4/02/05

Louisville vs Illinois (Under 145.5) - 3:05pm Pacific - Game #811-812

This is a matchup of two teams who do not get credit for their strong defensive play.  Illinois allows opposing teams just 60.8ppg while Louisville allows only 63.9ppg and ranks 5th nationally in field goal percentage defense.  Both teams are often thought of fast paced but actually are very versatile in that they can be successful in any type of game tempo.  Both teams really excel in transition defense, they do not give up anything easy.  Both teams appear to matchup well with each other defensively.  I do not see any mismatches on paper.  With this being the first game of the night and being played in an unfamiliar dome, there is a fair chance of a slower than normal start for both teams.    

 

Added Look:  Under 145.5   1/2 UNIT

 

Michigan State vs North Carolina (Over 157) - 5:45pm Pacific - Game #813-814

The Tar Heels are clearly the best offensive team in the country.  They have at least three NBA caliber offensive players in the starting lineup alone.  They average 89.3ppg on the season.  They can score inside, shoot threes, score in transition, and have a great point guard running the show.  Michigan State has been running more in more in the latter parts of the season.  I have been surprised to see how fast they get the ball in bounds and attack even off of made baskets in recent games.  Their 3-point shooting has given opponents fits.  They can put 4, sometimes even 5 three point shooting threats on the court at the same time.  UNC gives up an average of 7.7 made threes per game.  There are going to be plenty of scoring flurries in this matchup and the total should get to into the 160's.

 

Added Look:  Over 157.5  1/2 UNIT