YESTERDAY: 1-3 (-20 units)
APRIL: 2-7 (-53 units)
ALL TIME: 56-57-4 (-9.7 units)

RECAP: The only one to have our backs was Lebron James. The Blackhawks never showed up and got worked this series. It is embarrassing to talk about. San Jose almost had the win but couldn't score in over time. We will move on and make it back today.

Cleveland Indians at Chicago White Sox OVER 7 RUNS
7:10pm central
(10 units wagered, 10 units won)

Kluber and Quintana. On paper you would think these two pitchers would be in for a low scoring game. I believe sooner rather than later they will get to that point. However both of these pitchers have had slow starts. Both pitchers have ERAs over 6.00 to start the season. If you are a fan of either of these clubs I wouldn't be too concerned about the pitcher. They are both veterans and the season is just getting started. When it comes to betting however, I am going to follow the trend. I am looking for at least one of these pitchers to continue their slow start. That should allow for the over to cover easily. Take the over in runs here.


HOUSTON ROCKETS +2.5 at Oklahoma City Thunder
8:30pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

In order to keep the game close Russell Westbrook has to be on fire every night. In the first game of the series we saw a Westbrook who couldn't stop turning the ball over. In game two he was able to calm down have a crazy game. He had 51 points, 13 assists, and 10 rebounds... and they still lost the game. I know they are on their home floor, but I don't know how much better Westbrook can play than that. I guess you can argue he went 17 of 43 and he may make more of his shots in this game. I just feel when you put up 43 shots your field goal percentage is going to go down. They need Westbrook to keep shooting, I just don't know if he can pull out games against a team that is far deeper than his. Any other season Harden would be a lock for MVP and he has a much more talented team around him. Also OKC is not a three point shooting team. They may be able to play well in the paint against a Houston team that is weak defensively inside. This won't matter if Houston is hitting their threes, which they shoot more than anyone else. It may be a close one tonight but I feel Houston should win this one. Take the points for comfort.

YESTERDAY: 0-2 (-21.5 units)
APRIL: 1-4 (-33 units)
ALL TIME: 55-54-4 (+10.3 units)

RECAP: Been awhile. This month has started out slowly. We will make a few picks today to get us back on the right track.

BOSTON RED SOX -178 at Toronto Blue Jays
Philadelphia Phillies at NEW YORK METS -183
11:37am and 6:10pm central
(10 units wagered, 14 units won)


Both of these pitchers are amazing to watch. Syndergaard has a 0.95 ERA to start the season while Sale has a 1.25 ERA. I look for both of these pitchers to continue their hot starts and own these games. Chris Sale is known for hot starts as he went 9-0 to begin the season last year for the White Sox. He will be getting more run support this year with the Boston Red Sox and should be able to win games more easily. Both these teams should win low scoring games. Feel safe to parlay them here.

CLEVELAND CAVALIERS -2 at Indiana Pacers

6pm central

(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

LEBRON JAMES. 

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS +105 at Nashville Predators
7pm central
(10 units wagered, 10.5 units won)

Since the start of the Hawks playoff run in 2010, they are 27-30 in games 1-3. That leaves them 40-13 in games 4-7. The Hawks haven't looked great in any game this series. It seems the Predators want it more. I just can't see this team getting swept. They have dug themselves out of holes before and have three Stanley Cups to show for it. I look for Q to shake things up and show the Predators some lines they haven't seen before. Take the Hawks tonight as they claw their way back.

SAN JOSE SHARKS at Edmonton Oilers
9:30pm central
(10 units wagered, 11 units won)

Experience is huge in the playoffs. San Jose has much more of it. They are a veteran team who has been here before and knows what it takes to get it done. The Edmonton Oilers are similar to the Toronto Maples Leafs. A young team that is succeeding faster than some expected. They are competitive and can play with anyone. Connor McDavid is a true star. I just feel they need to feel heart break before taking the next step. They got smoked by the Sharks in game 4 losing 7-0. I look for the Sharks to pour it on again here.

YESTERDAY: 1-1 (-0.5 units)
APRIL: 1-2 (-11.5 units)
ALL TIME: 55-52-4 (+31.8 units)

RECAP: Honestly, I thought we lost both bets before checking the next day. The Suns and Kings both were struggling to score in the first half. I had given up and gone to bed. Waking up to see no one had missed in the second half was a pleasant surprise. Moving on!

Chicago White Sox at Cleveland Indians UNDER 8.5 RUNS
5:10pm central
(11.5 units wagered, 10 units won)

The White Sox have not had a game go over 8 runs since opening day. They struggle to score and the pitching has been decent. They should be in for another low scoring game today. These two pitchers could let up some runs. My feeling is neither of these teams have their bats going yet. Until proven otherwise, I am going to follow the trend. Take the under here.

