in this one.  Georgia Tech is not the power house team they were last season, yet they are favored in this one like it.  The Yellow Jackets have gone just 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games overall.  Win:  Wolfpack pull off the upset on the road as they win SU!

Saturday, February 12, 2005:

Marshall (+12.5) over Western Michigan:  The Herd should be able to fair well enough today to cover the spread as they play a Western Michigan team that is not playing that well.  Western Michigan has gone just 1-7 ATS in their last 8 game overall and they have a losing record ATS at home.  Marshall has won 2 straight ATS and SU.  Marshall has a solid bench and has a winning record ATS on the road.  Marshall has won 4 of the last 6 meetings ATS and has lost by an average of just 3 points in their last 5 games.  W. Michigan has won by an average of just 8 in their last 5 games.  Loss:  Marshall can't hang close enough and lose by 20.

  California (+8) over Stanford:  California should be able to keep this rivalry game close as they have played to a 6-2 ATS mark on the road this season (only losing by an average of just 2 points).  Stanford has struggled lately as they have lost 2 in a row SU and ATS.  California has gone 4-1 both SU and ATS in their last 5 games overall.  In those games, California has shot a blazing 50.9% from the field.  They have also dominated the boards by out rebounding their opponents by and average of 5 over their last 5 games.  California matches up well against the Cardinals and should be able to give Stanford all they can handle on Saturday.  Loss:  Cal plays disappointing and losses by 15.

N. Illinois (+8.5) over Toledo:  Northern Illinois should be able to present enough of a challenge to the Rockets today to cover the spread.  Northern Illinois has gone 5-1 ATS in their last 6 meetings and has also gone 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games overall.  In their last 5 games, Northern Illinois has outscored opponents.  Toledo has gone just 2-4 ATS in their last 6 overall and has won by an average of less than 3 points a game in their last 5 overall.  Toledo doesn't match up well against Northern Illinois and they shouldn't be able to dominate today.  Loss:  Northern Illinois gets beat both SU and ATS.

Texas A&M (+7.5) over Oklahoma State:  Texas A&M has been a much improved team this season and they will be looking forward to making an impact against the highly ranked Cowboys.  A&M has gone 14-1 SU at home (4-2 ATS).  Texas A&M has shot an amazing 52.6% from their field at home this season and is allowing just 37.3% shooting from the field.  In home games they also out rebound their opponents by 10 boards a game.  Oklahoma may have a let down after beating their rival Oklahoma.  Texas A&M has won 2 games in a row ATS and they should be able to keep it close again today.  Win:  A&M competes in the second half to cover the spread.

Northwestern (+11) over Iowa:  Iowa has played OK since losing their leading scorer in Pierce, but they should not be 11 point favorites tonight.  Iowa has gone just 4-7-1 ATS at home so far this season and have won by an average of just 3 in their last 5 games overall.  Northwestern has lost by an average of just 3 in their last 5 games overall.  Northwestern has won 3 games in a row ATS, making them 5-2 ATS in their last 7 games overall.  Northwestern has won the last 3 meetings between these two ATS and should play solid enough defense to cover the spread tonight.  Win:  Wildcats hang close enough to get the cover.

Thursday, February 10, 2005:

N.C. State (+13) over Wake Forest:  The Wolfpack should be able to keep this rivalry game within distance tonight as they visit Wake.  NC State has gone 10-2 ATS since the 2000 season as road dogs in conference after losing (they won ATS this season in that situation at Maryland).  NC State has won the last 3 meeting ATS between these two schools and should be up for the challenge tonight after dropping 3 of their last 4 games.  Wake has not dominated opponents lately as they have gone just 2-4 ATS in their last 6 games.  We'll take the points in this one tonight.  Win:  Wolfpack keeps it close down the stretch and cover the spread.

Denver (+6) over Western Kentucky:  Denver is playing in good position tonight to keep this one close if not pull off the upset.  Denver has been playing great basketball lately as they have gone 9-1 SU in their last 10 games (7-2 ATS).  The last 2 times these teams met a Western Kentucky, Denver has come out on top ATS.  Western Kentucky has gone just 3-11 ATS in their last 14 games in conference after a win.  Western Kentucky hasn't played their best ball of the season lately, as they have dropped 7 of their last 9 ATS.  Win:  Denver keeps it close and losses by just 5 points.

Illinois Chicago (-21) over Youngstown State:  Chicago should be able to blow out YSU in this contest as they have been able to cover the spread in 5 of their last 6 home games ATS.  Chicago has also won 4 straight meetings ATS at home in this matchup as favorites.  Youngstown State has been outscored by an average of over 20 points a game on the road so far this season and they have gone just 1-6 ATS playing away from home.  Chicago has been able to out shoot opponents by almost 6% from the field in their home games this season, and they should be able to excel past that against a weak YSU team.  Loss:  Youngstown State plays tough to lose by just 6.

Tennessee Tech (+7) over Murray State:  Murray State will be hosting this game and they have not fared well ATS at home lately as they have dropped 4 in row ATS.  In their last five games overall, Murray State has managed to win just one of those ATS.  Tech has gone a solid 7-3 ATS on the road this season and should be hungry for a win after 2 straight losses on the road.  Tech has a better record ATS and should be able to keep this conference game close as both of these teams have gone 7-3 SU in conference play so far this season.  Win:  Tech pulls off the upset on the road and wins outright by 4 points.

Monday, February 7, 2005:

Citadel (+4) over Furman:  The Citadel should be pumped for a home upset as they take on Furman who has gone just 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games overall.  Furman has not fared well on the road this season by going 2-6-1 ATS, as they have been outscored by an average of 11 points a game on the road.  The Citadel outscores their opponents by 6 a game at home.  The Citadel has an advantage on the boards and the bench.  These factors should keep this game real tight.  Win:  Citadel leads most the way, but losses by just 3 to cover the spread.

Sunday, February 6, 2005:

N. Illinois (+9) over Kent St.:  Northern Illinois is playing with a lot of confidence as of late and should be able to give Kent a test today.  N. Illinois has won the last 2 meetings ATS and have gone 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games overall.  Their success as of late has been to their good shooting from the field as they have shot 46.7% over their last 5 games.  On the other hand, Kent State has allowed opponents to shoot 47.4% from the field in their last 5 games.  The Flashes have gone 1-3 ATS in their last 4 games at home and may be laying too many points again in this contest.  Loss:  If not for bad luck, we would have none as we lose this by just 1 point.

Saturday, February 5, 2005:

  Michigan St. (-2.5) over Iowa:  The Spartans are coming off of the home loss to the Illini and will be looking for a big win against an Iowa team that is far weaker than they were in the beginning of the season.  The Spartans have gone 10-2 ATS in their last 12 games in conference after a home game.  The Spartans have also won 12 games in a row ATS on the road in conference after playing 2 straight games at home.  Iowa has struggled this season against the upper echelon of Big Ten teams and shouldn't be able to compete against an angry Spartan team, especially after losing Pierce (their top scorer).  Michigan State has taken 5 of the last 6 meetings ATS and should be able to continue that trend today.  Win:  Michigan State leads throughout and wins by 10.

Alabama Bir. (+7) over Louisville:  UAB should be able to hang tough with the Cardinal's as they know how important this home win could be to them.  UAB takes care of the ball well and should have strong enough bench play to keep them in this game.  UAB has won 4 of the last 6 meetings ATS between these two schools and they are playing their best basketball of the season as they have gone 8-2 SU in their last 10 games.  Louisville is coming off a big home win against Cincinnati and may not have their A game on the road today.  Teams have gone 13-3 as home dogs of 7->9.5 in conference after winning on the road and UAB should be able to succeed in that spot today.  Win:  UAB comes close to pulling off the upset.

U.L. Lafayette (+3) over Denver:  Lafayette has won the last 3 meetings ATS between these two teams in Denver and they should be able to play tight, if not win tonight.  Lafayette has won 7 games in a row SU and have won 6 games in a row ATS.  Lafayette has won by an average of 12 points in their last 5 games, while Denver has won by just 5 points in their last 5 games (where they have allowed 43.2% shooting from the field).  Denver has lost 2 games in a row ATS and these teams seem to be heading in opposite directions.  Loss:  A 7 point loss as Denver wins at home.

