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Big Al's Daily Angle: NBA, NHL, and NCAAB Previews and Odds - 03/21/2025

by Big Al Staff

Friday, Mar 21, 2025

The Friday sports card features NBA, NHL, and NCAAB action. The National Basketball Association has 10 games on its docket. The Orlando Magic travel to Washington to face the Wizards at 7:10 p.m. ET as a 7-point road favorite with the total set at 216 (all odds from DraftKings). Four more NBA games tip off at 8:10 p.m. ET. The San Antonio Spurs host the Philadelphia 76ers as a 5.5-point favorite with an over/under of 241. The Houston Rockets play in Miami against the Heat as a 5.5-point road favorite with a total of 213.5. The Oklahoma City Thunder play at home against the Charlotte Hornets as a 19.5-point favorite with an over/under of 227. The Minnesota Timberwolves are home against the New Orleans Pelicans as a 14-point favorite with a total of 229.5. The Detroit Pistons are in Dallas to play the Mavericks as an 8.5-point road favorite with an over/under of 235.5. The Boston Celtics visit Utah to take on the Jazz at 9:40 p.m. ET as a 13-point road favorite with a total of 227. Three more games conclude the NBA card at 10:10 p.m. ET. The Cleveland Cavaliers play in Phoenix against the Suns as a 7-point road favorite with an over/under of 239.5. The Portland Trail Blazers host the Denver Nuggets as a 1.5-point favorite with a total of 225.5. The Los Angeles Clippers play at home against the Memphis Grizzlies as a 6.5-point favorite with an over/under of 230.5. The National Hockey League has one game on its slate. The Pittsburgh Penguins are home against the Columbus Blue Jackets at 7:07 p.m. ET as a -135 money-line favorite with a total of 6.5.The NCAAB college basketball schedule has 16 games between Division I opponents to complete the first round of the NCAA tournament. Mississippi State battles Baylor on CBS at 12:15 p.m. ET as a 1.5-point favorite with a total of 144.5. Alabama faces Robert Morris on truTV at 12:40 p.m. ET as a 21.5-point favorite with an over/under of 166.5. Iowa State challenges Lipscomb on TNT at 1:30 p.m. ET as a 14.5-point favorite with a total of 142.5. Colorado State goes against Memphis on TBS at 2:00 p.m. ET as a 1.5-point favorite with an over/under of 146.5. Duke takes on Mount St. Mary’s on CBS at 2:50 p.m. ET as a 31.5-point favorite with a total of 140.5. Saint Mary’s plays Vanderbilt on truTV at 3:15 p.m. ET as a 4.5-point favorite with an over/under of 135.5. North Carolina battles Mississippi on TNT at 4:05 p.m. ET as a 1.5-point favorite with a total of 155.5. Maryland faces Grand Canyon on TBS at 4:35 p.m. ET as a 10.5-point favorite with an over/under of 150.5. Florida challenges Norfolk State on TNT at 6:50 p.m. ET as a 28.5-point favorite with a total of 153.5. Kentucky faces Troy on CBS at 7:10 p.m. ET as an 11.5-point favorite with an over/under of 151.5. Marquette takes on New Mexico on TBS at 7:25 p.m. ET as a 3.5-point favorite with a total of 153.5. Arizona plays Akron on truTV at 7:35 p.m. ET as a 14.5-point favorite with an over/under of 167.5. UConn battles Oklahoma on TNT at 9:25 p.m. ET as a 5.5-point favorite with a total of 148.5. Illinois goes against Xavier on CBS as a 3.5-point favorite with an over/under of 161.5. Michigan State plays Bryant on TBS at 10:00 p.m. ET as a 17.5-point favorite with a total of 152.5. Oregon faces Liberty on truTV as a 6.5-point favorite with an over/under of 139.5.

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March Madness Checklist for Round 1