Toronto Maple Leafs at WASHINGTON CAPITALS -1.5 +140
6pm central
(10 units wagered, 14 units won)

Every year this Capitals team lead by Alexander Ovechkin, comes up short. They stall at some point in the playoffs and end up going home before the Stanley Cup. I don't think this Capitals team is any different. With that in mind the Maple Leafs haven't been in the playoffs for some time. Their talent is mostly young and still being groomed. They also aren't the best on the defensive end. The last time the two teams played Washington won 4-1. I think Washington looks to set the tone for the series here. Take the Caps tonight as they look to protect home ice.

YESTERDAY: 0-1 (-11 units)
APRIL: 0-1 (-11 units)
ALL TIME: 54-51-4 (+32.3 units)

RECAP: I apologize for the break. With college basketball being over, it has been harder to find picks. We have NBA and NHL playoff action on the horizon. MLB has kicked off as well. Today we have a couple picks that I feel confident about.


Chicago White Sox at Cleveland Indians OVER 8.5
3:10pm central
(10.5 units wagered, 10 units won)

James Shields may have had a good game his first outing of the season. I am just not buying it yet. He had a 6.77 ERA for the White Sox last season in 114 innings pitched. The Cleveland Indians are a great team. It is possible they will put up 8 runs by themselves. The White Sox will need a few runs of their own if they want to make it a game. I look for them to get over 8.5 no problem.


Phoenix Suns at Sacramento Kings OVER 221.5
9:30pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Both teams have nothing left to defend over. Their young players are trying to put up numbers and prove that they belong in the league. The Suns have gone over 5 of their last 6 games. Sacramento scares me a little bit, having only gone over 2 of their last 4. However this shouldn't be a problem due to the lack of defense on the Suns part. I'm taking the over here, as I think both teams could have close to 120 points.

YESTERDAY: 0-0 (0 units)
APRIL: 0-0 (0 units)
ALL TIME: 54-50-4 (+43.3 units)

RECAP: I'm back, rejuvenated, ready to go. March Madness is over, and what a crazy month it was. The start was something some people thought I would never come back from. Then we went on a 11 game win streak to put us back ahead. We ended -5 but the month of February was enough to keep us ahead. We ride on to the month of April. It may seem like there are less options during this month, and that may be true. Instead we have excitement as MLB is back, and the NHL/NBA playoff races begin.

BOSTON CELTICS -1.5 at Atlanta Hawks
5pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

The Celtics got embarrassed against Cleveland last night. Lebron was able to do whatever he wanted against them. He would constantly put Isaiah Thomas in pick and roll defensive situations. The Cavs proved that the Celtics with be no match for them in the playoffs. The Hawks aren't the Cavs. I don't see them giving Boston the same trouble. Atlanta has a lot of players coming back from injury, and I am not sure how many minutes they will be getting. Millsap is a force, but he has been out for a while and maybe need to get back in the grove.  The Celtics will spread the floor with their big men. Even if Atlanta can score on Boston they won't be able to keep up. Take the Celtics tonight.

YESTERDAY: 1-2 (-12 units)
MARCH: 34-32-3 (-5 units)
ALL TIME: 54-50-4 (+43.3 units)

RECAP: Thank you Portland for saving us from a disastrous day. Today, there really isn't too much out there to be picked. We will hold off until tomorrow. I will be out of town until April 6th starting tomorrow. There will be picks posted throughout the week. Good Luck everyone who's brackets aren't already busted.

YESTERDAY: 3-2 (+8 units)
MARCH: 33-30-3 (+7 units)
ALL TIME: 53-48-4 (+55.3 units)

RECAP: Last outing we were able to make some units. I really thought Florida would be able to beat South Carolina no problem. We did get lucky on Kentucky, so I guess it's a fair tradeoff. Nothing seemed great yesterday so we took the day off. Today the NBA has a couple picks for us to make, along with one pick in the NIT semifinals.

Golden State Warriors at Houston Rockets OVER 233.5
7pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Threes, Threes, Threes. These two teams love to shoot threes. Combined these two average over 70 shots per game from beyond the arc. The Rockets easily went over this spread last game against OKC and I expect them to come out firing once again. Houston also allows the 6th most points per game in the NBA. Any way you look at it, there are going to be a lot points. 233.5 is a high number, but I am confident these teams will hit that mark. Take the over tonight and watch the threes rain.


