Michigan vs Villanova betting is set to take center stage as the two illustrious programs prepare to take battle in the Sweet 16.
#11 Michigan was the most popular upset betting picks in the opening round of the Tournament, where they defeated #6 Colorado State 75-63; from there, they took down popular Final Four pick #2 Tennessee 76-68 and punched their ticket into the second weekend of tournament action.
Villanova, meanwhile, cruised past #15 Delaware before getting a real test from #7 Ohio State, despite the overwhelming March Madness odds, who they ultimately defeated by 10 points. The Wildcats don’t have the most talent in the country, but they have one of the best coaches in March, Jay Wright.
Here is everything you need to know about the impending clash.
Michigan vs Villanova Takes the Stage
Michigan vs Villanova betting is going to be where tons of bettors flock for early-weekend action; Michigan has surprised by getting this far but now has a realistic path to the Final Four. The Wolverines’ attack is predicated around the play of center Hunter Dickinson, who is averaging 24 points and 8.5 rebounds in tournament play. Eli Brooks has also stepped his game up, posting a line of 19.5 points, 5.5 assists, and 5.0 rebounds in the Big Dance.
Villanova, on the other hand, is paced by veteran guard Collin Gillespie, a 6-foot-3 point guard that averages 17 points and four assists in tournament play. Forward Jermaine Samuels has also performed admirably with a 16-points, 8.5-rebound line in the madness. Villanova has demonstrated an ability to pull out close games and is one of, if not the most well-coached squad in the tourney.
Michigan might be better known for its performance on the gridiron, but if you are looking for early NCAAF odds, look elsewhere; this matchup is going to come down entirely to if Dickinson can receive help from his supporting cast. The Wolverines only managed a 19-14 record in the regular season and often left their star player out to dry. If they cannot find him some help, the steady presence of Villanova on both ends will overwhelm them quickly.
The Betting Numbers
Michigan vs Villanova betting reveals some interesting trends; Michigan was only 15-18 against the spread, although they were 6-3 ATS as an underdog— which they are in the upcoming matchup— this season. Michigan did, however, cover the spread in both games during the opening weekend of the tournament and is 4-2 ATS at neutral venues.
Villanova went 18-15-2 ATS and 17-12-1 ATS as a favorite in 2021-22. They have covered the spread in both of their tournament matches as well and are 6-3 ATS at neutral sites, matching Michigan’s winning percentage.
Most point spreads have Villanova as a five-point favorite in Thursday evening’s game, which they should be able to cover en route to an Elite Eight berth. Watch for Gillespie to have a big night and the Villanova defense to force the ball out of Dickinson’s hands.
