New Mexico vs. Clemson Picks and Predictions – Friday, Mar. 22

Mar 21, 2024; Memphis, TN, USA; New Mexico Lobos guard Jaelen House (10) shoots free throws during practice for the NCAA Tournament First Round at FedExForum.
Image Credit: Petre Thomas-USA TODAY Sports

We have your New Mexico Lobos vs. Clemson Tigers prop betting and game preview needs covered as the New Mexico Lobos hit the road to face the Clemson Tigers.

The New Mexico Lobos (26-9) are set to face off against the Clemson Tigers (21-11) in what promises to be a thrilling NCAA Tournament matchup. With both teams looking to bounce back from recent losses, this game is crucial for setting the tone for their tournament run.

New Mexico Lobos vs. Clemson Tigers Odds Info

Moneyline: New Mexico Lobos -145 (Ceasars) / Clemson Tigers +122 (Ceasars)

Spread: +2.5 – New Mexico Lobos -110 (Ceasars) / Clemson Tigers -107 (BetPARX)

Total: 151.0 – -110 (Ceasars) / -110 (Ceasars)

Game Info

Date: Friday, Mar. 22

Time: 02:10 PM

Location: FedExForum – Memphis, TN

TV: truTV

New Mexico Lobos Betting Trends

  • On the road, New Mexico Lobos are 5 and 6 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, New Mexico Lobos are 23 and 11.
  • Against the spread on the road, New Mexico Lobos are 9 and 6.

Clemson Tigers Betting Trends

  • At home, Clemson Tigers are 12 and 4 this season.
  • Against the spread this season, Clemson Tigers are 17 and 14.
  • Against the spread at home, Clemson Tigers are 9 and 9.

New Mexico Lobos vs. Clemson Tigers Predictions

The New Mexico Lobos enter the fray with an impressive 26-9 record, having shown a potent offensive capability throughout the season, ranking 28th in average points with 81.5 per game. Led by guard Jaelen House, who averages 16.1 points per game, and forward JT Toppin, pulling down 9.0 rebounds per game, the Lobos have demonstrated a balanced attack that could pose a significant challenge for the Clemson defense. However, their recent form has seen a dip, with a 1-game losing streak that they’ll be eager to snap.

Clemson Tigers, on the other hand, carry a 21-11 overall record into the tournament. They boast a strong defensive unit and have been efficient from the free-throw line, shooting 79.0 percent, which ranks them 39th in the nation. The Tigers’ offense is spearheaded by PJ Hall, who leads the team with an average of 18.8 points per game, and Ian Schieffelin, who dominates the glass with 9.5 rebounds per game. Clemson’s recent performance has been less than ideal, with a loss in their last outing adding pressure to perform in this high-stakes game.

This matchup will likely come down to the battle of tempos and efficiency. New Mexico’s fast-paced offense will test Clemson’s defensive fortitude, while the Tigers’ methodical approach on offense will challenge the Lobos’ ability to control the game’s pace. Key player matchups, such as the battle in the paint between Toppin and Schieffelin, could very well decide the outcome. With both teams looking to make a statement in the tournament, expect a fiercely contested game that could go down to the wire.

New Mexico Lobos vs. Clemson Tigers Pick

The key to this pick lies in the recent trends and the playing styles of both teams. The total line for the game is set at 151.0, and while New Mexico has a high-scoring offense, they are facing a Clemson team that excels defensively and prefers a slower pace. The Tigers’ ability to control the tempo and their efficiency from the free-throw line suggest that they will be able to keep the game at their preferred pace. Additionally, both teams are entering the game on a losing streak, which could result in a more cautious approach from both sides, focusing on defense to secure a win. The recent over/under trends for both teams also support the under pick, with New Mexico going under in 4 of their last 5 games and Clemson going under in 7 of their last 10 games.

Furthermore, the pressure of the NCAA Tournament often leads to tighter games with higher defensive intensity, which can suppress scoring. While New Mexico’s offense is potent, Clemson’s defense is well-equipped to handle high-scoring teams, as evidenced by their free-throw percentage and rebounding ability. The Tigers’ home record against the spread is even, which indicates that they play well within their game plan when on familiar ground. Considering these factors, along with the high stakes of the tournament setting, it’s reasonable to expect a lower-scoring affair, making the under a compelling pick for this matchup.

The Pick: Under 151.0 -110 (Ceasars)