March Madness Picks & Predictions: McNeese vs Clemson Betting Preview for Round of 64
#12 McNeese State Cowboys (27-6) face #5 Clemson Tigers (27-6) in a compelling March Madness round of 64 matchup on Thursday, March 20. The game tips off at 3:15 pm ET from Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island.
Basketball player wearing Phoenix Suns uniform
McNeese enters on an impressive 11-game winning streak, with Clemson having won 10 of their last 11. The Tigers are 7.5-point favorites, with McNeese at +275 on the moneyline.
McNeese's Strengths:
- Ranks 18th in forcing turnovers (21.6%)
- 42nd in offensive rebounding percentage
- 11th in steal percentage (13.3%)
- Strong three-point defense (32% opponent shooting)
- Efficient offense (63rd in KenPom rankings)
Clemson's Profile:
- Shoots 37% from three-point range (31st nationally)
- 53.6% effective field goal percentage (64th)
- Led by Chase Hunter (16.4 PPG)
- Notable wins over Duke and Kentucky
- Weakness: Struggles with rebounds (191st in defensive rebounding)
Prediction: McNeese's pressure defense and ability to force turnovers should neutralize Clemson's size advantage. The Tigers' 15.7% turnover rate and reliance on three-pointers could prove problematic against McNeese's perimeter defense. The Cowboys have the right formula for a classic 12-5 upset.
Pick: McNeese State Moneyline (+275)
Note: Sources indicate odds from DraftKings Sportsbook as of March 20th. Must be 21+ to wager. If you have a gambling problem, call 1-800-GAMBLER.