Simulation Picks
Maximize Your Odds of Winning with SportsLine Model and Our Top-Rated Picks!
Maximize Your Odds of Winning with SportsLine Model and Our Top-Rated Picks!
Maximize Your Odds of Winning with SportsLine Model and Our Top-Rated Picks!
Understanding Public and Money
Read More
Expert Picks
Butler has been the underdog five times this season and won four of them outright, the last of which was as a double-digit dog at Villanova last month. This is another spot where North Carolina is a popular choice and extra points have been added because of it, so I'm taking the bonus with a gritty squad that won't be intimidated. If Butler can find a way to compete on the boards, it has a chance to win outright. This should be a very close game. I'm on Butler with the points.
Although it’s tough to pass on taking this many points, particularly at this time of year, the backdrop is there for a strong situational play Friday on North Carolina against Butler in the Sweet 16. Over the past few years, the Tar Heels have historically responded to a poor performance with an outstanding one. They are fortunate to still be standing following a sluggish showing against Arkansas in the second round. North Carolina won’t take Butler for granted and, although the Bulldogs have a rigid half-court defense, they won’t be able to keep pace with an inspired Tar Heels club.