(9) Tennessee (21-12) vs. (8) Ok St. (22-11)
2009 NCAA Tournament Round 1 Action
Friday March 20, 12:25 PM ET
Dayton, OH UD Arena – East Region
The Vols are 4-2 ATS is the last 6 games. They are 4-2 ATS on neutral courts this year. The Under has hit in 8 of the last 11 games. Tennessee has a balanced scoring attack and have the deeper team.They have 8 players averaging over 10 minutes a game. They finished tied for second in the SEC. The will have the advantage inside and NCAA Tournament games are typically won inside the paint. Look for the Vols to go inside early and often to get OSU’s big men in foul trouble.
The Cowboys are 9-1 ATS in the last 10 games. However, they are just 3-9 ATS as underdogs this season. On neutral courts they are 3-3 ATS. The Under has hit in 6 or their last 8 games. They have 4 players averaging double figures and led by James Anderson with 18.6. Anderson is a very streaky shooter from behind the 3 point line. Marshall Moses is an up and coming big man but has struggled against aggressive opponents, Blake Griffin from Oklahoma. Byron Eaton strained a foot in the Big 12 tournament and has reportedly been wearing a protective boot this week.
I look for Maryland to use their toughness gained through the ACC to their advantage. Vasquez should have an outstanding game. I expect Maryland to pull off the minor upset in the first round.
I don’t think either team has an advantage athletically. Both teams try to get up and down the court. The keys are if Tennessee’s big men can own the paint and how Eaton plays with an injured foot.
Last Game Out:
Last game for Tennessee: Loss 61-64 vs. Mississippi St.
Last game for Oklahoma St: Loss 59-67 vs. Missouri
Betting Lines
Tennessee -2
Over/Under 156.5
Recent Matchups
12/18/06 Tennessee 79 Oklahoma St. 77 – OSU won ATS
12/22/05 Tennessee 73 Oklahoma St. 89 – OSU won ATS
My first round FREE PICK for Tennessee vs. Oklahoma St.
Lean – Tennessee -2
Pick – UNDER 156.5
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Chris Hahn is a regular contributor to the Cappers Picks Blog. He’s a Wichita State Shockers season tix holder! But don’t hold that against him ok? He flat out loves his college HOOPS! Got a comment? In the mood to run a little smack? Chris wants to hear from you, so comment below!
