Wednesday Picks

[BGFalcon]

Ball St./EMU (Exceptionally Mediocre Underachievers) over 144: Ball St. hasn't had a game hit this total in their last 6 games and EMU hasn't been that high in their last 4. So, why play the over? Prior to the last three games EMU was scoring in the mid-70's and even while holding opponents to 41.9% FG shooting they have given up an average of 70 points per game in the last 5. Ball St. has had 70 or more scored on them in three of the last 4. I think both teams will come out with a lack of defensive intensity and play up-tempo basketball. EMU's coach Jim Boone is probably gone at the end of the season. The seeding for the tourney is so muddled up right now you can't even use that as motivation. Plenty of reasons for this one to go over. Look for this one to be in the 150's.

 

[BGFalcon]

Adding:

Adding:

Michigan St./Northwestern under 128: I can't see NW scoring more than 55 or so in this one which means Sparty would have to get 73 for this to go over. Given Sparty's tendency to go into a shell on the road when they get a lead, the under is a good bet here.

Minnesota/Penn St. under 128: Penn St. will continue to try to slow things down and Minnesota won't fight them. The Gophers need help to get the #3 seed but 10-6 in the Big 10 seems certain. They would match up with IU in the first round and win there could get them an at-large bid. An upset of Sparty puts them in. Look for a grind-it-out win in the low 60's or high 50's.