(533) MISSISSIPPI at (534) ALABAMA
FREE PICK: (533) MISSISSIPPI +2
This is what I call an easy decision game. That does not mean in any way, shape or form, that it’s an easy winner. I’ve always loathed that expression, because before the fact I don’t think there’s any such thing. Fact is, this game is by no means easy. I expect it to be close and I’m certainly not going to be stunned if it misses. But the decision part of who to play was easy for me.
Alabama has been about as consistent as it gets throughout the Anthony Grant regime. If it’s a big game, the Crimson Tide have failed far more often than not. The losses have frequently been close to be sure, but it’s tough to dispute that clutch and Alabama basketball haven’t exactly been a tandem.
We’re seeing pretty much the same old story this season with Alabama. They’ve again come up short in the most meaningful games and tonight’s clash with the Rebels falls into that category. Alabama still has a chance to put themselves in position to get to the NCAA tournament. But they really need to win the last two regular season games to get to .500 in the conference and then need a good showing in the league tournament. A loss tonight likely means the Tide will be NIT bound, and one will have to wonder whether Grant will be back for a seventh season on the Alabama sidelines.
Mississippi has had a fine season and the Rebels are in great shape to be on the upper side of the bracket come Big Dance time. But Ole Miss has two straight losses coming into this duel and the last thing head coach Andy Kennedy wants is a late season slump heading into March Madness. So I don’t see any chance the Rebels aren’t revved up for this game. There’s also little doubt the Rebels would love to deliver a knockout punch to a hated rival, particularly with the matchup taking place on Alabama’s court.
My numbers favor the visitors, I think it’s a situation where they’re going to be geared up and I simply don’t have a problem trying to beat Alabama in a game that matters. Give me Mississippi plus whatever points I can take.
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When I'm seeing my handicap especially clearly, I tend to win -- and tend to increase my volume. 8-1 last 9 in CBB. 4 Best Bets today.