Today's Slate

• College Basketball Is So Back

  • Community Cappers Lock In Their Picks

  • #8 Baylor @ #6 Gonzaga Betting Preview

  • #9 North Carolina @ #1 Kansas

  • #12 Tennessee @ Louisville

  • #8 Baylor @ #16 Arkansas

  • #11 Auburn @ #4 Houston

  • MNF Betting Preview

  • Slip of the Week

College Basketball Is So Back

With 198 college basketball games on the slate today (starting at 11am EST), I think it’s safe to say college basketball is back.

Unfortunately, the beginning of the season means a lot of cupcake matchups for bigger teams.

But there are a few diamonds in the rough.

Below we’ve highlighted 5 of the biggest CBB matchups you should keep your on eye this week.

But before we get into that…

Community Cappers Lock In Their Picks

Recapping last week’s picks:

• Paulo Banchero u13.5 RA ❌

• Kyle Kuzma 2+ Made Threes ✅

• Giants +7 ❌

• Ohio State TT o34.5 ❌ (0.5u)

Overall Record: 8-11 | -1.29u

Now Reid promises expanded role against the #26-ranked dropback EPA/play, #7-ranked zone rate defense.

• Model projection: 55.7. Playable up to 46.5

Let’s not forget to mention that Mayfield also is 3rd most in interceptions and their RB’s tend to fumble the ball in key moments.

The Chiefs are 3rd in pressure rate so expect them to stack up the box to make Mayfield get rid of the ball or get that key sack.

McLaughlin’s only gone under this line once this season but that’s mostly due to the Buccs having Evans and Godwin.

If the Chiefs get ahead here early against this vulnerable Buccs defense, expect Buccs to start going for 2 as I predict since they’re heavily mismatched here.

The Chiefs are also 6th in opposing XPA’s so there’s not much volume in extra points that this Chief’s defense allows.

Did we forget to mention that there’s a 90% chance of rain?

Not that it’ll affect kickers on XP conversions but the Buccs who aren’t used to this climate will be affected by it and have difficult driving the ball down the field.

Too many factors here to ignore.

• Give me the under on McLaughlin XP’s for + money!

Yes, I know that the Chiefs have an incredible defense, and they are probably going to stack the box all night…

But the Buccaneers have had plenty of time to prepare for this matchup, and aren’t going to go down without a fight.

White should take a larger share of the workload than usual tonight and 60 yards from scrimmage should be a cupcake for him.

Was tempted to tease this one up to 80+ at +250 (CZR), but playing it a bit safer this week.

My Best Piece of Advice for CBB Bettors

If I had to give one reminder to bettors for the start of the season, it would be this:

Preseason rankings aren’t perfect.

Gonzaga (preseason AP #6) could end up being the #1 overall team at the end of the season. Or they could end up unranked (seems unlikely).

The preseason #1, Kansas, could end up in the mid-teens.

In fact, most preseason polls for last season had UConn outside the top 5.

They won back-to-back National Championships.

When you’re picking games at the start of the season, don’t put too much thought on these rankings…

I’m more confident in rankings when teams have at least 10 games checked off the schedule, hopefully against a few solid opponents.

And now for the top 5 college basketball games this week👇

#8 Baylor @ #6 Gonzaga Betting Preview

Monday, November 4, 11:30pm EST

• GONZ -2.5

• O/U: 155.5

Prepare for a late-night basketball bonanza as the Baylor Bears travel to Spokane to face the Gonzaga Bulldogs at 11:30pm.

With Gonzaga favored by 2.5 points and an over/under set at 155.5, this matchup promises to be the best matchup on College Basketball’s opening day.

Both teams are perennial powerhouses, and this early-season showdown will be a litmus test for their championship aspirations.

Gonzaga Bulldogs

Gonzaga's offense is poised to be a juggernaut once again.

With the return of key players like Ike, Hickman, and Nembhard, and the addition of transfer Michael Ajayi, who averaged nearly a double-double at Pepperdine, the Bulldogs have depth and firepower.

