The Florida Gators and Houston Cougars have established themselves as two of the premier programs in college basketball, vying for the title in the 2025 NCAA Tournament National Championship game. On one side, the Gators boast a formidable guard trio: Walter Clayton, Alijah Martin, and Will Richard. Conversely, the Cougars are known for their top-tier defense, ranking first nationally in KenPom adjusted defensive efficiency, while the Gators excel in offensive efficiency.

The championship showdown will take place at the Alamodome in San Antonio, with the game set to tip off at 8:50 p.m. ET on CBS. Florida currently holds a slight edge as 1-point favorites, while the total points over/under is set at 141.5. Prior to finalizing any bets, it’s essential to consider predictions from expert Bruce Marshall, who carries an impressive 105-73 betting record in the current season.

Odds Overview

• Florida vs. Houston Spread: Florida -1
• Over/Under: 141.5 points
• Money Line: Florida -115, Houston -104

Florida’s Case

After suffering disappointment in the first round of the previous year’s NCAA Tournament, the Gators have returned with vigor, securing the top seed in the West. Their offensive tempo, driven by Todd Golden, led them to rank highly in both field-goal attempts and points scored (85.3 per game). Furthermore, Florida’s recent resurgence includes a convincing win over Tennessee in the SEC Tournament.

Houston’s Strengths

Houston features formidable big men J’Wan Roberts and Joseph Tugler, crucial in their recent victories, including a standout performance against Duke. The Cougars’ defensive prowess is admirable, allowing an average of only 58.5 points per game throughout the season, showcasing their ability to keep opponents’ points low.

Conclusion

Who will emerge victorious in this gripping encounter? For detailed predictions and analysis, tap into the expertise of Bruce Marshall over at SportsLine, where a critical X-factor could determine if you back Florida or Houston.