The set-up: Xavier comes in off an 84-73 road win over St. John's, but I think it'll struggle to duplicate that same energy for a second straight contest away from friendly confines. Butler won't be lacking for motivation here either. The Bulldogs come in off a humbling 75-54 loss to Villanova and will be eager to atone for that mess. They also play with revenge here after falling 70-69 on the road in the first matchup this season. From a situational stand point, there's no question that this one sets up great for the home side.

The pick: Take it for what you will as well, but Xavier is still only 4-6 ATS on the road this year. Butler on the other hand is 6-2 ATS in its last eight as home favorite in the 2.5 to 6 points range. Everything points to a blowout. Lay the points.

9* play