Tennessee Volunteers (21-6) vs. Alabama Crimson Tide (19-8)
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide 3/2/24 – As the NCAA Men’s Basketball season heats up, an important match-up is on tap: Tennessee Volunteers will meet Alabama Crimson Tide this Saturday at Coleman Coliseum. Not only could this game have major standings implications; it will also generate considerable excitement from those seeking NCAAB free predictions and tips given its potential to showcase high-level collegiate basketball.
The Volunteers’ offense has been clicking this season, averaging 80.3 points per game on 45.6% shooting. Led by Knecht, Tennessee shoots 34.5% from three and 74.5% from the free throw line. They also crash the boards hard, pulling down 39.1 rebounds per contest including 11.6 offensive boards. Defensively, the Vols have held opponents to just 65.2 points on 41.3% shooting. They do a good job defending the perimeter and rank top 30 nationally in blocks per game.
The Crimson Tide are one of the highest scoring teams in the country, putting up 91.1 points on 48.3% from the field. Alabama shoots 37.9% from deep and 79% from the charity stripe. They are also strong on the glass, averaging 39.6 total rebounds per game. However, the Tide have been more permeable defensively, allowing 71.9 points on 43.1% shooting. They also commit a high number of fouls and turnovers. Still, their explosive offensive firepower makes them dangerous.
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide 3/2/24 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, March 2, 2024 at 8:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Coleman Coliseum |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | Sofascore |
Dalton Knecht (Guard) vs. Mark Sears (Guard)
Dalton Knecht has been the leader for the Volunteers this season, averaging 20.1 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists per game while shooting 47.7% from the field and 40.3% from three. The senior guard has stepped up in conference play and has the versatility and shooting touch to exploit mismatches. His ability to stretch the floor and also attack the basket will be a key factor.
Mark Sears has exploded onto the scene for Alabama, pouring in 20.4 points plus 4.1 assists a night. The sophomore guard has quickly become the Crimson Tide’s go-to scorer, shooting 50.9% from the floor. Sears’ quickness and shot creation allow him to regularly beat defenders one-on-one. He could prove a handful for Tennessee’s defense.
This battle of star guards may well decide the outcome. If Sears gets into a flow early, it could spell trouble for the Vols. However, Knecht’s veteran savvy could prove an equalizer as he looks to outduel his younger opponent. This matchup will be must-watch entertainment.
NCAAB Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds yet to be determined, it’s challenging to provide a concrete recommendation. However, given both teams’ performances and trends, this game promises to be closely contested.
Tennessee Volunteers Betting Trends
Tennessee has been solid against the spread recently, going 3-2 ATS over their last five contests. The Vols have also gone over the total just twice over their previous five outings. However, Tennessee has struggled against the number away from home, posting a 4-8 ATS record on the road this season.
Alabama Crimson Tide Betting Trends
Alabama has been a volatile team for bettors this season. The Tide are just 2-3 ATS over their past five games but have gone over the total in five straight. At home, Alabama has been a much safer play, going 12-4 ATS at Coleman Coliseum this season. The over has also hit in 12 of their last 16 games.
Tennessee Volunteers vs. Alabama Crimson Tide 3/2/24 Betting Picks
This SEC matchup shapes up to be a competitive affair between two talented squads. The Volunteers boast a strong defense and a balanced offensive attack led by veteran Dalton Knecht. However, Alabama’s home court advantage, dynamic scoring and better recent play against the spread make them enticing as a point favorite. With the odds currently TBD, the Crimson Tide have shown the ability to cover larger spreads at home this season.
Rolling with Alabama to win and cover in a high-scoring contest is the recommended play. The over also holds some value given the Tide’s recent trends for high-flying shootouts. Prop bets on Alabama’s Mark Sears to lead all scorers or hit over 20+ points also make sense for bettors. Consider placing a wager on the Tide as Saturday’s best handicapper free tips.
Free Pick and Prediction: Alabama Crimson Tide 88, Tennessee Volunteers 85.