Tip-Off: Friday, March 28, 2025 – 9:39 p.m. ET
Location: State Farm Arena, Atlanta, GA
TV: CBS
Introduction
The NCAA Tournament’s Sweet 16 presents a compelling matchup between the No. 5 seed Michigan Wolverines and the No. 1 seed Auburn Tigers. Michigan, riding a wave of momentum, faces an Auburn team that has demonstrated dominance throughout the season. This clash promises to be a pivotal moment in both teams’ tournament journeys.
Team Overviews
Michigan Wolverines (27–9, 14–6 Big Ten)
Under the guidance of coach Dusty May, the Wolverines have showcased resilience and determination. Offensively, they average 78.3 points per game, with center Vladislav Goldin leading the team at 16.8 points per game on 61.6% shooting. Guard Tre Donaldson contributes 11.5 points and 4.2 assists per game. Defensively, Michigan allows 71.3 points per game, emphasizing their balanced approach.
Auburn Tigers (30–5, 15–3 SEC)
Coached by Bruce Pearl, the Tigers have had an impressive season, clinching the SEC title. They average 83.8 points per game, with forward Johni Broome leading at 18.4 points per game on 50.9% shooting. Broome also contributes 3.0 assists per game. Defensively, Auburn allows 69.4 points per game, highlighting their ability to control both ends of the court.
Key Matchups to Watch
1. Vladislav Goldin vs. Johni Broome
The battle in the paint between Michigan’s Goldin and Auburn’s Broome will be crucial. Both players are their team’s leading scorers and possess the ability to dominate the interior. Their performance will significantly influence the game’s outcome.
2. Perimeter Defense
Auburn’s guards have been effective from beyond the arc, while Michigan’s perimeter defense will need to step up to limit these opportunities. The success of Auburn’s three-point shooting against Michigan’s defense could be a determining factor.
3. Tempo Control
Auburn prefers an up-tempo game, leveraging their offensive prowess, whereas Michigan may aim to slow the pace to execute their half-court sets effectively. The team that dictates the tempo will likely gain a strategic advantage.
Betting Odds & Lines
- Spread: Auburn -8.5
- Total: 153.5 points
- Moneyline: Auburn -400, Michigan +320
Odds via SportsLine consensus as of March 28, 2025
Betting Angles & Trends
- Michigan has covered the spread in 5 of their last 7 games as an underdog.
- Auburn is 4-1 against the spread in their last 5 NCAA Tournament games.
- The Over has hit in 6 of Auburn’s last 8 games, indicating a trend toward high-scoring affairs.
Expert Predictions & Picks
Analysts are divided on this matchup. Some highlight Auburn’s offensive firepower and defensive capabilities as key advantages. Others point to Michigan’s momentum and balanced attack as factors that could lead to an upset. The consensus leans towards Auburn advancing, but Michigan covering the spread is a plausible outcome.
The Sweat’s Best Bets
- Michigan +8.5: Given their recent form and ability to compete against top teams, the Wolverines covering the spread is a viable option.
- Over 153.5 Points: Both teams have demonstrated offensive capabilities, suggesting a high-scoring game is likely.
- Johni Broome Over 18.5 Points: As Auburn’s leading scorer, Broome is expected to play a significant role in the offense.
Final Thoughts: Michigan vs. Auburn Preview
This Sweet 16 matchup presents a classic underdog narrative with Michigan aiming to upset the top-seeded Auburn. The game will likely hinge on key individual battles, strategic tempo control, and execution under pressure. Fans can anticipate a thrilling contest as both teams vie for a spot in the Elite Eight.
