Ricky's 10* play on Under.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is particularly significant.

- The Under is 10-4 in the Hurricanes last 14 games following a straight up win.

- The Under is 5-0 in the Jayhawks last five games following an ATS loss.

- The Under is 27-13 in the Jayhawks last 40 NCAA Tournament games as a favorite.

Verdict: Scoring isn't expected to be easy here with a trip to the Final Four at stake.

Ricky's 10* play on DUKE.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is particularly significant.

- The Red Raiders are 4-9 ATS in their last 13 neutral site games.

- The Red Raiders are 3-9 ATS in their last 12 neutral site games as a favorite.

- The Blue Devils are 6-0 ATS in their last six neutral site games as an underdog.

Verdict: The Blue Devils look good in Coach K's swan song.

Ricky's 10* play on MIAMI.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the history of these teams is particularly significant.

- The Hurricanes are 23-8-1 ATS in their last 32 games as an underdog.

- The Tigers are 0-7 ATS in their last seven games following a straight up win.

- The Tigers are 2-6 ATS in their last eight games overall.

Verdict: The Canes might just pull off the upset.

Ricky's 10* play on Georgetown.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Hoyas are 4-0 ATS in their last four neutral site games.

- The Hoyas are 4-0 ATS in their last four games as an underdog.

- The Buffaloes are 0-4 ATS in their last four NCAA Tournament games.

Verdict: Georgetown comes into the tournament as one of the nation's hottest teams.

Ricky's 10* play on Under.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The under is 6-1-2 in the Bearcats last nine neutral site games as an underdog.

- The under is 10-3-1 in the Bearcats last 14 versus a team with a winning straight up record.

- The under is 10-4-1 in the Cougars last 15 neutral site games.

Verdict: The under is 6-2 in the last eight head to head meetings.

Ricky's 10* play on Under.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The under is 10-4 in the Spartans last 14 overall.

- The under is 5-1 in the Wolverines last six home games.

- The under is 6-1 in the Wolverines last seven overall.

Verdict: This is a huge game, and no easy buckets are expected. 

Ricky's 10* play on the Michigan.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The favorite is 10-4 ATS in the last 14 meetings.

- The Hawkeyes are 1-5 ATS in their last six games overall.

- The home team is 4-0 ATS in the last four meetings.

Verdict: The Wolverines might be the hottest team in the country right now.

Ricky's 10* play on Maryland.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Cornhuskers are 1-8 ATS in their last nine games following an ATS win.

- The Cornhuskers are 7-16 ATS in their last 23 games as an underdog.

- The Cornhuskers are 9-19 ATS in their last 28 games overall.

Verdict: This line could be a lot higher considering Nebraska has lost nine of 10.

Ricky's 10* play on the Over.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The over is 7-1 in the Cougars last eight games as a road underdog.

- The over is 8-1 in the Cougars last nine road games.

- The over is 6-0 in the Huskies last six overall.

Verdict: The Huskies offense has scored 80+ points in back to back wins. 

Ricky's 10* play on the Wildcats.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The home team is 4-1 ATS in the last five meetings.

- The favorite is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings.

- The Crimson Tide are 0-5 ATS in their last five road games versus a team with a losing home record.

Verdict: The Wildcats are still undefeated in the SEC.

Ricky's 10* play on the Bulls.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Cardinals are 1-5 ATS in their last sox games as an underdog.

- The Cardinals are 5-11 ATS in their last 16 road games.

- The home team is 7-3 ATS in the last 10 meetings.

Verdict: The Bulls have won four of the last five meetings by double digits.

Ricky's 7* play on the Trojans.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Buffaloes are 13-40 ATS in their last 53 road games.

- The Buffaloes are 7-19 ATS in their last 26 games as an underdog.

- The Trojans are 6-2 ATS in their last eight games as a home favorite.

Verdict: The Trojans are a strong home team.

Ricky's 10* play on the Rams.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

- The Rams are 4-1-1 ATS in their last six games overall.

- The favorite is 7-1 ATS in the last eight meetings.

- The home team is 7-1 ATS in the last eight meetings.

Verdict: The Rams are a tough home team, and undervalued after playing a tough schedule.

Ricky's 7* play on the Pirates.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

Key Trends:

- The Gaels lost their top three scorers from last year.

- The Gaels were 2-7 straight up in their first nine games last season.

