Clemson (-7.5) vs McNeese - March Madness Betting Picks

The Matchup: Clemson, a #5 seed, brings a balanced attack (76.3 PPG, 65.7 PPG allowed) led by Chase Hunter (16.4 PPG). McNeese, a #12 seed, rides an 11-game win streak (77.2 PPG, 64 PPG allowed) with Javohn Garcia (12.9 PPG). Tigers have ACC pedigree; Cowboys dominated a weaker Southland.

Spread: Clemson -7.5 (-115, BetMGM). Tigers are 20-12 ATS, 9-7 as 7.5+ pt favorites. McNeese is 15-16 ATS but 2-0 as 7.5+ pt dogs. Clemson’s size and efficiency (51st in offensive rating) overwhelm McNeese’s slower tempo (283rd). Tigers win by double digits.

Player Prop: Chase Hunter O2.5 made 3s (+100, BetMGM). He’s 41.2% from deep, and McNeese ranks 351st in 3pt attempt rate allowed. Hunter’s hit 3+ threes in 42% of games—expect him to exploit this.

Total: 134.5 leans OVER (-110, FanDuel). Combined avg is 153.5 PPG, and Clemson’s pace could push McNeese past their usual low-scoring grind. Both hit 70+ often.

Why Clemson Covers: Veteran guards (Hunter, Zackery) and frontcourt depth (Lakhin) outclass McNeese’s physicality. Tigers’ 84.6% win rate as favorites seals it.