TCU Horned Frogs at UCF KNIGHTS +2.5
8pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

At first glance one might think TCU should be the pick for this game. They are rated higher in the Kenpom ratings. TCU has a decent offense and defense. When you look further you will find that one category sticks out. UCF is 17th in that nation in adjusted defensive efficiency. One thing I have learned from watching South Carolina in the NCAA Tournament is that defense wins you big time games. If your shots aren't falling, you still can win a game if you have the defense to stop the other team. UCF will lock the Horned Frogs down tonight.


Denver Nuggets at PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS -2
9pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

These two teams are battling for the eighth seed in the West, a spot that Portland currently holds. They are on their home floor with a opportunity to make the gap one game wider in the standings. Portland has won 6 of their last 7 and Damian Lillard has looked like a man on a mission. He has had more than 20 points in each of his last twelve games. He was under 25 points in only four of those twelve. I expect Lillard to be in attack mode early. Denver won't be able to stop it. Take Portland here in this race for the final playoff spot. On a side note, these two teams made a interesting trade this season. Should be fun to watch those players go at their old teams.

YESTERDAY: 1-1 (-1 unit)
MARCH: 30-28-3 (-1 unit)
ALL TIME: 50-46-4 (+47.3 units)

RECAP: Decent night last night. Weird stuff happens in the Elite Eight. We somehow covered the under in the first game. with 3:53 left they were 12 points away, and somehow didn't hit that total. I really thought Kansas was the better team and would win that matchup more times than not. Unfortunately last night was not one of those times. Lazy Sunday, so this will be quick.

South Carolina Gamecocks at FLORIDA GATORS -3.5
1:20pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

THIS MADNESS ENDS NOW

Oklahoma City Thunder at HOUSTON ROCKETS -6
2:30pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

This game is going to be amazing to watch. Two players facing off, having historic seasons. The Rockets simply are the better team. I expect both players to push for triple doubles, with the Rockets coming out on top, in a high scoring W. Take the Rockets this afternoon.

KENTUCKY WILDCATS +2.5 at North Carolina Tar Heels
4:05pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

This game is going to be insane as well. I'm going with De'aaron Fox and Malik Monk.

Miami Heat at Boston Celtics UNDER 210.5
5pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

No Dion Waiters. These two teams are battling to move up in the standings. I think both defenses show up tonight.

PORTLAND TRAILBLAZERS -6.5 at Los Angeles Lakers
8:30pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Portland sits at 9th in the West. They need every win they can get. They should look to crush this Lakers team.

YESTERDAY: 1-2-1 (-12 units)
MARCH: 29-27-3 (+0 units)
ALL TIME: 49-45-4 (+48.3 units)

RECAP: Not a terrible day yesterday. It looked pretty bad in the beginning with both Butler and Baylor getting spanked. Thankfully Kentucky was able to pull through. Florida really should have won that game in regulation, but I will leave this alone to spare my Badger friends. On to the Elite Eight. We have a couple tough spreads tonight so we may need to get creative.

Xavier Musketeers at Gonzaga Bulldogs UNDER 145
5:09pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Gonzaga's defense is easily one of the best in the country. I think it will be tough for Xavier, who does have a solid offense, to score on The Zags. If Xavier can keep it close with their defense... as I believe they will, This game should end with these teams in the 60s. The one scary thing here is if Gonzaga does in fact blow out Xavier. If they do they may go over, or Xavier still won't score enough to hit 145. This is the Elite Eight, anything can happen. In most scenarios I see this game hitting the under. Go Defense!

TEASER ALERT: Xavier Musketeers at GONZAGA BULLDOGS -4.5 and Oregon Ducks at KANSAS JAYHAWKS -3.5
5:09pm and 7:49pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

My grandpa has always told me that teasers are sucker bets. He is usually right, so I try to avoid them. However, this is the Elite Eight and we are a group of degenerates after all. Anything can happen in the Madness that is March. That being said, Gonzaga and Kansas are the better teams here. The original spreads of -8.5 and -7.5 seemed a little high for a Elite Eight game.  I am much more comfortable at these lower spreads. It would be nice if we could get good odds at these spreads individually. Unfortunately we can't and will be hoping for both favorites to cover. Lets see it #1 seeds!

YESTERDAY: 3-0 (+30 units)
MARCH: 28-25-2 (+12 units)
ALL TIME: 48-43-3 (+60.3 units)

RECAP: Great start to the Sweet Sixteen round picks. We are taking on another three tonight. Onward!

