Howard vs. Wagner – Wagner the team who brings in the better defense to face Howard. Howard the favorite here and taking in 93% consensus money line. You can lay the -3 or take -160 money line or try to get that even money as Wagner is the NEC top scoring defense and my guess is this thing sees at least even money or better on live bet. Both teams barely over .500 but I’ll take Howard Bison here
670: CBB: Howard -160
Colorado State vs. Virginia – Early consensus is on Colorado State, but UVA has the coach who won. The big issue for UVA has been free throws and in a close game that could haunt them. It’s early and I would expect some public money to come in on Virginia. 79% on CSU money line and about a 60-40 split on CSU -3. CSU with the fifth year point guard is undersized. Virginia has the length to control the glass with UVA being 4th nationally in opponents offensive rebounds. Contrasting styles and the MWC has had some teams go on runs the last few years. I think Virginia for me however.
672: CBB : Virginia +3
Grambling vs. Montana State – This game is two 16 seeds fighting it out. Montana State making its 3rd consecutive trip to the tournament. The consensus 72% on MSU -4. The Grambling Tigers did have the better record during the season 20-14 vs. 17-17 for Montana State. I’m going against consensus here and taking Grambling +4. This game is really 50/50 so give me the points.
701: CBB: Grambling State +4
Colorado vs. Boise State – The Buffaloes come in off the loss in the finale of the Pac -12 as we know it. The Buffs have won 8 of the last 9 games they played, the loss to Oregon in the championship game being the one. Colorado shoots the ball from the free throw line well also. Boise is the runner up from the MWC and is fully capable of winning the game. These teams are playing for the right to play Florida in the first round. Consensus 68% on Colorado -2.5. I follow there as that was my gut instinct. Boise did win by 13 points in 2022 matchup just so you don’t go in blindly.
703: CBB: Colorado -2½
As always best of luck and enjoy your Tuesday and Wednesday
(n.d.). Howard vs. Wagner odds, score prediction, line, spread, time: 2024 First Four picks by proven model. CBS Sports. https://www.cbssports.com/college-basketball/news/howard-vs-wagner-odds-score-prediction-line-spread-time-2024-first-four-picks-by-proven-model/
(n.d.). 3 players, 2 matchups, and 1 prediction for UVA basketball vs Colorado State. Streaking the Lawn. https://www.streakingthelawn.com/2024/3/18/24105261/virginia-cavaliers-uva-basketball-virginia-basketball-colorado-state-preview-isaiah-stevens
(n.d.). Montana State gets First Four matchup versus Grambling State in NCAA tournament. Montanasports.com. https://www.montanasports.com/college/montana-state-bobcats/montana-state-gets-first-four-matchup-versus-grambling-state-for-ncaa-tourney
(n.d.). Game time set for Colorado basketball vs. Boise State in 2024 NCAA Tournament opener. Coloradoan. https://www.coloradoan.com/story/sports/2024/03/17/game-time-set-for-colorado-vs-boise-state-in-march-madness-opener/72999819007/