NCAA 2025 Round 2 Saturday Preview: Key Matchups, Betting Picks & Analysis
The second round of the 2025 NCAA Tournament brought intensity, drama, and expert betting insight. In the latest episode of the Need for Speed's College Basketball Podcast, hosts Griffin Warner and Big East Ben dissect every Saturday matchup, delivering high-level commentary backed by in-game stats, coaching trends, and betting advice. Here's a full breakdown of their deep dive.
Setting the Stage: A Slow-Burning Start
The podcast opens with hosts reflecting on a relatively subdued first round. Unlike previous tournaments that delivered early fireworks like buzzer-beaters and upsets, this year’s openers were competent but lacked viral moments. Griffin and Ben lament the absence of iconic games like Furman–Virginia or Auburn’s J.P. Pegues' highlight reel shot.
McNeese vs. Clemson: Defensive Grit & Coaching Strategy
McNeese almost pulled off the upset, using a tight zone defense rarely seen in their playbook. Coach Will Wade's adjustments stifled Clemson early, and a fiery first-half performance nearly gave them a major win. But Clemson’s poor shooting — scoring more in the final minute than the first 14 — ultimately sealed their fate.
Key Betting Angle: McNeese was a 6-point dog. Griffin leaned toward them for their high-pressure defense against inefficient Clemson scorers like Hunter and Sheffield.
Arkansas vs. St. John’s: Athleticism vs. Experience
St. John’s rebounded from a shaky first half against Omaha, while Arkansas impressed with a consistent offensive rhythm. Despite early season inconsistencies, Arkansas has faced stronger SEC competition. Both hosts favor the Razorbacks, citing their size and physicality as disruptive to Big East teams.
Best Bet Alert: Arkansas +7.5 backed by both Griffin and Ben.
Michigan vs. Texas A&M: Battle in the Paint
Ben criticizes A&M’s overreliance on offensive rebounding, calling out underperformance from Bez Embang and praising Nick Townsend. Michigan’s interior defense and physical presence could neutralize A&M’s second-chance strategy.
Player Highlight: Farrell Payne (A&M) had success against Yale but faces a tougher Michigan matchup.
Griffin’s Best Bet: Michigan +3
Drake vs. Texas Tech: System vs. Chaos
UNC Wilmington exposed Texas Tech’s offensive recklessness, and Drake is poised to do the same. The Bulldogs, led by coach Ben McCollum, executed one of the cleanest performances of Round 1. Texas Tech, meanwhile, jacked up 46 threes and showed no structure.
Upset Watch: Drake +7 is a strong pick. Griffin and Ben expect them to control pace and punish Texas Tech’s poor decision-making.
? Creighton vs. Auburn: Size Matters
Creighton’s Ryan Kalkbrenner looms large as a rim protector who can neutralize Auburn’s Johni Broome. Louisville’s defense allowed Creighton uncontested looks, and Griffin expects similar breakdowns from Auburn.
Defensive Edge: Kalkbrenner’s presence forces outside shots, increasing variance and Creighton’s cover chances.
Prediction: Creighton +9
BYU vs. Wisconsin: Big Ten Battle-Tested?
Ben goes all-in on the Badgers, citing the Big Ten’s 7-0 first-round record and asserting BYU’s VCU win was aided by whistles and fatigue. Griffin fires back, warning about BYU’s offensive versatility and dangerous wings like Richie Saunders.
Clash of Styles: Wisconsin’s physicality vs. BYU’s pace and spacing.
Split Decision: Ben picks Wisconsin -1; Griffin takes BYU +1
Gonzaga vs. Houston: The Underdog with Firepower
Gonzaga’s dominant win over Georgia (an SEC representative) positions them as dangerous five-point dogs. Houston’s Juwan Roberts may not be at full strength, and Gonzaga’s frontcourt duo of E.K. and Gregg could exploit that.
X-Factor: Graham E.K.’s low-post scoring and Ben Gregg’s perimeter spacing.
Betting Play: Gonzaga +5 and the over (139.5)
UCLA vs. Tennessee: Tactical Toughness
UCLA used smart ball movement to dismantle Utah State’s zone. While Tennessee has a stronger defense, Griffin backs UCLA’s adaptability. Ben prefers Tennessee’s edge via star guard Chasin Air.
Point of Contention: Griffin likes UCLA +5; Ben leans Tennessee in a rock fight.
Final Bets & Tournament Takeaways
They both agree the tournament will only improve as high-level matchups ramp up. Underdogs like Drake and Gonzaga could be pivotal for brackets and betting cards alike.
Final Thoughts
The hosts close by teasing Sunday’s slate, expressing hope for more drama and competitive fire. Griffin and Ben blend data and intuition, pulling from real-time performances and season-long trends to forecast upsets and covers.
Whether you're filling a bracket or placing a wager, this episode is a treasure trove of insights, predictions, and personality-packed analysis.