- The Gaels are 2-5-1 ATS in their last eight Monday games.

Verdict: The Pirates leading scorer is a 6"11 senior (Sandro Mamukelashvili).

Ricky's 10* play on the Over.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

Key Trends:

- The Bears scored 112 in their season opener.

- The Huskies finished dead last in the PAC12 last year.

- The Bears made 15-of-27 three-pointers against the Ragin Cajuns.

Verdict: This is a revenge spot for Baylor after losing at Washington in their second game last season. 

Ricky's 10* play on UCLA.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history of these two teams is particularly significant.

Key Trends:

- The Bruins are 5-0-1 ATS in their last six games overall.

- The Bruins are 4-0 ATS in their last four road games

- The Bruins were perfect against the Mountain West last season.

Verdict: The Aztecs lost their leading scorer to the NBA draft, while UCLA brings back all it's top scorers.

Ricky's 10* play on Over 152.5.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent play of the Tar Heels is particularly significant. North Carolina has averaged over 80 points per game over their last five.

Key Trends:

- The over is 5-1 in the Tar Heels last six overall.

- The over is 7-1 in the Blue Devils last eight home games.

- The over is 19-7 in the Blue Devils last 26 overall.

The verdict: look for both teams to score their share of points.

Ricky's 10* play on over 148.5.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history between these teams is significant. They have scored 148 or more in 10 straight head to head meetings.

Key Trends:

- The Over is 20-7 in the Chippewas last 27 games as a favorite.

- The Over is 19-7-1 in the Chippewas last 27 games as a home favorite.

- The Over is 33-16-2 in the Chippewas last 51 games following a straight up loss.

The verdict: look for the home team to run up the score.

Ricky's 10* play on Over 151.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history between these teams is particularly significant. These teams have gone over in six straight head to head meetings.

Key Trends:

- The over is 22-4 in the Wolfpack's last 26 versus a team with a winning straight up record.

- The over is 6-1 in the Blue Devils last seven home games.

- The over is 20-8 in the Blue Devils last 28 overall.

The verdict: look for both these teams to do plenty of scoring.

Ricky's 10* play on Over 139.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history between these teams is significant.

Key Trends:

- The over is 7-3 in the Broncos last 10 road games versus a team with a winning home record.

- The over is 5-1 in the Runnin' Rebels last six home games versus a team with a losing road record.

- The over is 5-0 in the last five head to head meetings.

The verdict: look for both these teams to score plenty.

Ricky's 10* play on Over 137.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the recent history is quite significant.

Key Trends:

- The over is 6-0 in the Bulldogs last six overall.

- The over is 5-1 in the Bulldogs last six road games.

- The Bulldogs won the last meeting by a score of 83-77.

The verdict: look for both teams to score 70+ here tonight.

Ricky's 10* play on Under 133.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the previous history between these teams is significant.

Key Trends:

- The under is 10-3 in the Jayhawks last 13 overall.

- The under is 40-16-1 in the Jayhawks last 57 road games.

- The under is 6-2 in the Mountaineers last eight home games.

The verdict: look for both teams to play strong defensively.

Ricky's 10* play on over 137.5.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. Here in this game the previous history  between these teams is significant.

Key Trends:

- The total has been higher than 150 in each of the last eight meetings.

- The Wildcats are averaging over 86 points per game at home.

- The Bruins have scored more points on the road than they have at home.

The verdict: look for both teams to score 70+ points. 

Ricky's 10* play on over 136.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. The previous history between these two teams is of particular significance.

Key Trends:

- The over is 25-9-1 in the Crimson's last 35 road games.

- The over is 7-2 in the Bulldogs last nine home games.

- The over is 4-0 in the Bulldogs last four overall.

The verdict: look for a high score here in this marquee match-up in the Ivy League.

Ricky's 10* play on Auburn.

Key Angle: It's important to remember that Ricky never makes a bet on any game based on just one angle. In order to make the grade, all his premium picks must meet several important criteria. He doesn't share all his secrets within his analysis, instead he chooses to reveal only the angle that he feels is the most significant. The Wildcats are not playing well, coming off an uninspired win over Vanderbilt. Auburn's home record (11-0) has plenty of significance here.

Key Trends:

- The Tigers average over 85 points per game at home.

- The Wildcats were losing at the half at home versus last place Vanderbilt in their last game.

- The Tigers are 4-2 ATS in the last six head to head meetings.

