Akron faces Miami (Ohio) in the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Championship Game on March 15 at 7:40 pm ET at Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse. Akron enters as a 5.5-point favorite with the total set at 156.5.

Key Stats:

• Akron (27-6, 17-1 MAC, 18-15 ATS)
• Miami (Ohio) (25-8, 14-4 MAC, 19-13-1 ATS)

Why Akron Will Win:

• Ranked 14th nationally in adjusted tempo
• Averages 85 points per game
• Takes 29.9 three-point shots per game (6th in NCAA)
• Attempts 64.8 field goals per game (7th in NCAA)
• Strong offensive rebounding with five players averaging 4.6+ rebounds
• Seeking back-to-back MAC Tournament titles
• Dominated Miami (Ohio) 102-75 in their only meeting this season

Miami (Ohio) Overview:

• First championship game appearance since 2007
• Averages 81 points per game
• Allows 72.6 points per game
• Seeking first NCAA Tournament berth since 2007
• Program's first 25-win season

Prediction: Akron's superior depth and high-tempo offense should prove too much for Miami (Ohio). The Zips' ability to create second-chance opportunities and their efficient three-point shooting make them likely to cover the spread. While Miami (Ohio) will seek revenge for their earlier loss, Akron's balanced scoring attack (no player averages more than 14 points) gives them the edge.

The Pick: Akron -5.5 (-110)

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