by Wayne Root

Thursday, Mar 20, 2025

Each year, this stage of March Madness brings a level of unpredictability that defies logic and keeps everyone hooked.It’s where dreams of underdog victories are born, where top seeds tremble against fearless mid-majors, and where jaw-dropping moments become etched in tournament history.First-round games set the tone for March Madness betting. In 2024, favorites went 21-11 SU and 18-13-1 ATS, with double-digit favorites excelling at 12-2 SU and ATS. This suggests oddsmakers are sharp early, but underdogs still cash—especially between +7 and +12 points. Since 2015, first-round underdogs are 136-115-2 ATS (54.2%), with 67 winning outright.Totals also reveal tendencies. Early games (1 p.m. ET or before) since 2011 hit the under 62% of the time, possibly due to nerves or conservative play. In 2024, top-four seeds crushed it, going 14-2 SU and 12-3-1 ATS, reinforcing their reliability. Bettors should weigh these patterns but cross-check with current team stats—past trends don’t guarantee future results.What makes this round so captivating is its raw uncertainty.Speaking of uncertainties, be sure to cross check the time zones the teams are playing in. For example, Liberty is playing Oregon at 10:10 pm est on the west coast. By the 2nd half, their body clocks will be set to midnight est. Others to consider 1. 8 vs 9 match up: Take the dogIn these matchups the UNDERDOG is 57-33 against the spread over the last 34 years.2. 11 seeds are 29-27 straight up since 2012 with 91% of those being the underdog.They have also been poised to make a DEEP run with 7 of the 17 teams (since 2012) making it to the second weekend.3. Be sure to include the #1 seedsThere has only been one year that a team from the first four HAS NOT advanced to the round of 32.Conferences can signal strength. The Big East has claimed 4 of the last 10 titles, while the SEC and ACC also boast recent success. In 2025, Auburn (SEC) and Duke (ACC) lead futures odds at +350, reflecting conference prowess. The Mountain West, however, struggles—8-16 ATS since 2016 and 2-26 SU as double-digit seeds. Bettors might fade teams like San Diego State if they land tough draws.Regionally, neutral-site performance hints at tournament readiness. Teams with strong non-conference records at neutral venues—like Gonzaga or Tennessee—often translate that to March success. Conference realignment (e.g., UCLA to the Big Ten) muddies historical data, so focus on current season trends over decades-old patterns. Is there a specific round where dogs do well? The only time it's really paid off for bettors is in the Elite Eight, which is too small a sample size to read much into. In the first two rounds and Final Four, it's been a downright disaster. Finally, is betting underdogs profitable?It's not a simple yes or no answer on whether you should bet on an underdog or not. Underdogs will likely win less than 50 percent of the time, but that doesn't mean they won't be profitable. Recreational bettors often gravitate toward favorites, which can sometimes create value on the underdogs by inflating the lines. That’s where the sharp money and us seasoned professionals lay in wait.Professional bettors study the markets, check the odds, and crunch the numbers. Sportsbooks use incredibly complex software to check the stats, predict the most likely outcome, and set the odds accordingly. We, at VEGASWINNERS follow suit..

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Five Potential MLB Breakout Teams in 2025

by Sean Murphy

Thursday, Mar 20, 2025

As the 2025 MLB season kicks off, a number of teams are primed for potential breakout performances. These five clubs have made key roster moves and are positioned for success, with eyes set on making a playoff run. Here's a quick preview. Boston Red Sox (-130 to make playoffs) The Red Sox, after several years of rebuilding, have positioned themselves for a potential breakthrough in 2025. With several offseason additions to both their lineup and pitching staff, they now boast a more complete roster. Their young core continues to develop, while the return of a key veteran to full health could be a game-changer. Additionally, the bullpen has received much-needed reinforcements. Competing in the tough AL East will be a challenge, but if they can maintain offensive consistency and improve their pitching depth, they have a legitimate chance to secure a Wild Card spot.2. Arizona Diamondbacks (-125 to make playoffs) After a surprise World Series appearance in 2023, the Diamondbacks are aiming for another strong season in 2025. They bolstered their pitching rotation with a major offseason acquisition and still have a potent offense that combines power and speed. With the potential for further growth from some of their younger players, the D-backs could have one of the deepest lineups in the league. While the strength of the NL West makes playoff contention a challenge, Arizona is well-positioned to make a push if they stay healthy and maintain strong performances throughout the season.3. Chicago Cubs (-150 to make playoffs) Despite getting off to an 0-2 start in Tokyo, the Cubs have quietly assembled a solid roster, blending veteran leadership with emerging talent. Their lineup is more dynamic than in previous years, and pitching improvements could solidify their place in the postseason hunt. Young pitchers developing quickly will be key to their success. The Cubs are viewed as strong Wild Card contenders at -150 odds, and they could challenge for the NL Central crown if the division's top teams falter.4. San Francisco Giants (+205 to make playoffs) The Giants are entering 2025 with high expectations following a series of offseason moves aimed at strengthening both their rotation and lineup. Their pitching staff, with a mix of experienced starters and young arms, looks promising. Additionally, important offensive contributors returning to health adds to their chances of success. Competing in the competitive NL West, the Giants are considered a bit of a longshot playoff contender with +205 odds. If their pitching holds up and they find consistency offensively, they could make a legitimate postseason push.5. Tampa Bay Rays (+180 to make playoffs) The Rays, always a team to exceed expectations, are looking to do so again in 2025. A fully healthy roster should give them a solid chance to compete in the AL East, especially with a strong pitching rotation. The lineup, bolstered by young talent, has the potential to be both explosive and versatile. The Rays are known for their ability to develop players and maximize their talent, and if they stay healthy throughout the season, they could secure a Wild Card spot or even challenge for a division title. Their +180 odds reflect their status as a team potentially 'on the outside looking in' come playoff time, but their depth and system make them a team to watch. Final ThoughtsThese five teams—each with their own strengths and challenges—are poised for breakout seasons in 2025. While their playoff paths won't be easy, each has the tools to make a serious push if things come together. Keep an eye on these clubs as the season progresses, as they could surprise many with strong performances.