The verdict: look for the Tigers to heat up from three-point range, and run up the score.

My 10* TOTAL OF THE WEEK is on the OVER Nova/St. John's. 

I'm expecting a faster paced affair and I look for this total to eclipse the posted number sooner, rather than later. Villanova comes in red hot by going 6-1 in its last seven conference games. St. John's not so much though, going just 2-6 in conference play, but coming off a huge 79-66 win over DePaul (Nova beat Providence 64-60 in its last action.)

Villanova averages 74.3 PPG and it allows 66.2. St. John's averages 75.5 PPG and it allows 69.

Key Trends:

- Nova has interestingly seen the total go over the number in 16 of its last 25 after six or more consecutive SU victories.

- St. John's has seen the total eclipse the posted number in four of its last five after having lost six or seven of its last eight games SU.

The verdict: I expect a faster paced affair tonight and when the final horn sounds, look for these two offenses to then be the main story lines in tomorrow's summaries; play the over!

My 10* CLASH-OF-THE-TITANS is on UNLV.

SDSU is 20-0, while UNLV is 11-10. I think the Aztecs are going to have a fight on their hands from start to finish and in a contest which I think'll be decided in the final moments, I'm going to grab up the ample points.

The Aztecs are 9-0 in MWC play, while the Rebels are 6-2. Most recently the Aztecs come in off a 72-55 win over Wyoming at home. Malachi Flynn led the way with 18 points. Overall SDSU averages 74.7 PPG and it concedes 56.7. 

UNLV comes in off a loss to Nevada and it'll be eager to get back on track here at home and to try and snap the Aztecs perfect record. UNLV averages 71.9 PPG and it allows 69.7. 

Key Trends:

- SDSU is 7-2 ATS in its last nine home games following a SU/ATS loss.

- SDSU is only 3-4 ATS in its last seven after a 15 points or higher home victory.

The verdict: I don't think SDSU is going to run the table and despite having a key injury to its point guard, I believe UNLV will give the Aztecs their "best shot" this afternoon; grab the points!

My 10* TOTAL BLOOD-BATH is on the OVER Tennessee/Kansas.

This is the Big 12/SEC Challenge and while these two teams are both stout defensively, I believe that we'll see a faster pace and ultimately a higher-scoring affair once it's all said and done. 

The Vols have won two straight in blowout fashion, having won each by at least 20 points, most recently beating down Ole Miss 73-48. Jordan Bowden leads the nightly charge by averaging 12.3 points along with 3.9 rebounds and 2.5 assists. 

Kansas is 15-3 and it's coming off an 83-60 destruction of K-State, a contest which ended in an ugly brawl and a number of suspensions. The best way to forget about that game and quickly move on? By winning and winning big of course!

Key Trends:

- Tennessee has seen the total go over the number in eight of its last 11 non-conference games and on a two-games or more unbeaten streak.

- Kansas has seen the total fly over in eight of its last 12 non-conference home games as the favorite.

The verdict: The overall situation and the trends all point to the "over" as the correct call in this one!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on Denver.

Denver won't be going down without a fight tonight. Last time out it also battled tooth and nail vs. North Dakota on Thursday, but its come-back bid fell short in the 78-71 setback. Ade Murkey was a bright spot in defeat with 25 points, while Jase Townsend added 19. Overall the Pioneers average 67.1 PPG and they've been holding the opposition to 31.5 percent from range, ranked second in the Summit League. It's also ranked third in the league in getting to the charity stripe.

North Dakota State averages 72.9 PPG and it concedes 65.4. Vinnie Shahid leads the nightly charge with 16.6 PPG. 

Key Trends:

- Denver is 7-3 ATS in its last ten road games after scoring 70 or more points in its previous outing and still losing SU.

- North Dakota State is just 4-7 ATS in its last 11 home games as a favorite in the -9.5 to -15.5 points range.

The verdict: I like Denver to keep pace offensively and while I'll stop short in calling for the outright upset, everything points to this one being significantly more competitive than what this spread would suggest; grab the points!

My 10* UNDERDOG ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE is on Marist.

Marist is just 4-13, while Siena is only 7-9. The Red Foxes though come in under the radar here, as they've won two straight, while the Saints are on the other end of the spectrum, having lost three in a row. The Saints fell 72-71 to Niagara last time out. 

