Best College Basketball Betting Picks and Predictions for Tuesday March 3rd

March Madness is just around the corner.

Deadspin’s top college basketball bets for Tuesday, March 3rd.

Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Georgia Bulldogs

The Crimson Tide are being slightly overlooked due to their early season losses. But they haven’t had a bad loss, and it’s clear they’re up against teams with big names at a high level. The only game they lost against a team without a dominant frontcourt was Vanderbilt, but Devin McGlockton and AK Okereke combined for 20 points and 20 rebounds.

The Bulldogs have been stellar this season, but have lacked consistency. More importantly, Georgia doesn’t have the size to make Alabama struggle here.

Somto Cyril is a solid option, but he’s constantly in foul trouble and generally doesn’t play big time. Without him on the floor, Georgia is too small to take advantage of this matchup. Dylan James isn’t going to cause the same problems as some of the other big-name players this team has faced.

Ultimately, this game will be a track battle between two teams focusing on offense. The difference is that Alabama has more players they can rely on consistently, and I much prefer their coaching.

It’s always difficult to win on the road in the SEC, so it’s a big price to pay here, but I’m supporting the more talented teams here.

Betting Location: Alabama Moneyline | -120 at BetMGM

BYU vs. Cincinnati

This is one of the most intriguing matchups on the slate. Cincinnati has no room for error at this point if it wants to make March Madness. They need to win their last two games and advance to the knockout stage. BYU is firmly in the NCAA Tournament but playing for a significant seeding spot.

The Bearcats have a great defense and I don’t trust BYU’s shooters. Day Day Thomas is an elite on-ball defender and should help neutralize Robert Wright in this matchup. Without Rich Saunders, there is no shooter who can consistently find the point in this matchup.

Cincinnati, on the other hand, found a new way to attack. They are relying on Mustafa Thiam, who has been outstanding in recent games. They have also been running a lot of sets using Baba Miller and Thiam together as pick-and-roll options.

AJ Divancha is the type of player who can carry his team in any match. He has a big role to play without Saunders, but Cincinnati has several bodies they can throw at him.

I prefer BYU’s high-end stars, but it’s going to be tough without Saunders. Cincinnati has solid depth with several players who can make key shots during big plays.

I’m supporting a home team that needs a win over a road team that wants to win.

Betting Location: Cincinnati Moneyline | -130 at DraftKings Sportsbook