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Big Al's Daily Angle: NBA, NHL and NCAAB Previews and Odds - 03/20/2025

by Big Al Staff

Thursday, Mar 20, 2025

The Thursday sports card features NBA, NHL, and NCAAB action. The National Basketball Association has five games on its docket. Two NBA games tip off at 7:10 p.m. ET. The Indiana Pacers host the Brooklyn Nets as a 9-point favorite with the total set at 226.5 (all odds from DraftKings). The New York Knicks travel to Charlotte to face the Hornets as a 7.5-point road favorite with an over/under of 222. Two more NBA games start at 10:10 p.m. ET. The Golden State Warriors plays at home against the Toronto Raptors as a 14-point favorite with a total of 226. The Sacramento Kings are home against the Chicago Bulls as a 7-point favorite with an over/under of 235. The Milwaukee Bucks play in Los Angeles against the Bucks at 10:40 p.m. ET as a 3-point road favorite with a total of 226. The National Hockey League has two games on its slate. Five NHL games drop the puck at 7:07 p.m. ET. The New Jersey Devils host the Calgary Flames as a -180 money-line favorite with an over/under of 5.5. The Florida Panthers are in Columbus to face the Blue Jackets as a -185 money-line road favorite with a total of 5.5. The New York Rangers play at home against the Toronto Maple Leafs as a -122 money-line favorite with an over/under of 5.5. The Washington Capitals are home against the Philadelphia Flyers as a -250 money-line favorite with a total of 5.5. The Colorado Avalanche play in Ottawa against the Senators with both teams priced at -110 with an over/under of 6.5. Two NHL games begin at 7:37 p.m. ET. The St. Louis Blues host the Vancouver Canucks as a -135 money-line favorite with a total of 5.5. The New York Islanders play at home against the Montreal Canadiens as a -135 money-line with an over/under of 5.5. Two more NHL games start at 8:07 p.m. ET. The Dallas Stars are home against the Tampa Bay Lightning as a -130 money-line favorite with a total of 5.5. The Nashville Predators host the Anaheim Ducks as a -175 money-line favorite with an over/under of 5.5. The Los Angeles Kings are in Chicago to face the Blackhawks at 8:37 p.m. ET as a -265 money-line road favorite with a total of 5.5. Two NHL games begin at 9:07 p.m. ET. The Utah Hockey Club plays at home against the Buffalo Sabres as a -180 money-line favorite with an over/under of 5.5. The Vegas Golden Knights are home against the Boston Bruins at 10:07 p.m. ET as a -265 money-line favorite with a total of 5.5. The Carolina Hurricanes travel to San Jose to face the Sharks at 10:37 p.m. ET as a -340 money-line road favorite with an over/under of 5.5.The NCAAB college basketball schedule has 16 games between Division I opponents in the tip-off of the first round of the NCAA tournament. Louisville battles Creighton on CBS at 12:15 p.m. ET as a 2.5-point favorite with a total of 145.5. Purdue plays High Point on truTV at 12:40 p.m. ET as a 7.5-point favorite with an over/under of 153.5. Wisconsin goes against Montana on TNT at 1:30 p.m. ET as a 16.5-point favorite with a total of 152.5. Houston takes on SIU-Edwardsville on TBS at 2:00 p.m. ET as a -28.5-point favorite with an over/under of 126.5.Auburn challenges Alabama State on CBS at 2:50 p.m. ET as a 32.5-point favorite with a total of 149.5. Clemson faces McNeese on truTV at 3:15 p.m. ET as a 7.5-point favorite with an over/under of 133.5. BYU battles VCU on TNT at 4:05 p.m. ET as a 2.5-point favorite with a total of 146.5. Gonzaga plays Georgia on TBS at 4:35 p.m. ET as a 6.5-point favorite with an over/under of 150.5. Tennessee faces Wofford on TNT at 6:50 p.m. ET as an 18.5-point favorite with a total of 133.5. Kansas challenges Arkansas on CBS at 7:10 p.m. ET as a 5.5-point favorite with an over/under of 145.5. Texas A&M goes against Yale on TBS at 7:25 p.m. ET as a 7.5-point favorite with a total of 139.5. Missouri takes on Drake on truTV at 7:35 p.m. ET as a 6.5-point favorite with an over/under of 132.5. UCLA plays Utah State on TNT at 9:25 p.m. ET as a 5.5-point favorite with a total of 144.5. St. John’s battles Nebraska-Omaha on CBS at 9:45 p.m. ET as an 18.5-point favorite with an over/under of 148.5. Michigan faces UC-San Diego on TBS at 10:00 p.m. ET as a 2.5-point favorite with a total of 142.5. Texas Tech goes against UNC-Wilmington on truTV at 10:10 p.m. ET as a 14.5-point favorite with an over/under of 142.5.

