This article is part of our College Basketball Picks series.
Top College Basketball Best Bets for Today
Saturday marks Day 3 of March Madness as we dive into the action. Below are my predictions for three matchups in the Round of 32 betting slate.
McNeese State vs. Purdue 
Purdue’s offense is formidable, ranking sixth in adjusted efficiency among all Division I teams. However, their defense struggles in the paint, allowing over 56% of two-point shots, landing them at 348th nationally. While their defensive rebounding isn’t their strength either, sitting at 170th, this presents an opportunity for McNeese State to capitalize.
McNeese State has a decent adjusted offensive efficiency rating of 63rd, thanks to an effective shooting percentage of 53% on two-point attempts and 35% on threes. Their focus on inside scoring contributes to almost 52% of their offensive output. Additionally, they excel on the boards with the 38th highest offensive rebounding rate and maintain a solid turnover percentage, ranked 118th. This stability is essential as Purdue’s turnovers are closely linked to defensive success, ranking 133rd.
In terms of defense, McNeese State has a respectable 59th-ranked defensive efficiency, with notable stats including a high turnover percentage allowed and limiting opponents to under 47% inside the arc. Purdue’s offensive efficiency is impressive but subsides in offensive rebounding and free-throw attempts, signaling that McNeese could potentially keep up with the scoring. In analyzing both teams’ styles, I lean toward taking the points with McNeese State.
College Basketball Best Bet: McNeese State +5.5
Michigan vs. Texas A&M
vs. Texas A&M 
Michigan barely escaped their last game against UC San Diego, primarily due to their significant size advantage. Saturday’s matchup presents a greater challenge against a Texas A&M team known for its strong defense, an area where Michigan may be less dominant without their size advantage.
Despite their offensive struggles, Michigan maintains a 46th rank in adjusted offensive efficiency, bolstered by their successful two-point shooting at 58%. However, key issues arise with their turnover rate, making them potentially vulnerable against Texas A&M’s 8th-ranked defensive efficiency. The Aggies excel at limiting opponents’ shooting, suggesting that Michigan will face a tough test here.
Ultimately, Michigan has shown resilience but their ongoing turnover issues could prove detrimental against Texas A&M’s strong defense. I expect the Aggies to prevail, so I’m backing them for this matchup.
College Basketball Best Bet: Texas A&M -2.5
UCLA vs. Tennessee
vs. TennesseeThis matchup hinges on how Tennessee’s offense will interact with UCLA’s renowned defense. UCLA is recognized for its elite defensive strategies but tends to struggle with rebounding and free throw rate. Meanwhile, Tennessee boasts a strong offensive performance across the board, ranking impressively in multiple efficiency metrics.
Tennessee’s defense, under coach Rick Barnes, is exceptional, known for forcing tough shots. Contrarily, UCLA’s offensive weaknesses are apparent, particularly at the free-throw line. Given Tennessee’s previous victories over teams with superior defensive metrics, I anticipate they could gain a lead in the latter stages of the game.
College Basketball Best Bet: Tennessee -4.5
Saturday College Basketball Best Bets:
Here’s a summary of my top college basketball bets for Saturday:
- McNeese State +5.5
- Texas A&M -2.5
- Tennessee -4.5
For the latest information on college basketball betting odds and props from various sportsbooks, visit the college basketball odds page on RotoWire.
