NCAA Basketball: Best Bets for the Big 12/SEC Challenge

Jan 21, 2017; Lexington, KY, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Malik Monk (5) celebrates with forward Edrice Bam Adebayo (3) during the game against the South Carolina Gamecocks in the second half at Rupp Arena. Kentucky defeated South Carolina 85-69. Mandatory Credit: Mark Zerof-USA TODAY Sports /

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Mar 11, 2016; Nashville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers head coach Rick Barnes talks with his players in a huddle in the second half against the LSU Tigers during the SEC tournament at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-USA TODAY Sports /

Kansas State at Tennessee (-1)

One cannot underestimate the importance of Tennessee’s upset victory over Kentucky in Knoxville this week. So far this season, the Volunteers have been a rudderless team that seemed destined for 16-or-17 wins. The Wildcats victory could alter that.

Tennessee still has real shot at NCAA Tourney. On almost exact same path as 2016 Vandy, who made the NCAA tournament as one of last 4 in. pic.twitter.com/CsgQU4Mgyc
— Christian Lundy (@c_lundy1) January 25, 2017

Guess what team lines up as a potential top 50 RPI win for the Volunteers next? That’s right, the Kansas State Wildcats, who clock in at No. 40.

This game really is a toss-up. Kansas State followed their nice home win against West Virginia last weekend with a flop on the road at Iowa State. The Wildcats need this game in Knoxville to stay on track for a tournament bid. Both teams are 12-7 against the spread when they are on the road/at home.

I think Tennessee gets this one done, though. You have to worry about the hangover of such an important victory over Kentucky this week, but I think the line works in their favor and they come through by winning by 3-5 points.

Pick: Tennessee (-1)

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