BUTLER BULLDOGS +7 at North Carolina Tar Heels
6:09pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Every year it seems Butler is making another run at it. That is just a fantastic feeling for a Hoosier fan. That all should change when my dreams come true, and they get Billy Donovan... but back to the task at hand. Butler sits at 24 in the Kenom rankings. Thats a pretty solid ranking. UNC is rated higher but when it comes to the Sweet Sixteen if you get two talented teams, you should be in for a close game. Last night we went with Xavier +7.5. This game has a similar feel to me. Butler is a solid team on both ends of the floor, as is Xavier. Look for them to keep it close and maybe even pull of the upset.

South Carolina Gamecocks at BAYLOR BEARS -3
6:29pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

South Carolina isn't a great team. They have been able to win games in this tournament because they can throw people off with their strong defense. They have played two offensive minded teams in Duke and Marquette. Baylor, is a much stronger defensive team than both of them. Johnathan Motley is a freak. I think the Gamecocks come back to earth in this game, and get knocked out of the Sweet Sixteen.

UCLA BRUINS at KENTUCKY WILDCATS +1.5
8:39pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

You can make an argument that Lonzo Ball is the best player in the country. That being said, I think this Kentucky team has more star power. It seems like every person on the team who touches the ball is a freak of nature. De'aaron Fox has become one of my favorite players in the country to watch. Pair him with Malik Monk and I don't know how they can be stopped. UCLA can put up a lot of points, but they don't always defend well. Kentucky can keep up, and defend. I look for Kentucky to play whatever type of game they need to in order to secure victory. Take the Wildcats tonight.

Wisconsin Badgers at FLORIDA GATORS -1
8:59pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Wisconsin is a good team. They did not deserve to be seeded where they were. They have proved their point. Now it is time for them to face a Gators team that can play whatever style of basketball it needs to. A lot teams struggle with Wisconsin's "Hold the ball until the other team, and viewers at home fall asleep offense". I don't think the Gators will. They are a good offensive team and one of the the best defensive teams in the country. The seniors at Wisconsin wanted to prove they could do something on their own, and they did. They proved they could get knocked out in the Sweet Sixteen. Go Gators!

YESTERDAY: 0-1 (-11 units)
MARCH: 25-25-2 (-18 units)
ALL TIME: 45-43-3 (+30.3 units)


RECAP: Overall the Kenpom ratings were not enough for GW to have an easy win. UIC used their home floor advantage to beat us. Big night in March Madness tonight, as the Sweet Sixteen starts. Picks ahead!


Michigan Wolverines at OREGON DUCKS +1
6:09pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

This Wolverines team has a great back story. I believe that has people thinking they are better than they are. Oregon has had some great wins this season. Without rim protecter Chris Boucher, The Ducks haven't missed a beat. They did have a close game with a Rhode Island team that I thought was very talented. They have proven they can still play and close out games. Dillon Brooks, Jordan Bell, and crew should come out determined, as they have had Final Four aspirations all season.



Purdue Boilermakers at KANSAS JAYHAWKS -5
8:39pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Freshman Josh Jackson has looked incredible lately. The one and done talent truly wants to leave his mark on March Madness. With Frank Mason III's leadership, I have this team making a run to the Final Four. Purdue relies too heavily on their big men. Kansas should attack them early looking to put them in foul trouble. This late in the game, season stats don't matter. These games are all about match ups and who shows up on a given night. I predict The Jayhawks take this one.


XAVIER MUSKETEERS +7.5 at Arizona Wildcats
9:09pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

These teams are only 12 apart in the Kenpom. Arizona has definitely shown more this season. That being said, this is 7.5 points in a Sweet Sixteen game. The Musketeers have a strong offense and defense. They should be able to keep up with Arizona throughout the game. I am taking Xavier here with the points.

YESTERDAY: 1-3 (-23 units)
MARCH: 25-24-2 (-7 units)
ALL TIME: 45-42-3 (+41.3 units)

RECAP: Not a great day yesterday, but could have easily gone the other way. Kentucky missed by half a point, and The Cavs didn't turn it on until the 4th quarter. Our confidence hasn't been shaken, we will move on to a brighter day. A little slow after last weeks madness. However I was able to find us a solid pick.

GEORGE WASHINGTON COLONIALS -6 at UIC Flames
7pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Die hard UIC Flames fan Taso Hinaris has informed me that tonight would be a great night to attack his beloved alma mater. I can't name one player who has played for UIC.... ever. On the other hand Pops Mensah-Bonsu has me fired up for the Colonials tonight. He probably won't play but his spirit lives on for GW nation. The guy was a monster. If you couldn't tell already, I don't know much about either of these teams. That being said the Kenpom has UIC at 243. George Washington sits at 125. Historically UIC has been bad, George Washington has had a team here and there. Seeing the Kenpom ratings and the other teams that UIC has gotten stomped by, I am confident George Washington will cover the spread. Go Colonials!

