2025 March Madness odds: Back Duke to make Final Four, Maryland to win Big Ten title

March Madness is finally here, folks. The college basketball tournament is truly one of the best times on the sports calendar.

One reason that everyone loves March Madness is because there's always a possibility that a Cinderella will pull a huge upset. But even if you're not anticipating a lower seed toppling a higher seed, there's still a lot to be excited about.

So below, I'm giving you a few wagers that should do just that — get you excited about college hoops.

Check out these four bets that I think you should make right now as the madness gets underway.

Maryland to win Big Ten Tournament

Maryland finished second in the Big Ten during the regular season by winning 11 of its last 14 games, including wins over ranked Michigan, Wisconsin and Illinois. Maryland is ranked seventh in defensive efficiency and 32nd in points allowed per game, while still being able to score the basketball. 

The Terrapins are 38th in made 3-point percentage. They are a good free-throw shooting team, and they don't turn the ball over at an alarming rate. They also get the benefit of seeding to push them into the Big Ten final. 

Maryland might play Illinois in its first game, and while the Illini have the potential to win every game they play, you don’t often know what you’re getting with them. 

Maryland is also on the side of the bracket with Michigan, which everyone should fade this postseason. The Wolverines are not a proven basketball team. I like Maryland to be in the Big Ten final.

PICK: Maryland (+350) to win Big Ten Tournament

Oregon to win Big Ten Tournament

Oregon is my dark horse in the Big Ten for multiple reasons, starting with the head coach. 

Since Dana Altman was hired in 2010, the Ducks have the most wins in the month