Louisiana Tech (+7.5) over Nevada:  Tech is getting a good amount of points in road game where they have been very competetive in the past as they have won 3 of the last 4 meetings ATS between these two teams in Nevada.  Tech has gone 17-4-1 ATS since 2000 on the road in conference after a win and 17-3-1 ATS on the road after 2 straight wins.  Tech has won 5 games in a row SU and has gone a strong 4-1 ATS in those 5 wins.  Nevada has gone just 2-6 ATS in their last 8 at home and we feel they are over priced favorites again today.  Loss:  Nevada has Techs number all game.

Thursday, February 3, 2005:

Charleston (-15) over Western Carolina:  Charleston is in the lead in the South division of the Southern conference and they are playing like a team ready to get into the tourney.  Charleston has won 3 of their last 4 games SU and ATS.  They have won 6 straight games at home where they have covered the spread in 5 of those games.  Western Carolina is a team that struggles on the road and they have struggled lately as they have gone just 2-6 SU and ATS in their last 8 games.  Loss:  Charleson wins but can't cover.

Murray St. (-15.5) over Eastern Illinois:  Murray State is playing at home where they should be able to cash in on a big win this evening.  Murray State out matches E. Illinois in every aspect of statistical categories and talent wise.  If their last game was any indication, they won by 29 points in a road game.  Murray State has won by double digits in their last 4 meetings and have covered the spread in their last 6 with E. Illinois.  E. Illinois has gone 4-12 ATS so far this season and this is mostly due to their horrible 1-9 ATS mark on the road.   Loss:  Murray St. wins, but can't cover.

Wednesday, February 2, 2005:

Louisville (-8) over Cincinnati:  The Cardinals probably should have lost to the Bearcats the first meeting this season, but they won't play that bad at home tonight.  Louisville has gone 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 meetings and they are 7-3 ATS at home this season.  At home they have out scored their opponents by an average of 31.7 points a game this season.  Louisville has also won 7 games in a row SU and ATS.  Cincinnati hasn't played on the road many times yet this season and should struggle against a much more talented Cardinal team.  Loss:  It sounds like a broken record, but yet another 1 point loss for us.

S. Carolina (-3) over Arkansas:  Carolina comes into tonight's game playing their best basketball in a long time as they have gone 6-3 ATS in their last 9 games and are 6-3 ATS at home this season.  S. Carolina out scores opponents by an average of 13 a game this season and they hold their opponent's to just 28% from 3's so far this season at home.  Arkansas has not played many road games and have lost 3 straight games on the road (both SU + ATS).  In their last 5 games, the Razorbacks have shot worse than their opponents by and average of 4%.  The Gamecocks should pull out a victory tonight.  Win:  S. Carolina cruises to the 12 point win at home.

Tuesday, February 1, 2005:

Illinois St. (PK) over Drake:  Illinois State is the much better team in this match up and should be able to get the road win.  Illinois State has gone 14-6 straight up this season and they are 12-6 ATS, while Drake is just 7-11 SU and 5-9 ATS.  Illinois State has won 3 of the last 4 meetings between the two and have won 5 straight games ATS this season.  Illinois State is 7-3 ATS on the road, while Drake is 2-5 ATS at home.  Illinois State outscores opponents by 3 a game, while Drake is getting out scored by opponents by 8 points a game in their last 5.  Win: Illinois State pulls of the win in the last minute.

Monday, January 31, 2005:

Furman (-15) over Western Carolina:  Furman has been a strong team at home this season (3-1 ATS), while Western Carolina has been miserable on the road (2-8 ATS).  Furman ofter blows their opponents out when playing at home, while Western Carolina usually loses big on the road (by average of 18 this season).  Furman has won the last 2 meetings ATS.  Western Carolina has gone 2-15 ATS since 2000 in conference games after a win and have lost 7 in a row ATS on the road after losing ATS.  Western Carolina has gone just 1-8 ATS in their last 9 games overall and face a very tough Furman team tonight.  Loss:  Furman plays sloppy and wins by single digits.

Sunday, January 30, 2005:

Niagara (-22) over Loyola Maryland:  Niagara is playing at home where they are a perfect 9-0 SU this season and should be able to blow out Loyola, who is a pitiful 0-8 on the road.  Loyola gives up a horrible 47% shooting percentage from the field to opponents when playing on the road and have been out scored by an average of 16 points on the road this season.  Niagara has out rebounded opponents by an average of over 9 boards a game when playing at home.  Loyola has gone just 1-3 ATS in their last 4 games and should be blown out today against a tough Niagara team.  Loss:  Niagara wins by double digits, but fails to cover.

Saturday, January 29, 2005:

Ohio State (-1) over Northwestern:  The Wildcats upset Iowa in their last game and may have a let down against the Buckeyes today.  Northwestern ranks 306th in points per game and 282nd in rebounds (out of 331 schools in NCAA).  These stats shouldn't hold up against a better than average Buckeyes team that shoots 35th in the country from 3's.  Teams have gone 11-2 ATS in CBB since last season in games with a PK->2.5 point spread after winning + losing ATS + going under at home.  Ohio State has a better team and should get the win on the road today.  Win:  The Buckeyes close the game on a 22-1 run to win by 13.

North Carolina St. (+1) over Clemson:  N.C. State has a better team talent wise today and it should show up with a W on the scoreboard.  NC State has gone 10-2 ATS as road dogs following a loss, dating back to the 2000 season.  NC State has taken 4 of the last 5 meetings ATS between these two schools.  NC State has a superior offense as they rank 47th in points this season (out of 331 teams).  Clemson has lost 3 of their last 4 games at home, both SU + ATS.  Clemson is just 2-7 SU in their last 9 games overall.  The Tigers may be hurt most on the line, where they rank 320th out of 331 teams in free throw %.  Win:  NC State win by 10 as Clemson shoots 52% from the line.

Mississippi (+11) over Vanderbilt:  Ole Miss come into this game on the road and should be competitive today against a struggling Vanderbilt team.  Ole Miss allows just 28.7% from the 3 point arc in their last 5 games.  Mississippi gives up 4 point less and turns the ball over less than Vanderbilt.  Vandy has lost 4 games in a row, both straight up and ATS.  Over their last 5 games, Vanderbilt has been outrebounded by an average of 5 a game and out scored by an average of 4 points a game.  The have also given up a whopping 70 points a game on defense.  Loss:  Vandy too much for Ole Miss to handle today.

Davidson (-12.5) over Citadel:  Davidson is the much superior team in this game and they should be able to blow the Citadel out tonight.  Davidson has won the last 2 meetings between these two teams, both SU and ATS.  Davidson has won 7 games in a row SU and are 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games overall.  Davidson should hold the advantage on the boards as they out rebound opponents by an average of 4 a game.  Teams have gone 15-3-1 ATS in these teams conference after a loss ATS since last season.  The Citadel has shot worse than their opponents from the field, 3 pointers, and the free throw line this season.  Win:  Davidson blows out the Citadel for an easy 22 point win.

  Samford (+6.5) over S.E. Missouri St.:  Samford is playing as a dog here, but they may have enough to pull off the upset tonight.  Samford won these teams meeting last season, both SU and ATS.  Samford is 6-1 SU in their last 7 games and 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games.  Samford should have a big advantage from the perimeter as they shoot a nice 43.3% from 3's.  SE Missouri St is just 3-4 in conference and they allow 7 more points on defense than Samford does (who is 6-1 SU in conference).  SE Missouri St. has allowed 72.8 points per game over their last 5 games and this poor defensive effort may cost them the game tonight.  Loss:  Maybe the hardest loss to take on the year for us as Samford takes this game to overtime and losses by 8 for another heartbreaking .5 point loss ATS.

Thursday, January 27, 2005:

Arkansas Little Rock (-5) over Arkansas St.:  This rivalry in the Sun Belt Conference should go in the favor of Little Rock tonight.  Little Rock has taken the last 3 meetings between these two schools ATS.  Little Rock has gone a perfect 10-0 SU at home where they rebound well, shoot over 50% from the field, and out score opponents by an average of 12 points a game.  Arkansas St. has struggled on the road this season as they have won just 1 game and are being out scored by an average of 7 points.  Arkansas St. is missing a key contributor tonight in Ardison and should struggle to keep it close.  Loss:  Little Rock leaves their A game in the locker room.

Wednesday, January 26, 2005:

St. Louis (+3) over E. Carolina:  St. Louis is playing some of their best basketball of the season as they have now won 5 of their last 6 contests ATS.   E. Carolina is one of the worst teams in CBB as they have gone just 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games and have won just 1 of their last 10 straight up.  E. Carolina has been outscored by an average of over 20 points in their last 5 games.  St. Louis has gone 10-0 ATS since 2000 on the road in division after winning at home and 13-1 in conference on the road after winning at home.  Loss:  St. Louis losses by 8.

