2009 NCAA Tournament Odds and March Madness Predictions

The latest March Madness betting odds has North Carolina still the favorites to win the 2009 NCAA Men's basketball tournament. As overwhelming of a preseason favorite as seen in years, the Tar Heels are currently 5-2 to win the Big Dance.

Connecticut is next at 7-2. Two Big 12 teams have essentially switched spots from the preseason rankings. Texas, considered in the preseason as the third most likely team to capture the Final Four championship is now 50-1, while Oklahoma has skyrocketed to 12-1.

As far as expert March Madness predictions are concerned, most handicapping experts seem to agree the race is wide open.

"The Sooners have the best player in the country Blake Griffin and the top freshman in Willie Warren," says Joe Bartelle of BetOnSports360.com, in predicting Oklahoma will emerge as champions.  

Few teams have plummeted as far as Georgetown, now at 100-1. Despite previous postseason early exits, Pittsburgh is the choice of Brian Gould of ScoresOddsPicks.com. "Sam Young, Levance Fields, and DeJuan Blair make the Panthers the team with the most true star go-to players," insists Gould.

Other strong contenders including Louisville at 10-1, Duke at 15-1, and once top-ranked Wake Forest at 15-1. Gonzaga at 40-1 and Butler at 60-1 is the mid-major most likely to wear the glass slipper.

Mike Godsey of GodsTips, anchor of OffshoreInsiders.com projects the four top sees to be North Carolina, Oklahoma, Pittsburgh, and Connecticut.

Godsey says the best dark horses are the teams that will be the final Big East and ACC entrants. Villanova at 50-1 or even Florida State at 150-1 could certainly bust some March Madness bracket picks.

Get the updated live odds rundown for March Madness 2009.

March Madness Odds: How Bettors Can Assure Themselves of a Winning NCAA Tournament

The 2008-09 football season produced the widest gap ever between the sharp player and square player in sports betting history. All key indicators are that the Information Age will likely produce the same disparity in 2009 March Madness betting. However, it's never been easier to choose to be on the elite side.

As previously discussed, the schism between those who win in sports betting and those who lose has never been wider. The quality of accurate information is widely available to the sportsbooks and gambler alike.

Most point spread players do not have the time or resources to exploit such Intel. The always improving and innovating OffshoreInsiders Network has streamlined and modernized everything a sharp gambler needs.

ScoresOddsPicks.com has the up-to-the minute scores and odds including game spread in college basketball and the betting line to win the 2009 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament.

Also the same databases that the pro bettors use in their pregame picks are available directly off the home page.

Lines-Maker.com will have the exclusive news and notes that the world's top handicappers use directly from their clipboards.

The best free picks for both the conference tournaments and the NCAA Tournament, not to mention the NIT, continue to thrive at OffshoreInsiders.com

The sports betting blog JoeDuffy.net has the betting advice articles from the world's premier experts, many on NCAA basketball Big Dance betting.

The newest entrant to the powerful nexus is BetOnSports360.com. This has the best "ezine" articles and many more will be added focusing on March Madness and Big Dance against the spread betting strategy. 

Stevie Vincent, GM of the OffshoreInsiders Network says, "Gamblers can opt to be winners or they can opt to keep the sportsbooks open for those of us who are. It's simply a matter of making the right choice."

Saturday Betting

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: The Tar Heels try to bounce back against the Yellow Jackets, the Rockets meet the Bulls, and the Devils host the Panthers.

Tipping off on the hardwood  . . .

Yao Ming and company will be looking to grab a road win in Chicago on Saturday when the Rockets face the Bulls. Houston is coming off an impressive home victory over the Cavaliers on Thursday night, holding LeBron James' crew below 80 points in a 93-74 win. Ming was good for 28 points and eight boards that day, and Houston is now 37-21 straight-up and 27-30-1 against-the-spread this year.

Orlando will be in Philadelphia to meet the Sixers on Saturday, while Miami hosts New York, and Oklahoma City visits Memphis. As well, it'll be Washington at Milwaukee, Sacramento at Utah, and Charlotte at the Clippers. The Bobcats took on Los Angeles at home on February 9, and came up with an easy 94-73 victory.

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The march toward Madness . . .

No. 4 North Carolina will be looking to avoid a two-game losing streak on Saturday when they play host to Georgia Tech. The Tar Heels were bounced 88-85 in overtime at Maryland last time out, with Tyler Hansbrough held to just 11 points (but pulling in 11 boards) in the loss. North Carolina is now at 24-3 SU and 11-15 ATS on the year. The Yellow Jackets are back at 10-16 SU and 7-15 ATS.

No. 1 Pittsburgh will be at the Prudential Center to play Seton Hall on Saturday, with No. 2 Connecticut hosting Notre Dame, No. 3 Oklahoma at Texas Tech, and No. 5 Memphis getting a visit from Southern Miss. As well, No. 7 Duke will be looking to grab a win at Virginia Tech, while No. 13 Clemson will be on the road in a battle of ranked teams against No. 23 Florida State. Also, No. 10 Villanova will be looking to secure their Top-10 ranking with a victory against Georgetown.

Taking a trip around the rink . . .

Martin Brodeur returned to the Devils' crease in a big way on Thursday night, making 24 saves in a 4-0 shutout of the Avalanche. New Jersey will be back in action on Saturday afternoon at home against the Panthers, who are hoping to have Tomas Vokoun back between the pipes; he's been out with an ear infection.

