My overall assessment of the NCAA opening lines is disappointing. Vegas has sharpened up their act over past years with the extensive use of computer ratings to determine the line. I only see 3 games out of 36 which I really like. And 3 games which are ok, but only worthy of a small bet.
Big Bet games:
Harvard +6: Their defense will make getting 6 points feel like getting 10. I see them staying right with Vanderbilt and could pull off the upset here.
Virginia +3.5: I like the matchup here, Florida shoots a lot of 3s and Virginia plays great perimeter defense.
Purdue -2: Purdue is weak against teams with a strong post presence. Against every other type of team, they are extremely strong. Unfortunately for them, they had to deal with 3 strong teams with great inside games in Ohio St, Indiana, and Mich St in conference. Now they face a St. Mary's team which doesn't have that great inside threat, and Purdue is the better 3 point shooting team and more athletic.
Small Bet games:
Iowa St. +2.5 : I really like how Iowa State matches up with UConn, with their 3 point shooting ability and ability to take care of the basketball.
Wisconsin -9: They blow out inferior teams, and Montana is clearly inferior. Great half court team.
NC State -2: More athletic than San Diego St and well coached. Was really impressed in their game with UNC on Saturday.
Big Bet games:
Harvard +6: Their defense will make getting 6 points feel like getting 10. I see them staying right with Vanderbilt and could pull off the upset here.
Virginia +3.5: I like the matchup here, Florida shoots a lot of 3s and Virginia plays great perimeter defense.
Purdue -2: Purdue is weak against teams with a strong post presence. Against every other type of team, they are extremely strong. Unfortunately for them, they had to deal with 3 strong teams with great inside games in Ohio St, Indiana, and Mich St in conference. Now they face a St. Mary's team which doesn't have that great inside threat, and Purdue is the better 3 point shooting team and more athletic.
Small Bet games:
Iowa St. +2.5 : I really like how Iowa State matches up with UConn, with their 3 point shooting ability and ability to take care of the basketball.
Wisconsin -9: They blow out inferior teams, and Montana is clearly inferior. Great half court team.
NC State -2: More athletic than San Diego St and well coached. Was really impressed in their game with UNC on Saturday.