Massachusetts (-8.5) over St. Bonaventure:  U Mass should have an easy time on the road tonight as the Bonnie's are a terrible 0-6 SU at home this season being out scored by an average of 20 points a game.  U Mass has gone 4-1 ATS in their last 5 games and 10-1 ATS as 7->9.5 point favorites since the 2000 season.  St. Bonnie's has gone 0-12 ATS as dogs in conference games after losing SU + ATS since the 2000 season and have lost 13 straight ATS as dogs in conference after a loss.   Teams have gone 1-12-1 ATS as 7->9.5 point dogs in division games after 2 losses SU + ATS since last season.    Loss:  U. Mass stumbles into overtime to win by just 4.

Tuesday, January 25, 2005:

Georgia (+21.5) over Florida:  Georgia will come into Florida looking to pull off the upset against their rival.  It's a tough road to a win, but covering the 19 point spread shouldn't be that big of a problem.  The Bulldogs have won the last 4 meetings ATS in Florida.   Georgia turns the ball over less than Florida and should be able to compete with the Gators in other aspects of the game.  Florida is coming off a home loss to Tennessee and are 2-13 ATS since 1990 in division games after a loss ATS.   We expect the Bulldogs to bring their A game to compete tonight on this nationally televised game.  Loss:  Another tough luck loss as two free throws with 14 seconds left puts Florida up by 23.

Monday, January 24, 2005:

Furman (-11.5) over Elon:  Furman has been dominate at home of late and should be able to blow out a struggling Elon team tonight.  Furman has gone 7-1 at home this season, with that loss being in their last game at home to Davidson.  The should be able to get the bad taste out of their mouth against an Elon team that has gone 0-10 on the road this year by being out scored by an average of 14 a game.  Furman has blown out 5 of their last 6 home opponents.  Elon is playing without a predicted first team all conference player in Atoyebi and should struggle again tonight on the road.  Win:  Furman punishes Elon by 20.

Saturday, January 22, 2005

Wake Forest (PK) over Cincinnati:  Wake is coming off an upset loss at Florida St. and will be focused and fired up to not lose two in a row.  Cincy has played above their talent level all season and we think that it will catch up with them today.  The Bearcats lost their last home game SU to Louisville and face a tougher team today in Wake.  Wake has averaged 49.1% shooting from the field this season and have out rebounded opponents by an average o 7 a games.  Rebounding has been a weak spot for Cincinnati and although they have adjusted their line up, they should be overpowered today.  Win:  Wake wins by 4 as they get the rebound win off their loss.

 Minnesota (+5) over Michigan St.:  The Badgers have gone under the radar so far this season, but they have won 6 games in a row ATS.  Minnesota has been awesome at home this season as they have compiled a 10-1 mark SU.  Michigan State has only played 3 games on the road so far this season and they have struggled, going just 1-2.  Minnesota's bench may play a key role in helping to pull an upset off today.  Michigan State has gone just 3-5 ATS over their last 8 games overall.  Teams playing as favorites after winning SU + losing ATS + going under have gone just 1-10 ATS so far this season.  Minnesota is a consensus formula pick that has won in our system 77% of the time this season.  Loss:  Minnesota lays an egg on their own court.

St. John's (+6) over Boston College:  Boston College is a target for many teams to knock off as they are one of the few undefeated teams left in CBB.  Boston College has not lost, but has come close many times and we feel like tonight should be similar to those games.   St. John's has gone 8-2-1 ATS this season and allow 6 ppg less at home than they do on the road this season.  St. John's has gone 5-1 SU + ATS in their last 6 games at home, including their last one being an upset of a ranked Pitt team.  We'll take the Red Storm and the points at home tonight.  Push:  BC stays unbeaten and wins by 6.

Thursday, January 20, 2005

Rider (+10) over Niagara:  Rider visits Niagara where they have found success ATS in the past as they have won 6 of the last 8 meetings ATS between the two.  Niagara is struggling as they have lost 2 games in a row SU and 4 in a row ATS.  Rider has won 4 games in a row on the road and have outscored their opponents by 5 points a game over their last 5.  Rider has the better defense of the two as they have allowed 8 less points per game.   Rider's defense is backed by their solid perimeter defense as they are ranked 6th in the country in defensive 3-point FG% as they allow just 28.5%.  This has been especially solid in their last 5 games as they have allowed just 22.4% from beyond the arc.  Win:  Rider hangs tough and losses by just 5.

Wednesday, January 19, 2005

Mississippi (+9) over Kentucky:  Ole Miss is getting too many points tonight at home against a Kentucky team that is playing just their 4th road game of the season.  Mississippi should be amped up for this game as they have gone 7-2 at home this season and are 8-2 in their last 10 games.  Teams have gone 11-2 ATS this season as home dogs of 7->9.5 in conference after winning SU + ATS on the road.  Mississippi outscores opponents by an average of 16 at home this season, while out rebounding opponents by 5 a game and shooting a blistering 51% from the field.  We'll take the points and the home team tonight.  Win: Mississippi losses by just 3 points as the cover easily.

Tuesday, January 18, 2005:

UNC Greensboro (-4) over E. Tennessee St.:  Greensboro has been stellar at home this season compiling a perfect 7-0 (3-0 ATS) record, while E. Tennessee St. has gone just 1-6 on the road (2-4 ATS).  E. Tennessee St. has given up a whopping 86.6 ppg on the road while surrendering 6 more boards than their opponents.  Greensboro has given up a stingy 58.2 ppg at home this season while out rebounding their opponents by 6.  Greensboro wins by an average of 14 points a game at home this season and they should be able to win this tough contest enough to cover the spread tonight.  Loss:  Another 1 point heartbreaking loss ATS.

Tennessee Martin (+6) over Murray St.:  Murray St. was a favorite to win their conference this season, but have not played up to it yet as they are just 1-5 SU on the road this season and they will be playing their 3rd game in a row on the road.  Tennessee Martin should be able to give them a game tonight as their team is starting to gel after a tough start to the season.  Their shooting has steadily improved as the season has gone on, as well as their rebounding.  Tenn. Martin has won 2 in a row ATS and should be able to take advantage of their home court, where they are playing for just the 5th time this season.  Teams have won 60% of the time ATS this season as home dogs after losing + winning ATS in their previous game.   Loss:  Tennessee Martin plays lack luster and fails to compete.

Monday, January 17, 2005

Georgia Southern (+2) over Chattenooga:  Chattenooga has been on a roll this season but will find a very tough matchup tonight in Georgia Southern's home.  Southern has averaged 85.8 point per game at home this season and have scored an average of 80 points a game in their last 5 games.  Georgia Southern is playing their third straight game at home and Chatteenooga is playing on the road for their third straight game.  Georgia Southern is a 3-0 consensus formula pick in a system that has produced 75% winners so far this season.  Win:  Georgia Southern cruised to 107 points and a 23 point win.

Utah (-3.5) over Colorado St.:  This game appears to me a mismatch as Utah is rolling along this season.  Utah has won 9 games in a row SU and have gone 6-1 ATS in that time span.  Utah is ranked 11th out of 328 teams offensively and have out rebounded opponents by 10 a game this season.  Utah is also allowing just 48.8 points per game in their last 5 games, out scoring opponents by an average of 20 points a game.  Utah has taken the last 3 ATS at Colorado State.  Colorado St. has a starter banged up and should not be able to keep up Utah tonight.  Win:  Utah explodes in the second half to win by 23 in a rout.

Saturday, January 15, 2004:

Villanova (-6.5) over Georgetown:  Villanova and Georgetown meet in a matchup where Villanova has taken the best of Georgetown by winning the last 5 meetings ATS.  Georgetown has be horrible over the past several season in conference as they have gone 4-16 ATS in their last 20 conference games.  Villanova has gone 7-0 SU at home this season by outscoring opponents by 20 and out shooting them by more than 50%.  Villanova should be able to clean up on the glass today as well as they have out rebounded opponents by an average of 11 a game this season.  This is a 3-0 consensus formula pick that has won 80% ATS this season.  Loss:  Villanova lets a big lead slip away in this one.