There are two other matinees on the NHL's Saturday schedule, with Washington at Boston and Anaheim at Dallas. The Maple Leafs and Senators then renew hostilities in the Battle of Ontario to lead off the evening slate in Ottawa, and the Rangers and new coach John Tortorella play host to the Avs. As well, it'll be Buffalo at the Islanders, San Jose at Montreal, Carolina at Atlanta, Detroit at Nashville, and St. Louis at Phoenix, with Minnesota at Edmonton to finish the day.

Rounding out the Roundup . . .

The Nationwide Series offers up the Sam's Town 300 at Las Vegas Motor Speedway on Saturday afternoon, with Kyle Busch listed as the 7/5 favorite on the Vegas odds list. Busch won last week's Nationwide event, the Stater Brothers 300 at Auto Club Speedway. Carl Edwards trails Busch at 3/1 odds to get the win on Saturday, with Denny Hamlin listed third at 7/2 odds to come out in top spot.

As well, the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship will stage its quarterfinal and semifinal matchups on Saturday. Ernie Els will take on Stewart Cink on Saturday morning in the marquee pairing to decide the Ben Hogan bracket, while Rory McIlroy will take on Geoff Ogilvy in third-round action in the Bobby Jones bracket. In the Sam Snead bracket it'll be Ross Fisher vs. Justin Leonard in the quarterfinals, while Paul Casey will meet Sean O'Hair in the Gary Player bracket.

Rockets-Bulls Odds Preview

The Houston Rockets and the Chicago Bulls will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at United Center. Oddsmakers currently have the Rockets listed as 1½-point favorites versus the Bulls, while the game's total has not yet been posted. Yao Ming dropped 28 points and hauled down eight rebounds to lead the Rockets to a 93-74 victory over the Cavaliers on Thursday. The Rockets covered the 4-point spread, and the 167 points fell UNDER the posted total of 185.5. Von Wafer added 19 points for the Rockets, and Ron Artest tossed in 15 points in that win. The Bulls were upset 113-90 by the Wizards on Friday, as 5-point favorites on the road. That game's 203 points went UNDER the posted total of 207.5. John Salmons had 25 points and three rebounds in the loss. Current streak: Houston has won 6 straight games. Chicago has lost 2 straight games. Team records: Houston: 37-21 SU, 27-30-1 ATS Chicago: 26-33 SU, 28-30-1 ATS Houston most recently: When playing on Saturday are 5-5 Before playing Minnesota are 7-3 After playing Cleveland are 8-2 After a win are 6-4 Chicago most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing Charlotte are 4-6 After playing Washington are 3-7 After a loss are 5-5 A few trends to consider: Houston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games Houston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Chicago Houston is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Chicago Houston is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Chicago The total has gone OVER in 8 of Chicago's last 9 games when playing Houston The total has gone OVER in 5 of Chicago's last 6 games at home The total has gone OVER in 5 of Chicago's last 7 games when playing at home against Houston Chicago is 1-4-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Houston Next up: Houston at Minnesota, Sunday, March 1 Chicago at Charlotte, Tuesday, March 3

Magic-76ers Lines Preview

The Orlando Magic and the Philadelphia 76ers will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Wachovia Center. Oddsmakers currently have the Magic listed as 2½-point favorites versus the 76ers, while the game's total has not yet been posted. The Magic fell 93-85 to the Pistons last time out, as 9.5-point favorites on the road. That game's combined score fell UNDER the posted total of 187. Dwight Howard netted 21 points and 13 rebounds for a double-double in the loss. The 76ers controlled the tempo late in the game and managed to come away with a 108-103 victory over the Knicks. The 76ers won the game as a 2-point underdog, while the combined score fell UNDER the posted total of 213.5. Andre Miller led the 76ers with 25 points, and Thaddeus Young added 23 in the win. Current streak: Philadelphia has won 2 straight games. Team records: Orlando: 42-16 SU, 36-21-1 ATS Philadelphia: 29-28 SU, 27-28-2 ATS Orlando most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing Phoenix are 5-5 After playing Detroit are 5-5 After a loss are 9-1 Philadelphia most recently: When playing on Saturday are 4-6 Before playing New Orleans are 1-9 After playing New York are 4-6 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: Orlando is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Philadelphia Orlando is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia Orlando is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Philadelphia Orlando is 13-5 ATS in its last 18 games when playing on the road against Philadelphia The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Philadelphia's last 5 games at home Philadelphia is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home Philadelphia is 16-8 SU in its last 24 games Philadelphia is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games Next up: Orlando home to Phoenix, Tuesday, March 3 Philadelphia home to New Orleans, Monday, March 2

UCLA-California Lines Preview

The fans at Haas Pavilion will be treated to a game between the UCLA Bruins and the California Golden Bears when they take their seats on Saturday. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Josh Shipp netted 24 points with nine rebounds to lift UCLA to a 76-71 victory over Stanford on Thursday. UCLA failed to cover the 5-point spread, but the 147 points went as a PUSH against the posted total of 147. Alfred Aboya had 16 points and three rebounds. Patrick Christopher poured in a game-high 29 points to lead California to an 81-78 victory over USC on Thursday. California failed to cover the 4.5-point spread, while the 159 points sailed OVER the posted total of 137. Team records: UCLA: 21-7 SU, 12-13-2 ATS California: 21-7 SU, 15-10 ATS UCLA most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing Oregon State are 9-1 After playing Stanford are 8-2 After a win are 6-4 California most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing Arizona are 6-4 After playing USC are 5-5 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: The total has gone OVER in 5 of UCLA's last 5 games The total has gone OVER in 5 of UCLA's last 5 games on the road UCLA is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing California The total has gone OVER in 5 of UCLA's last 6 games when playing California California is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home The total has gone OVER in 6 of California's last 7 games at home California is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games The total has gone OVER in 5 of California's last 6 games when playing UCLA Next up: UCLA home to Oregon State, Thursday, March 5 California at Arizona, Thursday, March 5