Ajayi's shooting prowess (47% from deep) will stretch defenses, while Khalif Battle and Braeden Smith add scoring punch off the bench.

While Gonzaga's offense is formidable, their defense will need to step up, especially against a Baylor team that can light it up from beyond the arc.

The Bulldogs' ability to defend the perimeter will be crucial.

The integration of their transfer class will be key in not just this game, but the entire season.

If Ajayi, Battle, and Smith can quickly mesh with the returning core, Gonzaga will be a tough out for any opponent.

Baylor Bears

Baylor's offense will rely heavily on the shooting of Jeremy Roach and the inside presence of Norchard Omier.

Roach, a transfer from Duke, brings a lethal 42.9% three-point shooting, while Omier is a double-double machine.

Freshman VJ Edgecombe, a top-five national recruit, adds another layer of intrigue and potential explosiveness.

The Bears' defense will be tested by Gonzaga's depth.

Their ability to contain Gonzaga's shooters and control the boards will be the deciding factor in this matchup.

The Bears' nonconference schedule is brutal, and this game will be a significant test of their new-look roster.

How quickly Edgecombe, Roach, and Omier can gel will determine their success this season.

Betting Preview

Spread: Gonzaga is favored by 2.5 points, and given their home dominance (18-2 SU in their last 20 home games), they seem a solid pick.

However, Baylor's 5-1 ATS record against Gonzaga suggests they can keep it close.

Given that this game could be decided by a buzzer-beater or late game heave, I’m not bold enough to play this line.

Total Points: The over/under is set at 155.5, and with both teams boasting potent offenses, the over looks enticing.

Both squads have the capability to score in bunches, and their defensive vulnerabilities could lead to a high-scoring affair.

I’ll probably play the Over here, but it’s not worthy of being an official pick in my opinion.

This game is a clash of two elite programs with contrasting styles.

Gonzaga's depth and home-court advantage give them a slight edge, but Baylor's shooting and new additions make them a formidable opponent.

It’s going to be worth being groggy on Tuesday morning for this one.

#9 North Carolina @ #1 Kansas

Friday, November 8, 7:00pm

• Kansas -4.5

• O/U: 151.5

With Kansas favored by 4.5 points and an over/under of 151.5, this game promises to be a thrilling encounter between two storied programs.

Both teams are loaded with talent and have their eyes set on a deep tournament run, making this Friday night matchup a must-watch.

North Carolina Tar Heels

The Tar Heels are reloading after losing key players to the NBA, but they’ve brought in a mix of high-impact transfers and top-tier recruits.

Cade Tyson, a sharpshooter from Belmont, and five-star recruits Ian Jackson and Drake Powell, are expected to make immediate contributions.

RJ Davis, a Wooden Award candidate, will lead the charge, and his ability to score and facilitate will be crucial.

With significant roster changes, the Tar Heels' defense will need to stand strong from the start.

The loss of Bacot and Ingram means they’ll have to find new ways to protect the paint and control the boards.

X-Factor

Cade Tyson’s transition from mid-major to the ACC will be pivotal.

If he can maintain his scoring efficiency against tougher competition, he’ll be a key weapon for North Carolina.

Kansas Jayhawks

Kansas boasts a formidable lineup led by Hunter Dickinson, one of the top big men in the country.

The addition of Zeke Mayo and AJ Storr, both proven scorers, adds depth and versatility.

Super senior Dajuan Harris Jr. will orchestrate the offense, ensuring the Jayhawks' fast-paced style remains effective.

The Jayhawks' defense is their calling card.

With experienced players like K.J. Adams Jr. and the defensive prowess of Harris, they’ll look to stifle North Carolina’s potent attack.

X-Factor

Hunter Dickinson’s presence in the paint will be crucial.

His ability to score and defend will set the tone for Kansas, especially against a North Carolina team that’s adjusting to new personnel down low.

