Miami has lost its last six games. The Hurricanes covered at home in the first meeting but are without Nigel Pack tonight, who’s out with a lower body injury. Despite all of Miami’s struggles, this just seems like to many points. They’ve covered five of the last six games between these two and are still a decent shooting team on road through all the injuries, shooting 51.3% effectively. The Tar Heels have a massive edge on the glass, but even in the first match, Miami was able to scratch and claw their way to covering and had chances to win outright. Don’t think they pull the upset, but this is still a veteran team with a good coach that can stay within the number.

In past years we might have been jumping at the chance to take Jim Larranaga's Miami plus double digits. But his isn't like past years for the Canes, as Larranaga has not had the depth required to compete with the ACC's top echelon. And it's gotten worse lately with PG Nijel Pack on the shelf, further exposing the lack of a capable bench. Combined with six straight losses, the chatter is that the mid-70s Larranaga might be considering retirement...stay tuned. Doubt UNC overlooks Miami after being pushed on Feb. 10 at Chapel Hill, and the Heels should appreciate being able to run after the root canal vs. Virginia. Note UNC 5-2 its last seven laying double digits. Play UNC