La Salle (+5.5) over St. Josephs:  St. Joe's is a favorite in this game, but should run into trouble today on the road.  La Salle is starting to come together as a team as they have gone 4-1 in their last 5 games SU.  St. Joe's has gone 11-3-1 ATS on the road after going over at home since 2000, but all 3 of those losses have come this season.  This is a 3-0 consensus formula pick that has won 80% ATS this season.  We'll take the home team here as they are getting too many points.  Loss:  La Salle doesn't even compete.

DePaul (-6.5) over Tulane:  DePaul has been outstanding in conference games ATS as they are 13-2 ATS in their last 15.  DePaul has also been playing hot basketball as they are 8-2 in their last 10 games SU.  Tulane has struggled lately as they have lost 3 games in a row SU, all by double digits.  Tulane has struggled badly from 3 point land as they have only shot 26.5% this season.  Tulane has fallen to DePaul in 4 of their last 5 meetings ATS and today should be no different.  This is a 3-0 consensus formula pick that has won 80% ATS this season.   Win:  DePaul rolls to an easy 18 point victory.

Mississippi (+5) over Auburn:  Mississippi should make a contest out of this inter conference game as they have played well over their last 10 games going 8-2 SU.  Teams playing in the Rebel's position of a division games with a 3->5.5 point spread after winning SU but losing ATS have gone 10-2 ATS since last season.  Auburn has lost 3 of their last 4 games SU and have dropped 3 in a row ATS.  Mississippi should hold the advantage on the boards as they have out rebounded opponents by 3 a game this season, while Auburn has been out rebounded by 4 a game.  This is a 3-0 consensus formula pick that has won 80% ATS this season.  Win:  Ole' Miss wins this game outright.

Yale (+3.5) over St. Peter's:  Yale has improved this season and is playing some pretty good ball as they have won 2 of their last 3 games SU, winning all 3 of those ATS.  Yale has a stingy defense at home as they allow a lot less points at home than they do on the road.  St. Peter's has gone just 1-7 SU on the road this season and have lost 4 games in a row.  St. Peter's is giving up 48% form the field on the road while allowing a whopping 80 points a game.  We'll take Yale and their momentum as home under dogs today.  This is a 3-0 consensus formula pick that has won 80% ATS this season.   Loss:  St. Peter's outplays Yale to get the easy win.

 Texas El Paso (-4) over Fresno:  UTEP comes into the contest as one of the hottest teams under the radar as they have won 8 games in a row ATS.  UTEP has only played in 3 road games this season, but have won them all.  UTEP has gone 10-1-1 ATS as 3->6.5 point favorites since 2000 and 16-4 ATS (winning 5 straight this season) as favorites after a win in their last 20.  Fresno State has gone just 5-16-1 ATS at home in conference after 2 wins since the 2000 season.  Fresno St. has been one of the coldest teams in the country as they have dropped 7 of their last 8 ATS.  This is a 3-0 consensus formula pick that has won 80% ATS this season.   Loss:  UTEP gets upset on the road.

Portland State (+1) over E. Washington:  Portland State has outscored opponents by an average of 6 points a game this season while E. Washington has been outscored by and average of 10.  Portland State has shot better than their opponents by 5% this season while E.W. has been out shot by 5%.  Portland State has shot a lights out 55% in their last 5 games, out shooting opponents by and average of 17%.  E. Washington has gone just 3-7 SU + ATS in their last 10 meetings.  This is a 3-0 consensus formula pick that has won 80% ATS this season.   Win: Portland St. defeats E. Washington by 11 points.

Friday, January 14, 2004:

Canisius (-3.5) over Loyola Maryland:  Canisius is a more talented team than Loyola and is playing much better at the time.  Canisius has won their last 3 games SU + ATS and have taken the last 5 meetings between these two schools straight up.  Canisius has shot nearly 40% from 3 point teritory in their last 5 games and have out rebounded their opponents by 5 as well in that same time span.  Loyola has won just 2 games out of their last 10 and have been out rebounded by 5 a game this season while shooting only 28% from the 3 point arc.  Loss:  Canisius losses by 2 in a close game.

Thursday, January 13, 2004:

Marquette (+2.5) over Memphis:  Marquette is ranked for the first time this season and with good reason as they have only lost 1 time.  That loss was to a ranked Arizona team.  Marquette has gone 2-0 on the road this season while Memphis has been less than impressive at home.  Marquette has outscored their opponents by 15 points in their last 5 games while out rebounding them by an average of 8.  Marquette has averaged 10 more rebounds than their opponents this season and have shot a steller 40% from 3 point territory.  Memphis is 8-7 overall and 7-8 ATS this season.  Loss:  Marquette challenges in the second half, but can't erase first half deficit.

Utah St. (+5) over Pacific:  Utah State takes there good record on the road to play a good Pacific team.  Utah St. has gone 8-1 ATS in their last 9 road games in conference after a home game and 15-4 ATS in their last 19 since 2000 on the road after 2 home games.  Utah St. has gone 6-3 ATS in their last 9 games overall and have won 8 of their last 9 games overall by a big margin.  Utah St. has out rebounded opponents by over 9 in their last 5 games and are a better team defensively than Pacific.  Pacific has gone 1-3-1 ATS in their last 5 games and are 1-4 ATS in their last 5 games at home.  Loss:  A close loss as double OT does us in by 2 points.

Wednesday, January 12, 2004:

W. Michigan (-3) over Kent State:  Western Michigan should be able to get a big home conference win tonight as they are 4-0 at home this season.  The Broncos have gone 11-2 ATS in their last 13 conference games as home favorites and are 6-2 ATS in their last 8 games overall.  W. Michigan has won an incredible 13 straight games ATS at home following 2 wins SU.  W. Michigan outscores their opponents by and average of 12 more points at home and the get 4 more rebounds.  Kent State has lost 2 games in a row on the road and are just 2-4 on the road this season.  Win:  W. Michigan wins easily by 16 points.

Hofstra (+3) over UNC Wilmington:  Hofstra has played out standing ball on the road this season as they are 6-1 in their last 7.  They are also a nice 5-1-1 ATS in their last 7 games overall.  Hofstra has outscored opponents by and average of 7 points a game on the road and have limited teams to shooting just 39.9% from the field.  UNC has shot less than 5% worse than their opponents at home.  The may also be playing with out one of their top players in Goldsberry.  Hofstra is a formula pick from a consensus that has won 79% of the time so far this season.  Loss:  Hofstra blows a 14 point halftime lead to lose by 7.

Wisconsin-Milwaukee (-14) over Youngstown St.:  Youngstown State may be one of the worst team in CBB this season and it should show tonight.  YSU has gone 2-6 ATS in their last 8 games and have lost 5 in a row.  Teams have gone just 3-14 ATS in their last 17 games as home dogs of 14->16.5 after 5 losses since the 2000 season.  Wisconsin Milwaukee has gone 4-2 on the road this season and are 5-2-1 ATS in their last 8 games overall.  Teams have gone 11-2 ATS as road favorites of 14->16.5 in conference games after a home game since last season.  A huge blowout is likely tonight as the Penguins have lost big at home before this season to Bowling Green by 22.  Win:  Wisconsin-Milwaukee blows out YSU by 24 points!

Monday, January 10, 2004:

Western Carolina (+1) over E. Tennessee St.:  Western Carolina is playing at home where they have found all of their success this season going 5-1.  In those home games they have shot better than 5% more from the field than their opponents.  E. Tennessee St. has been miserable on the road as they are 0-6, having been outscored by an average of 17 points and out rebounded by 8 boards.  E. Tennessee St. has been plagued with many injuries early this season as well.  Teams have gone just 3-15 ATS since last season playing on the road in PK->2.5 point games in conference after 4 straight losses (E. Tennessee's position tonight).  Loss:  W. Carolina erases big deficit, but still falls.

Canisius (+2) over Iona:  This season, teams have gone 13-4-1 ATS at home in PK->2.5 point games after 2 wins ATS.  Canisius is in this spot as they have won 2 in a row at home and are 5-0 ATS at home this season.  Iona has gone 0-7 SU on the road so far this season and are being outscored by an average of 6 points in those games.  Iona is 0-11 ATS on the road in PK->2.5 point games since the 2000 season.  Teams have gone just 6-22 ATS on their road in PK->2.5 point games in conference after 3 straight losses.  I think Canisius will come out fighting for this home win in a conference game.  Win:  Canisius wins this one easily by double digits.

