March Madness 2012: Smart Bets for Late Games to End Round of 64 Up Big

The round of 64 is the most exciting time of the year for most gamblers in general, and certainly for college basketball lovers.

There are tons of upsets, close calls, buzzer beaters and all sorts of things that can swing emotions in a hurry during March Madness.

Unfortunately, it’s almost over.

Here are a few games that take place later tonight that should help you end the weekend up a few bucks.

Saint Mary’s, -2 vs. Purdue

The Gaels are simply the better team in this No. 7 vs. No. 10 matchup.

They made a huge splash in the tournament back in 2010, going to the Sweet 16 before falling to Baylor.

Look for them to make a similar run this year as the No. 7 seed with an advantage in the first round against the Boilermakers.

Purdue has a tough time against good teams, and the Gaels are the definition of a solid squad.

Michigan State, -19 vs. LIU-Brooklyn

It’s usually smart to bet the underdog in the No. 16 vs. No. 1 seed, as the top dog is often just going through the motions (see: Syracuse, 2012).

However, it’s going to be different for Tom Izzo’s Spartans against the LIU-Brooklyn Blackbirds.

Michigan State has a lot of work to do in this tournament and did not play well early in the season against top-tier teams.

They have something to prove, and will not let off the gas against this inferior squad.

Lehigh, +12 vs. Duke

You may think it’s crazy to bet a No. 15 seed against a No. 2, but the Mountain Hawks have not lost a game by more than nine points this season.

Why would they start now?

They are seeking an upset in the tournament, and C.J. McCollum is one of the top point guards in the nation.

He’s an excellent player and his supporting cast isn’t shabby, meaning this game is going to be closer than the spread believes.