Grambling vs. Montana State Prediction, Best Bets, and Odds

• Grambling State has won nine of their previous ten games

• Montana State finished the season with a 14-17 record

• The Tigers have a point differential of -1.4

March Madness is here at last!

The field of 68 teams has been set, including a thrilling First Four matchup between Grambling State and Montana State. While the Tigers won the SWAC regular season and tournament titles, the Bobcats needed a stunning tournament run to overcome their 14-17 record. Both will be looking to be this year’s Cinderella, but only one will advance.

Below, we will share the latest March Madness sportsbook promos and our predictions for this exciting matchup. If you are looking for help picking this game, we have you covered!

Sports Betting Promos for Grambling State vs. Montana State

Before you start betting on today’s game, be sure you claim one of the many fantastic welcome bonuses available. Below are some of the top ones currently offered, but you can find more by checking out our sportsbook reviews.

Grambling State Tigers vs. Montana State Bobcats Prediction and Odds

Grambling State Tigers

The Tigers had one of their best basketball seasons in history, making their first-ever NCAA Tournament. They got there by going 12-4 in SWAC and winning the conference tournament. The team has won nine of their final ten games, making them one of the hottest teams entering March Madness. 

The question is how this talented Grambling State team will do outside the SWAC. They were smoked during their non-conference schedule, leading to a 3-10 record to begin the season. Some losses came from large programs, but others were from schools like Delaware State, Sam Houston, Troy, and SE Louisiana. Montana State wasn’t great this season, but they are as good as those four teams. 

The Tigers' question will be whether they can do enough on offense to keep pace with the Bobcats. They averaged just 67.0 PPG, which is far below the Bobcats’ 75.1%. While their defense is solid, Grambling State still has a brutal point differential of -1.4. That number is a big reason why we think the Tigers will head home.

Montana State Bobcats

While Grambling State struggled outside their conference, the Bobcats struggled all season. However, this team looked far different during the Big Sky Tournament. Thanks to their offense, they won all three games to lock in the title. They scored 85+ points in two games, including the final against Montana.

We love the Bobcats to win because of their ability to make threes. They lead the conference with a three-point percentage (36.7%) and attempts (24.5). The Tigers finished sixth in the SWAC against the three, allowing opponents to make 33.9% of their attempts. 

Montana State’s biggest weapon in this matchup will be Robert Ford III (15.9 PPG, 7.6 RPG, 48 FG%, 42.6 3P%). He averaged 22.6 points during their Big Sky Tournament run, making 74.3% of his shots from the field and going 8-17 from three. Having a star senior guard is a massive advantage this time of the season, and we think it leads to a win.

Grambling State vs. Montana State Pick

• My Pick: -3.5 (-115) at BetMGM Sportsbook

Grambling State’s non-conference play is a big red flag. While Montana State didn’t fare well during the season, they played a more demanding schedule. That will have them better prepared for a nationally televised game tonight. 

In addition to experience, the Bobcats’ ability to shoot from deep will be a problem. Grambling State’s defense isn’t good enough to contain them, and their own offense won’t be able to keep pace. The Tigers may end up jumping out to a lead early, but once the Bobcats' offense gets rolling, this game will be over.

How to Watch Grambling State vs. Montana State

• When: Wednesday, March 20 at 6:40 PM EST

• Where: UD Arena in Dayton, OH

• TV: TruTV

• Streaming: March Madness App

If you or someone you know needs support or wants to speak with a professional about responsible gambling, seek out the correct resources. Call 1-800-GAMBLER to get help, or visit www.1800gambler.net for more information. WSN is an advocate for safe gambling practices.