Most recently Marist got the better of Manhattan 75-73. The Red Foxes trailed by ten at half time and were the underdog in that one, but I have no reason not to believe that they can't carry over that second half momentum here. 

Key Trends:

- Marist is 5-1 ATS in its last six as a road dog in the 9.5 to 12 points range (including 2-0 ATS this year.)

- Sienna is a terrible 8-20 ATS in its last 28 as a favorite (including a horrible 2-8 ATS this season.)

The verdict: I think this one is going to be much tighter than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe; grab the points!

My 10* UNDERDOG U OF THE U is on Middle Tennessee State.

MTSU is only 4-15, while Louisiana Tech is 13-5. Will the Bulldogs have a letdown here vs. their lowly opponent? I believe enough of one to let the home side very comfortably sneak in through the back door with the large spread they've been afforded. 

Louisiana Tech has won seven of its last nine, while MTSU has dropped 15 of its last 16. Which of these two teams is "hungrier" here? 

Also note that MTSU plays with revenge after falling 73-56 on the road in this game last year. 

Key Trends:

- Louisiana Tech is just 5-12 ATS in its last 17 as a road favorite or pick.

- MTSU is 6-1 ATS in its last seven vs. good defensive teams which allow 64 points or less per contest.

The verdict: Louisiana Tech is still hung up on its 51-50 loss to UNT last time out as well. The numbers and the overall situation favors the Blue Raiders; grab the points!

My 10* BEWARE OF DOG play is on Georgia Tech.

At 8-10, I think the lowly Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets come in "under the radar" here vs. the mighty 15-3 Louisville Cardinals. Georgia Tech will be hungry here though, as it's lost two straight. The Yellow Jackets were competitive in defeat last time out, falling 63-58 to Virginia. 

Louisville returns home after a three-game road trip and after topping Duke 79-73 last time out, there's no doubt in my mind that this sets ups a letdown/trap for the contented home side this evening. 

Key Trends:

- Georgia Tech is 3-1 ATS already this year off a loss vs. a conference rival.

- Louisville is already just 1-3 ATS this year off a road win vs. a conference rival.

The verdict: The situation and the trends are working heavily in favor of the underdog in this one; grab the points!

My 10* BLOWOUT ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE is on San Jose State.

New Mexico returns home after losing two straight on the road. New Mexico is 15-5 overall and 4-3 in league play, while SJSU is 6-13 and 2-5 in conference action. 

The Spartans have lost two in a row as well, but they've been competitive, most recently falling 98-87 to UNLV on the road. Seneca Knight led the Spartans with 30 points. SJSU averages 69.3 PPG and it concedes 78.4.

The Lobos average 80 PPG, but they allow 75.3. Most recently they lost 99-78 at UNLV on Saturday. 

Key Trends:

- The Lobos are a poor 1-4 ATS in their last five following an ATS loss.

- New Mexico is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven after allowing more than 90 points in its previous game.

- The Spartans are 4-1 ATS in their last five following a SU loss. 

The verdict: The Lobos were forced to kick Carlton Bragg from the team because of a violation and since then they've gone 0-2 and allowed 105 and 99 points in each. And note that these teams have already played this year and San Jose State won 88-85 at home. Grab the points, but don't be completely shocked by an outright upset!

My 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING is on Bucknell.

I like the Bucknell Bison to comfortably sneak in through the back door down the stretch with the large spread they've been afforded in this matchup. Last time out the Bison beat Lehigh 72-56, led by 15 points from Avi Toomer. The Bison are now 4-2 in confernec play. 

The Colgate Raiders beat Boston 79-70 in their latest action, led by 21 points from Will Rayman. Overall Colgate is 5-1 in league play. 

Key Trends:

- Bucknell is 7-3 ATS in its last ten road conference games after holding its previous opponent to 58 points or less.

- Colgate is just 2-5 ATS in its last seven home games after allowing 70 points or more in a SU victory in its previous outing.

The verdict: I like the hungry Bison to step up here and push the home side to the brink; grab the points!

My 10* TOTAL U OF THE U is on the OVER Cornell/Columbia.

This is the start of Ivy League play for both teams and as such, I'm expecting a spirited battle. 

Columbia comes in with momentum and confidence after hammering Mount Saint Vincent by a score of 86-56. Note that Mike Smith is actually 12th in the NCAA, averaging 21.4 PPG.