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The Valspar Championship Preview and Picks

by Matt Fargo

Wednesday, Mar 19, 2025

THE PLAYERS Championship is in the books with Rory McIlroy winning in an anticlimactic three-hole aggregate playoff on Monday over J.J. Spaun. He became the eighth player to win twice at TPC Sawgrass and it has been a great start to the season for McIlroy who also won at Pebble Beach giving him some momentum in quest of a Major championship that has eluded him since the 2014 PGA Championship. The PGA Tour remains in Florida and heads to Palm Harbor for the Valspar Championship at Innisbrook Resort’s Copperhead Course. This will be the 24th year of the Valspar that debuted in 2000 at Copperhead which is a par 71 that stretches 7,352 yards and like last week, it demands elite ball striking. This is another positional course with narrow, tree-lined fairways which tends to yield below average driving accuracy and driving distance rankings. It once again makes Strokes Gained: Approach the top key stat this week along with SG: Around The Green and SG: Putting (Bermuda) right in the mix so it is nearly a duplicate of TPC Sawgrass in regard to what it takes to succeed. With five par threes that average 221 yards, Par 3s Gained: 200-225 Yards is also a key metric as to not lose ground on those holes. The three closing holes at Copperhead are among the toughest three-hole stretches on tour and the Snake Pit moniker is apropos as going even par on 16, 17 and 18 is rare. Peter Malnati is the defending champion and an unlikely one as he went off at 300/1, the biggest underdog since 2014. Only four players have won here two times, most recently Sam Burns in 2021 and 2022 and he joined Paul Casey as the only players to defend after Casey did it in 2018 and 2019. Despite coming off THE PLAYERS and The Arnold Palmer Invitational the week before, the field is fairly strong which is usually the case here and 13 of the 25 players in the OWGR are teeing it up this week. The favorites under 30/1 are Tommy Fleetwood (11/1), Xander Schauffele (12/1), Sepp Straka (16/1), Justin Thomas (20/1), Tom Kim (22/1) and Sam Burns (22/1). The weather messed around last week with windy conditions off and on and storms forcing a Monday finish and while the forecast looks dry this week, wind looks to play a major role on Thursday and Friday, namely Thursday afternoon and Friday morning where gusts will hit 30 mph. The Thursday AM/Friday PM draw looks to have a significant edge and those are the players we will target to avoid those gusty conditions. Top four key categories this week: Strokes Gained: ApproachStrokes Gained: Around The GreenStrokes Gained: Putting (Bermuda)Par 3s Gained: 200-225 Yards Each bet is Win/Top Five/Top Ten. The typical recommendation is 50%/25%/25% with odds, payouts and results based on a $1000 unit (easy round number for bookkeeping) on each of the following players. The payouts are listed right below the odds which are all from DraftKings: Sam BurnsOdds: Win 2,200 ~ Top Five 400 ~ Top Ten 210Payout: Win 11,000.00 ~ Top Five 1,000.00 ~ Top Ten 520.50 It has been an erratic start for Burns and he actually has been trending down, missing his first cut of the season last week but if there is a place to pick up his game, this is it. He has back-to-back wins here in 2021 and 2022 to go along with a T6 over his last four starts at the Valspar. His iron game has been abysmal this season, notably the last two starts, so we are going against the top key statistic but the course fit trumps that this week. He has been great off the tee and on the greens so get that SG: Approach back to where it was at the end of last year and he could be hoisting his third trophy here. Michael KimOdds: Win 3,000 ~ Top Five 500 ~ Top Ten 250Payout: Win 15,000.00 ~ Top Five 1,250.00 ~ Top Ten 620.50 Kim was a popular play last week in the betting and DFS markets but he missed the cut albeit by just one stroke so it was not a disaster. He was on fire prior to that as he finished T13 or better in his previous five starts including a T2, a solo fourth and a T6 and it was due to his SG: Approach and SG: Around The Green numbers. He was fine in those categories last week at TPC Sawgrass but he was -0.91 in SG: Off The Tee and that was an aberration as he was +SG in six of his first eight starts in that category. He came to the Valspar last year missing the cut in four of his previous five starts and finished a respectable T33. Stephan JaegerOdds: Win 4,400 ~ Top Five 800 ~ Top Ten 360Payout: Win 22,000.00 ~ Top Five 2,000.00 ~ Top Ten 900.00 Jaeger has missed two cuts this year which happened to be the only two starts where he as -SG: Approach. When his irons are on, he contends as when he has gained one or more strokes on approach, he has finishes of T6, T3 and T20, the latter coming last week at THE PLAYERS where he was in the top ten after the first and third rounds but a Sunday 75 did him in. He was not able to get off the tee as his irons were spot on and he can prosper at this point. He missed the cut in his first start here but finished T27 in 2023 where he was +SG in everything but putting. That was his issue in 2023 and early 2024 but he has completely turned that around. Jacob BridgemanOdds: Win 5,000 ~ Top Five 850 ~ Top Ten 400Payout: Win 25,000.00 ~ Top Five 2,125.00 ~ Top Ten 1,000.00 Hardly a household name, Bridgeman is putting together a solid season after a slow start. He missed the cut in three of his first four starts with a T21 at The American Express being the outlier where his putter was on fire. His iron play was dreadful in all four of those starts but he has flipped that as he has been +SG: Approach in his last four starts and it has turned into making the weekend in all four including a T2 at the Cognizant Classic and a T15 at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. His putting remains above average and he is No. 14 in Strokes Gained: Total and while he missed the cut here last year, he was not in the same form. Christiaan BezuidenhoutOdds: Win 6,000 ~ Top Five 900 ~ Top Ten 400Payout: Win 30,000.00 ~ Top Five 2,250.00 ~ Top Ten 1,000.00 Bezuidenhout missed the cut at THE PLAYERS as he had his worst putting performance since the 2023 PGA Championship and last week was a total anomaly as he had been +Strokes Gained: Putting in his previous 13 starts. He is a master short game player as he is No. 11 in Strokes Gained: Around the Green to go along with a No. 9 in putting and No. 6 in scrambling. The concern is his iron game as he has been -SG: Approach in six of his eight starts but this should come around at some time as he is normally above average. His T9 here last year with a positive approach game can bring that confidence back. Results through THE PLAYERS Championship (7 Tournaments): Win: -15,500Top Five: -4,375Top Ten: -225

