Texas Longhorns vs BYU Cougars Picks and Predictions for Thursday March 19 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 03/19/2026, 01:10 AM ET

The Texas Longhorns face the BYU Cougars at Moda Center in Portland, Oregon, with tip-off set for 7:25 PM on TBS. BYU comes in as a -135 favorite while Texas is +114, with the total set at 157.5 and the Cougars favored by 2.5 points. Be sure to check out our free college basketball picks for more tournament coverage and daily winning plays.

Longhorns Looking to Find Consistency

Texas enters this matchup with a 19-14 record and has had mixed results recently, recently winning over NC State and Texas A&M while recently losing to Ole Miss, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. Their inconsistency has been a challenge heading into this matchup.

The Longhorns are averaging 83.3 points per game while allowing 76.5, shooting 48% from the field. They also contribute 37.9 rebounds and 12.2 assists per game, showing a strong scoring ability but less ball movement compared to other teams.

One concern for Texas is their defensive consistency, as they allow over 76 points per game. This could be an issue against a team that can score efficiently like BYU.

Subscribe Now

I authorize Picks And Parlays to send me promotional emails

I understand that I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and accepted the Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy. I consent that Picks And Parlays may use third-party services to process my data.

Terms & Conditions

Cougars Bring Balanced Attack

BYU comes into this game with a 23-11 record and has been competitive, recently winning over West Virginia, Kansas State, and Texas Tech while recently losing to Houston and Cincinnati. They have shown the ability to compete against quality teams.

The Cougars are averaging 83.9 points per game while allowing 75.3, shooting 48% from the field. They also add 38.3 rebounds and 13.5 assists per game, reflecting a balanced offensive approach.

BYU’s strength lies in their ability to score efficiently while maintaining a solid defensive presence. Their balance on both ends gives them an edge in a close matchup.

Texas vs BYU Pick

BYU -2.5

BYU’s balanced play and slightly stronger defensive consistency give them the edge in this matchup. While Texas can score, the Cougars’ ability to execute on both ends should allow them to come out on top.

Texas vs BYU Total Pick

Over 157.5

I like the over here because both teams have shown the ability to score at a high level and play at a faster pace. With efficient offenses on both sides, this game has strong potential to exceed the total.

Final Score Prediction: BYU 84, Texas 80

Betting on College Basketball?

Join Picks and Parlays premium for free and get a free $30 coupon with code FREE30
Get started and wager on college hoops today with our favorite online sportsbooks
Claim a CBB betting bonus offer with the best sportsbook promos