Betting Preview

Spread: Kansas is favored by 4.5 points, and given their home-court advantage and depth, it might not be a pick.

However, North Carolina’s ability to put up a fight, especially with their new additions, shouldn’t be underestimated.

Total Points: The over/under is set at 151.5.

Both teams have explosive offenses but can wall up and play good defense.

Allen Fieldhouse is going to be bumping in this Top 10 matchup, and I’m fully expecting Kansas to come out firing on all cylinders.

If I’m feeling bold on Friday I may tease this up to 160.

#12 Tennessee @ Louisville

Saturday, November 9, 12:00pm

• Odds not out just yet 😢

The Louisville Cardinals are set to host the Tennessee Volunteers at the KFC Yum! Center, in an early-season clash pitting Louisville's revamped roster against a Tennessee team with Final Four aspirations.

Both teams will have 1 game under their belt before this matchup - so expect the pre-season jitters to be gone and a high-energy day game.

Louisville Cardinals

Under new head coach Pat Kelsey, Louisville's offense is poised to be a whirlwind.

This team is built through the transfer portal, bringing in experienced players like Chucky Hepburn, who leads a group eager to end the Cardinals' NCAA Tournament drought.

• Louisville’s last NCAA Tournament Appearance was in 2019 as a #7 seed

The fast-paced style Kelsey employs will test Tennessee's defense.

On the other end, Louisville's defense will need to be sharp to contend with Tennessee's versatile attack.

The addition of James Scott and Aboubacar Traore provides size and athleticism, crucial for protecting the rim and controlling the boards.

With a completely overhauled roster, chemistry and lineup experimentation will be key factors as Kelsey finds the right mix.

It make take more than a few games.

Tennessee Volunteers

Despite losing top scorers Dalton Knecht (NBA) and Jonas Aidoo (Arkansas), Tennessee remains a formidable force.

Coach Rick Barnes has reloaded with a mix of returnees, transfers, and freshmen.

Darlinstone Dubar, a versatile 6-foot-8 guard/forward from Hofstra, is expected to fill the scoring void, bringing his 17.8 points per game and impressive shooting percentages to the Volunteers.

Tennessee's defense is consistently among the nation's best, and Barnes will rely on this strength to counter Louisville's fast-paced attack.

With players like Igor Milicic Jr., who can stretch the floor, the Volunteers have the tools to disrupt the Cardinals' rhythm.

The addition of transfers like Dubar and Milicic, along with the return of key players like Zakai Zeigler, Jahmai Mashack, and Jordan Gainey, ensures Tennessee's depth and versatility.

Betting Preview

Spread: Tennessee is likely favored, given their top-15 ranking and depth.

However, Louisville's home-court advantage and new-look roster make them an intriguing underdog, especially if they can dictate the tempo.

Total Points: With Louisville's fast-paced style and Tennessee's defensive prowess, the total points line could be tricky. Even if Louisville can push the tempo, the Under might be worth considering.

Player Props: Watch for Darlinstone Dubar's scoring and rebounding numbers, as he will be central to Tennessee's offensive efforts. For Louisville, Chucky Hepburn can bang from deep and will likely be looking to fire.

This game is a litmus test for Louisville's new-look squad. While Tennessee's experience and defensive strength make them the safer pick, the Cardinals' potential for an upset is real, especially if they can harness the energy of a packed Yum! Center.

#8 Baylor @ #16 Arkansas

Saturday, November 9, 7:30pm

• Odds not out just yet 😢

Mark your calendars for November 9th, as the Arkansas Razorbacks, now under the tutelage of John Calipari, face off against the Baylor Bears at the American Airlines Center in Dallas.

Both teams have reloaded their rosters with high-profile transfers and recruits, making this matchup a must-watch for college basketball aficionados and bettors alike.

Arkansas Razorbacks

John Calipari's move from Kentucky to Arkansas has been the talk of the offseason.

Known for his recruiting prowess, Calipari has already made waves by bringing in top-tier talent to Fayetteville.