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North Carolina is Worth Looking Into For Futures Bets

by Vegas Writer

Wednesday, Mar 19, 2025

The North Carolina Tar Heels are laughing all the way to the first round of this year’s NCAA Tournament.While 99.9% of America - or what seemed like that many - said the Tar Heels didn't belong in the dance, they smacked San Diego State back to Southern California and looked like a team on a mission with a huge win in the First Four on Tuesday.Brand recognition or not, regardless if the Selection Committee put the Heels in because of Bubba Cunningham or because tickets would sell, this is still an ACC team that went through a gauntlet of conference opponents to get to this point.Next up: Ole Miss.But what I think you should focus on is DraftKings' prices for the Tar Heels to advance. They're (only) +380 to get to the Sweet 16 They're +900 to get to the Elite 8 They're +3000 to win the South Region They're +6500 to get to the Final They're +17000 to win the Championship Why even consider this? Because of the 99.9% of America that ridiculed the Selection Committee since about 6:30 pm Eastern time on Sunday.Again, on a mission, the Heels are motivated by the hate and we saw it last night in their 95-68 rout of San Diego State on Tuesday night.RJ Davis scored 26 points and was 6 of 6 from 3-point range to help the Tar Heels silence skeptics while destroying the Aztecs in their own arena."I don’t think it was a weight on us to try to get into the NCAA Tournament," North Carolina coach Hubert Davis said in his postgame press conference. "My communication with them is to focus on us. It’s not the noise on the outside in terms of comments and critics. Focusing on our preparation, our practice and our play."Okay Hubie, we'll let you tell it however you want. But the fact is, the Heels looked like a team with something to prove. Your players were indeed fueled by the noise.Thus, I find it interesting the number to win two more to get to the sweetened weekend is just +380. Seems as if there is suddenly legitimacy. In the way is Ole Miss , and then either Iowa State or Lipscomb.Now, per KenPom, the Heels are the third-best team, ranked 30th with their net rating. But Ole Miss is just four spots higher at 26th. Iowa State is 10th and Lipscomb is 82nd.If you're holding a near 4-to-1 ticket, though, you have a big enough cushion to hedge. Same goes if you bet them to win the Region, or further.More questions about this team will be answered on Friday, but for now, it's well worth thinking about an investment in North Carolina's future, as it's a team playing with a mighty big chip on its shoulders.

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Big Al's Daily Angle: NBA, NHL, NCAAB, and MLB Previews and Odds - 03/19/2025

by Big Al Staff

Wednesday, Mar 19, 2025

The Wednesday sports card features NBA, NHL, NCAAB, and MLB action. The National Basketball Association has five games on its docket. Two NBA games tip off at 7:10 p.m. ET. The Houston Rockets travel to Orlando to face the Magic as a 3-point road favorite with the total set at 210 (all odds from DraftKings). The Indiana Pacers host the Dallas Mavericks as a 9-point favorite with an over/under of 234.5. The Detroit Pistons play in Miami against the Heat on ESPN at 7:40 p.m. ET as a 5.5-point road favorite with a total of 217.5. Three NBA games start at 8:10 p.m. ET. The Minnesota Timberwolves play at home against the New Orleans Pelicans as a 12.5-point favorite with an over/under of 224.5. The New York Knicks are in San Antonio to play the Spurs as an 8.5-point road favorite with a total of 230. The Oklahoma City Thunder are home against the Philadelphia 76ers as a 10-point favorite with an over/under of 230.5. The Utah Jazz host the Washington Wizards at 9:40 p.m. ET as a 4.5-point favorite with a total of 230.5. Four NBA games complete the NBA card at 10:10 p.m. ET. The Memphis Grizzlies visit Portland to challenge the Trail Blazers as a 4.5-point road favorite with an over/under of 235.5. The Cleveland Cavaliers play in Sacramento against the Kings as a 5-point road favorite with a total of 234.5. The Phoenix Suns play at home against the Chicago Bulls as a 6.5-point favorite with an over/under of 235.5. The Los Angeles Lakers are home against the Denver Nuggets on ESPN as a 1-point favorite with a total of 232.5. The National Hockey League has two games on its slate. The Colorado Avalanche are in Toronto to go against the Maple Leafs at 7:07 p.m. ET as a -118 money-line road favorite with an over/under of 6.5. The Minnesota Wild hosts the Seattle Kraken at 9:37 p.m. ET as a -180 money-line favorite with a total of 5.5.The NCAAB college basketball schedule has 11 games between Division I opponents in postseason tournament action. Five NCAAB games are on major national television. The NCAA Tournament continues at 6:40 p.m. ET with the first four game between American University and Mount St. Mary’s at the University of Dayton Arena in Dayton, Ohio, on truTV at 6:40 p.m. ET. The Eagles are a 1-point favorite with an over/under of 151.5.  Florida Atlantic plays at home against Dayton in the first round of the NIT on ESPN2 at 7:00 p.m. ET as a 1-point favorite with a total of 151.5. SMU is home against Northern Iowa in the first round of the NIT on ESPN2 at 9:00 p.m. ET as a 10.5-point favorite with an over/under of 146.5. The NCAA Tournament concludes the first four in a game between Xavier and Texas at the University of Dayton Arena in Dayton, Ohio, on truTV at 9:10 p.m. ET. The Musketeers are a 2.5-point favorite with a total of 151.5. Loyola-Chicago travels to San Jose State in the first round of the NIT on ESPN2 at 11:00 p.m. ET as a 2.5-point road favorite with an over/under of 141.5.  Major League Baseball finishes the MLB World Tour in Tokyo, Japan, with the Los Angeles Dodgers battling the Chicago Cubs on FS1 at 6:10 a.m. ET as a -155 money-line favorite with a total of 8. 

