NC State vs. Clemson Prediction and Odds for ACC First Round (Back the OVER)

Clemson is quietly building a head of steam as it enters the ACC Tournament, winning four straight and getting healthy with PJ Hall rejoining the lineup on Saturday.

North Carolina State meanwhile has been one of the worst teams in the country of late, losing 10 of 11 games. The team can't stay in front of anyone on defense and Clemson should have no issue getting what it wants on the offensive end.

Will they be able to cover and advance to the second round? Here are the odds from WynnBET Sportsbook:

NC State vs. Clemson Odds, Spread and Total

Spread:

• NC State: +5 (-110)
• Clemson: -5 (-110)

Moneyline:

• NC State: +170
• Clemson: -210

Total: 143 (Over -110/Under -110)

NC State vs. Clemson Prediction and Pick

I show a slight number edge on the Wolfpack, but can't imagine betting them given how dismal they have looked in ACC play. However, I'm going to be looking at the over for several reasons.

First, NC State's issues mainly come on the defensive end, ranking 257th in adjusted defensive efficiency per KenPom, but are 66th on offense. The team is top 15 in limiting turnovers and are a fine 3-point shooting team against a Clemson club that allows the second highest 3-point rate in ACC play.

Meanwhile, Clemson is also fine at protecting the rock, 60th in the country, and are shooting 3's at a high level this season, 43rd nationally. Against a NC State team that doesn't play a lick of defense, I think the Tigers get whatever they want on that end.

Both teams are more than capable from the charity stripe, and each get there at a top 100 clip, if this game is relatively close late to push this over the total, each clocking in at north of 72%, so I think we see a higher scoring game.

PICK: OVER 143.5

All of Reed's college basketball plays can be tracked here, his best bets column for college basketball is 91-82-3 for +4.58 units.