VCU vs BYU - March Madness Betting Picks
The Matchup: VCU, a #11 seed (28-6), faces #6 BYU (24-9) in Denver. VCU’s elite defense (62.4 PPG allowed, 23rd in KenPom efficiency) meets BYU’s potent offense (81 PPG, 11th in efficiency). Rams lean on Max Shulga (15.1 PPG), while Cougars counter with Richie Saunders (16 PPG, 43.3% 3PT).
Spread: BYU -2.5 (-115, BetMGM). BYU’s 19-13 ATS, 13-6 as 2.5+ pt favorites. VCU’s 20-13 ATS but 0-1 as 2.5+ pt dogs. BYU’s 37.1% 3PT shooting (33rd nationally) exploits VCU’s 30.6% 3PT defense (31st). Elevation favors BYU (Provo natives). Take BYU -2.5.
Player Prop: Max Shulga O14.5 points (-110, FanDuel). A-10 Player of the Year averages 15.1 PPG, hit 16+ in 6 of last 9. BYU’s 263rd-ranked 3PT defense gives him room to shine.
Total: 145.5 leans UNDER (-108, DraftKings). VCU’s top-tier D slows BYU’s pace. Rams struggle vs top offenses (43% FG in KenPom Top 100 games). Combined avg (158.1 PPG) inflated by weaker foes.
Why BYU Covers: Depth, shooting, and rest (last game Friday) outmatch VCU’s fatigue (3 games in 3 days for A-10 title). Cougars’ Big 12 grit prevails.