The Big Red come in excited as well after back-to-back wins over Div. III competition. So far Cornell has lost five of its games by two buckets or less. 

Key Trends:

- Cornell has seen the total go over the number in eight of its last 12 conference road games on the heels of two or more SU victories.

- Columbia has seen the total eclipse the posted number in ten of its last 14 home games after scoring 85 points or more in its previous game. 

The verdict: Expect these conference rivals to push the pace from start to finish and expect this one to sail comfortably over once the final horn blares!

My 10* U OF THE U is on Loyola Marymount.

I think Loyola Marymount will give the San Francisco Dons everything they can handle in this one. 

The Lions come in off a tough 75-67 loss at Pepperdine, led by 19 points from Erik Johansson. Overall Loyola Marymount averages 71.1 PPG.

San Francisco held on for a tight 79-75 win over Pacific last time out, giving it its first conference loss of the year so far. Overall the Dons average 80 PPG. 

Key Trends:

- Loyola Marymount is 7-2 ATS in its last nine road games following a loss in which it conceded 75 points or more in.

- San Francisco is just 3-6 ATS in its last nine after scoring 78 point or more in its previous contest.

The verdict: I'm not calling for an outright upset, but everything points this one being a "nail biter." Grab the points!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on Iowa.

I don't think that the home court advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in the outcome of this game. 

Michigan is only 2-3 in conference action and it enters off a demoralizing 75-67 road loss to Minnesota. Iowa is only 3-3 in league play, but it comes in off back-to-back victories. 

In fact note that Michigan is 0-4 in true road games this year. 

The Wolverines score an average of 77.9 PPG and they allow 68.6, while Iowa averages 79.3 PPG and it allows 68.9. 

Key Trends:

- Michigan is 1-4 ATS on the road this year.

- The Wolverines are only 3-4 ATS this season vs. good offensive teams which average 77 plus points per game.

The verdict: I look for Michigan's road woes to carry over here vs. this red hot home side; lay the points!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on Marist.

I think Marist, which comes in off a 69-52 loss at home to Rigers on Sunday, will keep this one closer than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe. Braden Bell had nine points and three streal in the most recent setback for the Red Foxes. 

Monmouth enters off an 84-70 loss at Quinnipiac. The Hawks are 5-0 at home this year and are led by Deion Hammond with 15.3 PPG. 

But with a game at Manahattan on Saturday night, I think the home side gets caught "looking past" its lowly opponent to that much more difficult contest vs. the No. 2 team in the conference standings. 

Key Trends:

- Marist is a strong 4-1 ATS in its last five as a road dog in the 9.5 to 12 points range (including 1-0 ATS this year.) 

- Monmouth is already just 1-2 ATS this year as a home favorite.

The verdict: The stars and the planets have aligned for the Red Foxes tonight; grab up all those points!

My 10* TOP DOG is on George Washington.

I think that 12-4 George Mason takes a step back here vs. this hungry 6-10 George Washington home side. To say this is a "revenge game" would be a bit of an understatement, as George Mason has taken four straight in the series, including all three last year. The Colonials lost to Duquesne last time out, while the Patriots got the better of La Salle. 

Previous to its latest win though, George Mason had lost three in a row. 

The Colonial lost 66-61 to the Dukes, led by 14 points from Jameer Nelson Jr. 

Key Trends:

- While the Patriots have been winning SU in this series, they've stumbled badly ATS, going just 2-6 ATS in their last eight vs. George Washington.

- George Washington is a perfect 5-0 ATS in its last five as a home dog of three points or less.

The verdict: Grab the points, but obviously we're expecting an outright win here!

My 10* GAME OF THE WEEK is on Nebraska.

The 7-9 Nebraska Cornhuskers storm into the Pacific Northwest looking to pull off the big outright upset vs. the 11-5 Ohio State Buckeyes on Monday night. Ohio State is the better "on paper," but the Buckeyes enter with absolutely no momentum whatsoever, having lost five of their last six. 

Nebraska beat Iowa, but then stumbled to Northwestern 62-57 last time out. The Huskers rank 22nd in the country with only 11.2 turnovers per game, meaning that they don't usually "beat themselves." 

Ohio State lost 66-54 to Inidana last time out. 

Key Trends:

- Nebraska is already 2-0 ATS this year off a loss vs. a conference rival.

- The Huskers are 4-1 ATS in their last five off a road cover where it lost SU as an underdog.