Saturday, January 8, 2004:

Wisconsin Green Bay (+6) over Butler:  Wisconsin Green Bay has a nice 9-3 record on the season and should be able to play tight if not beat a Butler team that is just 5-6.  Butler has lost 3 games in a row and are just 2-5 ATS in their last 7 games.  In their last game, Butler lost straight up to Wisconsin Milwaukee and Green Bay is a better team.  Wisconsin Green Bay has more talent and is playing better than Butler, especially at the guard position led by McCants.  Tucker is also a load to handle at the forward spot as Butler doesn't have a strong answer for Green Bay's options.  We're not sure why Butler is favored, but we'll take the 6 points for sure.  Win:  Wisconsin Green Bay wins by 7 points.

William & Mary (-1) over Delaware:  William and Mary is led by Corey Cofield in this game and should be able to come up with a home victory in this situation.  William and Mary is 4-2 at home this season and Delaware has gone just 1-4 on the road.  Delaware is a team with some talent, but has struggled all season to gel, especially of late.  Delaware has lost 6 games in a row SU and have been blown out in all of them except 1.  They are suffering a lot of injuries as well.  Teams playing as PK->2.5 point road dogs in conference after 3 straight losses have gone just 3-11 ATS since last season.   Loss:  W&M blow 7 point halftime lead.

Hofstra (-6.5) over Drexel:  Hofstra is playing as home favorites in a good spot for them to get a big win.  Hofstra has been lights out so far this season as they have accumulated a 10-1 record so far SU (only losing at powerhouse Syracuse by just 5 points). Hofstra will look to settle in at home as this is just their 4th game after going 3-0 (outscoring opponents by an average of 14.5).  Hofstra is a nice 5-0-1 ATS in their 6 games that were lined.  Drexel is dealing with injuries issues and has struggled on the road this season.  Drexel is just 2-5 on the road this season where they have been outscored by an average of 6 points a game.  Loss:  Hofstra fails to cover the spread in an OT game.

Thursday, January 6, 2004:

UCLA (-6) over Washington St.:  UCLA will be playing at home in this contest and that should provide a big advantage for the Bruins.  Washington State has been out rebounded this season by 4 a game and UCLA has out rebounded opponents by 6 a game.  On the road, the Cougers have been out rebounded by 7 and UCLA has out rebounded opponents by 7 at home (14 rebound advantage).  With UCLA's star Thompson and 2 seven foot center, they should easily control the boards and the action tonight.  UCLA is deep through their first 9 players and this has led them to go 3-1-1 ATS in their last 5 games.  Washington State has been outscored by 9 points a game this season on the road and that should continue tonight.  Loss:  UCLA wins by just 3.

Wednesday, January 5, 2004:

Seton Hall (+1) over Notre Dame:  Seton Hall should be up for this game as they open conference play at home against the Irish.  Seton Hall has won 4 of the last 6 meetings ATS between these two teams.  Seton Hall should hold the rebounding advantage tonight as they have out rebounded their opponents by 9 boards in their last 5 games.  The Irish have lost 3 games in a row ATS.  Notre Dame is 0-8-1 ATS as favorites in division games after losing ATS at home and 2-12-2 in their last 16 games in division after losing ATS.  Teams have gone 3-17 ATS the last 2 seasons on the road in PK->2.5 point games in division after losing ATS at home.  Loss:  Seton Hall was up 2 with 10 seconds left, but a 3 pointer won it for the Irish by 1.

Kentucky (-10) over S. Carolina:  S. Carolina has played well this season, even in their last losses, but face a very tough task tonight to open conference play.  Kentucky is on a roll as they have been outscoring opponents by 25 points in their last 5 games.  This season the Wildcats are out shooting their opponents by 8%.  Kentucky has fared well ATS in this situation before.  The Wildcats are 9-1 ATS as home favorites in division games after 5 wins, 7-0-1 ATS in their last 8 at home after 5 wins, and 12-1 ATS in their last 13 in division play after 5 straight wins.  We like Kentucky big tonight and so does a consensus of formulas that have won 78% of the time this season.  Loss:  Kentucky wins by can't pull away.

Ohio St. (+15) over Illinois:  The Buckeye's only have regular season Big Ten champs to play for this season as they will not be going to a post season tourney and they are dangerous enough to give the Illini a run for their money tonight.  Ohio State has gone 7-2-1 ATS so far this season and have won 6 in a row overall.  Their bench is good enough to keep them close and they shoot well from the 3 point stripe.  In each of the teams last 5 games, the Buckeyes are out rebounding opponents by 12 while Illinois holds a rebounding edge of less than 1.  Teams playing as home favorites of 14->16.5 this season after 5 wins have gone 1-9 ATS.  Teams playing as home favorites in conference after winning SU + ATS this season have gone just 1-9-2 ATS.  Loss:  Ohio State keeps within distance until the final minutes and lose by 19.

Tuesday, January 4, 2004:

Jacksonville St. (-1) over Samford:  Jacksonville St. will be returning home for the first time in well over a month after nearly knocking off Arkansas on the road.  They should be juiced to beat a Samford team that has gone just 1-5 on the road this season, while they are 3-0 at home (outscoring opponents by an average of 13 points/game).  Jacksonville St. won both meeting ATS last season between these two teams.  Samford has been out rebounded by nearly 11 a game on the boards this season and this may be their downfall tonight.  Jacksonville St. has gone 5-0-1 ATS since 2000 after 2 road games.  This is a pick by a consensus of formulas that have won 78% of the time this season.  Loss:  Jacksonville St. losses by just 4 points.

Monday, January 3, 2004:

St. Peter's (-5) over Rider:  St. Peter's is a formula pick by a consensus of our formulas that have won 79% of the time this season.  St. Peter's has had the best of the meetings between these two as they are 4-1 ATS in their last 5.  St. Peter's is 11-2 ATS in their last 13 as home favorites in conference and 6-0-1 ATS since 2000 as home favorites after winning ATS.  St. Peter's losses this season have come to hands of national power houses (close losses at Seton Hall, Charleston, and West Virginia).  Rider has lost 4 of their last 5 overall (beating just N. Dakota State) and have been outscored by an average of 8 points a game on the road this season.    Loss:  St. Peter's falls at home to Rider.

Sunday, January 2, 2004:

Bradley (-9) over Indiana State:  Bradley has been one of the most underrated teams this year and should have an easy win today over Indiana State.  Bradley has gone 5-0 at home this season both SU and ATS and have won the last 5 meetings between these schools SU + ATS.  Bradley will try to bounce back big after a road loss to Creighton.  Indiana State has lost 3 in a row SU + ATS and have dropped their last 3 games on the road.  Since last season, Indiana St. has gone just 1-8 ATS playing as 7->9.5 point dogs.  Bradley should dominate heavily on the boards as they have out rebounded opponents by more than 8 a game while Indiana State has been out rebounded by 3 a game.  Win:  Bradley erases a halftime deficit to win by 10 points.

Thursday, December 30, 2004:

North Carolina (-32) over Cleveland St.:  The Tarheels have settled in a home and should be able to blow another opponent out tonight in a weak Cleveland State team.  Cleveland State has been out rebounded by 6 a game on the road, while N. Carolina has outrebounded opponents by 11 at home.  The Tarheels are 10-1 ATS in their last 11 as home favorites in non-conference after losing ATS, 11-1 ATS in their last 12 non-conference games after a loss ATS, and have won 7 straight ATS as home favorites after a loss ATS.  North Carolina has won by an average of 25.4 points a game this season and that has been against good competition.  We like a big blowout in this one tonight.  Win:  The Tarheels blow away the Vikings by more than 40!

Wednesday, December 29, 2004:

Harvard (+13) over Charleston:  Harvard is a much improved team over years past as they have returned all 5 starters from last season.  Harvard's won 2 games in a row and 3 of their last 4, so confidence should be able to keep them close enough to cover the spread in this one.  Charleston has gone 0-7 ATS as home favorites of 10->13.5 after a win, 1-10 ATS as home favorites after a home game, and 1-7 ATS in their last 8 as home favorites after a win.  Charleson has lost 3 games in a row ATS, all 3 coming on their home court.  Charleston has been out-rebounded badly in 4 of their last 5 games and Harvard should be able to out rebound them tonight as well.  Loss:  Harvard make it close to covering as they lose by 17.