YESTERDAY: 3-2 (+8 units)
MARCH: 24-21-2 (+16 units)
ALL TIME: 44-39-3 (+64.3 units)

RECAP: Crazy up and down day. Iowa State waited until late in the game to show life. By then it was too late. We needed the Rockets at the end of the night to cover in order to go positive for the night. Thankfully they did... barely. More picks!


Wichita State Shockers at KENTUCKY WILDCATS -3.5
1:40pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Everyone knows this Wichita State team was under seeded. Unfortunately for them, they are running into a team who's athleticism they can't match. This Kentucky team is more like a NBA D-League team. It is going to take a team who can match their athleticism and ability to score for 40 minutes to defeat them. I don't see the Shockers as that team. We are going Kentucky here.


RHODE ISLAND RAMS +5.5 at Oregon Ducks
6:10pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

The battle of torn ACLs. E.C Matthews is an amazing story. After tearing his ACL last year he has his team in the 2nd round of the tournament. On the other side, Oregon lost one of their best interior defenders Chris Boucher for the season to a torn ACL. I think E.C and the Rams take advantage of the Duck's misfortune. They will be able to score in the paint more easily, while E.C continues to hit his shots. Go Rams!


South Carolina Gamecocks at DUKE BLUE DEVILS -6.5
7:40pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

We picked against South Carolina last game and it bit us. Our reason for attacking them was simple. They play good defense, but if the other team can go on a run, sometimes the struggle to keep up. Duke is a different beast than Marquette who blew it for us. There is a reason they are a 2 seed here. They also have become hot at the right time. I expect them to continue their hot play and crush the Gamecocks tonight. Go Blue Devils.


CLEVELAND CAVALIERS -11.5 at Los Angeles Lakers
8:30pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

James, Love, and Irving all sat last night. I hope they are rested, because we are taking them tonight against the lowly Lakers. At this point in the season we know who both of these teams are. The Cavs are only 1.5 games above The Celtics in the standings. I think they don't leave this game up to chance tonight, and blow the Lakers out early.

YESTERDAY: 1-3 (-23 units)
MARCH: 21-19-2 (+8 units)
ALL TIME: 41-37-3 (+56.3 units)

RECAP: We had a couple close ones yesterday, that didn't go in our favor. New Mexico State was winning at halftime and covering most of the game. UCLA allowed 3 offensive rebounds in Kent State's last possession, because Vegas told them to. Marquette was a risky play we should have stayed away from. We did come out on top with the Rhode Island Rams which helped save our totals for the day. No write ups... Just Saturday's picks ahead.

XAVIER MUSKETEERS +7 at Florida State Seminoles
5:10pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

MIDDLE TENNESSEE BLUE RAIDERS +3 at Butler Bulldogs
6:10pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Virginia Cavaliers at FLORIDA GATORS -1.5
7:40pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

IOWA STATE CYCLONES PK at Purdue Boilermakers
8:40pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

NON MARCH MADNESS PICKS:

HOUSTON ROCKETS -2.5 at Denver Nuggets
8:30pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

YESTERDAY: 5-0 (+50 units)
MARCH: 20-16-2 (+31 units)
ALL TIME: 40-34-3 (+79.3 units)

RECAP: 11 straight hits going into the 2nd day of March Madness. That has to be a record somewhere. Northwestern and Arizona could have easily gone the other way, so there is always luck involved. Our luck had to change after that terrible start to the month. We will stay smart and collected. Here are my day 2 picks.

NEW MEXICO STATE AGGIES +11.5 at Baylor Bears
11:40am central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

The Aggies aren't going to beat you from deep which is one thing you are looking for in a upset game. That being said there are a couple other things at play here that make me believe New Mexico State will cover. New Mexico State sits at 10th in free throw rate in the country. This team is going to get to the line. Baylor relies heavily on Johnathan Motley. I look for the Aggies to attack him early and see if they can get him in foul trouble. Also what they lack in three point shooting ability they make up for by getting to the foul line, as well as making their two point shots. They are 22nd in the nation at 2 point offense. Both teams turn the ball over more than we would like, but with New Mexico State's small ball lineup they have one of the best transition defenses in the country. I don't know if The Aggies can win this one, but they should definitely cover.


