Connecticut vs. Michigan State

Connecticut struggled away from home early in the season, but Coach Kevin Ollie kept after these kids, demanding better defense. They certainly have improved, on an 18-5 run, and the Huskies are 5-1 ATS against a team with a winning record. It also helps to play this tournament at Madison Square Garden, close to home. UConn has great balance with the kind of guard play you need this time of the year with Shabazz Napier, plus 6-9 junior DeAndre Daniels up front. Daniels is off a 27-point, 10-rebound performance in the win over Iowa State. The Huskies are 4-0 ATS in their last four non-conference games and 5-1 ATS in their last six neutral site games. They match up evenly with a Michigan State team that focuses on defense first, off wins of seven and two the last two games. The Spartans are 0-3-1 ATS in their last four NCAA Tournament games, while UConn is 35-8 in its last 12 tourney appearances after defeating the Cyclones 81-76. Look for a close one and grab the dog. Play Connecticut.