Griffin Warner and Big East Ben talk NCAA March Madness tournament. The guys talk through the entire MIDWEST Region and give out best bets.

In this episode of the Need for Seeds College Basketball Podcast, hosts Griffin Warner and Big East Ben break down the Midwest Region of the NCAA Tournament, discussing team performances, player statistics, tournament seeding controversies, and betting insights.

A major topic is North Carolina’s controversial inclusion in the tournament despite a 1-12 record in Quad 1 games. The hosts criticize the selection committee, particularly chairman Bubba Cunningham, who received a $104,000 bonus for UNC’s entry. They argue against expanding the tournament and question Oklahoma’s No. 9 seed placement after late-season struggles.

Game previews begin with Houston vs. SIUE, a matchup expected to be lopsided in Houston’s favor. Gonzaga, ranked ninth in KenPom, is a 6.5-point favorite over Georgia, which has struggled on the road. Big East Ben selects Gonzaga -6.5 as his best bet, citing superior bigs and Georgia’s inconsistency.

Clemson is favored by 7.5 against McNeese State, which lacks structure and defensive discipline. The hosts predict Clemson will advance. Purdue faces High Point as an 8-point favorite, with debates over whether High Point can pull an upset, though Purdue is ultimately picked to move on.

Xavier and Texas meet in a First Four game, where Xavier is favored by 2.5. The hosts discuss the game’s high-scoring nature and take over 149.5 points. They predict the First Four winner will beat Illinois, which is considered too high-variance.

Kentucky is favored by 10.5 against Troy, which struggles with turnovers (ranked 333rd nationally). Ben backs Kentucky to cover, while Warner leans toward Troy keeping it close. UCLA, a 4.5-point favorite against Utah State, is scrutinized for its defensive struggles. Warner selects Utah State +4.5 as his best bet, believing UCLA’s transition to the Big Ten has exposed weaknesses.

Tennessee is a 19-point favorite against Wofford, which relies heavily on three-pointers. The hosts expect Tennessee to dominate and suggest betting under 134 total points.

Final best bets: Big East Ben takes Gonzaga -6.5, and Griffin Warner backs Utah State +4.5.

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SleepyJ and Mackenzie Rivers talk all things NBA for Monday. The guys preview 4 of the biggest games and discuss title picks and so much more.

SleepyJ hosts this episode of the NBA Dream Pod, filling in for Munaf Manji, who is away. Joined by NBA betting expert Mackenzie Rivers, they discuss key matchups, player performances, betting angles, and the state of the league. They begin with Stephen Curry’s historic milestone of 4,004 three-pointers, well ahead of James Harden’s 3,131. Mackenzie believes breaking this record is unlikely, as Curry’s unique playing style and long career make him an outlier. SleepyJ argues that the NBA would need a fundamental shift to produce another three-point specialist at Curry’s level.

Discussion shifts to the state of the NBA, with declining viewership and concerns over player workloads. Bill Simmons has criticized NBA leadership, and both hosts suggest possible changes: reducing the season to 60 games, eliminating Christmas games, and modifying the All-Star format into a global tournament like the NHL’s. Mackenzie highlights that while NBA TV contracts remain lucrative ($80 billion over 10 years), engagement is significantly lower than the NFL’s.

They preview four key games. In the Nuggets vs. Warriors, Golden State is favored at -5 (total 236.5). With Jokic, Murray, and Curry expected to play, Mackenzie takes Denver +5, citing their 8-0 straight-up record vs. Golden State. SleepyJ agrees and also likes the under 236.5, expecting a slower-paced contest. The Heat vs. Knicks sees New York favored at -7.5 (total 212.5), with Jalen Brunson out for one to two weeks. Mackenzie’s best bet is Bam Adebayo under 18.5 points, as Miami’s offense struggles. SleepyJ leans toward the first quarter under, expecting a slow start from Miami. In discussing New York’s win total, Mackenzie sets the Knicks over/under at 51.5, and SleepyJ takes the over, noting their defensive depth and favorable schedule.