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Top 5 Teams In The NFL Draft

by Will Rogers

Wednesday, Mar 19, 2025

Just about a month to go until the NFL Draft, Here’s a look at teams holding the top five picks,(No. 1 ) TENNESSEE TITANS – Tennessee was linked to Aaron Rodgers for a while and there was some spec that they would recycle Russell Wilson, but it appears now that they aren’t going the free agent route and will focus on Miami quarterback Cam Ward. Having a cost-controlled face of the franchise for the next half-decade or more is just too enticing for a team that needs to win back its fan base after a 3-14 season with just one win at home in 2024. Ward is the overwhelming -650 favorite to be the first pick and appears to be the perfect match for the Titans. Ward is also on record as saying Tennessee is where he wants to play. The Titans did use free agency to protect the new QB’s back side, overpaying for offensive tackle Dan Moore. Moore had a so-so 2024 season for the Steelers, but Tennessee is betting big that he’ll get it together this coming season.(No. 2) CLEVELAND BROWNS – Like Russia, the Browns’ overall strategy is often a riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma. What we do know is that the Browns need a quarterback. Deshaun Watson will spend most if not all of the 2025 season recovering from his SECOND Achilles surgery. That opens the door for someone like Wilson, who could use his time there to rehab his career and try to cash in one last time. Mock drafts have been all over the map on the Browns. If they go into Best Player Available mode, they could punt on the QB, draft Penn State edge rusher Abdul Carter, pair him with newly-signed Myles Garrett, and let newcomer Kenny Pickett take a beating while the front office takes another year to figure things out. Colorado’s Shadeur Sanders is an option, but what do they do with him if/when Watson returns?(No. 3) NEW YORK GIANTS – There’s talk that the Giants will take both forks in the road – signing either Wilson or Rodgers as a stopgap, then drafting Sanders. Having a vet at the controls and hoping they don’t start the season 1-5 might keep the fans quiet and allow Sanders time to understand the pro game that he and his father are convinced they know already. Sanders is +4000 to be the first QB taken, but he’ll almost certainly be the second off the board. Holding him back is his perceived lack of arm strength and his moderate scrambling ability. He’s scary accurate, however, and not likely to be a turnover machine.(No. 4) NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS – The Patriots love that QB Drake Maye can move out of the pocket. They just are a tad concerned when he has to do that on every play. That’s why, barring a huge trade, New England will most likely take a big step toward solidifying its porous offensive line by taking a left tackle. If that LT is LSU’s Will Campbell, expect a lot of talk about the fact that his arms are on the short side. If new coach Mike Vrabel listens to the analytics department and doesn’t want to take a chance on Campbell, the Pats could look in another direction and take a much-needed receiver. New England had the weakest WR grouping the league last season and is desperate for deep threats such as Matthew Golden from Texas. Would they look at Colorado's two-way threat Travis Hunter after spending a fortune in the off-season rebuilding their defense?(No. 5) JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS – The Jags won only four games last season, and are headed for another drab year unless they can fix a defense that is in dire straits after allowing 389 yards and 25.6 points per game. They would do handstands if Carter somehow fell into their laps at this spot, but that is unlikely. So the focus now is on Michigan DT Mason Graham. With the Wolverines, Graham showed that he can be both an effective run-stopper and someone who can pressure the quarterback. Jacksonville did spend some free agent cash on upgrading the O-Line, so this pick makes perfect sense.

