Quote from SBF on March 28, 2025, 4:14 pm

NCAA Tournament - Elite Eight

Alabama Crimson Tide (27-8) vs. Duke Blue Devils (33-3)

Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
Time: 8:49 PM ET (or 10:00 AM, There is conflicting information, so double-check times)
Location: Prudential Center, Newark, NJ

Point Spread: Duke -6.5
Over/Under: 174.5 (Note: one source shows 173, so there might be slight variations depending on the sportsbook)

Preview:

This Elite Eight matchup features two of the nation's top college basketball programs. Duke, the #1 seed in the ACC, comes in with an impressive 33-3 record, showcasing their dominance throughout the season. Alabama, the 3rd seed from the SEC, boasts a 27-8 record and has shown resilience, with a 5-1 SU record in their last six games.

Key Factors and Trends:

• Alabama's Offense: The Crimson Tide have been potent offensively, with the total going OVER in 5 of their last 7 games. They will need to maintain that high-scoring pace against a strong Duke defense.
• Alabama Against the Spread: Alabama has performed well against the spread (ATS), going 7-3 in their last 10 games. This suggests they often outperform expectations, even in tough matchups.
• Duke's Home Advantage: While technically a neutral site, the Prudential Center in Newark, NJ, may provide a slight edge to Duke, given its proximity to their campus compared to Alabama.
• Elite Eight Pressure. This game marks high stakes in the tournament.

Prediction:

This game is shaping up to be a classic clash of styles, with a great offence in Alabama meeting a tough team in Duke. Duke's strong record, combined with the slight home-court advantage and the 6.5-point spread, makes them the favorites.

However, Alabama's recent form, particularly their ATS record, indicates they won't go down without a fight. It also must be considered how well their offense is performing.

Given the over/under of 174.5, it appears that there is good reaosn to think it will be a high scoring affair.

Final Thoughts:

While Duke is favored, Alabama's ability to cover the spread and their recent strong performance make them a dangerous underdog. Expect a close, high-scoring contest that could go down to the wire.

Sources:
Sports on the air: Here's what games are on TV and radio for the ...
Alabama Crimson Tide vs Duke Blue Devils Odds - Saturday March ...
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Duke Blue Devils - March 29, 2025 | FOX ...
Duke Blue Devils vs Alabama Crimson Tide score prediction 29.03 ...
Alabama vs. Duke Game Simulator - 5:00 PM ET (3/29/2025 ...
Auburn atop AP Top 25 for 8th straight week | CBS 42
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Duke Blue Devils | NCAAB | Basketball
March Madness on TSN Broadcast Schedule | TSN
Alabama vs Duke Betting Odds | NCAA Odds
Alabama vs Duke Odds & Betting Lines For March 29, 2025 - NCAAB