Johnell Davis: The former Florida Atlantic standout and AAC co-Player of the Year, Davis is a sharpshooter with a 41% three-point accuracy and an 84.5% free-throw percentage.

His transition to the SEC will be crucial for the Razorbacks’ success this season.

Jonas Aidoo: A major defensive add, Aidoo's presence in the paint will be vital.

His 7.3 rebounds and 1.83 blocks per game at Tennessee make him a key defensive anchor.

Karter Knox, Billy Richmond, Boogie Fland: These former Kentucky commits add depth and versatility to the roster, with Fland already showing his scoring prowess in exhibitions.

Calipari's focus on defense and physicality is evident, with Aidoo leading the charge.

The Razorbacks' ability to integrate new talent will be tested against Baylor's formidable lineup.

Baylor Bears

As I’ve already mentioned, Baylor's mix of seasoned transfers and top recruits positions them as a powerhouse.

Their ability to gel early in the season will be crucial against a revamped Arkansas squad.

Just because this is an early-season game doesn’t mean it won’t have an impact on NCAA Tournament seeding.

Betting Preview

Spread & Moneyline

With both teams boasting revamped rosters, the spread could be tight.

Arkansas' home-court advantage in Dallas might give them a slight edge, but Baylor's higher ranking and experience could sway bettors towards the Bears.

Remember, pre-season rankings shouldn’t have too much weight this early in the season.

Even a few exhibitions won’t give a great idea on what a team is capable of.

Total Points

Given the offensive firepower on both sides, the Over on total points is enticing.

Both teams have the potential to light up the scoreboard, and the environment will only further push this agenda.

Player Props

Keep an eye on Johnell Davis' three-point shooting and Jonas Aidoo's rebounding and blocks.

For Baylor, Jeremy Roach's scoring and V.J. Edgecombe's all-around performance are worth considering.

The Bottom Line

This matchup is a classic case of new talent versus established prowess.

While Arkansas has the home-court advantage and a fresh roster under Calipari, Baylor's experience and top-tier recruits give them the upper hand in my opinion.

Expect a close game, but Baylor's depth and Edgecombe's potential breakout performance could tip the scales.

#11 Auburn @ #4 Houston

Saturday, November 9, 9:30pm

• Houston -5.5

• O/U: 132.5

Both teams are eager to assert their dominance early in the season, with Houston looking to maintain their defensive supremacy and Auburn aiming to showcase their revamped roster's potential.

Expect an intense battle as these two powerhouses collide on the court.

Auburn Tigers

Auburn is looking to rebound from a disappointing first-round NCAA exit against Yale last season.

The Tigers return a significant portion of their roster, including standout Johni Broome, who averaged 16.5 points and 8.5 rebounds per game.

The addition of JP Pegues, a dynamic guard from Furman, bolsters their backcourt.

Pegues, known for his clutch performances, averaged 18.4 points last season and will be a key offensive weapon if he can make the transition.

Broome's defensive prowess is a cornerstone for Auburn, with his 78 blocks and 31 steals last season.

Luckily for the Tigers, Houston’s strength is not their offense.

Auburn's depth is boosted by transfers like Miles Kelly and Chad Baker-Mazara, who bring experience and versatility to both sides of the court.

The key will be integrating these new pieces into Bruce Pearl's system.

Houston Cougars

Houston's offense, while not explosive, is efficient.

L.J. Cryer leads the charge, averaging 15.5 points per game, and the addition of Milos Uzan from Oklahoma should help fill the void left by Jamal Shead's departure (NBA).

Uzan's playmaking ability will be crucial in maintaining Houston's offensive rhythm, and getting them over the hump they faced on the offensive end last season.

The Cougars' defense is their hallmark, allowing just 57.6 points per game last season.

With a +15.8 point differential, they suffocate opponents with relentless pressure and don’t stop.

• Additions J’Wan Roberts and Uzan will anchor this unit.

Houston retains over 70% of its production from last season, ensuring continuity.