- The Buckeyes are just 2-6 ATS in their last eight off an upset loss as a favorite (including only 1-2 ATS this season.)

The verdict: Both teams are hungry. Expect a battle. Also, grab the points!

My 10* BEWARE OF DOG TOP DOG is on LBSU.

I like the 5-12 LBSU 49ers to sneak in the under the radar here and catch the 12-4 UCSB Gauchos off guard tonight. I'm not calling for an outright upset, but everything points to a much tighter battle than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe in my opinion. UCSB comes in content after six straight wins, most recently a 63-45 victory over Cal Poly. JaQuori McLaughlin averages 15.3 PPG. 

LBSU enters off a 95-77 loss to Cal State Northridge. Michael Carter III was a bright spot in the setback with 19 points. 

Key Trends:

- LBSU is 5-1 ATS in its last six after failing to cover the spread in three or more straight games.

- UC Santa Barbara is already a poor 1-2 ATS this season as a home favorite of 12.5 points or more.

The verdict: I think the Gauchos come in complacent and I believe the 49ers will play desperately. Grab the points and expect this one to come down to the wire!

My 10* GAME OF THE MONTH is on Illinois Chicago.  

The 10-6 Norse invade 6-11 Illinois Chicago on Friday night and I'm expecting a minor upset. Despite having the better record, NKU has still lost three of its last five games. Same for the Flames. UIC is better at home than on the road and I believe they'll be the hungrier team on the floor as well. 

NKU got a season-high 21 points from Bryson Langdon in the Norse's most recent 75-64 win over Oakland, but the continued absence of leading-scorer Dantez Walton is significant tonight in my opinion. 

The Flames though are desperate after three straight losses, including a 64-62 nail-biter to Milwaukee. Darius Roy was a bright spot in the setback with 19 points.

Key Trends:

- NKU is a poor 9-13 ATS in its last 22 as a road favorite or pick.

- Illinois Chicago is 4-1 ATS in its last five as a home dog of three points or less or pick.

The verdict: I think the home side finds a way to get the job done at the end of the night; play on UIC!

My 10* TOTAL OF THE MONTH is on the UNDER Maryland/Iowa.

The Terps arrive in town after a 67-55 win over No. 11 ranked Ohio State on Tuesday. Iowa will be cautious here after its 76-70 loss to Nebraska on Tuesday as an 8.5 point favorite. The Hawkeyes are going to have trouble scoring here though in my opinion vs. the Maryland team which just held Ohio State to 31.3 percent shooting (the eighth time this season already the Terps have held a team under 60 points.) 

Key Trends:

- Maryland has seen the total go under the number in eight of its last ten as a favorite.

- Iowa has seen the total dip below the posted number in seven of nine already this season when the total in the contest is set between 140 and 149.5. 

The verdict: Both teams play at a "medium" pace and when combined with the above information, I believe it does indeed all add up to a lower-scoring defensive battle; play the under!

My 10* TOTAL OF THE YEAR is on UNDER Charleston/Elon.

The 10-6 Charleston Cougars are going to have their hands full I think with this hungry 4-12 Elon Phoenix team. Charleston won both games last year (72-53 at home and 84-74 at Elon.) This is the first game between the schools this year and I believe it'll produce a final combined score like the first one between them last season. 

The Cougars have posted five straight double-digit wins and they're 4-0 in league play. Charleston though averages just 71.4 PPG, while conceding only 67.1. Grant Riller leads the nightly charge with 22.2 PPG.

The Phoenix have lost five straight. Marcus Sheffield averages 17.1 PPG. Overall the Phoenix average 68.6 PPG, while conceding 72.8. 

Key Trends:

- The Cougars have seen the total go under the number in three of their last four as a road favorite in the 6.5 to 9 points range.

- The Phoenix have seen the total dip below the posted number in six straight following a road loss by 20 points or more.

The verdict: This is a bit of a trap for the Cougars. The last thing the Phoenix want to do though is to turn this into a "track meet." I believe this one definitely sets up as a lower-scoring defensive battle; play the under!

My 10* ULTIMATE OF THE ULTIMATE is on Northwestern.

Am I suggesting that Northwestern will pull off the outright upset here? I'm not. But I do think that the hungry Wildcats are going to come out on fire and I look for them to keep this one close down the stretch. 

