WEEKEND PREDICTIONS 2/13-2/15

Record This Year: ME:51-14 ESPN:39-26

No. 16 Baylor at No. 8 Kansas, 1 p.m. ET, CBS, Saturday:
Last time these two played Kansas barley escaped 56-55 on the road. Baylor dominated the offensive glass in that game and frankly should have won. But if you pick against the Jayhawks at home, where they have over a 40% 3-point percentage you’ll regret it

The Pick: Kansas 62, Baylor 57

No. 6 Villanova at No. 18Butler, 6 p.m. ET, CBS Sports Network, Saturday:

This is a huge game in the Big East, if Butler wins the Bulldogs will move into a tie for first in the Big East, If Villanova wins they clinch a two game lead over anyone else in the conference. Earlier this year Villanova defeated Baylor by 12, it will be a lot closer but the same result

The Pick: Villanova 71, Butler 67

No. 4 Duke at Syracuse, 6 p.m. ET, ESPN, Saturday:

You’d think after receiving a self-imposed postseason ban Syracuse would lie down and give up but you don’t realize how wrong you are. Before Syracuse was making a push for tourney bid, now they’re playing for something much more dangerous, pride.

The Pick: Syracuse 68, Duke 63

No. 20 Virginia Commonwealth at George Washington, 2 p.m. ET, ESPN2, Saturday:

Both teams need this win, George Washington is sitting squarely one the bubble and the Rams of VCU need to get back on track after losing 3 of their last 4 and their star player, Briantie Weber to injury. Normally In this sort of toss up I would give it to the home team, but Shaka Smart, one of the nations best coaches will have his team ready.

The Pick: VCU 68, George Washington 60

No. 23 Ohio State at Michigan State, 12 p.m. ET, ESPN, Saturday:

When was the last time a Tom Izzo team was in danger of falling onto the bubble in mid-February? On the other side freshman D’Angelo Russell (#3 in CSD wooden watch) is playing like a top 5 draft pick ? Michigan State only scored 54 points against an injury/suspension riddled Illinois team. I think it’s a clear pick

The Pick Ohio State 71, Michigan State 58