Sweet 16 Pick: Michigan vs. Villanova

Michigan Wolverines (19-14 SU, 15-18-0 ATS) vs. Villanova Wildcats (28-7 SU, 18-15-2 ATS)
When: Thursday March 24 2022, 7:29 PM PM (ET)
Where: AT&T Center

Point Spread: Michigan +5/Villanova -5
Total: 135
Money Line: Wolverines +185/Villanova -225
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Key Injuries

Michigan
Michigan has no reported injuries at this time.)

Villanova
Jordan Longino: Knee (QUESTIONABLE)

Recent Form

The Michigan Wolverines come into this matchup with an overall record of 19-14. On the season, the Wolverines have performed well in their 12 non-conference games, posting a record of 8-4. In addition to their strong non-conference record, Michigan has played well on neutral courts. Through 6 games, the Wolverines are 4-2 away from home. Heading into this matchup, the Wolverines are looking to stay hot, as they try to add on to their current 2 game win streak.

The Villanova Wildcats get set to host the Wolverines with an overall record of 28-7. On the season, the Wildcats have performed well in their 12 non-conference games, posting a record of 9-3. In addition to their strong non-conference record, Villanova has a good record at neutral sites. Through 9 games, the Wildcats is 8-1. Heading into this matchup, the Wildcats are looking to pick up their 8th straight win.

For the season, the Michigan Wolverines are averaging 73.2 points per game, good for a rank of 88th in the NCAA. Defensively, the Wolverines allow 70 points per contest (170th). On the other side, the Villanova Wildcats are the 98th ranked scoring offense, averaging 72.8 points per game, while giving up an average 62.9, placing them 22nd in the NCAA.

Efficiency Outlook

Villanova enters this matchup vs Michigan, having played 32 games as the more efficient offense and defensive team. In these contests, they have posted a record of 27-5. Through 35 games, the Wildcats are averaging 77.0 points per 70.0 possessions (NCAA Average), compared to 74.0 for the Wildcats. In these situations, Villanova has an average scoring margin of 11.0 points. On the other side, the Wolverines are 0-1 as the inferior team on both ends of the court. In this game, they lost by a margin of 18.0 points.

For the year, the Wolverines are well below the NCAA average in percentage of points from made three-point shots, sitting at just 25.7%. This is unlike the Wildcats, who have relied on made three-pointers for 38.6% of their scoring, placing them well above the NCAA average.

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Betting Trends Worth Noting

• Wolverines are 9-1-1 ATS in their last 11 neutral site games as an underdog.
• Wolverines are 4-1 ATS in their last 5 NCAA Tournament games.
• Wildcats are 17-4 ATS in their last 21 NCAA Tournament games as a favorite.
• Wildcats are 5-2 ATS in their last 7 neutral site games.

Joe’s Pick Against the Spread

When you’re hot you’re hot and when you’re not you’re not! Michigan has seemingly caught fire and presents matchup problems vs. a really good Villanova team. This isn’t a lock by any means, but I’m taking the points with the team that caught fire at the right time; Michigan! Bet your Wolverines vs. Wildcats pick and ALL your March Madness bets for FREE this week by taking advantage of a 100% REAL CASH bonus on your first deposit of $100 to $1000 at Betnow Sportsbook! It’s the biggest real cash bonus you’ll ever find from a legit online sportsbook!