Alabama is a 1.5-point underdog versus Texas Tech in the Midwest Region’s 4 vs 5 2nd Round matchup
The Red Raiders are just 6-9 versus top-50 RPI rated teams this season
See my favorite March Madness predictions and best bets, plus the latest betting splits for Alabama vs Texas Tech, below
The #4 seed Alabama Crimson Tide (24-9) face the #5 seed Texas Tech Red Raiders (23-10) in a Round of 32 battle tonight, with the winner booking a trip to the Sweet Sixteen in the printable March Madness bracket.
Online sportsbooks expect a tightly contested affair, siding with the lower seeded Red Raiders by a slim margin. I believe that opens up value on the Crimson Tide, and I’ll be looking to back them and Over 164 points in my Alabama vs Texas Tech predictions and best bets.
Tip-off is set for 9:45 pm ET from the Benchmark International Arena in Tampa, FL, with TBS charged with handling broadcast duties.
Alabama vs Texas Tech Predictions
Aiden Sherrell Over 6.5 Rebounds (-145 at Bet365)
Both squads are riding the momentum of dominant opening-round victories. Alabama orchestrated a gritty 90-70 comeback victory over Hofstra, while Texas Tech dismantled Akron 91-71.
The Crimson Tide and the Red Raiders are dealing with key absences ahead of this contest, with Alabama minus second leading scorer Aden Holloway due to suspension, and Texas Tech star JT Toppin headlining the March Madness injuries.
The biggest mismatch I see is Alabama’s massive frontcourt advantage, led by Aiden Sherrell. He absolutely owned the paint against Hofstra, ripping down 15 rebounds, including nine on the offensive glass.
Meanwhile, Texas Tech’s top rebounders managed just six boards apiece in their opener. Without Toppin anchoring the middle, the Red Raiders have a glaring vulnerability inside.
I’m expecting Sherrell to generate the crucial second-chance points Alabama needs to pull out this victory. He is a phenomenal value to feast on the glass against the smaller interior defense of Texas Tech.
Alabama vs Texas Tech Best Bets
Over 164 (-110 at Caesars)
Alabama Moneyline (-105 at BetMGM)
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