The Pacers vs. Timberwolves features Minnesota as -7 favorites (total 229.5), with Pascal Siakam out. Mackenzie backs Minnesota -7, believing they are surging. A deeper discussion follows on Anthony Edwards’ place in the league, where Mackenzie ranks him seventh, while SleepyJ believes Edwards is entering playoff takeover mode.

In the Grizzlies vs. Kings, Sacramento is favored -2 (total 239.5) with Ja Morant out. Mackenzie takes the over, predicting a fast-paced contest. SleepyJ goes with Memphis +2, believing they can win without Ja.

Finally, they reveal their title predictions. Mackenzie picks an OKC Thunder vs. Boston Celtics Finals, but his long-shot bets include Milwaukee (50-1) and the Clippers (80-1), citing Giannis Antetokounmpo and Kawhi Leonard as proven playoff performers. SleepyJ takes a Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Los Angeles Lakers Finals, envisioning the ultimate storyline of LeBron James facing his former team. He believes the Cavs are built like a championship team and that LeBron would struggle deep in the playoffs.

The episode ends with a 20% discount code “TANK20” for betting picks at Pregame.com. SleepyJ, battling illness, thanks listeners and signs off, promising more episodes with the full team soon.

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Scott outlines a systematic approach to picking March Madness winners:

This episode provides an in-depth breakdown of free agency, betting strategies, and March Madness analysis.

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Griffin Warner and Big East Ben talk cbb betting for Wednesday. Best bets as always.

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Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers talk NBA betting for Wednesday. The guys are ramping up for the NBA stretch run and provide best bets. The latest episode of the NBA podcast on RJ Bell’s Dream Preview, hosted by Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers, covers key NBA topics as the regular season nears its end. With around 16–17 games left, they discuss team performances, injuries, and betting angles for the Lakers, Bucks, Thunder, Celtics, Suns, Rockets, Timberwolves, and Nuggets.

The Lakers’ situation is a focal point, especially LeBron James' groin injury, sidelining him for 1–2 weeks. Mackenzie, holding an under 49.5 wins bet on the Lakers, sees hope as they’ve lost to the Celtics and Nets. With a tough schedule ahead, including games against the Thunder, Bucks, and Nuggets, he believes they may struggle to reach 50 wins despite improving as a team.

Shifting to the Bucks, Milwaukee holds a 36–27 record with the sixth-hardest remaining schedule, including key matchups against contenders. Mackenzie projects them to surpass 46.5 wins and sees playoff potential, though he doubts they can challenge Boston or Cleveland. He also critiques the Kyle Kuzma trade, questioning whether he improves the team over Khris Middleton.

The episode highlights a marquee matchup between the Thunder and Celtics. Boston is a 4.5-point favorite, but Mackenzie argues Oklahoma City has been the better team. He points to Boston’s weak home-court advantage and statistical inferiority, supporting a bet on the Thunder. Munaf notes Oklahoma City's impressive 24-7 road record and believes Shai Gilgeous-Alexander will exploit Boston’s defense.

The Suns' fading playoff hopes are another focus. With chemistry concerns, including reports of Kevin Durant’s frustration, Phoenix struggles to stay competitive. Sitting outside the play-in tournament, they must overtake the struggling Mavericks. However, Munaf and Mackenzie question their motivation, especially given recent locker-room tension.

Meanwhile, the Rockets, currently fifth in the West at 40–25, are dealing with depth issues. Injuries to Amen Thompson and Fred VanVleet complicate their guard rotation. Mackenzie sees value in betting on Phoenix, given Houston’s instability and VanVleet’s struggles. Munaf agrees, predicting strong performances from Durant and Booker.

Next, the Timberwolves vs. Nuggets matchup is analyzed. Denver, a 3.5-point home favorite, seeks revenge after losing twice in Minnesota. Mackenzie leans toward a Nuggets moneyline bet, citing their superior clutch play and Nikola Jokić’s ability to dominate late in games. He notes Denver’s outstanding home record, making them a solid bet.

