#11 Xavier Musketeers are 2.5-point favorites against #11 Texas Longhorns in this First Four matchup at UD Arena in Dayton, Ohio. Tip-off is set for 9:10pm ET on TruTV.

Key Betting Information:

• Xavier: -2.5 points (-166 moneyline)
• Texas: +2.5 points (+140 moneyline)
• Total: 151.5 points
• Public betting: 55% backing Texas on moneyline and spread
• Over/Under: 74% of handle on Over 151.5

Head-to-Head History:

• Texas leads 2-0 all-time
• 2023: Texas won 83-71 (Sweet 16)
• 2019: Texas won 78-76 (NIT, OT)

Team Analysis:

• Xavier (21-11):

  • Perfect 18-0 as betting favorites this season
  • 12-6 ATS when favored
  • Won 7 of last 8 games
  • Led by Zach Freemantle (17.3 PPG, 7.1 RPG)

• Texas (19-15):

  • 5-7 as underdogs this season
  • Over has hit in 10 of last 13 games
  • 4-6 in last 10 games
  • Led by freshman Tre Johnson (19.8 PPG)

Prediction: Texas +2.5 (+100) Rationale: Despite Xavier's perfect record as favorites, Texas's battle-tested experience in the SEC Tournament and offensive firepower make them likely to keep this game close. While Xavier has the defensive edge, Texas's superior offense and recent competitive play against tough opposition suggest they'll cover the spread.

Note: This game has significant tournament implications as the winner advances to face the #6 seed in the Midwest Region.

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