March Madness: Betting Picks and Predictions to Get You Excited
March Madness is officially here, and with it comes one of the most thrilling times of the year for sports fans. The NCAA Tournament is a spectacle of upsets, buzzer-beaters, and unforgettable moments that keep us on the edge of our seats. Whether you’re a die-hard college basketball fan or just someone looking to add some excitement to the games, March Madness offers something for everyone. This year, FOX Sports Betting Analyst Geoff Schwartz breaks down his top picks and predictions for teams poised to make waves in their respective conference tournaments and beyond. From dark horses to heavy favorites, these bets are sure to get you pumped for the action ahead.
Maryland and Oregon: The Midwest Madness in the Big Ten
The Big Ten Tournament is shaping up to be one of the most competitive events of March, and two teams stand out as strong contenders: Maryland and Oregon.
Maryland enters the tournament as one of the most consistent teams in the Big Ten. Finishing the regular season in second place, the Terrapins have built a reputation for their stifling defense, ranking seventh in defensive efficiency and 32nd in points allowed per game. Their ability to score from beyond the arc (38th in 3-point percentage) and avoid costly turnovers makes them a well-rounded team. With a favorable draw that could propel them into the Big Ten final, Maryland has the tools to make a deep run. Schwartz likes their odds at +350 to win the Big Ten Tournament.
Oregon, on the other hand, is the ultimate dark horse. Under the guidance of head coach Dana Altman, the Ducks have a proven track record of thriving in March, boasting a 71% win rate since 2010. Their recent hot streak—seven consecutive wins—and victories over power programs like Alabama, Texas A&M, and Wisconsin highlight their potential. While their performance against top-tier teams like Michigan State was inconsistent, Oregon’s combination of length, effort, and veteran leadership makes them a compelling underdog. With odds of +2800, they’re the best long-shot bet in a power conference tournament.
Duke: The Unstoppable Force in the ACC
When it comes to dominance, no team in the ACC—or perhaps the entire country—can match Duke’s level of play this season. The Blue Devils are the most efficient team in college basketball, with a string of blowout victories that have left opponents in the dust. Their recent 110-67 rout of Illinois is just one example of their offensive firepower and defensive prowess.
Given their performance, it’s no surprise that Duke is heavily favored to win the ACC Tournament at -320. However, Schwartz advises bettors to look beyond the conference tournament and consider Duke’s odds (-150) to make the Final Four. As the likely No. 1 seed in the East, the Blue Devils are expected to cruise through the early rounds and be a double-digit favorite in the Sweet 16 and Elite Eight. Locking in Duke now to reach the Final Four is a smart move for anyone looking to capitalize on their undeniable talent and momentum.
Clemson: The ACC dark horse with a puncher’s chance
If you’re looking to bet on a team other than Duke to win the ACC Tournament, Clemson is the best option. The Tigers are the only team in the ACC to have beaten Duke this season, and their balanced roster, featuring veteran players, makes them a formidable opponent. Ranked 18th in offense and 24th in defense, Clemson excels at avoiding turnovers and making clutch free throws—qualities that are crucial in tournament play.
The Tigers’ path to the ACC title game won’t be easy, as they may face Louisville in the semifinals. However, with the crowd on their side in Charlotte and their overall improvement since January, Clemson has the edge. At +600, they’re a high-reward bet for those willing to take a chance on an underdog with the potential to pull off a major upset.
The SEC and Beyond: Additional storylines to watch
While the Big Ten and ACC take center stage with their star-studded lineups, the SEC Tournament also promises plenty of drama and excitement. Teams like Alabama, Tennessee, and Kentucky are expected to battle it out for conference supremacy, but it’s the underdogs who often make March Madness unforgettable. Schwartz encourages fans to keep an eye on teams with strong guard play and defensive intensity, as these are often the X-factors in tournament games.
Additionally, the tournament’s early rounds are where Cinderella stories are born. Lower-seeded teams with nothing to lose often bring the most excitement, and this year is no exception. Whether it’s a scrappy mid-major program or a power conference team looking to redeem itself, the possibilities for upsets are endless. Stay tuned for more analysis as the brackets are revealed and the tournament gets underway.
Final Thoughts: Why these bets matter
March Madness is all about unpredictability, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make informed decisions when it comes to betting. Maryland’s defensive excellence and Oregon’s March magic make them standout choices in the Big Ten, while Duke’s dominance and Clemson’s veteran leadership highlight the ACC’s depth.
Ultimately, these picks are about more than just winning money—they’re about embracing the excitement of the tournament. Whether you’re a casual fan or a seasoned bettor, there’s no better time to dive into college basketball than now. And with expert advice from analysts like Geoff Schwartz, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the chaos and enjoy every moment of March Madness.
In conclusion, the 2023 NCAA Tournament is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory. With powerhouses like Duke, scrappy underdogs like Oregon and Clemson, and consistent performers like Maryland, there’s no shortage of storylines to follow. Whether you’re betting on the favorites or rooting for the underdogs, this March Madness promises to deliver unforgettable moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat. So grab your bracket, place your bets, and get ready to experience the magic of college basketball at its finest.