Munaf’s best bet is the over (237.5) in Mavericks vs. Spurs. He highlights San Antonio’s poor defense without Victor Wembanyama, leading to high-scoring games. The Spurs have allowed an average of 256 combined points in their last six contests. Despite missing key scorers, Dallas remains potent, and both teams play at a fast pace. Munaf expects a high-scoring affair.

The episode concludes with discussions on March Madness contests at Pregame.com, promo codes for betting packages, and upcoming player prop bets. Munaf and Mackenzie tease their next episode, covering Friday’s games.

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Will Doctor gives you the sharpest card for THE PLAYERS Championship.

-Discussing top 5 on odds board

-1 matchup

-3 p2p

-3 outrights (66/1, 70/1, 90/1)

-Sleeper, FRL, 2 lineups

-Scoring, best bet

For the latest as far as the world of golf, follow Doc on X @drmedia59

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Griffin Warner and Big East Ben talk CBB betting for Monday and the conference tournaments. The guys also give out best bets.

Introduction (0:14 - 1:31)

🎯 Clemson (ACC) & Xavier (Big East) are strong dark horse picks.

🏀 Michigan State is not a recommended bet in the Big Ten, but Indiana (50-1) has value.

🔥 Arizona (8-1) in the Big 12 is a great long-shot pick.

🎲 Missouri (20-1) & Tennessee (5.25-1) are SEC sleeper picks.

📈 The hosts are aligned in favoring teams with strong form and favorable bracket paths.

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Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers talk NBA betting for Saturday. The guys also give out best bets.

The NBA Dream Preview podcast hosted by Munaf Manji and Mackenzie Rivers provided analysis and insights for NBA games scheduled for Saturday.

Munaf Manji (0:11–2:02) opened by highlighting the major news of Kyrie Irving's torn ACL injury, emphasizing its severe impact on the Dallas Mavericks. He pointed out Kyrie's exceptional season, noting he was the only player averaging over 20 points per game, 50% from the field, and 90% from the free-throw line.

Mackenzie Rivers (2:03–3:54) discussed the implications of Irving's injury, stressing that while ACL injuries have shorter recovery periods today, it’s significant given Kyrie's age (32) and heavy usage (39 minutes per game—the highest in the NBA post-Luka trade). Mackenzie critically noted the broader issue of heavy player workloads, suggesting the NBA’s physical intensity has surpassed traditional scheduling models.

Munaf Manji (3:54–4:56) agreed, proposing fewer games (65-70 instead of 82) could reduce injuries and improve player availability for playoffs.

Discussing Anthony Davis’s future with Dallas (4:57–6:17), Mackenzie declared the Mavericks' current championship window effectively closed. He asserted that Davis is primarily valuable as a trade asset and doubted Davis's return to significant play for Dallas.

Rivers (6:37–6:56) briefly predicted a Lakers-Celtics finals matchup, highlighting these franchises' historic rivalry and current strengths.

Munaf Manji (6:57–7:47) emphasized star power in the Lakers-Celtics potential finals, specifically mentioning Luka Doncic, LeBron James, Jayson Tatum, and Jalen Brown. He noted the Celtics' injury issues and their intent to keep stars healthy for playoffs.

In the "I Got Five On It" segment (7:49–14:18), Mackenzie set the Lakers' over-under win total at 52.5, noting their impressive 12-2 record since acquiring Luka Doncic, making them the number two seed in the West. Munaf chose the under, citing a challenging remaining schedule and likely rest periods for LeBron and Luka.

Game analysis began with Orlando Magic at Milwaukee Bucks (14:19–20:19). Mackenzie favored Bucks at -7.5, noting Orlando's poor recent form and injury to Jalen Suggs negatively impacting both offense and defense. Munaf supported this, citing Milwaukee’s historic dominance over Orlando.

The Lakers at Celtics game (20:19–26:04) was assessed next. Rivers initially leaned toward Boston but cited concerns about Drew Holiday’s injury and the Lakers' recent strength in clutch moments. Munaf took Lakers +6, highlighting their resilience and strong halftime adjustments.

