March Madness Picks: Expert Analysis & Upsets

0:00On March 19th, March Madness is here, with the 2026 NCAA tournament firing up on Thursday afternoon. The opening slay features 16 games, but eyes are on big moments like Nebraska chasing its first-ever tournament win against 13-C Troy, at 12.40pm on True TV. Top seed Duke makes his debut against Sienna at 250pm on CBS, while evening action includes BYU with star AJ DiVanza facing Texas at 7, 25pm on TBS. Experts at CBS Sports broke down six key match-ups with picks on spreads, totals, and more. For Nebraska vs. Troy, they lean under 137.5, citing the Cornhuskers top Big 10 defense forcing tough shots. In Louisville against South Florida, at 1.30pm on TNT, the panel mostly backs the Bulls Plus 4.5, thanks to their hot streak and attacking style, Duke's game looks like a route, with Sienna's team total under 53.5 as the smart play against the Blue Devils Elite Defense.

1:06Vanderbilt over 81 as a team total stands out vs. McNeese at 3.15pm on True TV, given the Commodore's ball handling edge. Arkansas faces Hawaii at 4.25pm on TBS, where under 160.5 fits due to rebound battles and quick turnarounds. Panel opinions show strong consensus on favorites like Duke and BYU minus 2.5 over Texas, though upsets Loom in spots like Troy or McNeese. Straight up picks very slightly, but highlight Nebraska, Louisville's foe, and Vanderbilt as solid. These breakdowns set the stage for non-stop action through the weekend, so lock in your brackets and tune in as the man is unfolds.