Gonzaga-San Diego Lines Preview

The Gonzaga Bulldogs and the San Diego Toreros will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Jenny Craig Pavilion. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Gonzaga tore it up with 45 points in the second half en route to an 81-73 victory over Santa Clara on Thursday. Gonzaga failed to cover the 9.5-point spread, but the 154 points sailed OVER the posted total of 134.5. Josh Heytvelt collected 29 points, and Matt Bouldin added 23. Current streak: Gonzaga has won 5 straight games. San Diego has won 2 straight games. Team records: Gonzaga: 22-5 SU, 13-12 ATS San Diego: 15-14 SU, 12-13-1 ATS Gonzaga most recently: When playing on Saturday are 9-1 After playing Santa Clara are 5-5 After a win are 9-1 San Diego most recently: When playing on Saturday are 5-5 After playing Portland are 4-6 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: The total has gone OVER in 5 of Gonzaga's last 5 games Gonzaga is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games Gonzaga is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road The total has gone OVER in 5 of Gonzaga's last 5 games on the road The total has gone OVER in 6 of San Diego's last 7 games The total has gone OVER in 5 of San Diego's last 6 games at home San Diego is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Gonzaga San Diego is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games at home Next up: Gonzaga home to USC Upstate, Tuesday, March 3

Texas-Oklahoma State Odds Preview

The Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma State Cowboys will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at Gallagher-Iba Arena. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Texas came back from a five point deficit and defeated Texas Tech 87-81 on Wednesday. Texas failed to cover the 14.5-point spread, while the 168 points sailed OVER the posted total of 149. Damion James led Texas with 20 points and 12 rebounds for a double-double, and A.J. Abrams added 24 points. Oklahoma State got up by 12 points at halftime and went on to defeat Colorado 76-55 on Wednesday. Oklahoma State covered the 5-point spread, while the combined score fell UNDER the posted total of 142. James Anderson shot 9-for-15 from the field with a game-high 30 points. Current streak: Texas has won 2 straight games. Oklahoma State has won 4 straight games. Team records: Texas: 19-8 SU, 10-14 ATS Oklahoma State: 18-9 SU, 10-10-1 ATS Texas most recently: When playing on Saturday are 8-2 Before playing Baylor are 8-2 After playing Texas Tech are 7-3 After a win are 5-5 Oklahoma State most recently: When playing on Saturday are 5-5 Before playing Kansas State are 5-5 After playing Colorado are 5-5 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: Texas is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Oklahoma State The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Texas's last 6 games when playing Oklahoma State The total has gone OVER in 4 of Texas's last 5 games Texas is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games Oklahoma State is 14-2 SU in its last 16 games at home The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Oklahoma State's last 6 games when playing Texas Oklahoma State is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games Oklahoma State is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games Next up: Texas home to Baylor, Monday, March 2 Oklahoma State home to Kansas State, Tuesday, March 3

Ohio State-Purdue Lines Preview

The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Purdue Boilermakers will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Mackey Arena. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Jeremie Simmons dropped 14 points, as Ohio State defeated Penn State 73-59 on Tuesday night. Ohio State covered as 6-point home favorites as the game played over the 127-point total set by oddsmakers. Purdue was upset 87-78 by Michigan last time out, as 2.5-point favorites on the road. That game's combined score sailed OVER the posted total of 127. Robbie Hummel finished with 24 points and six rebounds in the loss. Team records: Ohio State: 18-8 SU, 13-9 ATS Purdue: 21-7 SU, 12-13 ATS Ohio State most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing Iowa are 5-5 After playing Penn State are 5-5 After a win are 6-4 Purdue most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing Northwestern are 4-6 After playing Michigan are 1-9 After a loss are 7-3 A few trends to consider: Ohio State is 10-1 SU in its last 11 games when playing Purdue Ohio State is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Purdue Ohio State is 11-2-1 ATS in its last 14 games when playing Purdue Ohio State is 6-2 ATS in its last 8 games Purdue is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home Purdue is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home Purdue is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Purdue's last 6 games Next up: Ohio State at Iowa, Tuesday, March 3 Purdue home to Northwestern, Wednesday, March 4

LSU-Kentucky Odds Preview

The LSU Tigers and the Kentucky Wildcats will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Rupp Arena. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Marcus Thornton dropped 32 points to lead LSU over Florida 81-75 on Tuesday night. Louisiana State covered as 4-point home favorites as the teams played over the 151-point total listed by oddsmakers. Patrick Patterson led Kentucky with 28 points and 12 rebounds in its 77-59 loss to South Carolina on Wednesday night. South Carolina covered as 1.5-point home favorites as the game played under the 149-point total posted by oddsmakers. Current streak: LSU has won 9 straight games. Team records: LSU: 24-4 SU, 11-9 ATS Kentucky: 19-9 SU, 12-10-1 ATS LSU most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing Vanderbilt are 4-6 After playing Florida are 4-6 After a win are 9-1 Kentucky most recently: When playing on Saturday are 8-2 Before playing Georgia are 6-4 After playing South Carolina are 6-4 After a loss are 6-4 A few trends to consider: LSU is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games LSU is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road LSU is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games on the road The total has gone OVER in 11 of LSU's last 15 games on the road Kentucky is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against LSU Kentucky is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games when playing LSU The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Kentucky's last 7 games at home Kentucky is 10-2 SU in its last 12 games at home Next up: LSU home to Vanderbilt, Wednesday, March 4 Kentucky home to Georgia, Wednesday, March 4

