Updated:
Mar 21, 2026 , 01:51 PM ET
• 4 min read
Our March Madness moneyline picks for all Round 2 games on March 22, with Kentucky highlighting Phil Naessens’ favorite upset for Sunday’s slate.
Photo By – Reuters Connect. Kentucky Wildcats forward Brandon Garrison (10) reacts after dunking.
Betting favorites went a perfect 16-0 on Friday, and those winners will square off on Sunday in the second round of March Madness action.
These eight matchups could bring even more chalky results, and my college basketball predictions reflect that.
Find out more in my March Madness picks for March 22.
March Madness moneyline picks on Sunday, March 22
Lines courtesy of bet365.
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Expert March Madness Round 2 moneyline picks for Sunday
No. 7 Miami vs No. 2 Purdue: 
Purdue (-320)
Braden Smith and the Purdue Boilermakers boast the nation’s top offense, highlighted by a 2:2 assist-to-turnover ratio.
The Miami Hurricanes defense isn’t equipped to slow them down, so Purdue should score efficiently and control the game from tip to horn.
No. 7 Kentucky vs No. 2 Iowa State: 
Kentucky (+180)
Joshua Jefferson’s absence is a major blow for the Iowa State Cyclones. He brings scoring, rebounding, and two-way versatility that isn’t easy to replace.
The Kentucky Wildcats already have the offensive firepower to compete, and this matchup now tilts in their favor.
Kentucky will come away with the win.
No. 5 St. John’s vs No. 4 Kansas: 
St. John’s (-160)
Two elite defenses are set to clash, but this matchup comes down to form and who can create offense when it matters most.
The St. John’s Red Storm have won seven straight and are riding a wave of confidence, while the Kansas Jayhawks are just 4-5 in their last nine games.
With Zuby Ejiofor leading the way, St. John’s is poised to advance.
No. 6 Tennessee vs No. 3 Virginia: 
Tennessee (-115)
The Tennessee Volunteers and Virginia Cavaliers are both defensive powerhouses, but the Vols’ dominance on the glass looms large.
Tennessee rebounds 45% of its missed shots, a huge factor in what promises to be a slow-paced affair.
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No. 9 Iowa vs No. 1 Florida: 
Florida (-700)
Although Iowa shoots well from the field, Florida’s size and rebounding will limit second chances and allow them to control the game from start to finish.
No. 9 Utah State vs No. 1 Arizona: 
Arizona (-750)
The Arizona Wildcats are simply on another level. They rank among the nation’s best on both offense and defense, while the Utah State Aggies struggle to get stops against efficient teams.
Arizona’s combination of scoring and physicality will wear down Utah State, allowing the No. 1 seed to prevail.
No. 7 UCLA vs No. 2 UConn: 
UConn (-185)
The UConn Huskies have the edge with a more experienced, balanced roster.
Despite the UCLA Bruins’ efficient shooting, their defense isn’t consistent. If Tyler Bilodeau is limited, it further weakens UCLA’s frontcourt.
UConn’s depth and physicality are bound to carry them through.
No. 5 Texas Tech vs No. 4 Alabama: 
Alabama (-110)
This is a true toss-up, but I’m siding with the Alabama Crimson Tide.
They’re strong on the perimeter and will limit the Texas Tech Red Raiders’ 3-point-reliant attack. With JT Toppin out, Tech also loses a serious presence inside.
Even with the absence of Aden Holloway, Alabama’s defense and balanced scoring should secure the win.
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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