The set-up: I think the 23-1 Houston Cougars get caught looking past the 13-11 UConn Huskies. The Cougars have won eight straight and come in a tiny bit complacent in my opinion. The Huskies on the other hand enter razor focused after consecutive setbacks to Memphis and Temple. Clearly on paper, Houston is the better team, but I think the overall situation favors the hungry dog.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Houston is still only 11-12 ATS in its last 23 after successfully covering the spread in two or more straight games. UConn on the other hand has responded well in this spot by going 4-1 ATS in its last five after two or more straight road losses. Grab the points and expect a battle.

8* play