The Hoosiers are susceptible right now as well after back-to-back losses. The Wildcats do have one respectable win this year, taking down Providence at the start of the season. 

Key Trends:

- Northwestern is already 6-2 ATS this year as an underdog (and 3-1 ATS as a road dog.) 

- The Wildcats are 5-3 ATS this season vs. teams with winning records.

- Indiana is already 0-2 ATS this year as a home favorite in the 12.5 to 18 points range.

The verdict: Clearly Indiana is the better team. But I believe the desperate Wildcats come in under the radar here and cover with the large spread they've been afforded tonight; grab the points! 

My 10* GAME OF THE YEAR is on Nebraska.

The 6-8 Nebraska Cornhuskers close out a five-game home stand in need of a victory. An upset here over 10-4 Iowa would go a long way in helping turn the season around. Nebraska has won three of the last five in the series, including 93-91 in OT last March. 

The Hawkeyes look poised for a letdown here though in my opinion after their 89-86 loss to Penn State last time out. There were ten ties and 30 lead changes in that contest, so after that emotional setback, everything points to another letdown tonight. Iowa averages 83 PPG and it concedes 81.3. 

Nebraska averages 74 and it concedes 77. On paper, clearly the Hawkeyes have the advantage. But situationally and motivationally, I believe the Huskers have the advantage tonight. 

Key Trends:

- Iowa is a poor 6-18 ATS in its last 24 road games.

- The Hawkeyes are just 1-3 ATS in their last four after scoring 85 points or more in two straight games.

- Nebraska is 18-10 ATS in its last 18 after failing to cover the spread in its last game (including 5-2 ATS this year.) 

The verdict: CJ Fredrick is listed as questionable for the visitors as well, as he sprained his ankle in the loss to the Nittany Lions. The visitors are the better team on most nights, but not tonight. I'm grabbing the points and expecting a battle until the final horn!

My 10* BIG TIGER is on Mississippi Valley State.

These are two very poor teams. Arkansas-Pine Bluff is 1-11. Mississippi State Valley is 1-12. That said, I don't think that the home floor advantage can be overlooked as a very real deciding factor in this particular contest. 

Not only that, but the Devils play with revenge here after getting smoked by Arkansas Pine Bluff 91-57 last March. 

Key Trends:

- Arkansas Pine-Bluff is just 2-7 ATS in its last nine as a road favorite.

- Mississippi Valley State is 9-4 ATS in its last 13 as a home dog in the -2 to -5.5 range after a three-games or longer losing streak.

The verdict: These teams are evenly matched, but the situational and trend based factors working in favor of the home side today make it the correct call; play on the Devils!

My 10* CASH-BOMB is on San Jose State.

I think 13-2 New Mexico comes into this one complacent vs. hungry 4-10 San Jose State. The Spartans come in off a confidence building 83-68 win over Pepperdine as well, with guar Brae Ivey scoring a career high 23 points. 

UNM most recently got the better of UC Davis 74-69 on Sunday, anchored by 20 points from Corey Manigault. The Lobos though struggled to pull away and depth is a concern with a couple lingering injuries to two starters. 

Key Trends:

- SJSU is 7-2 ATS in its last nine road games following a victory in which it won and held its opponent to 70 points or less in.

- The Lobos are interestingly 0-5 ATS in their last five road games vs. a team with a home winning percentage of less than .400.

The verdict: The Spartans only lost to ranked Utah State by 12 points and they come in off their biggest win of the year. The Lobos on the other hand are starting to show "cracks in the armor" after their extended run. I think the "hungrier" team keeps it closer than what Las Vegas is trying to lead us to believe here; grab the points!

My 10* MID-MAJOR MAULING on NC Wilmington.

UNCW is 5-9 and Drexel is 7-7. The Seahawks though have dominated this mathcup, as they've won seven of the last eight SU, including going 5-2 ATS in the last seven. That said, Drexel won the last game last year by 12 points as a 4.5 point favorite, meaning that the "revenge factor" also comes into play here for the visiting side. UNCW averages 73 PPG

The Dragons come in off a loss as wel to Charleston on Friday and I think they're set up for a letdown here as well. 

Key Trends:

- UNCW is 15-5 ATS in its last 20 off a loss vs. a conference rival.

- Drexel is just 2-4 ATS at home this year. 

The verdict: I think the high-flying Seahawks keep this one close down the stretch; grab the points!