NCAAF
Spread

Alabama vs UCLA Bet: 2021 March Madness Sweet 16 Pick & Prediction

Last Updated: Mar 26, 2021

Alabama vs UCLA Bet: 2021 March Madness Sweet 16 Pick. The first weekend of the NCAA Tournament is in the books and we are onto the Sweet 16!

There was a lot of hype surrounding this Alabama team prior to the tournament, and they have only backed it up. The Crimson Tide first beat a dangerous Iona team, then put up 96 points in the win over Maryland.

After a win in the First Four, UCLA has found a way to keep winning, after losing the four games prior to the tournament. Despite having a play-in game, the Bruins arguably had the easiest path to the Sweet 16, defeating Michigan State, BYU and Abilene Christian.

What can we expect from either team in this Alabama vs UCLA matchup? Let’s take a look.


Want to play daily fantasy basketball for the Sweet 16, too? Join a March Madness DFS contest with a free $5 game when you create your account on Monkey Knife Fight! And when you sign up with our code TGD, you get a free 100% deposit match of up to $50! Make your picks today.


Alabama vs UCLA Bet: 2021 March Madness Sweet 16

Alabama Crimson Tide (-6) vs. UCLA Bruins

Alabama -6.5 (-110) at SugarHouse NJ


While Alabama’s offense stole the show last game, their defense is actually their strong point. According to KenPom, the Crimson Tide have the nation’s third-ranked defensive efficiency. If their defense shows up, along with their offense at the country’s 12th-fastest tempo, they will be among the most dangerous teams remaining.

UCLA has shot pretty well in the NCAA Tournament, while grabbing 20 offensive rebounds over the past two games to give themselves extra possessions. However, this is the best defense they have faced, and Alabama averages 40.5 rebounds per game, so the offensive boards likely won’t be as common.

Look for Jaden Shackelford to keep his hot shooting going, after leading Alabama with 21 points on 54.5% shooting against Maryland, a better defensive team than UCLA.


Even if your bracket is already busted, you can still get in the game. Read all of our 2021 March Madness betting picks and 2021 NCAA Tournament predictions.

Author

Zach Brunner

Zach Brunner has worked in the fantasy sports and sports betting industries for almost a decade now. He is the owner of FlurrySports and has experience working with FantasyPros, Awesemo, BetWay and other sites. Living in Wisconsin, when Zach isn't drinking beer or shoveling snow, he loves all things Wisconsin sports and UFC.

Related articles

Promotions

Welcome offer
Caesars Sportsbook

Get A Bonus Bet Up to $1,000

5 stars
Welcome offer
DraftKings Sportsbook

Get $200 in Bonus Bets

5 stars
Welcome offer
bet365 Sportsbook

Bet $1 & Get $365 FREE

5 stars
Welcome offer
FanDuel Sportsbook

Get $200 in Bonus Bets

5 stars
Welcome offer
Tipico Sportsbook

Get Up to a $100 Bonus

5 stars
Welcome offer
BetRivers Sportsbook

Get up to $250 2nd Chance Free Bet

5 stars