RHODE ISLAND RAMS -1 at Creighton Blue Jays
3:30pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

In the tournament it is always fun to have big time players on your side. E.C Matthews is a big time player. In fact he will be the only big time player in this game due to Creighton losing Mo Watson earlier in the season. Kenpom has these teams pretty evenly matched. In a evenly matched game in the tournament, I look for the best player on the court to take over. This should be a close one but I think the Rams come out on top.


MARQUETTE GOLDEN EAGLES +1 at South Carolina Gamecocks
8:50pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

These teams sit right next to each other in the Kenpom but have two completely different styles of play. South Carolina looks to suffocate you with their defense, while Marquette looks to out score you with their offense. This game should be close however, if Marquette is able to go on a strong run at at any point, I don't trust the Gamecocks offense to get them back into the game.  Take the Golden Eagles tonight as their offense soars past the Gamecocks.



Kent State Golden Flashes at UCLA BRUINS -18.5
8:57pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Lonzo Ball, Lonzo Ball, Lonzo Ball. UCLA scores 90 a game, way more than everyone else. UCLA should be able to win by atleast 20.

YESTERDAY: 2-0 (+20 units)
MARCH: 15-16-2 (-19 units)
ALL TIME: 35-34-3 (+29.3 units)

RECAP: 6 straight hits going into March Madness. Gotta Love that momentum. The Pacers crushed the Hornets in Indy last night. Thank you Pacers. We were a little more worried about the Trojans. USC struggled for most of the game, but were able to pull it out when Providence's offense stuttered. Today March Madness begins. Good luck everyone with your brackets. I will keep these short and sweet so we can focus on watching basketball.

UNC WILMINGTON SEAHAWKS +8 at Virginia Cavaliers
11:40am central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Noah has a really good writeup on this one here. It's hard not to give a shout out to Noah during March Madness. He has been all over CBB picks this year. Virginia can sometimes struggle to score. They average 66.6 points per game. The Cavaliers defense can stifle any offense, even a Seahawks offense that averages over 85 ppg. That being said if Wilmington can play their style of play for most of the game they should be able to cover the spread. Take the Seahawks this morning as we get our tournament started.

BUCKNELL BISON +13.5 at West Virginia Mountaineers
1:45pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Last time West Virginia played, they burned us and we took an L. They are 8-4 over their last 12 games which is nothing spectacular. Bucknell plays great defense averaging 67.4 opponent points per game. The Mountaineer's offense is most likely better than anything Bucknell has seen all season. However if West Virginia's offense struggles at any point Bucknell will be able to cover the spread. Bucknell shoots the ball well, and will use this to keep the game close. We are trusting the Bison defense here, to get it done.



Vanderbilt Commodores at NORTHWESTERN WILDCATS +2
3:30pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

The storyline here is amazing.  Coach Chris Collins has the Wildcats in the tournament for the first time in team history. I believe the team isn't satisfied yet. They will be satisfied after their first round win, and getting stomped by Gonzaga in the second round. Vanderbilt is 34th in the Kenpom ratings, while Northwestern sits at 37th. These are two evenly matched teams, which makes me even more comfortable taking the points. Both teams have balanced scoring throughout their lineups. They both take pride in their defense as well. Vanderbilt relies on a lot of threes, hoisting up the 3rd most in the SEC, to stay in games. If Northwestern can slow the game down and defend the three point line they should be able to ensure a loss in the second round.

VCU Rams at SAINT MARY'S GAELS -4.5
6:20pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Saint Mary's is 28-4 this season. They have lost to Gonzaga 3 times. I don't believe VCU, who sits 36 spots behind the Gaels in the Kenpom rankings, will be the second team other than Gonzaga to shock Saint Mary's. The Gaels allow only 56.5 point per game to opponents. VCU has not seen a defense as strong as Saint Mary's all season. I'm guessing they struggle early, and Saint Mary's will keep them from getting back into the game. Take the Gaels here as their defense suffocates the Rams.



North Dakota Fighting Hawks at ARIZONA WILDCATS -17
8:50pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

North Dakota's most notable game all season was a 11 point loss to Iowa. If they struggle to keep up with a low level Big Ten team, I can't imagine what will happen to them against one of the best teams in the PAC 12.  Not much of a thinker here. Take the Wildcats as they enjoy Hawks for dinner.

YESTERDAY: 0-0 (0 units)
MARCH: 13-16-2 (-39 units)
ALL TIME: 33-34-3 (+9.3 units)


RECAP: After a couple days off, it is time to get into the right mindset before March Madness is in full swing. Last time we went at it we were 4-0. Lets keep that momentum rolling into tonight and the tournament as well. Before getting into my picks, you should check out the best writing I have seen on this years March Madness here. If you need a little help with your bracket it is a must read. ONWARD!

