March Madness Sweet 16 Preview

10 min read
Mar 26, 2024, 10:06 AM

The Road to Victory Narrows: A Look into the Sweet 16

As the dust settles on the opening rounds of the NCAA Tournament, sixteen teams remain standing, each with their eyes firmly set on the ultimate prize. The Sweet 16 is not just a testament to skill and perseverance but a beacon for fans and enthusiasts seeking the thrill of college basketball at its finest. We're here not just to share in the excitement but to guide you through each matchup with an objective, informative lens, ensuring you're equipped for a responsible and enjoyable betting experience.

Sweet 16 Schedule and Matchups

The journey continues with eight games spread across two action-packed days. Let’s break down the schedule and dive into each game's dynamics, offering insights that could shape your viewing and betting strategies.

Thursday's Highlights

  • No. 6 Clemson vs. No. 2 Arizona - Los Angeles, 7:09 p.m. ET, CBS
  • The clash in Los Angeles kicks off the Sweet 16, featuring a Clemson team that's found form at the right moment against an Arizona squad known for its potent offense. The Tigers' defense against the three-pointer will be pivotal in containing Arizona's Caleb Love, while the interior battle between Oumar Ballo and PJ Hall promises to be a spectacle. Upset Meter: Moderate.
  • No. 5 San Diego State vs. No. 1 UConn - Boston, 7:39 p.m. ET, TBS/truTV
  • A rematch of last year’s final sees a transformed San Diego State aiming to upset the dominant UConn. With new heroes on both sides, this game is a narrative of evolution and adaptation. Upset Meter: Low.
  • No. 4 Alabama vs. No. 1 North Carolina - Los Angeles, follows Clemson vs. Arizona, CBS
  • Alabama's quest to prove itself against elite competition faces a stern test against North Carolina. The game's tempo and Alabama's ability to disrupt North Carolina's athletic play could define this encounter. Upset Meter: Low.
  • No. 3 Illinois vs. No. 2 Iowa State - Boston, follows San Diego State vs. UConn, TBS/truTV
  • A battle of contrasting styles, with Illinois' offensive firepower going up against Iowa State's defensive prowess. The matchup is a chess match, where strategy and execution will be key. Upset Meter: High.

Friday's Contests

  • No. 11 NC State vs. No. 2 Marquette - Dallas, 7:09 p.m. ET, CBS
  • NC State, this year's Cinderella story, faces a Marquette team that has looked every bit the contender. The Wolfpack's magical run is up against a high-octane Marquette offense. Upset Meter: Low.
  • No. 5 Gonzaga vs. No. 1 Purdue - Detroit, 7:39 p.m. ET, TBS/truTV
  • A rematch from earlier in the season, with both teams having grown since. Gonzaga seeks redemption, while Purdue aims to reaffirm their dominance, led by the formidable Zach Edey. Upset Meter: Moderate.
  • No. 4 Duke vs. No. 1 Houston - Dallas, follows NC State vs. Marquette, CBS
  • Duke's prowess will be tested against Houston's stifling defense in a game that promises to be a tactical battle. The Blue Devils' adaptability could be key to unlocking Houston's defense. Upset Meter: Moderate.
  • No. 3 Creighton vs. No. 2 Tennessee - Detroit, follows Gonzaga vs. Purdue, TBS/truTV
  • An evenly matched game that could go either way, featuring two teams capable of explosive offense and resilient defense. The contest is ripe for a nail-biter finish. Upset Meter: High.

Key Players to Watch

The Sweet 16 stage is set for stars to shine and new heroes to emerge. Here are a few key players whose performances could be game-changers:

Betting Tips and Responsible Gambling

As the Sweet 16 unfolds, the excitement can be exhilarating, but it's vital to approach betting with responsibility and mindfulness. Here are a few guidelines to help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. We have created a guide on how to bet responsibly throughout March Madness to help you through all the rounds.

Responsible Sportsbooks for March Madness

All licensed and regulated sportsbooks across the United States and Canada are currently providing odds for March Madness. Explore our comprehensive list of licensed and regulated sportsbooks across the United States and Canada. When choosing where to place your bets, look for the "RG" logo at your selected sportsbook. This logo signifies that the sportsbook is committed to responsible gambling practices, offering a range of resources and tools designed to help you manage your finances, time, and overall well-being effectively.

We encourage you to "shop around" for the best odds on the games you're interested in betting on. By comparing odds across different sportsbooks, you not only ensure you're getting the best value but may also discover "Odds Boost" promotions. These promotions can offer enhanced odds, improving the potential returns on your bets. Remember, a mindful approach to betting, supported by informed decisions, enhances the enjoyment and safety of your gambling experience. Learn more about understanding odds to make informed decisions.

