UCLA -3 over Pittsburgh
Game Time: 3/22/2007 9:50:00 PM -
By: Jimmy Boyd
The Bruins appear to have the edge both offensively and defensively here, so look for UCLA to move on to the Elite Eight.
The Pittsburgh Panthers are just 1-7 against the spread versus very good shooting teams this season such as UCLA, which make 48% of their shots or better.
In other words, the Panthers have struggled against good offensive teams. That is understandable, since Pittsburgh is not a team that is going to outscore its opponent on most nights. Pitt relies on their solid defense and good interior play from Aaron Gray, but I feel that Gray will be a liability defensively here against a Bruin team that should be able to run the floor in this game. Furthermore, UCLA's length and athleticism down low should also bother Gray's offensive post game.
The Bruins can also get after their opponents on the defensive end, as they are allowing just 59.7 points per game this season. Their pressure defense should force Pittsburgh into some turnover problems, which should lead to several easy scoring opportunities.
All signs point to UCLA moving on here, so we will make a play on the Bruins laying this small chalk.
Play: Bruins -3
Game Time: 3/22/2007 9:50:00 PM -
By: Jimmy Boyd
The Bruins appear to have the edge both offensively and defensively here, so look for UCLA to move on to the Elite Eight.
The Pittsburgh Panthers are just 1-7 against the spread versus very good shooting teams this season such as UCLA, which make 48% of their shots or better.
In other words, the Panthers have struggled against good offensive teams. That is understandable, since Pittsburgh is not a team that is going to outscore its opponent on most nights. Pitt relies on their solid defense and good interior play from Aaron Gray, but I feel that Gray will be a liability defensively here against a Bruin team that should be able to run the floor in this game. Furthermore, UCLA's length and athleticism down low should also bother Gray's offensive post game.
The Bruins can also get after their opponents on the defensive end, as they are allowing just 59.7 points per game this season. Their pressure defense should force Pittsburgh into some turnover problems, which should lead to several easy scoring opportunities.
All signs point to UCLA moving on here, so we will make a play on the Bruins laying this small chalk.
Play: Bruins -3