Finally, they analyzed Detroit Pistons at Golden State Warriors (26:06–33:45). Despite Detroit’s impressive recent performance, Mackenzie expressed cautious support for the Pistons +5 due to Warriors’ recent long road trip. Munaf agreed, noting Detroit's strong road performance this season.

Munaf’s best bet (34:10–36:34) was Houston Rockets -8 against the Pelicans, citing Houston’s 3-0 head-to-head record against New Orleans and recent defensive strength. Mackenzie supported this but mentioned Fred VanVleet’s questionable status as an important factor.

The episode concluded with promotional announcements for pregame.com and playful banter about Irish Heritage Month (38:32–39:50).

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Griffin Warner and Big East Ben beak down CBB betting for this weekend. The guys are ready for March Madness and give out best bets.

Griffin Warner and Big East Ben hosted the Need for Seats College Basketball Podcast (March 7, 2025), providing analysis and bets for significant college basketball matchups.

Griffin Warner opened by acknowledging his recent betting loss on South Carolina against Georgia and humorously presented a Kawhi Leonard San Diego State jersey after their recent game against UNLV, won by Big East Ben's pick (0:15-1:28). Big East Ben celebrated snapping a four-game losing streak, noting UNLV's Julian Rich Wayne's standout performance with 26 points, significantly above his 8 PPG average, alongside Jayden Hensley's 17 points (1:29-2:19).

Warner humorously discussed Julian Rich Wayne's extensive college transfer history (San Francisco, Florida, Boston College, UNLV) (2:20-3:08). They briefly touched upon Ed Cooley's move from Providence to Georgetown and speculated about his future tenure there, predicting he would remain beyond next season (3:35-4:11).

The hosts moved onto detailed analyses of five highlighted matchups:

Throughout the podcast, the hosts shared humorous exchanges and insightful critiques, enhancing the analysis with statistical details and context for each team and key player discussed.

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RJ Bell, Scott Seidenberg, Steve Fezzik and Mackenzie Rivers talk NFL Free agency along with the NBA. Scott and Fezzik discuss CBB Conference tournament betting and much more.

NFL Free Agency Insights

📌 "The Chargers have released Joey Bosa, five-time Pro Bowler after nine seasons in LA." (3:26 - 3:48)

→ Bosa’s release saves $25.36M, signaling a major defensive reset under Jim Harbaugh.

📌 "The Jets have the most free agents to sign in the entire league at $102 million—25 different ones." (9:04 - 9:24)

→ New York faces a huge roster rebuild, balancing cap space vs. talent retention.

📌 "The Dolphins kind of went all in the last couple years, and now they have to rebuild." (19:28 - 19:39)

→ Miami’s cap-strapped situation ($72M over the cap) makes them a risky bet.

📌 "Chargers were one team that quietly but aggressively pursued Metcalf in trade talks last offseason." (29:09 - 29:32)

→ With Lockett released, will Seattle revisit Metcalf trade talks?

College Basketball Betting Strategies

📌 "It’s really hard to beat a team three times? That’s a myth." (51:25 - 52:27)

→ Teams winning twice often win again, contradicting common betting narratives.

📌 "If you've got a big favorite, you want one that absolutely needs the game." (52:41 - 53:25)

→ One-bid conference teams dominate early rounds with high motivation.

📌 "The NCAA committee already makes its bracket by Friday night." (55:36 - 56:48)

→ Winning a Saturday or Sunday title game rarely impacts seeding.

📌 "Teams with sub-15% win rates often cover in conference tournaments." (1:01:36 - 1:02:21)

→ Dead-last teams can surprise with a final push.

NBA Trends & Playoff Race

📌 "Back-to-back teams this year are covering just 43.7%—the worst in 20 years." (46:22 - 48:00)

→ Load management makes fatigued teams worse bets than ever.

📌 "The Thunder are the favorite at +165, Celtics at +230, and Cavs at 6:1." (35:20 - 37:12)

→ Oddsmakers favor youth and depth in the NBA playoffs.

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