Griffin Warner and Big East Ben break down CBB weekend betting. The guys are ready for some action on the hardwood and give out best bets.

🏀 Summary: CBB Weekend Preview + Best Bets – December 21, 2024

In this episode of the Need for Speed College Basketball Podcast, hosts Griffin Warner and Big East Ben preview key games and share betting insights for the December 21 slate. They analyze teams’ strengths, weaknesses, and recent performances, providing statistics and commentary to support their picks.

🕒 Game Analysis and Predictions

1. 
   UCLA vs. North Carolina (3:03 - 6:24 )


2. UCLA ranks #4 in defense and #1 in forcing turnovers, with standout players Sebastian Mack and Kobe Johnson. UNC struggles offensively, ranking 253rd in shooting but manages turnovers well. Both hosts agree on the under (150.5 points), while Griffin favors UCLA (-1.5) for their defensive edge.


3. 
   Memphis vs. Mississippi State (6:25 - 12:21 )


4. Memphis excels in three-point shooting (3rd nationally) but struggles with rebounding (274th). Mississippi State is strong in ball handling (2nd in turnover avoidance) and offensive rebounding (34th). Ben takes the over (152 points), and Griffin backs Memphis (-1) due to their talent under Penny Hardaway.


5. 
   Ohio State vs. Kentucky (12:22 - 15:03 )


6. Ohio State, missing key players Aaron Bradshaw and Michi Johnson, lacks depth (280th in bench minutes). Kentucky’s talent advantage is clear. Ben predicts Kentucky (-8.5) to dominate, while Griffin anticipates a lower-scoring game under 160.5 points.


7. 
   Purdue vs. Auburn (21:44 - 26:45 )


8. Auburn’s chances hinge on Jani Broome’s health. Purdue is steady but struggles with turnovers. Ben favors Auburn if Broome plays, while Griffin opts for Purdue (+9), citing doubts about Broome’s fitness.


9. 
   Villanova vs. Creighton (26:46 - 29:26 )


10. Creighton, inconsistent but formidable at home, faces a shaky Villanova under Kyle Neptune. Both hosts pick Creighton (-5) due to their strong home-court advantage and Villanova’s poor road record.

📊 Key Insights and Trends

• 
  Defensive Dominance: UCLA leads in defense, while Mississippi State excels in turnover avoidance.


• 
  Rebounding Gaps: Memphis struggles on the boards, a key factor against Mississippi State.


• 
  Depth Issues: Ohio State’s bench ranks 280th, affecting their ability to compete against Kentucky.


• 
  Neutral Court Factors: Games at Madison Square Garden are expected to favor unders due to challenging shooting conditions.

🎯 Best Bets

• 
  Ben: Kentucky (-8.5) vs. Ohio State – Ohio State’s lack of depth and Kentucky’s superior lineup are decisive.


• 
  Griffin: Florida State (+1) vs. Louisville – Florida State’s depth and play style give them an edge.

🗂️ Notable Mentions

• 
  Sebastian Mack (UCLA): Instrumental in UCLA’s elite defense.


• 
  Josh Hubbard (Mississippi State): Dynamic scorer leading his team’s offense.


• 
  Jani Broome (Auburn): A game-time decision critical to Auburn’s success.

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