Michigan State Spartans guard Jase Richardson (11) goes to the basket against the Iowa Hawkeyes during the first half at Carver-Hawkeye Arena.PHOTO USA TODAY SPORTS IMAGES But which ones are the best opportunity for bettors?
We’ve done the legwork and identified these three as our Best NCAA Bets for Sunday, March 9 (odds via DraftKings).
NCAAM: Michigan (+240) vs. Michigan State (-6.5)
The Spartans have already locked up the Big Ten regular-season title, which takes a little bit of the luster off this game. But it’s still a rivalry matchup, and no one wants to lose to a rival—especially on their home court. So, I’d expect Michigan State to bring its A game.
The loss to Michigan State a couple of weeks ago was when Michigan’s late-season struggles began. After two ugly wins vs. Nebraska and Rutgers, the Wolverines were crushed by Illinois at home and dropped their final home game of the year to Maryland, 71-65. Michigan was a 3.5-point favorite.
Michigan State has been on cruise control since its surprising loss to Indiana on Feb. 11, winning six in a row, including four consecutive victories over ranked teams. They haven’t crushed anyone; they’re just playing well enough to get the win.
The Spartans aren’t a flashy team that makes it rain every night or runs up the score. They just play well on both ends of the court and do what’s needed to win games. However, Michigan has hopped on the struggle bus at the worst time of the year.
The Wolverines could easily be on a four-game losing streak coming into this one—not just a two-game skid. The desire to beat a rival will help Michigan stay competitive, but Michigan State is the better team. They’ll cover.
Our Pick: Michigan State -6.5
