Both these teams enter the tournament with the same regular season records. The Eagles have an experienced roster that can give the Illinite some trouble in this game. Illinois has had to come back in games this season, being down a lot, to grind out a win, and they have done that more than once which is troubling. That is not a good recipe in this game as the Eagles can play defense so if Illinois are not getting their threes, then they will be in trouble. Moorehead State are good enough to get a cover in this game so take the points.

Morehead State are 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games. Illinois are 4-2 ATS in their last 6 games. Moorehead State are 1-0 ATS this season and 5-1 ATS in the last few seasons when playing with 7 or more days rest. Moorehead State are 10-3 ATS this season after covering 2 of their last 3 against the spread. Moorehead State are 3-1 ATS this seaon in all tournament games. Moorehead State are 3-2 ATS when seeded 13 through 16 in the NCAA tournament. Illinois are 5-6 ATS as a favorite of 10 or more points. Kentucky are 1-4 ATS this season after scoring 80 points or more in a win over a conference rival. Illinois are 0-2 ATS in the last few seasons when seeded 4 or higher in the NCAA tournament. Illinois are 0-2 ATS in the last few seasons in the first round of the NCAA tournament.

Best bet: take the points with Moorehead State.