Monday Betting Picks: Tennessee Clash Highlights Card as Underdogs Look to Bite Back

A new week of college hoops opens with tight lines, tough defenses, and several underdogs ready to make things interesting on Monday's betting board.
Tennessee basketball coach Rick Barnes.
Tennessee basketball coach Rick Barnes. | Saul Young/News Sentinel / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Monday Hoops Set the Tone for a Wild Holiday Week

Sunday was a 2-3 night, dropping us 1.26 units, but the season total still sits at 56-49 for a gain of 4.22 units. All plays are tracked at BetStamp.

Here are Monday's best bets.

Rutgers Looks to Grind Tennessee into a Slower Battle

This early Big Ten vs SEC matchup has the chance to turn into a defensive slugfest. Rutgers is coming off a tough outing but should respond with better energy on the defensive end. Tennessee is the more talented team, but turnovers continue to slow their offensive rhythm. Both teams can control the glass, and this one should stay tight throughout before the Volunteers pull away late.

Betting Pick: Rutgers Scarlet Knights +15.5 over Tennessee Volunteers

Final Score Prediction: Tennessee 72-64 over Rutgers

Liberty's Defense Could Quiet Vermont's Shooting Rhythm

Liberty has the makeup of a team that can dominate Conference USA and cause trouble in March. Zach Cleveland is the kind of all-around player who steadies this group on both ends. Vermont will need to shoot well to stay competitive, but Liberty’s defense should be strong enough to disrupt them. The Flames can win a controlled game that stays under the total.

Betting Pick: Liberty Flames/Vermont Catamounts UNDER 147

Final Score Prediction: Liberty 74-70 over Vermont

Creighton Shooters Try to Outpace Baylor’s Physicality

This Big East vs Big 12 showdown should be one of the most entertaining games of the day. Creighton will try to stretch the floor and push the pace with their perimeter shooting. Baylor will counter by working inside and attacking the rim with strength and athleticism. If the Bluejays catch a hot streak, they can flip the game and take it to the finish line.

Betting Pick: Creighton Blue Jays +5 over Baylor Bears

Final Score Prediction: Creighton 80-76 over Baylor

George Mason and Ohio Could Trade Half-Court Blows

George Mason owns one of the best defenses in the nation, continuing a trend from last season when they finished in the top ten. Ohio is methodical and rarely speeds up the pace. With both teams favoring patient possessions and strong positioning, this total sits higher than expected. The Patriots can win a competitive game that stays under the number.

Betting Pick: George Mason/Ohio Bobcats UNDER 146.5

Final Score Prediction: George Mason 75-69 over Ohio

Florida Atlantic and Loyola Marymount Likely to Stay Cold from Deep

The Owls and Lions meet in a matchup of teams that have struggled to shoot the ball consistently. FAU has not found its stroke from the perimeter, and Loyola Marymount does not push the tempo enough to generate large scoring runs. With both offenses stuck in neutral, the under holds value.

Betting Pick: Florida Atlantic Owls/Loyola Marymount Lions UNDER 156.5

Final Score Prediction: Florida Atlantic 76-75 over Loyola Marymount

Good luck with all your Monday college basketball bets, and follow every pick at BetStamp.

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