USC TROJANS -2.5 at Providence Friars
8:10pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

These are two evenly matched teams, and should be a good game. The deciding factor for me here, is that USC sits at 44th in the nation in ppg, while providence is 229th. Although Providence has the better defense, I believe USC will use their athleticism that has allowed them to keep up with some of the best teams in the country, to out match the Friars. Providence just lost to a Creighton team that I really don't feel is that good. Their season should end tonight at the hands of the Trojans.

Charlotte Hornets at INDIANA PACERS - 2.5
6pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

No Batum. The game is in Indianapolis. The Hornets have been playing well as of late, but I think the Pacers will take care of business at home.

YESTERDAY: 4-0 (+40 unit)
MARCH: 13-16-2 (-39 units)
ALL TIME: 33-34-3 (+9.3 units)


RECAP: BOOOM!!!! Just like that we are back in the positives. Rhode Island and Kentucky crushed it, while Cleveland and Miami made us sweat it out. It wasn't always relaxing, but it was a satisfying Lazy Sunday. As we gear up for the NCAA Tournament we must stay patient and disciplined. With nothing popping out in the NHL or NBA today, we sit tight... and check back again tomorrow.

YESTERDAY: 1-1(-1 unit)
MARCH: 9-16-2 (-79 units)
ALL TIME: 29-34-3 (-30.7 units)

RECAP: Decent night. West Virginia didn't have the outcome we wanted. It seemed like they didn't know they were playing until they were down 10 late in the 2nd. The Bucks had it covered and were able to cover the spread, in a close game. Lazy Day Sunday, no write ups.

RHODE ISLAND RAMS -1.5 at VCU Rams
11:30am central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Arkansas Razorbacks at KENTUCKY WILDCATS -7.5
12pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

MIAMI HEAT +5 at Indiana Pacers
5pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

CLEVELAND CAVALIERS +7 at Houston Rockets
8pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

YESTERDAY: 1-1(-1 unit)
MARCH: 8-15-2 (-78 units)
ALL TIME: 28-33-3 (-29.7 units)

RECAP: Not a terrible day. The Rockets were able to win with ease. Purdue had many chances to win and cover that game. Our heads should still be held high. This is the crazy month of March after all. I can already feel our luck turning.

Minnesota Timberwolves at MILWAUKEE BUCKS -2.5
7pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Both these teams are hot and played last night. Milwaukee, had a relatively easy win at home yesterday over The Pacers.  The Timberwolves, had a game on their home floor last night, that went down to wire. They went toe to toe with the Golden State Warriors, and came out with a win. Tonight, they are due for a let down game, after their short flight to Milwaukee. Khris Middleton is shooting 50% from three since his return. It looks like he was the boost needed to get Milwaukee back on track, after losing Jabari Parker. The Bucks just grabbed the 8th seed in the Eastern Conference, and should want to hold on to it a little longer, before shuffling it through someone else. FEAR THE DEER!



Iowa State Cyclones at WEST VIRGINIA MOUNTAINEERS -2.5
5pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

This should be a fun game between two high scoring teams. Both teams average over 80 points per game. The difference between these two teams is West Virginia is 41st in the nation in points allowed per game, while Iowa State sits at 160th. Kenpom has West Virginia as the 4th best team in the nation, and the best team in the Big 12. With this game being on a neutral sight, I trust these ratings even more. Iowa State sits at 20th in the nation in the Kenpom. They are no slouches. They can shoot the three. That being said, I am trusting that The Mountaineers will do what is necessary to lock down the 3 point line and win the game.

YESTERDAY: 0-1(-11 units)
MARCH: 7-14-2 (-77 units)
ALL TIME: 27-32-3 (-28.7 units)

RECAP: The March Massacre continues. The Spurs were never really able to get it going, and we were left to pay for it. We will continue to fight, as our luck is GUARANTEED to turn soon. Getting this up for the early pick. Check back later for more.

Michigan Wolverines at PURDUE BOILERMAKERS -2.5
11am central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Purdue is the best team in the Big Ten. Their size and skill down low is incomparable to anyone else in the conference. This team knows it has something to prove, and has every intention of winning the Big Ten Tournament. Caleb Swanigan is a monster. Short write up, in time for the 11am game.

HOUSTON ROCKETS -5.5 at Chicago Bulls
7pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Tonight we go against the home town team. Chicago is currently 24th in points per game. I struggle to see how they will keep up with a team who is 2nd, averaging over 115 points. I've talked about how many threes this Houston team shoots in the past. They are currently first in made three pointers per game at 14.6. Chicago makes 6.8. Good for last in the league. If Houston is hitting their threes, as they usually are. Chicago will be in big trouble. Patrick Beverley is back in his hometown tonight. Watch for him to be playing hard in front of friends and family. As always James Harden is a triple double machine. FEAR THE BEARD. Ride with the Rockets tonight.

