The 2025 NCAA Tournament is heating up as March Madness Elite 8 takes the spotlight today. With only four spots left for the Final Four, the stakes have never been higher, and only the strongest teams will advance. Following an exciting Sweet 16 filled with thrilling finishes, impressive performances, and top programs proving their worth, today’s games promise even more action. 

The first matchup features No. 1 seed Houston going up against No. 2 seed Tennessee in a showdown of defensive powerhouses. The Cougars narrowly defeated Purdue with a last-second layup from Milos Uzan, while the Volunteers dominated their SEC rematch against Kentucky to secure their place in the regional final. 

Tennessee is the only team in the Elite 8 that has yet to reach a Final Four—will this be their breakthrough year? In the second game, No. 1 seed Auburn takes on No. 2 seed Michigan State in a clash of coaching legends. Bruce Pearl’s Tigers are aiming for their second Final Four appearance, while Tom Izzo seeks to enhance his storied March Madness legacy. 

With top talent on both teams, this matchup has the potential to be a classic. In this article, we’ll analyze today’s March Madness Elite 8 games, including predictions, odds, schedules, and everything you need to know before the games begin. Let’s jump into the excitement!

 

 

 

March Madness Elite 8 Schedule For Today, 3/30

Prior to discussing the March Madness Elite 8 picks, let's review the schedule for today's NCAA Tournament games:

  • (2) Tennessee vs. (1) Houston, 2:20 p.m. | CBS
  • (2) Michigan State vs. (1) Auburn, 5:05 p.m. | CBS

 

 

 

March Madness Elite 8 Expert Picks & Best Bets

Tennessee vs. Houston Prediction Today, 3/30: March Madness Elite 8

Tennessee has everything needed to upset Houston, making their money line bet at +130 an attractive option. The Volunteers feature one of the toughest defenses in the country, allowing only 63.1 points per game (11th nationally) and limiting opponents to a remarkable 38.2% shooting from the field (3rd). 

Their ability to defend against three-point shots (27.8% opponent three-point percentage, 2nd in the nation) is crucial against a Houston team that excels in three-point shooting, ranking 2nd with a 39.8% efficiency. If Tennessee can disrupt the Cougars' outside shooting, they will gain a significant advantage. 

Offensively, guard Chaz Lanier leads the team with an average of 22.0 points per game in the tournament, shooting an impressive 45.8% from beyond the arc. Zakai Zeigler’s playmaking is also vital, as he averages 9.3 assists per game, creating good scoring opportunities for his teammates. 

Against a Houston defense that excels at pressuring ball handlers and forcing turnovers, Zeigler’s calmness and passing skills will be essential for maintaining offensive rhythm. Tennessee's recent tournament success further indicates their potential to win. 

Houston has had difficulty pulling away from opponents in the postseason, narrowly beating Purdue (62-60) and needing a late push to overcome Gonzaga (81-76). If the game stays close, Tennessee’s ability to draw fouls (74.3% team free-throw shooting) and their defensive discipline will be crucial for securing a win.

 

 

 

Michigan State vs. Auburn Prediction Today, 3/30: March Madness Elite 8

Both Michigan State and Auburn possess significant offensive capabilities that are likely to propel the total score beyond 147.5. Auburn's dynamic offense is ranked 10th nationally, averaging 83.9 points per game, and they have frequently surpassed the total when competing against teams that can match their pace.

The Tigers have exceeded the total in five of their last eight contests. Even in lower-scoring matchups, Auburn's shooting efficiency—48.3% from the field and 36.8% from beyond the arc—indicates their potential to accumulate points rapidly.

Conversely, while Michigan State may not be as explosive, they still demonstrate effective scoring capabilities. The Spartans average 78.2 points per game and have shown an offensive surge at times.

Although they favor a more balanced offensive strategy, their proficiency in attacking the basket and their 77.6% free-throw shooting (ranking 25th in the nation) should contribute to a steady flow of points. Auburn's rapid pace will set the game's tempo, compelling Michigan State to match their intensity.

With both teams exhibiting strong shooting performances and free throws likely to be a significant factor, this matchup is poised to be a high-scoring event. A final score in the mid-150s seems probable, making the over 147.5 a favorable bet.

 

 

 

How To Watch 2025 March Madness Elite 8 Games

Fans have numerous options to experience the live action and stay updated on any March Madness Elite 8 picks that are made:

  • CBS: Tune into your local CBS station to watch the games, or stream them through services like Paramount+, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, and Sling TV.
  • March Madness Live: This is the official streaming platform of the NCAA, providing coverage for all the games.

 

 

 

2025 March Madness Elite 8 Odds & Betting Lines Via DraftKings Sportsbook

Explore the latest betting odds for today's matches, provided by DraftKings Sportsbook: 

  • Houston Cougars (-2.5) vs. Tennessee Volunteers – O/U 124.5
  • Auburn Tigers (-4.5) vs. Michigan State Spartans – O/U 147.5

As March Madness Elite 8 progresses, prepare for intense rivalries, thrilling finishes, and unexpected developments. Maintain the excitement with our March Madness Elite 8 picks as we approach the Final Four!