NCAA Tournament First Round BYU Cougars vs VCU Rams-03-20-25

It may not receive the national spotlight like other first-round games, but this 6-11 matchup could potentially be the best game on Thursday. At the very least, it’s one worth making an effort to watch. BYU was the hottest team heading into the Big 12 tournament until Houston put an end to that streak. The Cougars had an impressive run, winning nine consecutive games, which included two victories over Iowa State and a commanding win against Kansas. On the other hand, VCU has only lost two games in 2025. While they might not be the most thrilling team to watch, their defense is formidable. However, it’s worth noting that they don’t have any significant wins to their name, as defeating Boston College in early November doesn’t quite qualify.

BYU Cougars vs VCU Rams

• Point Spread: BYU -2.5
• Moneyline VCU +125
• Moneyline BYU -150
• Over/Under 146.5

The Cougars have a better defense than the Rams. Many who watched BYU this season noticed their offensive fireworks, but the team actually led the Big 12 in both field goal and scoring defense—not Houston. They are even more aggressive in pursuing the ball than VCU. Typically, a strong defense can support the offense when issues arise. However, if the Cougars hit their three-pointers early, they can become a formidable opponent.

BYU vs. VCU Moneyline

Moneyline value exists for a MoneyLine bet on either team and I think the best bet on either team is on the MoneyLine. To find the best line, you need accounts with multiple sportsbooks, and we got you covered as we break down the best sports betting app

DraftKings

4.5/5

Tip: Bet BYU

• BYU has played better competition
• Rebounding will be crucial
• Neutral site

New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $150 in Bonus Bets *Paid Within 14 Days

Open DraftKings

The best NCAA betting sites

To satisfy the ever-growing market of NCAA bettors, the best basketball sportsbooks offer unique user experiences, huge payouts, and fantastic bonuses. Gamers no longer have to go to casinos to find some physical action. Online bookies let you play the game of risk from the comfort of your own home. We hope our guide can point you in the right direction so you can find the best gambling experiences on the internet.

Best Brand

FanDuel Promo

New Users – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days

Get bonus now

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET. Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT). Hope is here. GamblingHelplineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Call 1-877-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). 21+ (18+ DC, IA, KY, WV) only. New users only or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Casino, First online real money wager only. $5 first deposit required. Min $5 wager required for 5 consecutive days. Bonus issued as non-withdrawable Bet Reset tokens. Refund from token issued as nonwithdrawable bonus bet that expire 7 days after receipt. Max refund $200 per day. Restrictions apply, including token expiration. See full terms at fanduel.com/sportsbook. Call 1-877-770-7867 (LA).

Best Slots

BetMGM Promo

Up To $1500 in Bonus Bets Paid Back if your First Bet Does Not Win

Get bonus now

Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET (Available in the US) 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) 1-800-327-5050 (MA), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ only. Please Gamble Responsibly. See BetMGM.com for Terms. First Bet Offer for new customers only (if applicable). Subject to eligibility requirements. Bonus bets are non-withdrawable. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. Promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Ontario, or Puerto Rico.

Newcomer

DraftKings Promo

New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $150 in Bonus Bets *Paid Within 14 Days

Get bonus now

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER or 1-800-MY-RESET, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/NH/PR/WY). Void in CAN. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new DraftKings customer. $5+ first-time bet req. Max. $150 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days after issuance. Stake removed from payout. Reward issued as $50 in Bonus Bets every 7 days via click-to-claim for 14 days. 7 days = 168hrs. Terms: sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 8/23/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.

Award

Caesars Promo

Bet $1 and get double the winnings up to $25 for your next 10 bets

–

21+ New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet after registration must qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,000. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Gambling Problem? 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537)

BYU vs VCU Over/Under Analysis

The line is 146.5 and I will bet the over as I think this is a game played in the mid-high 70s.

DraftKings

4.5/5

Tip: Bet the Over 146.5

• BYU the Better team
• turnovers will be key
• Neutral site

New DraftKings Customers: Spend $5+ Get $150 in Bonus Bets *Paid Within 14 Days

Open DraftKings

Don’t be deceived. You’ll hear a lot of talk about how VCU has the right composition, the right veterans, and the right type of team to make a significant run. However, they rely on their defense, and BYU is stronger in that area. It may be a tough battle for a while, but the small yet crucial moments—such as key rebounds, important three-pointers, and timely steals—will likely favor BYU. BYU 77  VCU 71

Bet BYU -2.5