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NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 Futures Value Plays

by Kyle Hunter

Tuesday, Mar 18, 2025

It’s a great time of the year to be a sports fan and a sports bettor. March Madness brings all the drama, and we have just about reached the start of that great four days of sports on Thursday-Sunday of the first weekend. I wanted to take a look at a few Sweet 16 Futures that I believe have some value before we tip off the tournament. The price listed is the best price I found by searching 8 different major sportsbooks. When you are betting futures, always make sure you shop around for the best price! Kentucky To Reach Sweet 16 (+120) The Kentucky Wildcats are expected to get Lamont Butler back for the NCAA Tournament. Butler’s importance cannot be overstated because he is a great ball handler and creator. Kentucky’s spot in the bracket isn’t a bad one at all either. Illinois is a wildly inconsistent team that can’t be trusted as the sixth seed. Troy doesn’t have the scoring upside of some other 13 or 14 seeds. I think this is a buy low spot for the Kentucky Wildcats. Marquette to Reach Sweet 16 (+320) The Marquette Golden Eagles rank a solid 15th at Shot Quality in adjusted Shot Quality rating. Marquette has been a bit unlucky throughout the season. This team underachieved their preseason expectations, but they still have the upside potential in them. Shaka Smart has been a good coach in the NCAA Tournament. New Mexico is their Round of 64 matchup, and the Mountain West is 13-33 ATS in the Round of 64. Michigan State would be their second round game. The Spartans are clearly a good team, but I think their lack of shot making could hold them back. North Carolina to Reach Sweet 16 (+700) Should North Carolina have made the NCAA Tournament. No. Still, I think there is value here. The Tar Heels take on San Diego State in the First Four. The Mountain West cannot be trusted. North Carolina would then take on an Ole Miss team that hasn’t consistently looked like a top team. Iowa State is the #3 seed here, and the Cyclones are shorthanded without Gilbert. The Tar Heels have heard everyone saying they shouldn’t have made it this week. North Carolina’s team talent ranking is very high. This wouldn’t be the first time we’ve seen a team go from Dayton to the Sweet 16.  Wisconsin to Reach Sweet 16 (+100) This is probably my least favorite of the group, but I think this is a buy low spot on Wisconsin as well. Montana in the first round is a great matchup for Wisconsin. The Big Sky Conference has consistently been overmatched in the NCAA Tournament. Wisconsin just went 7/39 from 3 point range against Michigan, but I’m confident their offense will look a lot better against Montana. Wisconsin then would play the winner of VCU/BYU. That isn’t an easy game, but Wisconsin would be favored in either matchup. 

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March Madness Betting Considerations

by Wayne Root

Tuesday, Mar 18, 2025

There are too many ways to start with your handicapping whether it’s for individual games, futures or pools. I like to at least use these 10 things to look for as a start. 1.  First half under bets in first round. These teams will be nervous and playing in huge arenas and site lines will be off. I will bet every first half under on Thursday and Friday games. Since 2011, 58% and a seven year stretch of 69% overall.  2. TV timeouts. Remember that a great experienced coach will know how to make quick sideline adjustments. Huge advantage in these games. I’ve seen as many players blow a game as I have with coaches.  3. Easier to slow a pace than speed them up.  Look for match ups. If a team with a high pace of play is playing a team that plays exceptionally slow, the fast pace team cannot speed up the slower team. Gives the dog an advantage. 4. Throw out home game stats and see what’s left. If a team is 24-8 overall but of those games they’re 1-6 on the road and 0-1 on a neutral court, forget their wins at home and move on. For this tournament, they’re 1-7. 5. When heavy favorites get a big lead, rest is needed more than a blowout. These teams that are 20 point plus favorites will look to close out most games with their starters on the bench resting. That’s is great for a back door cover. They need six wins in total; not a big blowout. Pace and rest. 6. 12 seed vs 5 seed  For some reason the 12 seed is the team to upset and become the March Cinderella. The opposite as a two seed. They have fared poorly in this tournament the last decade.  7. Bet teams that have senior guards.You’ll win many games with great guard play. Especially with those seniors that have the experience to keep their team at calm, focused and at bay. 8. Bet teams that can shoot the 3-pointer.In this day and age, teams must be able to hit 35.5% of the threes for the year. Any less and you’re not winning many games. And the mid-majors that shoot lights out from three are providing the upsets and Cinderella stories. 9. Bet teams that are in the top 20 in offense AND in defense. I don’t mean top 20 in either one but in both categories. Find them and they’ll be in the elite 8 and covering spreads along the way. 10. Bet teams where the higher seed is a favorite to the lower seed. There’s one to start out with but as the tournament progresses, more and more will come out front depending on the matches. Advantage to the better seed getting the role as the underdog. Good LuckWayne