Oklahoma-Texas Tech Lines Preview

The fans at United Spirit Arena will be treated to a game between the Oklahoma Sooners and the Texas Tech Red Raiders when they take their seats on Saturday. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Willie Warren dropped 23 points for Oklahoma in its 87-78 loss to Kansas on Monday night. Kansas cashed as 3-point road underdogs as the teams played over the 146-point total listed by sportsbooks. Texas Tech was defeated 87-81 by Texas as a 14.5-point underdog on Wednesday. That game's 168 points sailed OVER the posted total of 149. Nick Okorie had 24 points from 8-for-11 shooting in that loss. Current streak: Oklahoma has lost 2 straight games. Texas Tech has lost 5 straight games. Team records: Oklahoma: 25-3 SU, 13-10 ATS Texas Tech: 12-16 SU, 7-14 ATS Oklahoma most recently: When playing on Saturday are 10-0 Before playing Missouri are 5-5 After playing Kansas are 7-3 After a loss are 5-5 Texas Tech most recently: When playing on Saturday are 4-6 Before playing Kansas are 5-5 After playing Texas are 5-5 After a loss are 2-8 A few trends to consider: Oklahoma is 22-3 SU in its last 25 games Oklahoma is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Texas Tech Oklahoma is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road Oklahoma is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road The total has gone OVER in 5 of Texas Tech's last 5 games The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Texas Tech's last 6 games when playing at home against Oklahoma The total has gone UNDER in 11 of Texas Tech's last 15 games when playing Oklahoma Texas Tech is 12-5 SU in its last 17 games at home Next up: Oklahoma at Missouri, Wednesday, March 4 Texas Tech home to Kansas, Wednesday, March 4

Duke-Virginia Tech Odds Preview

The Duke Blue Devils and the Virginia Tech Hokies will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at Cassell Coliseum. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Gerald Henderson went for 19 points and eight rebounds to lead Duke past Maryland 78-67 on Wednesday night. Duke covered as 5-point road favorites as the game played over the 146-point total listed by oddsmakers. Malcolm Delaney went for 26 points and six assists to lift Virginia Tech over Clemson 80-77 on Wednesday night. Virginia Tech cashed as 11-point road underdogs as the game played over the 145.5-point total set by sportsbooks. Current streak: Duke has won 3 straight games. Team records: Duke: 23-5 SU, 13-13-1 ATS Virginia Tech: 17-10 SU, 9-13 ATS Duke most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing Florida State are 8-2 After playing Maryland are 6-4 After a win are 7-3 Virginia Tech most recently: When playing on Saturday are 5-5 Before playing North Carolina are 4-3 After playing Clemson are 4-3 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: The total has gone OVER in 5 of Duke's last 6 games Duke is 20-5 SU in its last 25 games Duke is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Virginia Tech The total has gone OVER in 4 of Duke's last 5 games when playing Virginia Tech Virginia Tech is 16-4 SU in its last 20 games at home The total has gone OVER in 4 of Virginia Tech's last 5 games at home The total has gone OVER in 4 of Virginia Tech's last 5 games when playing Duke The total has gone OVER in 8 of Virginia Tech's last 11 games Next up: Duke home to Florida State, Tuesday, March 3 Virginia Tech home to North Carolina, Wednesday, March 4

Arizona-Washington Lines Preview

The Arizona Wildcats and the Washington Huskies will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Edmundson Pavilion. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Arizona was defeated 69-53 by Washington State last time out, as 3-point road underdogs. The combined score fell just UNDER the posted total of 123. Nic Wise scored a game-high 19 points from 5-for-9 shooting. Jon Brockman dropped 21 points and 11 rebounds for a double-double to lead Washington to a 73-70 overtime win over Arizona State on Thursday. Washington failed to cover the 3.5-point spread, but the combined score made it OVER the posted total of 141. Justin Dentmon added 16 points in the win. Current streak: Arizona has lost 2 straight games. Washington has won 2 straight games. Team records: Arizona: 18-10 SU, 16-12 ATS Washington: 21-7 SU, 16-9-1 ATS Arizona most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing California are 7-3 After playing Washington State are 7-3 After a loss are 5-5 Washington most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing Washington State are 7-3 After playing Arizona State are 3-7 After a win are 6-4 A few trends to consider: The total has gone OVER in 7 of Arizona's last 8 games when playing on the road against Washington Arizona is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games The total has gone OVER in 4 of Arizona's last 5 games Arizona is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Washington The total has gone OVER in 5 of Washington's last 5 games at home Washington is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home The total has gone OVER in 7 of Washington's last 8 games when playing at home against Arizona The total has gone OVER in 13 of Washington's last 15 games Next up: Arizona home to California, Thursday, March 5 Washington home to Washington State, Saturday, March 7

