South Florida Bulls vs Louisville Cardinals Picks and Predictions for Thursday March 19 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 03/19/2026, 12:25 AM ET

The South Florida Bulls take on the Louisville Cardinals at KeyBank Center in Buffalo, New York, with tip-off set for 1:30 PM on TNT. Louisville comes in as a -198 favorite while South Florida is +164, with the total set at 164.5 and the Cardinals favored by 4.5 points. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more daily tournament insights and plays.

Bulls Bring High-Octane Offense into Tournament

South Florida enters this matchup with a 25-8 record and strong recent form, recently winning over Wichita State, Charlotte (twice), Memphis, and Tulane. Their current winning streak highlights their ability to score and maintain offensive momentum.

The Bulls are averaging an impressive 87.7 points per game while allowing 75.5, showing a fast-paced, high-scoring style. They shoot 44% from the field and dominate the glass with 42.7 rebounds per game while adding 17.2 assists.

One of South Florida’s biggest strengths is their defensive pressure, averaging 9.2 steals per game. This allows them to force turnovers and create additional scoring opportunities, which fuels their high-scoring attack.

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Cardinals Counter with Efficient Scoring

Louisville comes into the game at 23-10 overall and has also been playing well, recently winning over SMU, Miami, and Syracuse while recently losing to Miami and Clemson. They have shown they can compete against strong competition.

The Cardinals average 84.8 points per game while allowing 72.2 and shoot 47% from the field. They also contribute 38.5 rebounds and 17.1 assists per game, demonstrating a well-rounded offensive approach.

Louisville’s biggest edge is their scoring efficiency and ability to control possessions. Their balanced attack makes them difficult to defend, especially when they are able to dictate tempo.

South Florida vs Louisville Pick

Louisville -4.5

Louisville’s efficiency and ability to control the pace give them the advantage in this matchup. While South Florida can score in bunches, the Cardinals’ more balanced approach and defensive stability should allow them to take control and cover.

South Florida vs Louisville Total Pick

Over 164.5

I like the over in this game because both teams play at a fast pace and have shown the ability to score at a high level. With both offenses capable of putting up big numbers, this matchup sets up well for a high-scoring contest.

Final Score Prediction: Louisville 88, South Florida 82

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