The No. 2 seed Alabama Crimson Tide will take on the No. 6 seed BYU Cougars in a high-paced Sweet 16 showdown. Alabama is returning to the Sweet 16 for the third consecutive season under head coach Nate Oats and hopes to make another deep NCAA Tournament run. Meanwhile, BYU is making its first Sweet 16 appearance since 2011 and will look to continue its Cinderella run after upsetting No. 3 seed Wisconsin in the Round of 32.
According to KenPom, this game features two of the most efficient offenses in the nation and could turn into an offensive showcase. Alabama leads the nation in pace of play, while BYU must rely on its depth and rebounding to keep up. With Alabama’s defensive struggles over the past 10 games, allowing 80 or more points seven times, this matchup is set up to be a thrilling, high-scoring battle.
Alabama vs. BYU Betting Preview
All Alabama vs. BYU odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook and are correct as of March 25, 2025.
- Spread: Alabama -4.5
- Moneyline: Alabama -200 | BYU +165
- Over/Under: 174.5 points
- Game Time: Thursday, March 27, 2025 | 7:09 p.m. EST
- Location: Prudential Center | Newark, NJ
- How to Watch: CBS
The betting line favors Alabama by 4.5 points, reflecting the Crimson Tide’s high-powered offense. However, their defensive inconsistencies leave room for BYU to capitalize. With the total set at 174.5 points, oddsmakers expect a fast-paced, high-scoring affair. Given Alabama’s preference for attacking the rim and BYU’s recent hot streak, bettors could see value in taking the over if both teams shoot efficiently.
Alabama vs. BYU CSN Winning Probability
According to CSN’s advanced metrics, Alabama has a 67% chance to win this matchup, aligning closely with Vegas odds. However, BYU’s rebounding and ability to slow the game down slightly could give them an edge if they control possessions. While Alabama has been the more dominant offensive team throughout the season, BYU’s defense and depth make this game far from a foregone conclusion.
Prediction for Alabama vs. BYU
This Sweet 16 matchup will be decided by pace and efficiency. Alabama’s All-American guard Mark Sears is the engine of the Crimson Tide offense, averaging 18.6 points and 5.0 assists per game. He will look to push the tempo against a BYU defense that has been tested but remains sturdy. Meanwhile, BYU’s Richie Saunders (16.3 PPG) and Keba Keita (7.9 RPG) will be critical in countering Alabama’s inside presence.
If BYU can win the rebounding battle and force Alabama into contested shots, the Cougars will have a chance to pull off another upset. However, Alabama’s ability to create lobs and attack the paint at an elite level could prove too much to handle.
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The Crimson Tide have struggled defensively, but their offensive firepower should be enough to propel them to the Elite Eight.
Prediction: Alabama 89, BYU 85
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