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Big Al's Daily Angle: NBA, NHL, NCAAB and MLB Previews and Odds - 03/18/2025

by Big Al Staff

Tuesday, Mar 18, 2025

The Tuesday sports card features NBA, NHL, NCAAB, and MLB action. The National Basketball Association has four games on its docket. The Atlanta Hawks travel to Charlotte to face the Hornets at 7:10 p.m. ET as a 6.5-point road favorite with the total set at 237 (all odds from DraftKings). The Boston Celtics host the Brooklyn Nets at 7:40 p.m. ET as a 13.5-point favorite with an over/under of 216. The The Milwaukee Bucks play in Golden State against the Warriors as a 2.5-point road favorite with a total of 232. The Cleveland Cavaliers are in Los Angeles to play the Clippers at 10:40 p.m. ET as a 4-point road favorite with an over/under of 231.5. The National Hockey League has nine games on its slate. Four NHL games drop the puck at 7:07 p.m. ET. The Washington Capitals play at home against the Detroit Red Wings as a -192 money-line favorite with a total of 6.5. The New York Islanders visit Pittsburgh to play the Penguins with both teams priced at -110 with an over/under of 5.5. The Ottawa Senators play in Montreal against the Canadiens as a -142 money-line road favorite with a total of 5.5. The New York Rangers are home against the Calgary Flames as a -218 money-line favorite with an over/under of 5.5. Two NHL games start at 8:07 p.m. ET. The St. Louis Blues are in Nashville to challenge the Predators as a -115 money-line road favorite with a total of 5.5. The Dallas Stars host the Anaheim Ducks as a -355 money-line favorite with an over/under of 5.5. The Seattle Kraken travel to Chicago to battle the Blackhawks at 8:37 p.m. ET as a -155 money-line road favorite with a total of 5.5. The Edmonton Oilers play at home against Utah against the Hockey Club on ESPN at 9:07 p.m. ET as a -170 money-line favorite with an over/under of 6.5. The Winnipeg Jets play in Vancouver against the Canucks at 10:07 p.m. ET as a -162 money-line road favorite with a total of 5.5. The NCAAB college basketball schedule has nine games between Division I opponents in postseason tournament action. Five NCAAB games are on major national television. The NCAA Tournament tips off at 6:40 p.m. ET with the initial first four game between Alabama State facing Saint Francis (PA) at the University of Dayton Arena in Dayton, Ohio, on truTV at 6:40 p.m. ET. The Hornets are a 4.5-point favorite with an over/under of 139.5. Georgia Tech is home against Jacksonville State in the first round of the NIT on ESPN2 at 7:00 p.m. ET as a 5.5-point favorite with a total of 141.5. Oklahoma State hosts Wichita State in the first round of the NIT on ESPN2 at 9:00 p.m. ET as a 5.5-point favorite with an over/under of 155.5. The NCAA Tournament continues with the second first four game between North Carolina and San Diego State at the University of Dayton Arena in Dayton, Ohio, on truTV at 9:10 p.m. ET. The Tar Heels are a 4.5-point favorite with a total of 142.5. Stanford plays CS-Northridge in the first round of the NIT on ESPN2 at 11:00 p.m. ET as a 6.5-point favorite with an over/under of 154.5.Major League Baseball throws out the first pitch for its first regular season game in the MLB World Tour in Tokyo, Japan. The Los Angeles Dodgers battle the Chicago Cubs on Fox at 6:10 a.m. ET as a -155 money-line favorite with a total of 8. The second game starts on Wednesday at 6:10 a.m. ET on FS1 with the Dodgers priced as a -155 money-line favorite with an over/under of 8.5. 

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3 NCAA Tournament Trends/Angles To Watch

by Kyle Hunter

Tuesday, Mar 18, 2025

NCAA Tournament 3 Angles/Trends To WatchThe NCAA Tournament is finally here! As a huge sports fan, I can confidently say this is my favorite sporting event of the year. The first four days of March Madness are as exciting as you get in the world of sports. Today, I want to take a look at three angles/trends I think you should keep in mind when placing your bets during the NCAA Tournament this year. The Mountain West is 26-53 ATS (32.9%) in their last 79 NCAA Tournament games. Mountain West teams are 13-33 ATS in the Round of 64. San Diego State made that long run a couple years ago, but outside of that the Mountain West has absolutely been burning bettors money for many years. The Mountain West is clearly worse this year than it was a year ago. New Mexico takes on Marquette in Cleveland. Marquette certainly has the higher upside, but neither team has been consistent this season. San Diego State takes on North Carolina in the First Four game in Dayton. North Carolina has a massive talent advantage in that one as well. Will the Tar Heels have a chip on their shoulder? Be careful before you trust the MWC in general. NCAA Tournament with a spread of six points or more and a total of 137 or higher are 197-143 to the under (57.9% unders) since 2005. What is the thought process here? These are games that are less likely to go to overtime. They are also less likely to be a fouling fest in the last minute or two. These have done especially well in the early rounds of the tournament. There are going to be a bunch of matches to this angle this season. Importantly, I would definitely never bet an angle like this blindly. If it is a matchup of two teams who are going to push tempo all the way and get a bunch of trips to the line, that is one where I would sit out on following this angle. #11 and #12 Seeds facing an opponent with an ATS Win (Cover) Rate of 55% or higher on the year- these teams are 67-41 ATS (62% ATS). The #11 and #12 seeds have been profitable for bettors in general in the past decade, but when the opposition has been a great cover team through the year this angle has been even better. The middle of the brackets in terms of seeds have been valuable to underdog bettors. There are top teams in the #1 and #2 seeds, but in the #5 and #6 areas we’ve often found some inconsistent teams who aren’t worthy of laying the number of points they are laying.  Remember these angles are just one part of the handicap, but I think all three of these are good to keep in mind when getting set for the NCAA Tournament this year. 

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