Illinois State-Creighton Lines Preview

The Illinois State Redbirds and the Creighton Bluejays will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at Qwest Center. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Current streak: Illinois State has lost 2 straight games. Creighton has won 9 straight games. Team records: Illinois State: 22-7 SU, 13-12 ATS Creighton: 24-6 SU, 16-9-1 ATS Illinois State most recently: When playing on Saturday are 5-5 After playing Northern Iowa are 5-5 After a loss are 8-2 Creighton most recently: When playing on Saturday are 8-2 After playing Missouri State are 7-3 After a win are 8-2 A few trends to consider: Illinois State is 5-0 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Creighton The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Illinois State's last 6 games on the road Illinois State is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Creighton Illinois State is 18-7 SU in its last 25 games Creighton is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games Creighton is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home The total has gone OVER in 6 of Creighton's last 7 games Creighton is 11-2 SU in its last 13 games when playing at home against Illinois State

Notre Dame-Connecticut Odds Preview

The Notre Dame Fighting Irish and the Connecticut Huskies will both be gunning for a victory on Saturday when they meet at Gampel Pavilion. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Luke Harangody had 20 points and 15 rebounds to lead Notre Dame past Rutgers 70-65 on Wednesday night. Notre Dame couldn't cover as 15-point home favorites as the game played under the 143.5-point total listed by sportsbooks. A.J. Price went for 36 points, six rebounds, and six assists to lead Connecticut past Marquette 92-83 on Wednesday night. UConn won as a road pick 'em, as the game played over the 143-point total listed by oddsmakers. Current streak: Notre Dame has won 2 straight games. Connecticut has won 2 straight games. Team records: Notre Dame: 16-11 SU, 7-15 ATS Connecticut: 26-2 SU, 13-11 ATS Notre Dame most recently: When playing on Saturday are 8-2 Before playing Villanova are 4-6 After playing Rutgers are 4-6 After a win are 6-4 Connecticut most recently: When playing on Saturday are 9-1 Before playing Pittsburgh are 8-2 After playing Marquette are 3-0 After a win are 9-1 A few trends to consider: The total has gone OVER in 6 of Notre Dame's last 7 games on the road Notre Dame is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games Notre Dame is 4-8 SU in its last 12 games Notre Dame is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games when playing on the road against Connecticut Connecticut is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Notre Dame Connecticut is 15-1 SU in its last 16 games Connecticut is 16-2 SU in its last 18 games at home Connecticut is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Notre Dame Next up: Notre Dame home to Villanova, Monday, March 2 Connecticut at Pittsburgh, Saturday, March 7

Georgetown-Villanova Lines Preview

The Georgetown Hoyas and the Villanova Wildcats will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Villanova Pavilion. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Chris Wright led Georgetown with 12 points in its 76-58 loss to Louisville on Monday night. Louisville covered as 1-point road favorites as the game played over the 134-point total set by oddsmakers. Scottie Reynolds and Dante Cunningham had 18 points and six rebounds apiece to lift Villanova past DePaul 74-72 on Wednesday night. Villanova couldn't cover as 13-point road favorites as the game played over the 145.5-point total listed by sportsbooks. Current streak: Georgetown has lost 2 straight games. Villanova has won 3 straight games. Team records: Georgetown: 14-12 SU, 8-13-1 ATS Villanova: 23-5 SU, 14-10 ATS Georgetown most recently: When playing on Saturday are 6-4 Before playing St. John's are 7-3 After playing Louisville are 4-1 After a loss are 3-7 Villanova most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing Notre Dame are 7-3 After playing DePaul are 4-1 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: Georgetown is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Villanova The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Georgetown's last 5 games when playing Villanova The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Georgetown's last 9 games on the road Georgetown is 4-9 ATS in its last 13 games when playing Villanova Villanova is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home Villanova is 9-1 SU in its last 10 games The total has gone OVER in 6 of Villanova's last 7 games Villanova is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home Next up: Georgetown at St. John's, Tuesday, March 3 Villanova at Notre Dame, Monday, March 2

Georgia Tech-North Carolina Odds Preview

The Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets and the North Carolina Tar Heels will both be trying to pick up a win on Saturday when they battle at Dean Smith Center. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Georgia Tech lost to Clemson 81-73 as a 7.5-point underdog on Sunday. The combined score went OVER the posted over/under total (147). Lewis Clinch led the Yellow Jackets with 27 points and Alade Aminu had 16 points. Ty Lawson was the top scorer for North Carolina with 24 points in a 88-85 OT loss to Maryland on Saturday afternoon. The Tar Heels failed to cover the 12.5-point spread, while the final score played OVER the day's posted total of 164. Current streak: Georgia Tech has lost 6 straight games. Team records: Georgia Tech: 10-16 SU, 7-15 ATS North Carolina: 24-3 SU, 11-15 ATS Georgia Tech most recently: When playing on Saturday are 7-3 Before playing Miami are 1-6 After playing Clemson are 6-4 After a loss are 1-9 North Carolina most recently: When playing on Saturday are 10-0 Before playing Virginia Tech are 7-0 After playing Maryland are 8-2 After a loss are 9-1 A few trends to consider: The total has gone OVER in 4 of Georgia Tech's last 5 games Georgia Tech is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing North Carolina The total has gone OVER in 9 of Georgia Tech's last 13 games when playing North Carolina The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Georgia Tech's last 6 games when playing on the road against North Carolina North Carolina is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home North Carolina is 12-1 SU in its last 13 games when playing at home against Georgia Tech North Carolina is 10-1 SU in its last 11 games The total has gone OVER in 7 of North Carolina's last 9 games Next up: Georgia Tech home to Miami, Wednesday, March 4 North Carolina at Virginia Tech, Wednesday, March 4

Kellen Winslow, Bart Scott, Stacy Andrews, Domonique Foxworth, Headline NFL Rumors

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: The NBA puts 28 teams on the hardwood, while the Flames and Wild take the ice in a meeting between Northwest rivals.

