Florida (34-4) vs Auburn (32-5)
- When: Apr 5 2025, 6:09 PM
- Where: Alamodome, San Antonio, TX, USA
- Where to watch: CBS
Gators vs Tigers – Final Four Betting Preview, Odds, and Predictions
Florida Gators Outlook:
The Gators come into Saturday’s Final Four matchup as slight 2.5-point favorites, looking to ride the momentum of a 10-game win streak and their second victory over Auburn this season. Florida’s offensive success is being driven by Walter Clayton Jr., who leads the team with 18.1 points per game and has developed into one of the most clutch performers in the nation. Expect Clayton’s points prop to hover around 19.5 — and with his recent hot hand, the over holds serious value.
Florida’s roster depth is a major asset as well. Transfer Will Richard continues to shine in his third year with the program, averaging over 13 points per contest. The Gators are 8-2 ATS in their last 10 games and have covered five of their last six as favorites. They also took down Auburn 90-81 in the regular season, with Clayton erupting for a huge second-half run. A similar performance could punch their ticket to the title game.
Auburn Tigers Outlook:
Auburn enters with a 32-5 record and the No. 1 overall seed, but they’ll need to shake off the bad taste from their earlier loss to Florida. While head coach Bruce Pearl is 0-1 against former assistant Todd Golden this season, he brings experience, postseason toughness, and one of the country’s top big men in Johni Broome — even if Broome is nursing a sore elbow.
Despite the injury, Broome is averaging 18.7 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 2.1 blocks this season. His prop lines will be ones to monitor closely; even at less than full strength, he’s a double-double machine and could clear both points and rebounds totals depending on his minutes.
Auburn’s been impressive overall — winning 13 of their last 15 games and ranking top 20 in both offensive and defensive efficiency. However, they’re just 2-4 ATS in their last six when favored or near pick’em, and their backcourt will need to show more consistency to keep up with Florida’s explosive guard play.
Betting Prediction:
With Florida already owning a win over Auburn and coming in with arguably the more dynamic guard play and the hotter ATS form, the Gators are the right side here. Auburn’s size gives them a fighting chance, but Broome’s injury clouds their ceiling. Look for Clayton Jr. to take over late once again as Florida edges out a high-scoring thriller.
Final Score Prediction: Florida 84, Auburn 79
Pick: Florida -2.5
Lean Over 159.5
Top Player Prop Picks:
Walter Clayton Jr. OVER 19.5 points
Johni Broome OVER 9.5 rebounds
Will Richard OVER 1.5 made 3-pointers
Expect fireworks between two programs with deep ties and something to prove — but it’s the Gators who have the edge.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
