Missouri Tigers vs Florida Gators Pick – 3/14/2025

The Missouri Tigers and Florida Gators are set to clash in the quarterfinals of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Tournament on Friday, March 14, 2025, at Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee. This matchup promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both teams showcasing impressive performances this season. The game is scheduled to tip-off at 7 p.m. ET and will be broadcast on the SEC Network.

Missouri Tigers vs. Florida Gators Game Preview

The Florida Gators enter this contest as the No. 2 seed in the SEC Tournament, boasting a stellar 27-4 overall record and a 14-4 mark in conference play. Their recent form has been formidable, highlighted by a commanding 90-71 victory over Ole Miss. In that game, guard Walter Clayton Jr. delivered an outstanding performance, recording 23 points, eight assists, and five rebounds, underscoring his pivotal role in Florida's offense.

On the other side, the Missouri Tigers secured the No. 7 seed with a commendable 22-10 overall record and a 10-8 tally in the SEC. They advanced to the quarterfinals by defeating Mississippi State 85-73 in the second round of the tournament. Notably, Missouri edged out Florida 83-82 in their regular-season meeting, a result that adds an intriguing layer to this upcoming matchup.

Both teams have exhibited offensive prowess this season. Missouri averages 84.6 points per game, ranking them 8th nationally, while Florida is close behind, averaging 84.5 points per game, placing them 9th. Defensively, the Gators have been more stringent, allowing 68.2 points per game compared to the Tigers' 73.2. This contrast suggests that while both teams can light up the scoreboard, Florida's defense might be a determining factor.

Betting Insights

As of the latest odds, Florida is favored by 8.5 points, with the total over/under set at 160.5 points. The moneyline positions the Gators at -365 and the Tigers at +285. These figures reflect Florida's strong season performance and their higher seeding in the tournament.

For bettors considering the spread, it's noteworthy that Missouri has been competitive in high-stakes games, as evidenced by their narrow victory over Florida earlier this season. Additionally, the Tigers have covered the spread in several recent outings, making them an appealing option for those looking at the underdog spread.

The over/under is set at a high mark, which aligns with both teams' offensive capabilities. However, considering Florida's defensive strength, there might be value in exploring the under, especially if the Gators manage to control the game's tempo.

Missouri Tigers vs. Florida Gators Prediction

This quarterfinal matchup is poised to be a high-octane affair, with both teams bringing potent offenses to the court. Florida's balanced approach, combining offensive firepower with defensive solidity, gives them an edge. Walter Clayton Jr.'s recent performances highlight his ability to influence the game's outcome significantly.

Missouri's resilience and their previous win over Florida cannot be overlooked. Their capacity to perform under pressure makes them a formidable opponent. However, Florida's consistency throughout the season, coupled with their defensive metrics, suggests they have the tools to advance.

Considering these factors, the prediction leans towards Florida securing the win. However, given Missouri's competitiveness and the previous close encounter between these teams, the Tigers are likely to cover the 8.5-point spread. As for the total, the game's significance and potential defensive adjustments might result in a score that falls under the projected 160.5 points.

Predicted Score: Florida 80, Missouri 75

Best Bets:

• Missouri to cover the +8.5 spread
• Under 160.5 total points

As always, bettors should consider these insights alongside their research and risk tolerance. The SEC Tournament's intensity often leads to unpredictable outcomes, making for an exciting betting landscape.

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