Pick 5: Illinois Moneyline +104 (Fanduel)

With Terrence Shannon Jr. leading the way, the Illinois Fighting Illini are looking to cash in on the Arkansas Razorbacks in the 2023 NCAA Tournament.

As the 2023 NCAA Tournament approaches, the Illinois Fighting Illini and Arkansas Razorbacks are set to face off in a much-anticipated matchup. The odds are close, with Arkansas presently favored by 1.5 points and the over/under set at 144 points, but the Fighting Illini are ready to bet the house on their chances of emerging victorious.

Illinois has been on a hot streak recently, boasting a 5-2 record against the spread in their last seven games against teams with a winning percentage above .600. This has been a major improvement from their early season form, giving them a strong chance of making the most out of this matchup.

The Fighting Illini have a major weapon in the form of Terrence Shannon Jr. A transfer from Texas Tech, Shannon has been the engine of the team's success all season, averaging 17.1 points, 4.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists, and 1.3 steals. His recent 19-point, 5-rebound, 4-assist performance against Penn State in the Big Ten Tournament second round was especially impressive.

On the other hand, the Razorbacks have had a more inconsistent season. Their 4-1 record against the spread in their last five neutral-site games is encouraging, but their five losses to teams with a winning percentage below .600 suggests that their depth may not be enough to match up against the Fighting Illini's roster.

In short, the Illinois Fighting Illini are ready to bet the house on Arkansas Razorbacks in the 2023 NCAA Tournament. With a hot streak and star player Terrence Shannon Jr., they have the edge over the Razorbacks, who have been far less consistent on the season. With all this in mind, the Fighting Illini have a great chance to make some serious money in this highly-anticipated matchup.