Michigan State-UCLA Line at Spartans -1.5: Everyone on the OVER

The Michigan State-UCLA line had the Spartans at -1.5 at SBG Global.  Close to 70 percent of those betting the spread were backing Michigan State.  One of the most striking trends involved the total in this game of 125 where more than 95 percent of the action was coming in on the OVER. 

Michigan State earned a number ten seed against number 7 seed UCLA.  Despite the seeding, the Spartans are favored here, as Gambling911.com had correctly predicted they would be. 

ESPN.com noted that UCLA tends to play better on the national stage against reputable opponents like the Spartans and play at a higher level when their backs are against the wall.

This is highlighted by the fact that UCLA is 8-2 Against The Spread over the past season versus teams that have a winning record after 15 or more games. 

"All those things are definitely going to help us," said UCLA point guard Lazeric Jones. "Our backs are against the wall, we're playing a highly regarded team and we're on the road where it'll be us against the world and we like it that way. That’s when we bond the best. We like to prove people wrong and I feel like we can do so."   

UCLA will need the momentum that comes with playing in the NCAA Tournament.

Last week, for example, the Bruins played terribly against a 16-loss team Oregon team they should easily have dominated.

"That was our worst game of the year by far," coach Ben Howland said. "Not even close. It was our worst performance of the year."

Maybe that loss opened up some eyes.

"It was embarrassing to lose that way," forward Tyler Honeycutt said.

For sports bettors, focus on the total could be essential.  It was not immediately clear as to why everyone seemed inclined to bet the OVER.

Here are some startling stats to consider before betting the total. 

Since 1997, the OVER is 1-8 in first round Tournament games for UCLA.

The OVER is 1-6 for Michigan State in recent games when playing on a neutral court.

Since 1997, the OVER is just 1-9 when playing against Pac 10 conference opponents.

Some food for thought indeed.

NCAA Tournament – Second Round Tampa, Florida March 17

- Dan Shapiro, Gambling911.com