Texas Tech (28-8) vs Florida (33-4)
- When: Mar 29 2025, 6:09 PM
- Where: Chase Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
- Where to watch: TBS/truTV
Texas Tech vs Florida Elite Eight Betting Preview and Prediction
Florida (-7.0) vs Texas Tech | Total: 157.5
The Florida Gators enter Saturday’s Elite Eight clash as 7-point favorites over Texas Tech, with the total set at 157.5. This West Regional matchup pits one of the most explosive teams in the tournament against a Red Raiders squad riding high off a massive comeback win.
Florida Gators Outlook
Top-seeded Florida (33-4) is peaking at the right time. Winners of nine straight, including a dominant 87-71 win over Maryland, the Gators have looked like a championship-caliber team on both ends of the floor. Their depth, pace, and execution are elite, and they’ve made it clear they believe this is their year.
Seniors Will Richard, Alijah Martin, and Walter Clayton Jr. have led the charge, combining for 42 points in their Sweet 16 win. Even with Alex Condon nursing an ankle injury, Florida’s second unit stepped up, with Denzel Aberdeen pouring in 12 off the bench. Condon, who averages nearly 11 points and leads the team in rebounding, is expected to suit up — a boost for an already dangerous squad.
Florida’s offense thrives in transition and off crisp ball movement, but they’ve also shown grit in half-court sets. If they keep the turnovers down — they committed just four in the second half versus Maryland after a sloppy first — they’ll be hard to contain.
Texas Tech Red Raiders Outlook
Third-seeded Texas Tech (28-8) earned their spot in this round the hard way — erasing a 16-point deficit to edge Arkansas 85-83 in overtime. That kind of mental toughness and belief will be critical as they prepare to face a juggernaut like Florida.
Darrion Williams played the hero role, hitting a game-tying triple and the game-winning layup in OT despite a rough shooting night. The Red Raiders are built on resilience, and coach Grant McCasland has his team playing with a chip on its shoulder.
Texas Tech’s ability to defend the perimeter will be tested, and they’ll need to control the tempo and keep this from becoming a track meet. If they can force Florida into a half-court battle and dominate the boards, they have a shot to hang around.
Expert Prediction & Betting Analysis
Florida is the deeper, more polished team, and they’re playing with supreme confidence. The Gators’ offensive firepower, combined with solid bench production and late-season momentum, makes them a tough out. Texas Tech has heart, but their comeback magic may not be enough this time.
Pick: Florida -7
The Gators should pull away in the second half with their depth and scoring balance. Look for a double-digit win.
Over/Under: Lean Over 157.5
Both teams can score in bunches, and Florida’s pace could push this game past the number if Tech is able to keep up.
Score Prediction: Florida 85, Texas Tech 74
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
