As the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament advances to the Elite Eight, fans are set for thrilling matchups that will determine who punches their ticket to the Final Four. Here’s a comprehensive preview of the key Saturday showdowns—Florida vs. Texas Tech and Duke vs. Alabama—including expert analysis, betting trends, and final score predictions.
Florida Gators vs. Texas Tech Red Raiders
📅 Saturday, March 29, 2025 | 🕕 6:09 p.m. ET
🔎 Game Preview
The Florida Gators (33-4), a No. 1 seed, have dominated March Madness behind a fast-paced, high-scoring offense and a top-10 ranked defense. Senior guard Walter Clayton Jr. leads the way with 17.7 points per game, while sophomore forward Alex Condon chips in 10.9 points and 7.7 rebounds per game.
On the flip side, the No. 3 seed Texas Tech Red Raiders (28-8) continue to surprise with their resilience—especially in their dramatic overtime comeback against Arkansas. Sophomore star JT Toppin has emerged as a force, averaging 18.2 points and 9.3 rebounds per game.
💰 Betting Insights
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Spread: Florida -6.5
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Total: Over/Under 156.5–157
According to DraftKings Sportsbook, public money is heavily on Florida and the over. Meanwhile, Circa Sports reports sharp action leaning toward Texas Tech, with the spread holding at -6.5.
🧠 Prediction
Florida 83, Texas Tech 76
Best Bets:
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Florida -6.5
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Over 156.5 points
Duke Blue Devils vs. Alabama Crimson Tide
📅 Saturday, March 29, 2025 | 🕗 8:49 p.m. ET
🔎 Game Preview
The No. 1 seed Duke Blue Devils (34-3) have lived up to the hype, driven by the incredible performance of freshman phenom Cooper Flagg—a projected No. 1 pick in the 2025 NBA Draft. Flagg exploded in the Sweet 16 with 30 points, 7 assists, and 6 rebounds in a dominant win over Arizona.
The No. 2 seed Alabama Crimson Tide (28-8) are riding high after a record-setting 25 made three-pointers in a 113-88 rout of BYU. Senior guard Mark Sears lit it up from deep, draining 10 of 16 threes on his way to 34 points.
💰 Betting Insights
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Spread: Duke -6.5 to -7
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Total: Over/Under 174.5
DraftKings is seeing action on Alabama +7 and the over, with the total jumping from 169 to 174.5. Circa Sports reports sharp money backing Duke at -7 and the over as well.
🧠 Prediction
Duke 96, Alabama 76
Best Bets:
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Duke -6.5
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Over 174.5 points
Final Thoughts
As we approach the 2025 NCAA Men’s Basketball Elite Eight, the stakes are higher than ever. With elite talent, contrasting playstyles, and major betting interest, Saturday night promises high drama and even higher scores. For more bracket updates, visit NCAA.com.
As always, bet responsibly—and enjoy the madness.4r55