Tuesday, December 28, 2004:

Western Michigan (-13) over S. Alabama:  Western Michigan is returning home after a long road trip and should be fired up to handle a lesser S. Alabama team.  S. Alabama has gone 0-4 so far on the road this season, being outscored by 14 points a game.  While playing on the road they have also been out rebounded by 9 point a game.  W. Michigan has gone an amazing 14-1 ATS in their last 15 games as home favorites after winning SU + ATS.  Since last season, Western Michigan has gone 17-3 ATS as home favorites after a win.  Teams have gone 9-1 ATS since last season at home in non-conference games after 5 straight road games.  This picks is a 3-0 consensus pick from formulas that have won 80% of the time this season.  Win:  Western Michigan blow out S. Alabama by 20 points for our 6th straight CBB Top Notch Pick win!

Wednesday, December 22, 2004:

Marist (+20) over Notre Dame:  Marist is in a good spot to cover the spread tonight on the road in South Bend.  Marist is a team with talent and their scoring by Will Whittington (19.4 points per game) should keep them close enough to cover the spread tonight.  Marist has scored 71.1 point per game this season and are a nice 4-1 ATS.  Teams playing as road dogs of 20->20.5 points in non-conference games after losing on the road have gone 17-7 ATS since 2000.  On the other end, teams playing as 20->20.5 point home favorites in non-conference after a win have gone just 9-20 ATS since 2000.  Notre Dame is a good team, but we think laying 20 points in this one is just too many.  Win:  Marist losses by just 17 as we win our 6th straight CBB Top Notch Pick!

Tuesday, December 21, 2004:

Iowa (-2) over Texas Tech:  Iowa is playing at home for the sixth straight game and should be able handle a Texas Tech team that will face their hardest road test of the season so far.  Tech is coming off a home loss to a lesser Big 10 team in Ohio State where they went over the total.  Teams playing as road dogs of PK->2.5 in non-conference games after going over at home have gone 0-6-1 ATS since last season.  Iowa has outscored opponents by an average of 17 points at home.  Teams playing in non-conference games at home after previous multiple home games often fare very well ATS.  This is a consensus pick by formulas that have won 83% of the time so far this season.  Win:  Iowa rolls over Texas Tech throughout the whole game.

Monday, December 20, 2004:

Cornell (+27) over Syracuse:  Cornell has been able to cover the spread in the these teams previous 2 meetings and they should be in good position to cover tonight as well.  Cornell has won 7 games in a row ATS playing as road dogs in non-conference games after a loss.  Syracuse is playing as a big favorite after 3 previous home games and teams have only covered the spread in 33% of those games this season.  Cornell won SU + ATS on the road against St. Bonnaventure, while Syracuse failed to cover the spread against St. Bonnaventure.  Cornell should have enough scoring from Lenny Collins and others to keep a loss respectable enough to cover the spread.  Win:  Cornell losses by just 13 for the easy cover!

Sunday, December 19, 2004:

Missouri (-1.5) over Indiana:  Missouri has not played up to expectations yet, but have had a week to get prepared for an Indiana team that has taken a beating this season.  Missouri matches up well with Indiana and have won the last 2 meetings ATS.  Indiana has gone just 1-7 ATS as dogs in non-conference games after losing ATS since the year 2000.  Teams are just 2-9-1 ATS on the road after 4 losses  this season.  Teams have also gone just 2-12 ATS in their last 14 games since 2000 as road dogs of 2->3.5 in non-conference games after losing SU + ATS + going over on the road.  Win:  Missouri pulls out a 3 point win for the cover.

Georgia (-2.5) over Woffard:  Georgia is due for a big win and should be able to get it on their home court this afternoon.  Georgia has gone 9-1-1 ATS at home in non-conference games after 2 wins since 2000.  The Bulldogs are also a nice 10-2-1 ATS as favorites in non-conference games after winning ATS and 8-0 ATS since last season in games with a 3->6.5 point spread after a win.  Georgia matches up well against Woffard and should have an edge on the boards to excell them to victory.  This is a formula pick by a consensus of 3-0 and has won in over 70% of the situations this season.  Win:  Georgia pulls away in OT for a 4 point win.

Saturday, December 18, 2004:

  Weber State (-6) over Elon:  Weber has already beat Elon once this season and that was on the road as they won by 7 points.  Weber St. now plays them at home where they are 2-1 this season and are looking for a win after 3 straight losses.  Elon has gone 0-4 so far on the road this season and are just 2-7 overall.  They have been outscored by an average of 10 points in their last 5 games and have been out rebounded by an average of 4 boards this season.  Weber is out rebounding opponents bye 5 this year and is led by their great big man Lance Allred who is averaging 9.8 a game.  With Elon's best player in Jackson questionable for tonight's game, we like Weber to win easy at home.  Win:  Weber State blows out Elon by 28 points for the easy cover!

Boise St. (-2.5) over Oregon St:  Boise State is in a good spot to pull off a home victory in tonight's game as they have been a solid 4-1 at home so far this season.  While playing at home, the Broncos have out shot opponents by an average of 17% from the 3 point arc this season.  Oregon St. has been out shot by 4% this season and have lost 7 straight games ATS as PK->2.5 point dogs.  Boise St. has gone 7-1 ATS in their last 8 non-conference games where the spread is PK->2.5.  Oregon State has been hit with the injury bug this season and Boise should be able to capitalize tonight.  Loss:  Oregon St. shows up Boise on the road.

Loyola Marymount (-4) over San Diego St.:  Loyola is in a good spot here to win at home against a San Diego State team that they match up really well against.  San Diego State's problems so far this season have really come on the boards as they are being out rebounded by a whopping 13 a game on the road.  SDSU has lost 3 in a row SU + ATS.  Teams have gone just 23-42-3 ATS since last season as road dogs of 3->6.5 points in non-conference after 2 losses ATS.  Loyola is coming off a tough loss against Washington and should be poised to play a strong game this evening at home to get a big win.  PUSH:  Loyola wins by 4.

Friday, December 17, 2004:

Florida Atlantic (+22.5) over Nevada:  Nevada has lost 2 games in a row and is not the strong team they were last season.  Losing their coach and some star players in the offseason has been a setback for Nevada.  Florida Atlantic is led by Mike Bell and should have enough fire power with their 3 point shooting to stay within reasonable distance in this contest.  Teams playing as road dogs in non-conference games after 2 home games this season have won ATS 62% of the time this season.  Teams playing as home favorites in non-conference games after 2 losses SU + ATS this season have gone just 2-12 ATS.  We'll take the high point amount this evening.  Win:  Florida Atlantic keeps this score manageable all night and losses by just 14.

Thursday, December 16, 2004:

UNC Wilmington (+4) over College of Charleston:  UNC is a team that is on the rise in their conference, while the College of Charleston is on the decline.  UNC Wilmington matches up well with Charleston in every category.  Charleston has been out rebounded by more than 5 a game this season and should struggle with an inexperience front court.  Charleston has gone just 1-11 ATS over the past 2 seasons as home favorites after a home game and were blown out in both games at home so far this season.  Teams are just 2-12 ATS this season as home favorites after 2 losses SU and ATS.  Win:  UNC leads through most of the game and only loses by 2 points.

Saturday, December 11, 2004:

Notre Dame (-11) over DePaul:  The Irish are in a good spot to pull off a big win here as they are consensus pick from formulas that have gone a combined 74% this season.  The Irish have gone 12-3 ATS since 2000 after winning + going under.  Teams playing as home favorites of 10->13.5 in non-conference games after going under on the road have gone 14-5-2 ATS since the 2000 season.  The last 2 seasons, teams have gone 13-3 ATS as home favorites in non-conference after winning ATS + going under on the road.  Notre Dame has won by an average of 17 points so far this season and DePaul has been out shot from the field by nearly 17% this season.  DePaul is just 1-4 ATS so far this season and should drop to 1-5 after this game.  Loss: The Irish fall victim to hot DePaul shooting.

Kent State (-8) over Cleveland St.:  Kent State has been one of the better underrated teams in college basketball in the past and continue to be this season.  Kent has won 5 straight games by at least 9 points and are 3-0-1 ATS in their last 4 meetings with Cleveland State.  Cleveland State has gone just 1-11-1 ATS at home after winning ATS (losing 7 in a row).  Cleveland State is also just 3-11 ATS in their last 14 overall and 0-6 ATS at home after winning ATS on the road.  The Vikings are playing just their 5th game this season while Kent is gelling and will be playing in their 9th.  This pick is one made by a formula that has gone a perfect 21-0 this season and we like the odds of it going 22-0.  Loss: The Flashes win, but can not cover the spread.

