The 15th-seed Saint Peter’s Peacocks (19-13) will battle the second-seed Tennessee Volunteers (24-8) on Thursday, March 21 at 9:20 PM ET in the first round of the Midwest Region. ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook has the Volunteers as heavy favorites with a point spread at -21.5 (-111).

When: March 21, 2024 at 9:20 PM ET

Where: Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina

Watch: TNT

Saint Peter’s Peacocks Preview

The Peacocks are on a winning streak, having secured victories in their past three matchups, instilling them with valuable momentum for the upcoming game. Their most recent triumph was a hard-fought 68-63 victory against the Fairfield Stags in the MAAC Championship Final.

Leading the team in both points and rebounds is Corey Washington, with an average of 16.5 points and 6.6 rebounds per game. His assertiveness from the outset will be crucial for the Peacocks’ chances of success.

In terms of scoring, the Peacocks are averaging 65.3 points per game, a statistic that places them at a 343rd rank nationally out of 362. Their offensive efficiency is also lacking, with a rating of 99.5 that places them at 314th.

Defensively, they are conceding an average of 63.4 points per game, ranking 11th in the nation in this aspect, likely due to their deliberate slow style of play. However, their defensive efficiency ranks 23rd, boasting a rating of 99.6, which bodes well if they can keep the Vols from running up the score.

Tennessee Volunteers Preview

The Volunteers have experienced a mixed bag of results in their recent outings, going 2-3 in their last five games and now seek to regain their momentum. Their latest setback came in a 73-56 defeat at the hands of the Mississippi State Bulldogs, with a paltry 19-point performance in the first half that killed their chances significantly to win.

Despite Dalton Knecht’s impressive season, averaging 21.1 PPG, there is still room for improvement to make a significant impact in the upcoming tournament. With a handful of games over 30 points scored, he can take over games when needed and the tournament is the percent place for it.

Offensively, the Vols are ranked 49th nationally, averaging 79.5 points per game, with an efficiency rating of 112.5, placing them 54th overall. These statistics present an enticing offensive profile compared to the Peacocks.

On the defensive end, they limit opponents to an average of 67.9 points per game, ranking 65th in the nation. Additionally, they boast an impressive 18th place in overall defensive efficiency, with a rating of 96.1. Not only are they proficient scorers, but they also possess the defensive prowess to stifle formidable offensive teams.

Betting Odds

ZenSports Tennessee sportsbook provides top-notch college basketball tournament betting selections tailored for fans of Tennessee sports. The Tennessee Volunteers stand as clear frontrunners for victory, backed by market analysis suggesting a staggering 98.0 percent likelihood of triumph.

Saint Peter’s Peacocks: +1225

Spread: +21.5 (-114)

Tennessee Volunteers: -7692

Spread: -21.5 (-111)

Total Points: Over 130.5 (-112), Under 130.5 (-113)

Photo Credit: © Denny Simmons / The Tennessean / USA TODAY NETWORK