Sports Headlines…

Profootballtalk continues to break, a lot of well, pro football talk and NFL rumors. Kellen Winslow Jr. has been traded from the Cleveland Browns to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for draft choices…Free agent Bart Scott is reported to be leaning towards signing with the NY Jets…Bengals G Stacy Andrews is expected to sign with the Eagles…Mike Vrabel is reportedly going to get traded to the KC Chiefs..Dominique Foxworth is close to a deal with the Baltimore Ravens

Betting headlines…

Your webassign is to get the best picks in the world at OffshoreInsiders.com  Way back on Jan. 27 Stevie nailed Orlando in a rout as his Pro Basketball GAME of the YEAR. Tonight it's his Pro Basketball GAME of the YEAR, Part 2 and it will be every bit as easy at Part 1 as well as Collegiate Basketball Games of the Year Parts 1 & 2!

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Tipping off on the hardwood  . . .

The NBA offers up a busy 14-game slate on Friday night, with the Cavaliers playing in San Antonio in the night's marquee matchup. Those two teams haven't met since February 2008, when the Spurs rolled to a 112-105 road win. The other two high-powered matchups on Friday night have the Lakers in Denver to meet the Nuggets, while Dwyane Wade and the Heat head out to battle Atlanta.

Chicago is at Washington and Orlando hosts Detroit in the two earliest games on the Friday schedule, while it's also Philadelphia at New York, Indiana at Boston, Milwaukee at New Orleans, Portland at Minnesota, Oklahoma City at Dallas, Toronto at Phoenix, the Clippers at Sacramento, and Charlotte at Golden State. The Warriors last played on Monday, when the Clippers defeated them 118-105.

The march toward Madness . . .

The usual Ivy League action highlights the college hoops schedule for Friday, with games including Columbia at Harvard, Brown at Princeton, Yale at Pennsylvania, and Cornell at Dartmouth. As well, the top two teams in the MAAC will hit the floor at the Gallagher Center when Siena tips off with Niagara. Siena beat Northern Iowa last game, and Niagara is coming off a win over Illinois State.

Taking a trip around the rink . . .

The Flames and Wild will meet in Calgary on Friday night in a battle of Northwest Division clubs. The Wild fell 2-1 in a shootout to the Kings in their last game on Tuesday, with Antti Miettinen scoring the team's lone goal. Niklas Backstrom stopped 24 of 25 Los Angeles shots in regulation time. The Flames are coming off a 4-1 win over Columbus on Tuesday, with Jarome Iginla scoring two goals.

There are four other games on the National Hockey League schedule for Friday night, including Montreal on the road in Philadelphia. The Canadiens got 34 saves from Jaroslav Halak in their 3-0 shutout of the Canucks on Tuesday night. Los Angeles will play in Detroit on Friday night, while Pittsburgh will travel to Chicago to meet the Blackhawks, and Vancouver will get a visit from Tampa Bay.

Rounding out the Roundup . . .

Tiger Woods' return to the course won't be as triumphant as he would've liked - the top seed fell 4&2 to Tim Clark in the second round of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship on Thursday afternoon. Also getting knocked out on Thursday were Anthony Kim, Steve Stricker, and another top seed, Vijay Singh.

The top third-round matchup on the schedule for Friday will have Phil Mickelson taking on Stewart Cink; Mickelson beat Zach Johnson 1-Up on Thursday, while Cink got past Lee Westwood in 23 holes. Ernie Els was victorious in his pairing with Stricker, and he'll move on to play Luke Donald in a third-round matchup on Friday. Also, Geoff Ogilvy will try to advance again by taking out Camilo Villegas.

Iona-Saint Peter's Lines Preview

The Iona Gaels and the Saint Peter's Peacocks will both be trying to pick up a win on Friday when they battle at Yanitelli Center. Oddsmakers currently have the Gaels listed as 3-point favorites versus the Peacocks, while the game's total has not yet been posted. Current streak: Iona has lost 2 straight games. Team records: Iona: 12-16 SU, 11-12-1 ATS Saint Peter's: 9-18 SU, 13-5-1 ATS Iona most recently: When playing on Friday are 6-4 Before playing Loyola are 5-5 After a loss are 5-5 Saint Peter's most recently: When playing on Friday are 3-7 Before playing Manhattan are 3-7 After a loss are 3-7 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Iona's last 6 games when playing Saint Peter's Iona is 9-3 SU in its last 12 games when playing on the road against Saint Peter's The total has gone OVER in 5 of Iona's last 7 games on the road Iona is 17-8 SU in its last 25 games when playing Saint Peter's Saint Peter's is 6-1 ATS in its last 7 games The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Saint Peter's last 6 games when playing Iona The total has gone OVER in 4 of Saint Peter's last 5 games at home Saint Peter's is 4-1-1 ATS in its last 6 games at home Next up: Iona home to Loyola, Sunday, March 1 Saint Peter's home to Manhattan, Sunday, March 1

