We have your Colorado State Rams vs. Virginia Cavaliers prop betting and game preview needs covered as the Colorado State Rams hit the road to face the Virginia Cavaliers.
The Colorado State Rams (24-10) are set to face off against the Virginia Cavaliers (23-10) in a highly anticipated First Four matchup. With both teams eager to secure a spot in the main bracket, this game promises to be a clash of contrasting styles and tempo.
Colorado State Rams vs. Virginia Cavaliers Odds Info
Moneyline: Colorado State Rams -139 (BetRivers) / Virginia Cavaliers +118 (FanDuel)
Spread: +2.5 – Colorado State Rams -109 (BetRivers) / Virginia Cavaliers -110 (FanDuel)
Total: 120.5 – -105 (FanDuel) / -109 (BetRivers)
Game Info
Date: Tuesday, Mar. 19
Time: 08:10 PM
Location: UD Arena – Dayton, OH
TV: truTV
Colorado State Rams Betting Trends
- On the road, Colorado State Rams are 4 and 7 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Colorado State Rams are 16 and 16.
- Against the spread on the road, Colorado State Rams are 7 and 8.
Virginia Cavaliers Betting Trends
- At home, Virginia Cavaliers are 15 and 2 this season.
- Against the spread this season, Virginia Cavaliers are 17 and 15.
- Against the spread at home, Virginia Cavaliers are 11 and 8.
Colorado State Rams vs. Virginia Cavaliers Predictions
The Colorado State Rams enter the NCAA Tournament on a three-game winning streak, showcasing their offensive prowess by averaging 76.4 points per game, which ranks them 110th in the nation. Led by guard Isaiah Stevens, who averages 16.5 points and 7.0 assists per game, the Rams boast the second-best assist tally in the country and a 21st-ranked field goal percentage at 48.8%. Their efficient scoring and ball movement will be key against a Virginia team that prides itself on defensive tenacity.
Virginia, on the other hand, comes into the contest with a 1-game losing streak but a reputation for stifling defense. The Cavaliers are allowing just 59.6 points per game, which places them third in college basketball. Their defensive player of the year, Reece Beekman, contributes significantly on both ends of the court with 14.3 points and 6.3 assists per game. However, Virginia’s offensive struggles are notable, as they rank 194th in adjusted offensive efficiency and 424th in points per game, which could be a concern against Colorado State’s balanced attack.
This game will likely come down to tempo and whether Colorado State can impose their faster pace on a Virginia team that ranks 362nd in adjusted tempo. The Rams will look to leverage their offensive rebounding, led by Nique Clifford’s 7.5 rebounds per game, against Virginia’s pack-line defense. The Cavaliers, meanwhile, will rely on their disciplined defense to contain Stevens and force the Rams into a slower, half-court game. The contrasting styles of these two teams set the stage for a compelling battle, with the winner earning the right to continue their March Madness journey.
Colorado State Rams vs. Virginia Cavaliers Pick
The Colorado State Rams have demonstrated a potent offense this season, ranking 110th in points per game and 21st in field goal percentage. Their ability to share the ball, as evidenced by their second-best assist tally in the nation, gives them an edge against the Virginia Cavaliers’ slower, defense-first approach. Isaiah Stevens’ leadership and scoring ability could be the difference-maker in a game that will likely feature a battle of tempos. With the Rams coming into the tournament on a winning streak and showcasing their ability to score efficiently, they have the momentum to challenge Virginia’s stout defense.
Virginia’s offensive struggles are hard to overlook, especially when facing a team that can put up points and control the pace of the game. The Cavaliers’ 194th-ranked adjusted offensive efficiency and 424th rank in points per game could be their downfall if they fail to contain Colorado State’s dynamic offense. While Virginia’s defense is formidable, the Rams’ balanced scoring and fast-paced play could disrupt the Cavaliers’ preferred slow tempo. Considering these factors, the smart money is on Colorado State to capitalize on their offensive strengths and secure a victory in this First Four matchup.
The Pick: Colorado State Rams -139 (BetRivers)
