The highly anticipated matchup between the New Mexico Lobos and the Marquette Golden Eagles is set to take place in the NCAA Tournament. Scheduled for tip-off at 7:25 p.m. ET on TBS, this game promises excitement for college basketball fans and bettors alike. Currently, Marquette is favored by 4 points on the spread, with a moneyline of -180. The total points for the game have been set at 152.5, making it a compelling matchup for those interested in college basketball betting.
As we dive into the predictions for the New Mexico vs. Marquette game, my pick leans towards the Lobos winning outright with a moneyline of +152. This bet presents a strong opportunity, especially with the best odds available at Caesars. For all your college basketball betting needs, don't forget to check out our live NCAAB odds page to find the best lines and stay updated.
For this matchup, here are the key betting odds:
New Mexico vs. Marquette Spread: Marquette -4 Over/Under: 152.5 points Moneyline: Marquette -180, New Mexico +150 Best Bet: New Mexico ML +152As the tournament approaches, I've been eager to fade Marquette, and this matchup provides a perfect opportunity. My recommendation is to back the New Mexico Lobos on the moneyline at +150. Under the guidance of coach Richard Pitino, the Lobos boast elite guard play that can match up well against Marquette's Kam Jones. Notably, Donovan Dent has been outstanding this season, averaging over 20 points per game, which significantly fuels the Lobos' offensive strategy.
Moreover, New Mexico holds a competitive edge in the shot-volume battle against Marquette. They can achieve this by effectively crashing the offensive boards and winning the turnover battle. When we analyze the stats since February 1, the rankings reveal a surprising closeness: Marquette sits at 45th, while New Mexico is at 48th, despite the Golden Eagles competing in the more prestigious Big East and the Lobos in the Mountain West. This indicates that the game may be more of a toss-up than it initially appears.
It's also essential to consider the coaching history as we approach this tournament matchup. Shaka Smart, the head coach for Marquette, has faced challenges in the NCAA Tournament, with a track record of six first-round exits. This raises questions about his ability to lead the Golden Eagles deep into the tournament. Given these factors, I'm confident in my choice to back the Lobos in this critical game.
In conclusion, as the New Mexico Lobos prepare to face off against the Marquette Golden Eagles, the predictions and betting insights suggest an exciting encounter. With a close statistical matchup and coaching considerations, this game is set to be a must-watch for college basketball enthusiasts and bettors alike.