The Round of 32 is here, and Saturday’s slate brings a whole new set of betting opportunities as teams battle for a spot in the Sweet 16. The intensity ramps up, the matchups get tighter, and finding the right angles becomes even more important.
This card features five best bets to target. Two games project as high-scoring matchups that could fly past the total, while another spot leans on an elite defense to slow things down and control the pace. There’s also a gritty team built to hang around for all 40 minutes, plus a Cinderella run that looks ready to run into a more complete opponent.
All odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are subject to change. DraftKings does not sponsor this content.
Saint Louis vs. Michigan Over 161.5 (-110)
Both teams showed their scoring punch by cracking 100 in the first round, and this matchup sets up for more of the same. Saint Louis averages 87.7 points per game, while Michigan is right there at 87.2, giving this game plenty of offensive firepower. The Billikens are one of the most efficient shooting teams in the country and can score from anywhere, which should challenge Michigan’s defense. With two high-powered offenses and a total sitting in the 160s, the over is worth a look here.
TCU vs. Duke Over 139.5 (-112)
TCU creates chaos with turnovers and second-chance points, which can quickly boost the scoring. Duke has plenty of firepower but hasn’t been as sharp defensively while dealing with injuries. With both teams capable of heating up and generating extra possessions, this matchup sets up well for a game that can get into the over range.
Texas A&M Under 65.5 Team Total (-115)
Houston’s defense is one of the best in the country, allowing just 62.4 points per game and recently holding two of its last three opponents under 50. The Cougars control tempo and turn games into a grind, which disrupts Texas A&M’s up-tempo style. With Houston dictating pace and making every possession tough, scoring won’t come easy for the Aggies.
VCU Rams +11.5 (-115)
VCU showed serious toughness in the first round, erasing a 19-point deficit to beat North Carolina, and that kind of grit travels in March. Illinois rolled past Penn, but this is a big step up in competition. The Rams have legit talent, including Terrence Hill Jr., who just dropped 34 points, and they’re playing loose with nothing to lose. Meanwhile, Illinois faces more pressure, which could tighten things up — making VCU a strong play to keep this one close and cover.
Arkansas Razorbacks -11.5 (-110)
High Point’s ability to force turnovers won’t matter much here against an Arkansas team that takes care of the ball as well as anyone in the country, taking away the Panthers’ biggest edge. From there, the matchup tilts heavily toward the Razorbacks. They bring more size, athleticism, and offensive firepower, especially when attacking the paint and getting to the line. With High Point struggling defensively, Arkansas has the tools to pull away, making them a strong play to cover.