 Mississippi State (-13) over Arkansas Little-Rock:  Mississippi State is looking to get back on track after a loss and are in great position to do that tonight.  Mississippi St. has outscored opponents by and average of 20+ points at home this season.  Mississippi St. is 7-1 ATS since last season as favorites after losing ATS and teams playing as favorites after losing and going under since last season have gone 10-1 ATS.  Arkansas L.R. is at a huge disadvantage talent wise in this match up and have been out shot by opponent by nearly 6% on the road this season.  Arkansas L.R. has played two top 25 teams on the road this season and were blown out by 25 points in each of those games (at Georgia Tech and at Oklahoma St.).   We like another blowout this evening.  Win:  Mississippi State blow out as they win by 30!

Friday, December 10, 2004:

Oklahoma State (-15) over U.A.B.:  The Cowboys face a good UAB team, but are in a spot in which they should be able to blow UAB out.  Alabama Birmingham feasts on teams to turn the ball over and the Cowboys should be steady enough not to do that.  Oklahoma State has gone 11-3 ATS all time as home favorites in non-conference games after winning SU + ATS (winning 4 straight).  Oklahoma State has out-rebounded opponents by 4.7 boards a game this season and out shot opponents by and average of 14% from the field.  Teams are 13-4 ATS this season ATS as home favorites in non-conference games after an under and teams are 11-2 ATS in their last 13 since last season as 14->16.5 point favorites in non-conference games after an under.  Loss:  A close loss here again as the Cowboys win by 13.

Wednesday, December 8, 2004:

Niagara (-10) over Yale:  Niagara has gone a solid 3-0 at home this season.  They have won the only one of those games with a point spread on it with a blowout win over St. Johns.  Niagara holds the match up advantage in every category against Yale and should be able to dominate.  Yale is at a big deficit when it will come to rebounding tonight as they are being out rebounded by and average of 4 a game, while Niagara is out rebounding opponents by an average of 8 a game.  Last season Yale fell by 17 points to Niagara at home and should not be able to compete tonight.  This game is a consensus pick by a formula that has won 85% of the time this season.  Win:  Niagara blows out Yale by a whopping 36 points!

Delaware (-1) over Drexel:  Drexel has not played up to expectations so far this season and Delaware is in a good spot to win at home.  Delaware won by 12 points as 1 point favorites in this spot last season.  Teams are 7-1-1 ATS this season as home favorites of PK->2.5 after a loss.  Drexel has gone 0-6 ATS since last season in conference games after winning on the road.  This season, teams are just 1-10 ATS on the road in PK->2.5 point games after 2 wins and just 3-19 ATS on the road after a win ATS on the road.  Drexel has been out-rebounded by 5.5 this season and has shot just 39.8% from the field, while Delaware has shot 45.8% from the field.  Win:  Close contest here as Delaware squeaks out a 2 point win.

Pepperdine (-3) over UNLV:  Since 2000, UNLV has gone 0-5-1 ATS on the road following 2 road games and just 1-7-1 ATS in non-conference games after losing on the road.  Also in that time span teams playing as road dogs of 3->6.5 points in non-conference games after losing SU + ATS + going over on the road have gone just 2-11 ATS.  Pepperdine has gone 6-1 overall this season, outscoring opponents by an average of 10 points and this is their 4th straight game at home.  Teams are 18-7-1 ATS since last season as home favorites of 3->6.5 points in non-conference games after 4 straight wins.  This game is a consensus pick of formulas that have won 76% this season.  Win:  Pepperdine controls most of the game enroute to an 8 point win.

Tuesday, December 7, 2004:

Texas (-22) over N. Texas:  Texas has a huge advantage in all areas heading into this match-up.  The Longhorns perimeter shooting has been lights out this season and their size advantage will also be a big difference tonight.  N. Texas only has one guy on their roster taller than 6'7''.  Teams playing as home favorites in non-conference games after an under this season have gone 11-3 ATS.  N. Texas has gone 1-7 ATS since 2000 as road dogs in non-conference games after losing SU + ATS.  We like a Texas blow out tonight as this is a 3-0 Consensus pick of formulas that has won over 83% this season.  Win:  Texas increases lead steadily throughout on way to a 29 point win.

N. Arizona (+21) over Texas Tech:  Texas Tech has been blowing out opponents, but tonight they should find it more difficult.  N. Arizona has a better bench than Texas Tech so they should be able to close any gap and cover the spread in garbage time.  N. Arizona has covered as big dogs at New Mexico this season and have not lost by more than 15 points this season.  Teams playing in Texas Tech's position of home favorites of 21->23.5 points in non-conference games have gone just 2-12 ATS after winning on the road since 2000.  This pick is a 4-0 Consensus pick by formulas that have won over 84% of the time this season.  Win:  N. Arizona hangs close enough to cover as they lose by 16.

Bradley (-2) over Butler:  Bradley is in a good spot to come up with a home victory tonight.  Bradley has gone 6-0 ATS in non-conference games after winning SU + ATS since last season.  Teams are 15-5-1 this season as home favorites of PK->2.5.  Butler has gone just 1-7 ATS on the road after losing ATS since last season.  Butler has been out shot by 6% from the field this season while being out rebounded by 5.5 boards.  Bradley has out shot opponents by 3% and out rebounded opponents by 5 a game.  Bradley has taken 3 of the last 4 meetings ATS between these two and should be able to prevail tonight as well.  Win:  Bradley leads most of the game and pulls away for a 10 point win.

Saturday, December 4, 2004:

Buffalo (-7) over W. Michigan:  Buffalo will host W. Michigan in this conference game where the trends and formulas favor Buffalo.  Buffalo is a consensus formula pick from a system that has won 80% this season.  Buffalo has gone 13-2 ATS since last season after a win and 11-2 ATS since 2000 after 2 wins.  Buffalo has won 3 in a row SU + ATS at home and will be seeking revenge for a 30 point loss at home to W. Michigan last season.  W. Michigan has struggled shooting on the road so far this season, shooting just 36.3% from the field.  This has led to W. Michigan's weak 1-2 ATS mark on the road this season.  Loss: Buffalo gets embarrassed at home.

 James Madison (+2) over Hofstra:  This game is our game of the week due to it being a picked by a consensus of formulas that has predicted over 80% and the trends that support it.  James Madison has taken the last 6 meetings ATS against Hofstra and have out shot opponents by 9% so far this season.  Hofstra has gone just 1-10-2 ATS following 2 wins since the 2000 season.  Teams playing on the road this season in a PK->2.5 point game after 3 wins have gone 0-6 ATS.  We like James Madison to continue their wins against Hofstra this season with a home win tonight.  Loss:  This 1 point loss hurts as Hofstra wins by 3.

Providence (-13) over Rhode Island:  This is a spot where Providence is due for a big blow out performance.  Look for them to bounce back after an embarrassing home lost to Winthrop.  Rhode Island has struggled to an 0-3 ATS mark so far this season, partially due to being out rebounded by an average of 9 a game.  Teams playing in non-conference games after 3 losses at home have gone just 1-7 ATS in their next game.  This game was a pick of a consensus of formulas that has predicted at over 80% ATS so far this season.  Loss:  Rhode Island keeps it close enough to cover the spread.

Friday, December 3, 2004:

Memphis (-1) over Purdue:  Memphis will bring their A game after getting thrashed by Maryland and should be able to beat a Purdue team that has struggled so far this season.  Memphis has won 6 in a row ATS in non-conference games with a PK->2.5 point spread after losing ATS.  Since last season, teams are 17-5 ATS as favorites in non-conference games after losing + going under on the road.  This season, teams are 6-0 ATS as favorites after losing + going under.  Purdue has gone just 4-17 ATS as dogs after a win ATS since 1990.  Since last season, teams have gone 0-7 ATS as PK->2.5 point dogs in non-conference games after losing + going under.  Win:  Memphis pulls away in the second half for a convincing win.

Youngstown State (+18) over S.W. Missouri St.:  This game is being played on a neutral site in Missouri, so it's almost a home game for S.W. Miss. St.   Youngtown St. is playing in a spot that teams have fared well in the past few seasons.  Teams are 26-9 ATS as 17->19.5 dogs in non-conference games after 2 home games since 2000 and teams are 24-9-2 ATS as 17->19.5 road dogs in non-conference games after losing since last season.  S.W. Missouri St. has gone 0-6 ATS as favorites after 2 wins since last season and are 0-2 ATS this season.  Our consensus of formula's that has predicted at 81% this season picked Youngstown St. and so shall we.  Loss:  Youngstown State gets outplayed in all facets.

