T.M. Selection: Michigan State / Auburn OVER.

With all due respect to the defensive capabilities of both these teams, this total is simply too low. Michigan State has scored an average of 77.5 ppg last 8 games. They have never scored less than 71 in any of those games and keep in mind they are a 5 point dog to Auburn in this game. The Tigers are averaging 83.6 ppg on the season and have averaged 81 ppg so far in this tourney. I am expecting this one to get near 160 and yet the total is in the 147 range. That big variance is why this is a very strong totals selection for me and one that should dominate the number. In a game that likely has some margin late (Auburn favored by 5) we also could see plenty of late scramble points with late fouling and corresponding free throws for the team leading and plenty of threes being fired away for the team trailing. This one should at least get well into the 150s. Over! Over! Over!

T.M. Prediction: 81-76 Auburn.