YESTERDAY: 1-1(-3 units)
MARCH: 7-13-2 (-66 units)
ALL TIME: 27-31-3 (-17.7 units)
EDIT: I will not be adding the 2 units to win 19.8 units hockey parlay to my record, just to my units.

RECAP: The Bulls are really bad.

SAN ANTONIO SPURS -3 at Oklahoma City Thunder
7pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

At this point in the season, we know who these teams are. It is up to Russell Westbrook to play spectacular every night for his team to compete. He has done a great job of doing this thus far, and has his team sitting 6 games above the pack of teams fighting for the 8th seed. The Spurs, with GOAT coach Gregg Popovich have kept their team at the top of the conference sitting 1 game back from first place, behind the Durantless Golden State Warriors. Pops knows how important home court advantage is, and will want the Western Conference to have to go through The AT&T center. For last nights game, Pops sat Kawhi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge, for rest purposes. Those players will be back tonight and ready to go. The Spurs aren't a full squad, and will be without Manu Ginobili and Tony Parker. That shouldn't be a problem for Kawhi who has completely taken as of late. Over his last 10 games he is averaging 30.1 points, 2.8 steals, 8.5 rebounds, and 4.5 assists. Those are Lebron numbers. The Spurs are currently on a 9 game winning streak, and have come out victorious 14 of the past 16 outings. Take the Spurs tonight as they try to take home court advantage.

YESTERDAY: 0-0(0 units)
MARCH: 6-12-2 (-63 units)
ALL TIME: 26-30-3 (-14.7 units)

RECAP: The night off really helped. The Iona loss still stings, but it must mean there are only positive units in the future. We are down but not out. ONWARD!

CHICAGO BULLS -1.5 at Orlando Magic
6pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

Both teams are coming off back to back losses. The difference between these two teams, Bulls have playoff dreams, and Orlando has lottery hopes. Jimmy Butler will be the best player on the court whenever he is out there. The Bulls may be without Rajon Rondo and Dwyane Wade tonight, but I don't believe that will be too much of an issue. Nikola Vucevic, who is averaging over 14 points and more than 10 rebounds per game for the Magic, will be out tonight as well. Orlando has the worst ppg on their home floor with 97.9 per game. Without Vucevic they may struggle to hit even that number. Jimmy should be able to carry his group of misfits past the Orlando Magic tonight, and hang on to the 8th seed in the east.... for now.

Edit: Vegas is trying to screw with us before the game even started. Jimmy Butler sat out the morning shoot around due to illness. Fred Hoiberg has stated that he is optimistic Jimmy will progress throughout the day, and be able to play. That being said the line has moved to Bulls +1.5. It seems Vegas believes that Jimmy will sit. Welcome to the exciting degenerate world of making picks. We will ride with our Bulls -1.5 pick because, here at Daily Cold Brew we don't back down. We will come out victorious no matter what is thrown our way. Pray for Jimmy, but we will be fine regardless. 


Pittsburgh Panthers at VIRGINIA CAVALIERS -9.5
8pm central
(11 units wagered, 10 units won)

These two teams played just four days ago... The outcome? A 67-42 stomping by the Cavaliers. Virginia is first in the nation in opponent points per game with a 54.9 average. In this same category Pittsburgh is ranked 231, allowing 74.7 per game. Virginia is only averaging 66.6 ppg themselves, 301st in the nation. Although this isn't a great statistic for the Cavs, if they are able to put up their average of 66 against Pittsburgh's abysmal defense... They should be in for another blow out victory. As I stated before the Panthers were only able to put up 42 points against Virginia in their last outing. If they do give up 14-15 more, closer to their average... they should still be able to put up the points necessary to win by double digits. After a four game losing streak, Virginia is hot and back at it. They have something to prove due to those losses. The ACC tournament should be a great stage to get it done. They have beaten their past 3 opponents by a combined 50 points. None of those wins were under double digits. Take Virginia tonight, as we get back into the positives.


Birthday Crazy Parlay: Dallas Stars -1.5 +250 and Pittsburgh Penguins +212
7pm central
(2 units wagered, 19.8 units won)


Throughout the past week, there has been some crazy stuff going on to ruin spreads for us. This is were Vegas apologizes and gets us back. Also, have you looked at Tyler Seguin? Wow! Low Risk, High Reward. LETS GO!