The Michigan Wolverines fell short of capturing the Big Ten tournament crown, but Dusty May’s squad is still boasting a talented roster destined for a deep March Madness run.
As the top seed in the Midwest region, they began their road to Indianapolis opposite the No. 16 Howard Bison.
Howard outlasted UMBC in Tuesday’s First Four action, and now they look to carry that momentum into Thursday’s first-round matchup.
Michigan is a 31-point favorite, per bet365 Sportsbook, with the Over/Under set at 150.5 points.
Howard vs. Michigan prediction, best bet
This game falls into the David vs. Goliath category in the opening week of the NCAA Tournament.
Michigan’s 89.0 adjusted defense efficiency is the best in the nation per KenPom and will give Howard fits.
The Wolverines are seeking their seventh consecutive Sweet 16 appearance as they’ve advanced to the second weekend of the tournament six straight seasons in a row.
Their transfer portal haul of Yaxel Lendeborg, Elliot Cadeau, Morez Johnson Jr. and Aday Mara has taken the program to new heights.
Lendeborg took home Conference Player of the Year honors, averaging 14.7 points and 7.2 rebounds per game, while Mara was named Defensive Player of the Year.
It’s simply unfair to think Howard could generate any form of offensive execution opposite the nation’s top defense, and asking them to do so in their second game in just three days is a huge ask.
The Bison’s scoring punch is provided by Bryce Harris and Cedric Taylor III, who each average 17.1 points per game.
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However, this season, the Wolverines’ stifling team defense helped them set a Big Ten record with 24 double-digit wins, including 10 by 30+ points and seven by 40+ points.
You can pencil in another for May and his team, as I expect them to flex their muscle in this one.
Tired legs for the Bison are unlikely to keep up, and this Michigan team has its sights set on April.
The Play: Michigan -31.5 (-105, BetMGM)
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Mike Turay is a sports journalist and editor who closely follows the NBA, NFL, college sports and UFC. He has demonstrated expertise in both NBA and NFL player prop bets for nearly three years. Mike is also highly knowledgeable about the sportsbook offer landscape, frequently trying and reviewing the latest apps and sites.
