Saturday CBB Best Bets Jan. 17: Is Stanford a live underdog against Duke?

Saturday features a full college basketball slate with several high-major schools in action on this Saturday in mid-January. Can Stanford cover as home underdogs against #6 Duke? Will scrappy # 15 Texas Tech win by 3+ points in a conference clash with a talented #11 BYU squad? Read on for our Saturday CBB Best Bets Jan. 17 article.

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CBB Best Bet: Stanford +9.5 over Duke

I like the Cardinal here. Stanford’s ability to outperform expectations makes them a prime candidate to cover the 9.5-point spread against Duke on Saturday. This season, the Cardinal have thrived in this role, boasting an impressive 5-1 ATS record as underdogs. Their ability to step up against top-flight teams is further evidenced by a 2-1 ATS mark against ranked opponents in 2025-26. Additionally, with both teams coming off comparable breaks, Stanford’s 4-2 ATS record when playing an opponent on equal rest suggests they have the tactical discipline to keep the game competitive for all forty minutes. Expect Stanford’s gritty defense and home-court advantage to keep this within striking distance. Final score projection: DUKE BLUE DEVILS 74, STANFORD CARDINAL 68.

CBB Best Bet: BYU +2.5 over Texas Tech

I’m backing the Cougars in this one. BYU enters Lubbock with a strong statistical case to cover the 2.5-point spread as road underdogs against Texas Tech. The Cougars have consistently risen to the occasion against elite competition, posting a perfect 2-0 ATS record against ranked opponents this season. Their ability to maintain momentum is also evident in their 8-7 ATS mark following a win this year. Historically, BYU has proven to be a reliable bet in this specific role, maintaining a 6-4 ATS record as an underdog since the start of last season. Their disciplined offensive execution should allow them to navigate the tough road environment and secure a narrow victory. Final score projection: BYU COUGARS 76, TEXAS TECH RED RAIDERS 73.