UConn’s depth, defense and early-season cohesion give it an edge in Friday’s national championship rematch, but Michigan’s physical guards should keep the game close. The pick is Michigan to cover the spread.

By the Numbers
  • Tipoff: Friday, Nov. 6, at 8 p.m. ET.
  • UConn opened as a 3-point favorite; the spread has risen to 6.
  • Michigan freshman Brandon McCoy Jr. is out with a knee injury.
Yes, But

UConn looks deeper and more polished, while Michigan’s defense has yet to show it can consistently slow down the Huskies’ complex offense. But the teams appear closely matched among their starters, and Michigan has the size and physical guards to challenge UConn.

What's Next

Watch the point guard matchup between Michigan’s Elliot Cadeau and UConn’s Silas Demary Jr., along with how the teams’ transfer centers handle pressure and ball-screen defense. The forecast favors UConn to win, but Michigan to cover at +6.

Bottom Line

UConn may have the stronger overall roster, but six points looks like too much cushion to give a Michigan team with comparable top-end talent and the physicality to make this a close game.