McNeese State vs. Clemson March Madness Preview and Prediction
In the No. 12 vs. No. 5 matchup in the NCAA Tournament Midwest Region, the McNeese State Cowboys face the Clemson Tigers in first-round action.
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How to Watch McNeese State vs. Clemson
When: 3:15 p.m. ET on Thursday, March 20th
Where: Amica Mutual Pavilion in Providence, Rhode Island
Watch: truTV
Odds for McNeese State vs. Clemson
(odds current at time of publish)
Spread: Clemson -7.5 (-115), McNeese State +7.5 (-105)
Total: Over 134.5 (-115), Under 134.5 (-105)
DraftKings Betting Splits | Live College Basketball Odds | McNeese State vs. Clemson Matchup Page
McNeese State vs. Clemson Preview & Prediction
McNeese State is back in the NCAA Tournament after dominating the Southland Conference under Will Wade, posting a 36-2 league record over two seasons. Despite Wade’s baggage from his LSU tenure, McNeese’s gamble has paid off, turning the Cowboys into a mid-major force.
This year’s team may be even better than last season’s, with a stronger defense that contests shots more effectively. While their 3-point shooting has dipped, they remain efficient offensively. However, their dominance comes with a caveat as the Southland is among the nation’s weakest conferences. That said, McNeese held its own against Alabama and Mississippi State in non-conference play and earned a solid win over North Texas.
Last year, the Cowboys drew an under-seeded Gonzaga team and were blown out. This time, Wade faces his alma mater, Clemson, in a matchup that plays more to McNeese’s strengths. The Cowboys are physical, aggressive on the glass, and force turnovers – areas that could trouble the Tigers. However, size will be a concern, as McNeese doesn’t often face the level of length Clemson brings.
Clemson, making back-to-back tournament appearances for the first time since 2011, has notched wins over Duke and Kentucky. The Tigers finished third in the ACC in both offensive and defensive efficiency, excelling from 3 (top 30 in 3P%). They also limit turnovers and generate takeaways on defense.
Their biggest issue is rebounding. While strong on the offensive boards, they struggle defensively, an area McNeese could exploit. Additionally, their defense against contested shots is mediocre, ranking outside the top 100 in both 2P% and 3P% defense.
This game is a contrast of styles—Clemson’s perimeter shooting and experience versus McNeese’s physicality and rebounding. Both teams play at a slower tempo but score efficiently. If the Cowboys can control the glass and hold their own from three, they could make this a fight. In a wide-open 4/5/12/13 pod, this group could go any number of ways.
Estimated Score: Clemson 69, McNeese 64
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