Editor’s Note: This recurring series is written by Billy Costigan.
Championship weekend is upon us!
After an amazing round of quarterfinal games last weekend, it all comes down to this with four teams and three games left!
Saturday on ESPN2 we have the two semi-finals matchups:
Rutgers -1.5 (-125) ML -165
Cornell +1.5 (-105) ML +135
Over 24.5 (-120) / Under 24.5 (-110)
Maryland -6.5 (-115) ML -1050
Princeton +6.5 (-115) ML +600
Over 27.5 (-125) / Under 27.5 (-105)
Be on the lookout for lines to be released for Monday’s Championship game by the sportsbooks. You’ll also want to keep an eye out as well as my picks in that game via my Twitter @bcostigan84.
Some exciting news, I will be on scene in East Hartford, Connecticut at Rentschler Field at Pratt & Whitney Stadium on Monday to cover the National Championship game live in person. Check out my Twitter as well as Lacrosse Playground’s for great coverage all weekend!
Now let’s take a look at the semi-final matchups.
Rutgers vs Cornell
First up we have the Big10 Scarlett Knights of Rutgers vs the Ivy League Big Red of Corell. In most categories on paper Rutgers has an edge here. Rutgers is anchored by senior goaltender Colin Kirst and offense can start from there. Off amazing saves they move it up the field through solid midfielders to formidable attack.
But battle tested Cornell is no joke led by their own Alumni and PLL All Star Connor Buczek. The Big Red also feature a deadly attack unit which includes CJ Krist the brother of Rutgers goalie. Hopefully that familiarity will help CJ sneak a few past his older brother.
I could easily see this game being close and will lean wil Cornell plus the points.
My bet for this game though is going to be the under 24.5 goals. Both these teams are disciplined and can like to take their time. Rutgers is ranked 29th in offensive pace according to Lacrosse Reference and Cornell comes in even slower with a 58th ranking.
Pick: BET Under 24.5 (-110)
Lean: Cornel +1.5 (-105)
Maryland vs Princeton
In the other semifinal it’s once again Big 10 (this time the undefeated conference champion) vs another Ivy League Squad. Obviously the unblemished Maryland Terrapins lead the statistics strongly again here. It’s hard to say anyone will defeat Maryland but it’s also difficult to remain undefeated.
I would personally lean to Princeton plus the points thinking they have to be able to keep it within 7 goals. However we have seen Maryland cover some scary big spreads against great teams this season.
Also if you’re looking at the total my lean is to the over 27.5 goals. Both these offenses are very efficient and have scored in the high 20’s single handedly this year.
There is no shame though in laying off this game all together and just enjoying watching it.
Pick: LEAN Princeton +6.5 (-115)
LEAN Over 27.5 (-125)
No matter your bets, this weekend’s games will be amazing to watch!
Hopefully the semifinals treat you well and the national championship should be great too.
Be sure to check out my Twitter for more updates and plays throughout the weekend and as always my DM’s are open with any questions you may have about lacrosse or sports betting @bCostigan84.
Best of luck and let’s cash some bets!