Ohio State vs TCU: Expert Picks and Odds for NCAA Tournament Opener
The men’s NCAA Tournament First Round resumes Thursday with No. 8 Ohio State facing No. 9 TCU. The matchup opens a 16-game slate and will decide who advances to the Second Round.
Game details
The teams meet at Bon Secours Wellness Arena. The game is set for March 19 at 12:15 p.m.
CBS will broadcast the contest. Viewers can also stream March Madness on Fubo.
Expert picks and odds
Filmogaz.com reporters offered split opinions ahead of the matchup. Most lean toward Ohio State, but one expert picked TCU.
| Reporter | Pick |
|---|---|
| John Leuzzi | Ohio State |
| Ehsan Kassim | Ohio State |
| Austin Curtright | Ohio State |
| Craig Meyer | TCU |
Opening betting lines favored the Buckeyes. The moneyline opened at -218. The spread listed Ohio State by 3 points. The total opened at 147.5.
What the numbers suggest
- A -218 moneyline implies Ohio State is the clear favorite.
- A three-point spread signals a close game on paper.
- A 147.5 total forecasts a moderately paced contest.
March Madness schedule
Key dates for the 2026 tournament rounds were announced. The First Four took place March 17-18.
The First Round runs March 19-20. The Second Round follows on March 21-22.
Sweet 16 games are March 26-27. The Elite Eight is March 28-29.
The Final Four is scheduled for April 4. The national title game is April 6.
For concise coverage, analysis, and further Ohio State vs TCU expert picks and odds for NCAA Tournament opener updates, visit Filmogaz.com.
