posted March 22, 2008 at 12:32 in NCAA B Articles

BetUS NCAA college basketball betting odds: Texas -6, Total 140

The Miami Hurricanes (23-10 SU, 16-7-3 ATS) are trying to become a real Cinderella story in this year's NCAA tournament. On Sunday they'll take on the Texas Longhorns (29-6 SU, 16-12-2 ATS) in South Regional action that is scheduled to tip off at 2:15 PM at the Alltel Arena in Little Rock. A berth in the Sweet 16 is on the line.

At BetUS Sportsbook, Texas is listed as a six-point favorite, with a total of 140 points.

Here are some of the NCAA college basketball betting trends as they relate to this matchup:

* MIA has won eight of its last 11 games SU
* MIA is 3-3-1 ATS in its last seven games
* TEX is 2-4-1 ATS in its last seven games
* TEX has won 13 of its last 15 games SU
* TEX has played four of its last five games UNDER the total

It's a little difficult for us to become complete believers in Miami, even after a win over Saint Mary's - a team that had been nationally-ranked for much of the year - in the first round of the tourney. But you can't underestimate the ability of Jack McClinton to carry a team. McClinton exploded for 38 points in what was a surprisingly decisive 14-point win, and 32 of those points came in the second half alone! With a sharpness both at the free throw line and beyond the arc, the Siena transfer (wouldn't it be ironic if both made it to the Sweet 16?) is an all-around offensive weapon.

The problem is that he doesn't have offensive weapons all around him. Yes, James Dews chips in with his 10 points a game (actually less of late), but McClinton is fast becoming a one-man show. Miami doesn't have anyone else that opposing coaches really have to prepare for.

Texas has some things that can really throw Miami off-balance. Rick Barnes' defensive schemes can force someone other than McClinton to pick up the offensive slack. And of course, the 'Canes star will have to work hard on the defensive end, because whether he has to deal with All-American DJ Augustin or shooting guard AJ Abrams (26 points vs. Austin Peay) he's going to have his hands full.

Let's go with the Longhorns, in my opinion the kind of team that can go all the way - if they're focused. And Miami & McClinton ought to have their attention, after beating the Gaels (who Texas also played and beat this season). I'll lay six points with Texas, the favorite in the BetUS college basketball betting odds.

JAY'S PLAY:  TEXAS

(Charles Jay of http://www.eBookies.com gives it the old college try as a regular contributor to the BetUS Locker Room)

Go to the BetUS.com online sportsbook today to bet on NCAA basketball during March Madness. We have the most current NCAA basketball odds and lines, as well as player and game props. Join BetUS.com to experience the best in online sports betting action!