The NCAA Tournament features loads of thrill for bettors and fans of college basketball, including the match-up were about to get into. The No. 1 seed Illinois go head to head with No. 16 seed Drexel right out of the gate. Although this might seem like a lopsided game, it wasn’t that long ago when we saw a No. 1 seed fall prey to a No. 16 seed. Anything is possible!

We take an in-depth look at the First Round match between Drexel vs. Illinois, which covers an overview of both teams, their respective NCAAB odds, strengths, and weaknesses, as well as our expert betting predictions. The NitroBetting news team provides the right tools to enjoy the best sporting events and lock in on the best picks.

Be sure to check out all the latest 2021 March Madness odds for upcoming games. Also, check out our exclusive March Madness Bitcoin bracket, where you can a BTC pool prize of $500. And best of all, it’s completely free!

Drexel vs. Illinois Game Information

Some ? of practice! #MarchMadness #GoDragons pic.twitter.com/i5dTzc75jg

— Drexel Men's Basketball (@DrexelMBB) March 15, 2021

• When: Friday, March 19, 2021, 1:15 PM ET
• Where: Indiana Farmers Coliseum, Indianapolis, Indiana
• TV: TBS
• Radio: CBS Sports Radio
• Live Stream: March Madness Live
• March Madness Betting Odds: Drexel +22.5 / OU: 144.5

READ MORE: Baylor vs. Hartford 2021 March Madness Odds and Preview — First Round

Why Bet on the Drexel Dragons?

These are exciting times for the Drexel Dragons, as they set foot on the NCAA Tournament stage for the first time in 25 years. Drexel was a sixth seed in the recently concluded CAA tournament but got hot and made it all the way into the title game where the Dragons slayed the Elon Phoenix to earn the only March Madness bid in the conference.

What makes Drexel a unique opponent for anyone is its ability to slow down the intensity of the game. This way, the team gets to read the game better and execute more successful offensive plays. Drexel is shooting 47.7 percent from the floor, 37.2 percent beyond the arc, and makes 77.7 percent of their free throws.

Some of the notable names in the team include junior guard Camren Wynter and senior big man James Butler, both major contributors to the team’s scoreline.

Why Bet on the Illinois Fighting Illini?

Illinois finds light in the duo of junior guard Ayo Dosunmu and big man Kofi Cockburn. You can find the name of the former in the list of players to watch in the NCAA Tournament, which already says a lot about him.

Dosunmu currently averages 21.2 points per game, putting him in second place in the Big Ten. This is combined with an average of 6.2 rebounds and 5.3 assists. Meanwhile, Cockburn is averaging 17.6 points per game and leads the conference with an impressive 10.3 rebounds per contest.

The Fighting Illini ranks high in offensive and defensive efficiency, finding themselves in the top 10. This makes them a danger to anyone they face and a tasty bet to make it into the Final Four. Brad Underwood hit the nail on the head with this team, adding more advantages to his side in this upcoming matchup.

Drexel vs. Illinois Carolina Betting Trends

• North Carolina won 3 of its last 5 games.
• North Carolina is 3-2 against the spread in its last 5 games.
• The totals have gone under 6 times in North Carolina’s last 10 games.
• Wisconsin is 3-7 against the spread in its last 10 games.
• Wisconsin is 3-7 in its last 10 games.
• The totals have gone over 4 times in Wisconsin’s last 5 games.

Drexel vs. Illinois Expert Betting Prediction

Drexel patiently waited for their time in the NCAA Tournament, and we guarantee you that this team is going to put on a show one way or another. If key player Carmen Wynter delivers and executes consistent attacks, Drexel has a shot at getting ahead.

Simultaneously, the in-form Illinois will make it tough for Drexel. The team shows no signs of slowing down and is currently the favored team for many. But, do not discount the ability of Drexel to keep the game close enough for them to at least cover the spread.

Feel free to browse sports betting guides. While you are at it, go ahead and check out all the latest March Madness betting odds and more in our online Bitcoin sportsbook.

*All odds stated are subject to change without prior notice.