The loss of Shead is significant, but the team's defensive identity remains intact and they should be one of the best teams in the country this year.

Betting Preview

Spread: Houston opened as 7.5 point favorites, but the line currently sits around 5.5.

Auburn's potential to upset hinges on their ability to disrupt Houston's defensive schemes and capitalize on their offensive opportunities.

If they can be efficient on offense and manage on defense, they should be able to keep it close for most of the game.

Total Points: The Over/Under is set at 132.5, and it’s very likely that this will be one of the lowest point totals we see this year.

Given both teams' defensive capabilities and some uncertainty on the offensive end of for both, this is exactly an easy line to bet.

MNF Betting Preview

In what will undoubtedly be one of the best Monday Night Football games of the season, we’ve got the Tampa Bay Buccaneers heading to Kansas City to face off against the undefeated Chiefs.

Monday, November 4, 8:15pm EST

• Chiefs -8.5

• O/U: 45.5

The Bucs are limping into this matchup without their star wideouts, Chris Godwin and Mike Evans, while the Chiefs are cruising atop the AFC West.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are navigating choppy waters as they prepare to face the Kansas City Chiefs.

With Baker Mayfield at the helm the Bucs' offense has shown flashes of brilliance, but the absence of star wide receivers Chris Godwin and Mike Evans casts a long shadow.

Mayfield has been a bright spot, surpassing 240.5 passing yards in four of his last five outings, but his recent 300-yard game against Atlanta was marred by two interceptions.

The offensive line deserves kudos for keeping him upright, but the Falcons' lackluster pass rush certainly helped.

Now, the Bucs must pivot to a ground-focused attack, leaning heavily on the dynamic duo of Bucky Irving and Rachaad White.

This backfield has been a revelation, averaging an impressive 5.1 yards per carry, and will be crucial in keeping the chains moving.

Defensively, the Bucs face challenges, particularly with linebacker Lavonte David's ankle injury adding to their woes.

Tampa's defense has been inconsistent, and they'll need to tighten up against a Chiefs offense that can strike quickly.

The injury bug has bitten hard, with Sterling Shepard's hamstring issue further complicating matters.

Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs are riding high, boasting an unblemished record and a potent mix of offensive firepower and defensive grit.

Patrick Mahomes continues to redefine quarterback play, orchestrating an offense that remains lethal even when not firing on all cylinders. Travis Kelce is coming off a standout performance with 10 receptions, easily his top game of the season.

The Chiefs' offense is adept at exploiting mismatches, and they'll look to capitalize on any weaknesses in the Bucs' defense.

On the defensive side, Steve Spagnuolo's unit is the unsung hero of this Chiefs team.

Ranked second against the run, they allow just over 80 yards per game, a testament to their discipline and execution.

With Tampa likely to emphasize their ground game, the Chiefs' front seven will be pivotal in stifling the Bucs' rushing attack.

Betting Preview

From a betting perspective, this matchup offers intriguing angles.

The Chiefs are a formidable 10-2-1 against the spread in their last 13 games, making them a tempting pick to cover the 8.5-point spread.

However, the Buccaneers have been resilient against Kansas City, going 4-1 ATS in their last five encounters, suggesting they might keep the game closer than the odds imply.

The total points line is set at 45.5, and with the Chiefs' recent trend of going UNDER in four of their last five games, the Under looks like a smart play.

Both teams may opt for a conservative, run-heavy approach, which would grind the clock and keep scoring in check.

For those eyeing player props, consider betting on Baker Mayfield's passing yards to fall under 240.5, given the Chiefs' stout defense and Tampa's likely reliance on their rushing attack.

The Bottom Line

This Monday night clash is shaping up to be a defensive showcase, with both teams likely to prioritize ball control and minimize errors.

The Chiefs' superior talent and depth should ultimately see them through, but the Buccaneers' knack for covering the spread against Kansas City can't be overlooked.

Slip of the Week

Sometimes, you just have to see the ball go through the hoop.

I felt this one on a deep level