March Madness tips off tonight, starting with the First Four games in Dayton, Ohio. These games are important because they decide the last teams that will join the main tournament bracket and offer some good betting opportunities before the excitement really takes off. 

This year's play-in games include two exciting matchups: St. Francis (Pa.) going up against Alabama State for a No. 16 seed in the South Region, and North Carolina facing off against San Diego State in a clash of No. 11 seeds.

Below, we will look closely at both games, discuss important details, and share our top March Madness First Four picks.

 

 

 

2025 March Madness First Four Predictions & Preview For Both Games

St. Francis vs. Alabama State Prediction Today, 3/18

St. Francis heads into the tournament riding a six-game winning streak, having secured their spot with a tough defensive win in the NEC championship. 

The Red Flash depend significantly on junior guard Riley Parker, who is the team's top scorer with an average of 13.4 points per game and boasts a three-point shooting percentage of 39.9%. However, despite their recent success, they have faced challenges with offensive efficiency, placing outside the top 200 in scoring.

On the other hand, Alabama State has also been on a roll, winning 10 out of their last 11 games. The backcourt duo of guards CJ Hines and Amarr Knox is impressive, with both players averaging 14 points per game. 

The Hornets excel in rebounding, ranking among the best in the nation for boards per game. Nonetheless, their shooting efficiency raises some red flags, as they sit near the bottom with a field goal percentage of 40.5%.

Both teams focus on defense and have issues with shooting efficiency. 

St. Francis recently clinched a conference title in a game that ended 46-43, and Alabama State's recent matches have also seen lower scores. Anticipate a slow-paced, defensive showdown to begin our March Madness First Four predictions.

 

 

 

North Carolina vs. SDSU Prediction Today, 3/18

North Carolina was the last team selected for the tournament, which raised some eyebrows due to their poor 1-12 record in Quad 1 matchups. However, the Tar Heels have faced tough competition in the ACC and nearly pushed Duke into overtime during the conference semifinals. 

Their offense relies on solid performances from their guards and a well-rounded approach, but they've struggled with consistency.

In contrast, San Diego State has shown it can compete with top-tier teams, having secured wins against No. 1 seed Houston and other tournament contenders like Creighton and Colorado State. 

The Aztecs boast a strong defense and an experienced lineup, highlighted by transfer guard Nick Boyd. They play a tough, defense-oriented game and are capable of winning against larger programs.

The Aztecs' defense is likely to challenge UNC, and their knack for keeping games tight makes them a smart choice against the spread. 

When rounding out our March Madness First Four predictions, it’s thought that this matchup could hinge on the final moments, making those points crucial.

 

 

 

March Madness First Four Free Bracket Picks

If you're working on your bracket, here’s how the March Madness First Four picks can affect your choices:

  • Winner of St. Francis vs. Alabama State: 

The team that wins this game gets to play against a top-ranked team in the South Region. Usually, No. 16 seeds don’t make it past the first round, but the idea of an underdog is still exciting. St. Francis has strong defense, which might help them control the game and avoid a big loss.

  • Winner of North Carolina vs. San Diego State:

The team that wins this matchup will go on to play a No. 6 seed that has a real shot at going far in the tournament. Historically, 11th-seeded play-in teams have done well in the main bracket, like UCLA’s run to the Final Four in 2021. San Diego State, known for its solid defense and experience, could be a surprising choice to move on to the next round.

 

 

 

2025 March Madness First Four Odds & Betting Lines

Here’s a summary of the newest betting odds from Bet365 Sportsbook regarding today’s March Madness First Four predictions:

St. Francis Red Flash vs. Alabama State Hornets

  • Spread: Alabama State -3.5 (-115)
  • Money Line: St. Francis +150, Alabama State -180
  • Total: 138.5 (Over -110, Under -110)

North Carolina Tar Heels vs. San Diego State Aztecs

  • Spread: North Carolina -4.5 (-110)
  • Money Line: North Carolina -200, San Diego State +165
  • Total: 142.5 (Over -110, Under -110)

Keep in mind that the lines might change before the games start, but right now, it seems like the best bet is to go for the under in the first game and pick San Diego State to cover in the second if you’re making March Madness First Four predictions.

 

 

 

How To Watch The 2025 March Madness First Four

If you want to catch all the action from the First Four, here’s what you need to know:

  • Date: Tuesday, March 18, 2025
  • Location: UD Arena, Dayton, Ohio
  • TV Coverage: truTV
  • Streaming: NCAA March Madness Live, various sportsbook apps

While the First Four might not grab as much spotlight as the later rounds, it’s an awesome kickoff for fans and bettors alike. With two thrilling matchups lined up, you can expect an exciting start to the tournament with our March Madness First Four picks.

With these expert March Madness First Four predictions, you’re ready to make informed bets and perfect your bracket. Whether you’re rooting for a defensive showdown in the 16-seed game or cheering for an underdog in the 11-seed clash, the First Four presents fantastic betting opportunities. Let the madness begin!