Yale-Pennsylvania Odds Preview

The Yale Bulldogs and the Pennsylvania Quakers will both be trying to pick up a win on Friday when they battle at The Palestra. Oddsmakers currently have the Quakers listed as 3-point favorites versus the Bulldogs, while the game's total has not yet been posted. Current streak: Yale has won 2 straight games. Pennsylvania has lost 2 straight games. Team records: Yale: 11-13 SU, 8-6 ATS Pennsylvania: 8-15 SU, 6-11 ATS Yale most recently: When playing on Friday are 3-5 Before playing Princeton are 4-6 After playing Columbia are 2-8 After a win are 5-5 Pennsylvania most recently: When playing on Friday are 3-6 Before playing Brown are 7-3 After playing Harvard are 8-2 After a loss are 4-6 A few trends to consider: The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Yale's last 5 games on the road The total has gone OVER in 4 of Yale's last 5 games when playing Pennsylvania The total has gone UNDER in 7 of Yale's last 10 games Yale is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games Pennsylvania is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against Yale Pennsylvania is 6-1 SU in its last 7 games when playing Yale Pennsylvania is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Yale The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Pennsylvania's last 5 games Next up: Yale at Princeton, Saturday, February 28 Pennsylvania home to Brown, Saturday, February 28

Siena-Niagara Odds Preview

The Siena Saints and the Niagara Purple Eagles will both be trying to pick up a win on Friday when they battle at Gallagher Center. Oddsmakers currently have the Purple Eagles listed as 3-point favorites versus the Saints, while the game's total has not yet been posted. Current streak: Siena has won 4 straight games. Team records: Siena: 22-6 SU, 12-14 ATS Niagara: 22-7 SU, 20-9 ATS Siena most recently: When playing on Friday are 5-5 Before playing Canisius are 7-3 After playing Northern Iowa are 0-2 After a win are 9-1 Niagara most recently: When playing on Friday are 7-2 Before playing Marist are 7-3 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: Siena is 12-1 SU in its last 13 games Siena is 7-1 SU in its last 8 games when playing Niagara The total has gone OVER in 7 of Siena's last 8 games when playing Niagara Siena is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games on the road Niagara is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home Niagara is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games Niagara is 7-1 ATS in its last 8 games The total has gone OVER in 7 of Niagara's last 8 games when playing Siena Next up: Siena at Canisius, Sunday, March 1 Niagara home to Marist, Sunday, March 1

Cavaliers-Spurs Lines Preview

The Cleveland Cavaliers and the San Antonio Spurs will both be trying to pick up a win on Friday when they battle at AT&T Center. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. The Cavaliers fell 93-74 to the Rockets last time out, as 4-point underdogs on the road. That game's 167 points fell UNDER the posted total of 185.5. Mo Williams and LeBron James each had 21 points in a losing effort. Tony Parker dropped a game-high 39 points in leading the Spurs to a convincing 99-84 victory over the Trail Blazers on Wednesday. The Spurs covered the slight 1.5-point spread, and the 183 points made it OVER the posted total of 179. Matt Bonner tossed in 15 points and grabbed nine rebounds for the Spurs, and Kurt Thomas had 10 rebounds in that win. Current streak: San Antonio has won 4 straight games. Team records: Cleveland: 44-12 SU, 36-20 ATS San Antonio: 39-17 SU, 29-25-2 ATS Cleveland most recently: When playing on Friday are 9-1 Before playing Atlanta are 5-5 After playing Houston are 9-1 After a loss are 9-1 San Antonio most recently: When playing on Friday are 7-3 Before playing Portland are 7-3 After playing Portland are 7-3 After a win are 7-3 A few trends to consider: Cleveland is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Cleveland's last 5 games when playing on the road against San Antonio The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Cleveland's last 8 games when playing San Antonio Cleveland is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games on the road San Antonio is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home San Antonio is 14-2 SU in its last 16 games when playing at home against Cleveland San Antonio is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Cleveland San Antonio is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games Next up: Cleveland at Atlanta, Sunday, March 1 San Antonio at Portland, Sunday, March 1

Pistons-Magic Odds Preview

The Detroit Pistons and the Orlando Magic will both be gunning for a victory on Friday when they meet at Amway Arena. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. The Pistons were defeated 90-87 by the Hornets last time out, as 8.5-point road underdogs. That game's combined score went UNDER the posted total of 180.5. Richard Hamilton tossed in 24 points and dished out six assists in the loss. Dwight Howard tossed in 24 points and hauled down 21 rebounds for a double-double on Wednesday, leading the Magic to a 114-109 victory over the Knicks. The Magic covered the 3-point spread, and the 223 points made it OVER the posted total of 219. Hedo Turkoglu dropped a game-high 33 points, and Rashard Lewis chipped in with 17 points in that win. Current streak: Detroit has lost 8 straight games. Team records: Detroit: 27-29 SU, 21-35 ATS Orlando: 42-15 SU, 36-20-1 ATS Detroit most recently: When playing on Friday are 6-4 Before playing Boston are 6-4 After playing New Orleans are 7-3 After a loss are 2-8 Orlando most recently: When playing on Friday are 5-5 Before playing Philadelphia are 6-4 After playing New York are 5-5 After a win are 4-6 A few trends to consider: Detroit is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games when playing Orlando The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games The total has gone OVER in 4 of Detroit's last 5 games when playing on the road against Orlando Detroit is 6-2 SU in its last 8 games when playing on the road against Orlando Orlando is 17-3 SU in its last 20 games at home The total has gone OVER in 5 of Orlando's last 6 games The total has gone OVER in 4 of Orlando's last 5 games when playing at home against Detroit The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Orlando's last 7 games when playing Detroit Next up: Detroit at Boston, Sunday, March 1 Orlando at Philadelphia, Saturday, February 28

Sports Bets Online

Today in the Daily Sports Roundup: The Suns face the Lakers in Los Angeles, the Cavaliers take the court in Houston, and Arizona State takes on Washington.