Sweet 16 Sportsbooks

DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings New Customer Bonus - Bet and Get Up to $500 in Bonus Bets + 1 Month of NFL+ Premium
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BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM First Bet Offer: Up To $1500 In Bonus Bets
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FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel Bet $5 Get $200
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  • Availability across most of US legal states
  • Competitive odds & diverse markets
  • Attentive customer service
  • Extensive list of Same Game Parlay's
  • App speeds vary for some users
  • Geo locate sometimes unreliable
AZ
CO
CT
IL
IN
IA
KS
KY
LA
MD
MA
MI
NJ
NY
OH
PA
TN
VA
WV
WY
NC
VT
DC
ON
CAD
USD
VISA
Mastercard
Discover
Debit Cards
ApplePay
Google Pay
Venmo
PayPal
FanDuel Prepaid Card
Cash at Retail Stores
Cash at Cage
ACH/eCHECK
American Express
Bank Wire Transfer
Diners
VIP Preferred
Play+
Go to Website
Details
DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings New Customer Bonus - Bet and Get Up to $500 in Bonus Bets + 1 Month of NFL+ Premium
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  • Extensive betting markets
  • Live betting
  • Efficient & secure payments
  • Strong security measures
  • Mobile app connectivity issues
  • Maximum bets on odds boosts are low.
  • Promotional restrictions
NJ
CO
OH
IA
VA
KY
AZ
CT
IL
IN
KS
LA
MD
MA
MI
NH
NY
OR
PA
TN
WA
WV
WY
ON
PR
DC
CAD
USD
ACH/eCHECK
American Express
ApplePay
Google Pay
Debit Cards
VISA
Bank Wire Transfer
PayPal
Trustly
Paynearme
paysafecard
Cash at Cage
Skrill
Cash at Retail Stores
DraftKings Gift Card
Play+
Venmo
VIP Preferred
Mastercard
Discover
Go to Website
Details
BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM First Bet Offer: Up To $1500 In Bonus Bets
Get bonus here
  • Available in many U.S. States and Canada
  • Numerous betting markets
  • Major partnerships with teams/leagues
  • Promotions are timely and change rapidly
  • Connectivity issues on betting app
AZ
CO
IN
IA
IL
KS
KY
LA
MD
MI
NJ
OH
PA
TN
VA
DC
WV
WY
NC
ON
MO
CAD
USD
Venmo
American Express
Borgata Cage
Mastercard
VISA
Paynearme
PayPal
Play+
BetMGM GiftCard
VIP Preferred
Bank Wire Transfer
ApplePay
Google Pay
Discover
GameOn Gift Card
Debit Cards
Go to Website
Details
ESPN Bet Sportsbook
ESPN BET Make Any Bet Get $100
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  • Extensive Market Reach.
  • Unmatched Fan Engagement.
  • Live betting.
  • Digital media bohemeth.
  • Limited live streaming.
  • Connectivity issues on betting apps.
AZ
CO
IL
IA
KS
KY
LA
MD
MI
NJ
OH
PA
TN
VA
WV
MA
NC
USD
CAD
VISA
Mastercard
Trustly
ACH/eCHECK
PayPal
Skrill
Venmo
Cash at Cage
Bank Wire Transfer
ApplePay
Debit Cards
Go to Website
Details
Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars: $1000 First Bet On Us
Get bonus here
  • One of the biggest welcome bonuses.
  • Secure payments.
  • Efficient customer service
  • Some users have described slow loading times
  • Limited live streaming options
  • Some bonus wagering requirements are unclear
AZ
CO
DC
IL
IN
IA
KS
KY
LA
MD
MA
MI
NV
NJ
NY
OH
PA
TN
VA
WV
WY
ON
NC
ME
CAD
USD
VISA
Mastercard
Discover
Trustly
Paynearme
PayPal
ACH/eCHECK
Cash at Caesars
Caesars Pre-paid Card
Deposit at a Tavern
Skrill
Venmo
Play+
Debit Cards
ApplePay
Go to Website
Details

Sweet 16 Bonuses & Promotions

As the NCAA Tournament progresses into the exhilarating Sweet 16 round, sportsbooks across North America have rolled out an array of bonuses and promotions. Discover the best NCAA basketball bonuses to make the most of these opportunities. These offerings are not just about adding value to your bets; they're a testament to the sportsbooks' commitment to enhancing the excitement of March Madness while promoting responsible betting practices.

Exclusive Sweet 16 Offers

Many sportsbooks introduce exclusive promotions tailored specifically for the Sweet 16. These may include free bets, risk-free betting opportunities, or matched betting offers, allowing you to engage with the tournament's thrilling matchups with added security and value.

Odds Boosts on Key Matchups

Odds boosts are a standout feature during the Sweet 16, providing enhanced odds on select games. This means you could enjoy better payouts on your winning bets. Whether it's a boost on a particular team to win or increased odds for a player to achieve a certain statistic, these boosts make your bets more rewarding. Dive into NCAA betting trends and statistics for deeper insights.

