Kentucky's Gotta Beat a Torrent of Terrier Treys

The only thing Kentucky and Wofford really have in common goes back to their early days.

The Wildcats were members of the Southern Conference from 1920 to 1932, winning a pair of titles before moving to the SEC.

The Terriers joined the Southern in 1997. As a private university in Spartanburg, South Carolina with 1600 students, it's a good fit for them.

 

The question now is if Division I's version of the Dubs is a good fit to beat the big-brand Wildcats.

Bovada has set the line at Kentucky -5½ and the total at 141 with the moneyline set at Kentucky -245 and Wofford +205.

Why you should bet on Wofford ...

First of all, they're the real deal. The senior-laden Terriers are disciplined and accurate from the arc. They're led by Fletcher Magee, who set the Division I record for converted treys in their first-round victory over Seton Hall.

Secondly, dudes do their jobs. Wofford ranks 29th in the country in defensive rebounding percentage and limiting its opponents’ efficiency from the arc. Opponents need to be on their game to beat them -- and all four who did this season made the Dance -- because they're not gonna beat themselves.

 

Why you should bet on Kentucky ...

Well, they are Kentucky, and John Calipari is an innovative, tourney-tested coach. This is a significant factor in a tourney weekend's second game, as teams only have one day to practice and prepare for their next opponent. Toss in Calipari's knack for effective in-game adjustments, and it's no wonder he's been successful in the Dance.

His craftiness will be tested in this one. Leading scorer PJ Washington is still doubful for this game due to a left foot injury. Look for Keldon Johnson, Tyler Herro and Ashton Hagans to carry the Wildcats in his absence. They're obviously capable.

 

Instant analysis ...

Frankly, this game comes down to Calipari's strategy for defending the arc and getting his talented freshmen to deploy it. If they can force the Terriers into settling for two after spending most of the shot clock looking for Magee or an alternative, they'll win, and that's with or without Washington.

Still, Wofford's coaching staff is well aware of it. They'll play for a high-scoring game. If they get it -- and indications are good -- they'll likely win outright. Otherwise, they'll still stay close enough to cover.

ATS pick: Wofford +5½

Result: Kentucky 62 Wofford 56 ... Wildcats cover

***

 

Well, to be accurate, read closely:

Enter to win our March Madness Bracket Contest! All you need to do is pick the most winners, with our point system giving more weight to later-round winners. This is a pool for players, if you get our drift.

As well, we'll have re-sets for each round. You'll never be out of it, so get in it to win it!