North Carolina State vs. Marquette Picks and Predictions – Friday, Mar. 29

Mar 20, 2024; Pittsburgh, PA, USA; North Carolina State Wolfpack forward DJ Burns Jr. (30) during practice before their 2024 NCAA Tournament First Round game at PPG Paints Arena.
Image Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

We have your North Carolina State Wolfpack vs. Marquette Golden Eagles prop betting and game preview needs covered as the North Carolina State Wolfpack hit the road to face the Marquette Golden Eagles.

The Marquette Golden Eagles (25-9) are set to face off against the North Carolina State Wolfpack (22-14) in a highly anticipated Sweet 16 clash. With both teams coming off impressive winning streaks, this matchup at the American Airlines Center in Dallas promises to be a battle of wills as they vie for a spot in the Elite Eight.

North Carolina State Wolfpack vs. Marquette Golden Eagles Odds Info

Moneyline: North Carolina State Wolfpack +240 (BetRivers) / Marquette Golden Eagles -278 (Ceasars)

Spread: -6.5 – North Carolina State Wolfpack +100 (BetMGM) / Marquette Golden Eagles -110 (Barstool)

Total: 151.5 – -110 (Ceasars) / -105 (FanDuel)

Game Info

Date: Friday, Mar. 29

Time: 06:09 PM

Location: American Airlines Center – Dallas, TX

TV: CBS

North Carolina State Wolfpack Betting Trends

  • On the road, North Carolina State Wolfpack are 4 and 7 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, North Carolina State Wolfpack are 17 and 18.
  • Against the spread on the road, North Carolina State Wolfpack are 8 and 8.

Marquette Golden Eagles Betting Trends

  • At home, Marquette Golden Eagles are 14 and 2 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Marquette Golden Eagles are 20 and 13.
  • Against the spread at home, Marquette Golden Eagles are 13 and 6.

North Carolina State Wolfpack vs. Marquette Golden Eagles Predictions

The Marquette Golden Eagles enter the game with a solid record and a reputation for strong play under the guidance of head coach Shaka Smart. They’ve been particularly effective at home, boasting a 14-2 record, and they carry a four-game winning streak into this contest. Marquette’s offense has been firing on all cylinders, thanks in large part to the leadership of senior guard Tyler Kolek, who has been a double-double machine in the tournament so far. The Golden Eagles’ defense, ranked 18th nationally in efficiency, will look to ramp up the pressure and force turnovers, which has been a hallmark of Smart’s teams.

NC State, the tournament’s Cinderella story, has been on a tear, winning seven straight games, including a historic ACC Tournament run. The Wolfpack’s offense has found its rhythm, tallying 1.07 points per possession or more in each of their last seven games. Senior forward DJ Burns Jr. has been a standout, providing a strong presence in the paint and on the boards. However, NC State’s defense will be tested against Marquette’s high-powered offense, and they’ll need to control the ball to keep the game at their preferred pace.

This game will likely hinge on the battle of tempos and the performance of star players. Marquette’s ability to score from inside the arc could be the key against NC State’s mediocre 2-point field goal defense. On the other side, NC State’s guard DJ Horne could be the X-factor if he can disrupt Kolek’s rhythm and contribute offensively. With both teams ranking in the top 175 nationally in Adjusted Tempo, expect a high-scoring affair. The winner of this matchup will not only advance to the Elite Eight but also make a strong statement about their championship credentials.

North Carolina State Wolfpack vs. Marquette Golden Eagles Pick

The North Carolina State Wolfpack come into this Sweet 16 matchup as the underdogs, but their recent form suggests they have the momentum and resilience to upset the Marquette Golden Eagles. NC State’s seven-game winning streak, including a historic ACC Tournament championship, demonstrates their ability to thrive under pressure and adapt to the intensity of elimination games. With DJ Burns Jr. leading the charge and the possibility of guard DJ Horne stepping up to disrupt Marquette’s rhythm, the Wolfpack have the tools to control the game’s tempo and exploit their strengths in the paint. Additionally, NC State’s impressive performance against top seeds in the ACC Tournament indicates their capability to handle high-stakes situations against formidable opponents.

While Marquette has been dominant at home and boasts a strong defense, NC State’s recent offensive efficiency and ability to minimize turnovers present a significant challenge for the Golden Eagles. The Wolfpack’s knack for controlling the ball and preventing turnovers will be crucial in a matchup where Marquette seeks to capitalize on defensive pressure. Given the attractive odds of +240 for an NC State moneyline bet (BetRivers), the potential return on investment is too good to pass up, especially considering NC State’s current form and the unpredictable nature of March Madness. This game has all the makings of a classic upset, with NC State poised to continue their Cinderella run in the NCAA Tournament.

The Pick: North Carolina State Wolfpack +240 (BetRivers)