Maryland (27-8) vs Florida (32-4)
- When: Mar 27 2025, 7:39 PM
- Where: Chase Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Where to watch: TBS
NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 Betting Preview
Florida is listed as a 6-point favorite with the total set at 157.5 as the Gators and Maryland Terrapins square off Thursday night in a West Region Sweet 16 matchup. While the setting is San Francisco, both programs have their eyes firmly fixed on a spot in the Elite Eight and beyond.
Florida Gators Preview:
The Gators (32-4) return to familiar territory for head coach Todd Golden, who previously led the San Francisco Dons before taking over in Gainesville. Now, back in the Bay Area, Golden is hoping this trip brings more than nostalgia—it’s about punching Florida’s first ticket to the Final Four since 2014.
Florida enters red-hot after knocking off defending national champ UConn in the second round. Guard Walter Clayton Jr. has been the Gators’ driving force, averaging 17.9 points and 4.2 assists per game. He was clutch down the stretch against the Huskies, scoring 23 points, including a pair of huge threes in the final minutes.
Florida plays at a fast tempo and leans on its offensive firepower. They’re capable of putting up points in bunches and will look to push pace against Maryland’s defense. If Clayton gets going early and the Gators shoot well from deep, they’ll be tough to stop.
Maryland Terrapins Preview:
Maryland (27-8) comes into this matchup with serious momentum and one of the tournament’s most electric freshmen in Derik Queen. Queen, who’s averaging 16.2 points and 9.1 rebounds per game, hit a game-winning fadeaway to eliminate Colorado State in the Round of 32. He’s projected as a top NBA lottery pick, and he’s embraced the spotlight.
The Terrapins’ core—known as the “Crab Five”—has been steady all season. Alongside Queen, Ja’Kobi Gillespie (14.6 ppg), Rodney Rice (13.9), Julian Reese (13.3), and Selton Miguel (12.0) give Maryland multiple scoring threats and create matchup problems. Maryland also showed grit and composure in their comeback win against the Rams, qualities they’ll need again versus a potent Florida squad.
While Queen draws headlines, Maryland’s edge could come from their balanced scoring and physicality. Defensively, they’ll need to slow Florida’s perimeter shooting and prevent Clayton from taking over.
Betting Outlook & Prediction:
Florida is favored by 6, but this feels like a closer matchup than the number suggests. The Gators have been rolling, but Maryland has the kind of depth and star power to keep this one tight. Florida’s pace could push the total over 157.5, especially if both teams find rhythm from beyond the arc.
Prediction:
Florida wins 82-78, but Maryland covers the +6 spread. The Over 157.5 also hits as both teams should score efficiently.
Best Bet:
Maryland +6
Over 157.5
Walter Clayton Jr. Over 19.5 Points
Derik Queen Over 8.5 Rebounds
Expect fireworks in San Francisco with two teams ready to prove they belong on the national stage.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