Sports headlines…

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Tipping off on the hardwood  . . .

The banged-up Suns will face a tough road test on Thursday night as they take on Kobe Bryant and the Lakers in Los Angeles. Phoenix got past Charlotte 112-102 on Tuesday night, but point guard Steve Nash suffered an ankle injury and had to miss part of the game; he could be limited on Thursday for a Suns team already missing Amare Stoudemire. The Lakers had no problem with the Thunder on Tuesday night, getting 36 points from Bryant in their 107-93 victory.

The NBA's early game on Thursday has the Cavaliers travelling to Houston to meet the Rockets. Cleveland easily topped Memphis on Tuesday night, needing only 15 points from LeBron James in a 94-79 win. Daniel Gibson had a team-high 19 points. The Rockets are also coming off a victory, as they took care of Portland 98-94 on Tuesday. Ron Artest scored 21 points and added five assists.

The march toward Madness . . .

A ranked matchup between No. 14 Arizona State and No. 21 Washington at the Bank of America Arena highlights the Thursday college hoops schedule. The Sun Devils slipped past rival Arizona in a 70-68 victory on Sunday, with James Harden scoring 18 points. The Huskies smothered USC in a 60-51 win in their last outing on Saturday. Quincy Pondexter led the way with 22 points on that day.

No. 5 Memphis will be on the road to face UAB on Thursday, with N.C. State at No. 13 Wake Forest, and No. 16 Purdue at Michigan. As well, it'll be No. 17 Gonzaga at Santa Clara, No. 19 Xavier at St. Joseph's, Minnesota at No. 20 Illinois, No. 22 UCLA at Stanford, and also Youngstown State at No. 24 Butler. The Bulldogs rolled to a 75-63 win over Davidson in their meeting on Saturday.

Taking a trip around the rink . . .

Alexander Ovechkin and his Capitals faltered against the Flyers on Tuesday night, but they'll try to bounce back on Thursday at home against the Thrashers. Washington took a 2-0 lead against Philly, but ended up losing 4-2. Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom provided the Caps goals, while Jose Theodore stopped 33 of 37 Philly shots. Atlanta got past Colorado by a score of 4-3 Tuesday night.

The Avalanche will be on the road in New Jersey in one of nine other games on the NHL's schedule for Thursday night. As well, it'll be Anaheim at Boston, Florida at the Rangers, Toronto at the Islanders, Buffalo at Carolina, San Jose at Ottawa, Phoenix at Nashville, Columbus at Edmonton, and St. Louis at Dallas. The Stars were held scoreless in a 1-0 loss to the Sharks in their Monday game.

Rounding out the Roundup . . .

Tiger Woods came roaring back to the PGA Tour on Wednesday afternoon, defeating Brandon Jones 3&2 in the opening round of the WGC-Accenture Match Play Championship. Woods moves on to face Tim Clark in the second round on Thursday (2:02pm ET tee off); Clark got past Retief Goosen 3&2 on Wednesday.

Vijay Singh and Phil Mickelson also won their first-round matchups on Wednesday, but both Sergio Garcia and Padraig Harrington were the victims of upsets. Garcia lost to Charl Schwartzel, and Harrington was knocked off by Pat Perez. Other Wednesday winners included Anthony Kim, Jim Furyk, Stewart Cink, Ernie Els, and Steve Stricker. Els and Stricker have a Thursday matchup.

Gonzaga-Santa Clara Odds Preview

The Gonzaga Bulldogs and the Santa Clara Broncos will both be trying to pick up a win on Thursday when they battle at Leavey Center. Odds aren't yet posted for this game, so check back later for the opening line and total. Josh Heytvelt dropped a game-high 28 points and hauled down 11 rebounds to lead Gonzaga to a convincing 92-58 victory over Pepperdine on Saturday. Gonzaga covered the 30-point spread, and the combined score made it OVER the posted total of 138. Current streak: Gonzaga has won 4 straight games. Team records: Gonzaga: 21-5 SU, 13-11 ATS Santa Clara: 14-15 SU, 12-12-1 ATS Gonzaga most recently: When playing on Thursday are 7-2 Before playing San Diego are 10-0 After playing Pepperdine are 8-2 After a win are 9-1 Santa Clara most recently: When playing on Thursday are 6-4 Before playing Portland are 5-5 After playing San Francisco are 4-6 After a loss are 3-7 A few trends to consider: Gonzaga is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing Santa Clara The total has gone OVER in 5 of Gonzaga's last 5 games on the road Gonzaga is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games on the road Gonzaga is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Santa Clara Santa Clara is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games at home The total has gone OVER in 11 of Santa Clara's last 12 games when playing Gonzaga Santa Clara is 7-2 SU in its last 9 games Santa Clara is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games Next up: Gonzaga at San Diego, Saturday, February 28 Santa Clara home to Portland, Saturday, February 28