Thursday, December 2, 2004:

Nebraska (+7) over Alabama Birmingham:  The Cornhuskers will look to continue a solid start on the road after a 2-0 start where they have out shot opponents percentage wise 48% - 32% and out-rebounded opponents by an average of 26.  UAB is getting out rebounded by an average of 5.5 and is not nearly as strong as the team that upset Kentucky in the tourny a year ago.  Since 2000, Nebraska has gone 10-0 as road dogs in non-conference games after a home game and 12-1 ATS in non-conference games after 2 straight wins.  Nebraska's size should keep them in this game against a much smaller UAB team.  Loss:  Nebraska can't keep up with UAB and fall by 15.

Wednesday, December 1, 2004:

Wright St. (+7.5) over Ball St.:  Wright State has started out hot this season going 4-0 SU and ATS.  The have won the last 2 ATS against Ball State and should be able to keep it close tonight.  Wright State has won 9 in a row ATS as road dogs after 2 straight wins, 5 in a row ATS as 7->9.5 point dogs in non-conference games, and 6 of their last 7 ATS on the road after a home game.  Wright State is also 11-1 ATS in non-conference games after a home game.  Ball State is not the same program as past years and has gone 0-6-1 ATS as favorites in non-conference games after a win.  Win:  We squeek out a close win as Wright St. losses by just 7.

Western Michigan (-5) over Detroit:  Western Michigan has been predicted to have a down year due to their lack of experience in the front court, but they have played well so far.  W. Michigan has out rebounded opponents by an average of 11, while Detroit is being out rebounded by 5 a game.  W. Michigan has won 12 in a row ATS at home following 2 straight wins and are 8-1 ATS in non-conference games after 2 wins.  In their past, Detroit has gone 0-6-1 ATS as road dogs in non-conference games after a home game.  Detroit is also playing in a spot where teams have gone just 8-20-2 ATS as road dogs of 3->6.5 points in non-conference games after 2 losses since 2000. Win:  W. Michigan pulls away in the second to a 16 point win.

Alabama (-15.5) over E. Tennessee St.:  Alabama should come out strong at home after losing a tough game to Washington in their last outing.  Alabama has gone 11-3 ATS as home favorites after losing ATS on the road since 2000.  Alabama is 4-1 ATS this season, 2-0 at home while they are shooting a hot 51.5% and out rebounding opponents by 5 a game.  Teams playing as home favorites of 14->16.5 after losing + going under on the road are 7-1 ATS since last season.  E. Tennessee St. has struggled badly from the field this season so far shooting just 37.6%.  We like the Crimson Tide big tonight.  Win:  Alabama rolls to the blowout win of 37 points.

Utah St. (-6.5) over B.Y.U.:  Utah State is a selection from a strong consensus formula that has won 84% of the time this season.  Utah State has won 3 of the last 4 meetings between these two teams both SU and ATS.  Utah St. is 2-1 ATS this season (shooting 47.7% from the field), while BYU is just 1-3 ATS this season (shooting a lowly 33% from the field).  BYU has gone just 1-8 ATS on the road in non-conference games after a loss ATS since 2000.  BYU is also just 2-12 ATS in their last 14 games played on the road after losing ATS.  Win:  The Aggies pull away in the second half to a 14 point win!

California Santa Barbara (+11) over Pepperdine:  UCSB is a selection form a strong formula that has won 82% of the time this season.  UCSB has gone 9-1 ATS in their last 10 games they have played as road dogs and are 5-0-1 ATS as road dogs after losing SU + ATS.  UCSB has won 4 of the last 5 meetings ATS between these two teams.  UCSB is 2-1 ATS on the road this season, including a game where they hung tough with Wisconsin.  Pepperdine has gone just 1-7-1 ATS in their history playing at home in a non-conference game following a win ATS.  Win:  UCSB closes the gap in the second half and losses by just 6.

Tuesday, November 30, 2004:

Tulsa (+19.5) over Arkansas:  Tulsa is playing on the road in this new found rivalry that has produced good games the past 3 seasons.  All 3 of their previous meetings were decided by 7 points or less.  Tulsa is a consensus formula pick from one of our systems that has won over 84% of the time so far this season.  Tulsa is good in non-conference games on the road as they have gone 14-3 ATS in their last 17.  Arkansas has gone just 1-6-1 ATS in non-conference games after 2 straight wins.  Tulsa's work on the boards should keep them close enough to cover tonight.  Win:  Tulsa cuts into the lead in the end to lose by just 12 points.

Monday, November 29, 2004:

Nevada (+20) over Kansas:  Nevada embarrassed the Jayhawks last season and should be able to keep it competitive tonight against Kansas.  Nevada has started the season 3-0, including a win at Georgia.  Teams playing as home favorites of 20->20.5 in non conference games have gone just 4-13 ATS since last season.  Nevada has won 9 of their last 10 games ATS after winning their previous game.  The front line that helped beat Kansas last season is intact for Nevada.  Kansas should be able to control this game, we do not think a blowout is likely.  Loss:  Nevada losses to Kansas by 30.

Saturday, November 27, 2004:

   Niagra (-11.5) over St. John:  Niagra is off to a 2-1 start this season while St. John's is headed to termoil.  St. John's program was found guilt off violations and severe penalties were hand down on them.  Many experts are picking St. John's to finish last in the Big East this season.  Niagra has gone 15-5 ATS as favorites after a home game and 13-3 ATS (winning 8 straight) as playing 2 previous home games.  One of our consensus formulas that has gone 8-0 ATS this season, predicted this game on the side of Niagra.  We'll take Niagra at home to cover against a team dealing with a huge distraction.  Win:  Niagara roll to 101 points in a 20+ point victory.

Wednesday, November 24, 2004:

Providence (+9) over Wake Forest:  Wake Forest is the number 1 team in the country and will have a target on them by good teams such as Providence.  The Friars are led by Gomes who is the type of talent that could lead his team to an upset in New York.  Providence has gone 7-1 ATS on the road following a win since last season.  Since 2000, Wake Forest has gone just 3-13 ATS after losing 2 straight games ATS.  Teams playing in Wakes position of 7->9.5 point favorites in a non-conference game after 2 losses ATS at home have gone 0-7 ATS since last season.  Providence is a 2-0 consensus pick from formulas that have predicted correctly 68% this season.  Loss:  Another close loss in CBB as the Friars were within 4 late in the second half.

Tuesday, November 23, 2004:

Texas Tech (-2) over TCU:  The Red Raiders have a fresh look after losing their top player from last season.  This should not hurt as much as the books account for.  In their first game this season, Texas Tech had 8 players in double figures.  Techs starters should be able to control the game and match the bench play of TCU.  Texas Tech has gone 10-2-2 ATS in their last 14 on the road in non-conference games after a win.  TCU usually struggles with non-conference opponents as they went 0-6 ATS at home in non-conference games last season.  TCU has dropped 3 straight meetings between these two losing by totals of 7, 18, and 13.  Loss: Tech trailed by 1 at half, but falters badly in the second half.

Friday, November 19, 2004:

Ohio State (-12) over Delaware:  The Buckeyes have started out the gate fast this season and will be playing their 3rd game in a row at home.  In the first two games this season, the Buckeyes won by totals of 21 and 32 points.  The 21 point win was over Towson, who is in the same conference as Delaware.  The big advantage in this game has to go to the backcourt of the Buckeyes as they have depth and experience with Stockman and Sillinger.  Delaware has one solid player returning in their backcourt, but lost 2 of those 3 starters from a year ago.  The turnover advantage should be well in favor of the Bucks and should help them cover this spread.  Win: The Buckeyes cruise to a big 25 point victory as this was never close.

Boise St. (-11) over Idaho:  The Vandals meet the Broncos in this rivalry game, but we like the prospects of this one being one sided towards Boise St.  Idaho has dropped 6 straight games to Boise St. SU and have gone a dismal 1-7 ATS vs. the Broncos.  Playing at Boise St, Idaho has dropped all 4 meetings ATS as road dogs.  Idaho has gone just 3-11 ATS as road dogs in non-conference games dating back to 2000.  Boise State is returning 3 solid starters and should be able to pull away from the Vandals with ease.  Our consensus of formulas, which have won over 60% in college basketball, picks the Broncos as a unanimous pick.  Loss:  Boise St. wins by just 10 points as we lose by 1 point.