The college basketball betting schedule for today, Dec. 9, 2025, includes Florida vs. UConn, Illinois vs. Ohio State, BYU vs. Clemson, and more.
Read below for basketball odds, best bets, win predictions, and analysis for a few of the top games everyone will be watching today.
Ohio State vs. Illinois Prediction
I’m looking at a counter-play on the total in this game. The overnight opener here was in the mid-150s, and early action has smashed this total all up to 160.5. It’s the highest college basketball total on the board at BetMGM at the time of this writing.
To be sure, both teams have strong offensive credentials. Ohio State has a 61% effective field goal percentage, which rates seventh in Division I, and Illinois’ adjusted offensive efficiency ranks eighth nationally. So points won’t come at a premium here.
Still, this number does seem to have flown too high, and I think there’s value now in grabbing the other side.
Consider the non-basketball profile of this game: an early-December Big Ten conference game between top-40 KenPom teams. This is going to be an early boon for the winner, and both teams surely know that. The defensive intensity will be high from the jump, since there are conference implications on the line. I’ll take the under on the market-adjusted line.
Prediction: Under 160.5
Florida vs. UConn Prediction
UConn has already played four top-20 KenPom opponents this year because Dan Hurley schedules tough matchups. The Huskies are 3-1 in those games, losing to Arizona at home but beating BYU, Illinois, and Kansas.
Florida isn’t quite the juggernaut it was last year when it won the national title. The Gators are working with a lot of new guards, and so the high-level results have been a little uneasy so far this year. They’re 1-2 in Quad 1 games.
It seems clear to me that UConn has a step on Florida, at least at this point during the season. But the rub here is the 5.5-point spread, which is something of a key number in college basketball.
If you’re considering laying it with UConn, it’s not enough for them to win this prize fight at Madison Square Garden. The Huskies have to win by six points or more.
UConn deserves credit for beating tough opponents, but many of the wins have been tight, secured in the final moments thanks to Hurley’s strong situational moves and coaching prowess. Those wins against BYU and Kansas? They both came by five points or less.
With a spread in this zone, I like the dog to keep the game competitive at a nominally neutral venue.
Prediction: Florida +5.5
Best College Basketball Bets Today: Dec. 9, 2025
- Ohio State/Illinois Over 160.5
- Florida +5.5
College Basketball Odds at BetMGM
BetMGM is the premier destination for college basketball odds all season.
Whether you’re a first-time bettor, casual fan, or seasoned pro, there’s something for everyone with college basketball betting at the sportsbook.
If you don’t have a sportsbook account, sign up for the BetMGM welcome offer, one of many sportsbook offers at BetMGM.
The content provided in this blog is intended for entertainment purposes only. All views and opinions expressed are the authors and reflect their individual perspectives on sports, betting, and related topics. This content should not be considered professional betting advice or the official views of BetMGM LLC. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is experiencing issues related to gambling, seek help from a licensed health professional. This blog is not liable for any losses, damages, or consequences resulting from betting activities.
