Sweet 16 – BYU vs. Alabama Matchup Breakdown & Best Bet – March 27, 2025

The sixth-seed BYU Cougars (26-9) will have a tough test against the second-seed Alabama Crimson Tide (27-8) in the East Region of the Sweet 16 when they meet on Thursday, March 27 at 7:09 PM ET at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. MyBookie shows the Crimson Tide as favorites with a point spread at -5.5 (-105).

BYU Cougars Betting Preview

The Cougars aim to improve their two-game win streak with this upcoming matchup. Their recent win came after defeating the third-seed Wisconsin Badgers 91-89 in the Second Round.

BYU had a 47-36 lead after the first half of action, but the Badgers made a strong push in the second to make this a one possession game. Richie Saunders led with 25 points and shot 56.2 percent from the field.

The Badgers were held to 42.9 percent shooting overall and 34.3 percent from three point territory. The Cougars made 49.2 percent of their shots and 46.2 percent from downtown. The largest lead by the Cougars was 14, which is something they need to work on for the next game in keeping their distance.

The Cougars have averaged 81.2 points per game and have allowed 71.4 this season. In the tournament, they put up 85.5 points and gave up 80.0 per game to opposing teams. This spread has been solid, but they need more room for error.

Alabama Crimson Tide Betting Preview

The Crimson Tide have also won their last two games and are 4-1 over their last five. Their recent success was an 80-66 outing over the St. Mary’s Gaels in the Second Round.

Alabama had a good lead after the first half, but did allow the Gaels to have a stronger second to make it somewhat more respectable. Chris Youngblood led with 13 points and made four of his five shots.

The Gaels made just 34.3 percent of their shots and 21.4 percent from deep. The Crimson Tide stood out with their 51.8 percent overall shooting and 41.2 percent from long distance.

The Crimson Tide are getting 90.8 points a game and are allowing opponents to average 81.0 points each contest. Their averages in the tournament so far have been 85.0 points scored and 73.5 points allowed. This is a solid spread to work with, but they must not have any mistakes on offense.

Odds, Series Trends, and Free Pick

MyBookie has the best BYU Cougars vs. Alabama Crimson Tide betting odds, which reveal the Crimson Tide as 5.5-point favorites. According to market predictions, it suggests the Crimson Tide has a 64.8 percent chance to win. The Crimson Tide look appealing here to cover the spread with their strong offense.

Final Pick: Alabama Crimson Tide -5.5 (-105)