March Madness Bonuses

The Sweet 16 celebrates the essence of college basketball, underpinned by responsible gambling principles. As we revel in the competition and achievements on the court, let's bet with care, informed by the insights and guidelines provided here.

For those looking to bet on the go, check out the top iOS betting apps, curated by our community based on user feedback and features. Don't just take our word for it; explore user reviews to see what other bettors are saying about their experiences.

At RG.org, we're dedicated to ensuring the excitement of betting complements the thrill of March Madness, focusing on the remarkable…

<p>With 20+ years of writing experience across sports, gambling, regulation, technology and startups Sol brings a broad understanding to his role as Editor-in-Chief at RG. His work is about providing clear factual information to help readers make informed decisions about gambling. Sol’s approach is about transparency and research so the content at RG is straightforward, evidence based and accessible.</p><p>At RG Sol keeps the focus on the reader by maintaining a standard of reliability and integrity in the information shared. Under his editorial direction RG aims to provide practical insights into sports and responsible gambling that support a balanced and informed approach. Sol’s approach has helped RG become a go to source for readers looking to engage responsibly and thoughtfully in the industry.</p>
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Meet our Authors

Paruyr Shahbazyan started his business career in 2000 as an entrepreneur. Over 13 years he learned business and leadership, so he laid the foundation for his career.

In 2013 Paruyr entered the sports and betting industry as the founder and president of Bookmaker Rating. This online media he led until 2020. The platform was focused on in-depth analysis and insights in sports betting and got a reputation for quality content.

In 2022 Paruyr co-founded Azuro, decentralized betting protocol. This shows his commitment to technology in the sports betting space. Through all these experiences Paruyr has been shaping and influencing the betting industry, setting new trends and standards.

Innovation in sportsbetting comes from a deep understanding of both technology and the human element of sports.

Strategic Vision

Paruyr's vision is to revolutionize the sports betting industry through the integration of technology. He sees the future of betting as a blend of traditional sports knowledge with innovative tech solutions, like decentralized protocols, to enhance user experience and fairness. His aim is to create platforms that are not only user-friendly but also uphold the highest standards of ethical betting, contributing to a more responsible and enjoyable betting culture.

Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Sol Fayerman-Hansen
Editor-in-Chief

With 20+ years of writing experience across sports, gambling, regulation, technology and startups Sol brings a broad understanding to his role as Editor-in-Chief at RG. His work is about providing clear factual information to help readers make informed decisions about gambling. Sol’s approach is about transparency and research so the content at RG is straightforward, evidence based and accessible.

At RG Sol keeps the focus on the reader by maintaining a standard of reliability and integrity in the information shared. Under his editorial direction RG aims to provide practical insights into sports and responsible gambling that support a balanced and informed approach. Sol’s approach has helped RG become a go to source for readers looking to engage responsibly and thoughtfully in the industry.

Cristina Varela Galan
Cristina Varela Galan
Problem Gambling Expert

Cristina used to work as a Psychology Assistant in the Bizkaia Pathological and Risky Gamblers Association. She was also part of a research team in Deusto University, specializing in pathological gambling area. While working there, she managed to develop her own project 

 “Exploring the association between emotional regulation, alexithymia, stressful life events and gambling in adolescent and young adult women”.

Nick Ashbourne
Nick Ashbourne
Senior Writer

Nick has been fascinated with sports since he was first taken to a Toronto Maple Leafs game back in 1998, and he's written about them professionally since 2014.

Nick has covered baseball and hockey for outlets like The Athletic, Sportsnet, and Yahoo Sports, and his sports betting expertise has grown since its legalization in Ontario in 2022. 

Between 2022 and 2023 he worked for a betting startup called NorthStar Bets, and in 2024 he contributed to Oddspedia before joining the RG team.

Sergey Demidov
Sergey Demidov
Head of News Department

Sergey has been in sports journalism since 2007 as a reporter, editor, and manager. He has covered the Olympic Games, soccer World Cups, the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, the European championships, the Stanley Cup Finals, IOC events, and many others. Sergey interviewed the sport's greatest athletes, coaches, and executives. Since 2016, he has been an Independent Senior Editor of NHL.com/ru.

Anna Kravtcova
Anna Kravtcova
Problem Gambling Expert

Ph.D. in organizational psychology, an internationally certified psychologist (EuroPsy 2022, Cognitive behavioural therapy of mindfulness 2020, International Society for Emotional Intelligence 2017, Russian Psychological society 2014, American Psychological Association(Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychologist) 2011), speaker of many international conferences (USA, Brazil, Portugal, Czech Republic, Russia, etc.). TEDx speaker.

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