March Madness News

March Madness Picks & Predictions (Final Four 2025)

Written by Ryan Bornemann | Apr 3, 2025 6:00:00 PM

March Madness is down to the Final Four, and if you’ve been following the tournament, you know it’s been a wild ride. Now, with just four teams left standing, it’s time to break down the matchups, analyze betting trends, and make our picks for who will advance to the national championship.

 

Final Four Matchups & Betting Odds

Location: Alamodome, San Antonio, TX
Date: Saturday, April 5, 2025

Game 1: Duke Blue Devils vs. Houston Cougars

Opening Line: Duke -5.5 | O/U 137.5

Game 2: Florida Gators vs. Auburn Tigers

Opening Line: Florida -2.5 | O/U 143.5

These games feature a mix of blue-blood programs and up-and-coming contenders, making for an exciting betting slate. Let’s dive into each matchup and make our predictions.

 

Duke Blue Devils vs. Houston Cougars – Prediction & Best Bets

Game Preview

Duke has looked dominant throughout the tournament, showcasing their depth, elite shooting, and defensive prowess. Freshman sensation Cooper Flagg has lived up to the hype, providing a mix of scoring and rim protection that has fueled the Blue Devils' run.

Houston, on the other hand, has one of the most suffocating defenses in the country. Their ability to grind teams down and limit possessions makes them a dangerous underdog, but can they keep pace with Duke’s firepower?

Key Betting Trends

  • Duke is 7-1 Against the Spread (ATS) in their last eight NCAA Tournament games.
  • Houston has covered six straight games as an underdog.
  • The under has hit in four of Houston’s last five games.

Betting Pick & Prediction

  • Best Bet: Houston +5.5
  • Total Pick: Under 137.5
  • Winner: Duke (Close game, but Blue Devils pull away late)

Houston’s defense should keep this tight, but Duke’s size and shooting will ultimately prove too much. The Blue Devils advance, but Houston covers the spread.

 

Florida Gators vs. Auburn Tigers – Prediction & Best Bets

Game Preview

This all-SEC battle is shaping up to be a fast-paced, high-scoring affair. Both teams have been two of the most consistent teams all season.

Florida’s balanced attack and ability to execute in the half-court could be the difference here. Auburn’s Johni Broome has been a star, but the Tigers need strong perimeter shooting to keep up with the Gators.

Key Betting Trends

  • Auburn is 4-0 ATS in games decided by six points or less.
  • Florida is 5-1 ATS in their last six tournament games.
  • The over has hit Florida's last five games.

Betting Pick & Prediction

  • Best Bet: Florida -2.5
  • Total Pick: Over 143.5
  • Winner: Florida (Gators win in a shootout)

Expect a high-scoring battle with Florida’s depth and shooting efficiency making the difference late.

 

National Championship Prediction & Futures Bets

With Duke and Florida projected to meet in the national title game, let’s look ahead at some early betting angles.

Potential National Championship Matchup: Duke vs. Florida

Projected Line: Duke -3.5 | O/U 145.5

  • Duke’s Edge: More depth, better shooting
  • Florida’s Edge: Faster tempo, underrated defense

Best Futures Bet: Duke (-3.5 projected line) looks like the smart play.

 

Final Thoughts & Best Bets Recap

Final Four Picks Recap

  • Duke to win, but Houston (+5.5) covers
  • Florida (-2.5) wins in a high-scoring game

Top Bets

  • Best Spread Bet: Houston +5.5
  • Best Over/Under Bet: Florida vs. Auburn Over 143.5
  • Best Futures Bet: Duke to win it all

With two elite matchups and plenty of betting value, the Final Four is set to be an incredible betting opportunity. Who are you picking to win it all? 

 

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