Friday features a relatively light college basketball slate with several mid-major teams and a pair of high-major schools taking the floor on the 27th day of February 2026. Will George Washington beat Dayton by 4 points or more at the Charles E. Smith Center in D.C.? Can #3 Michigan go on the road, win, and cover against #10 Illinois? Read on for our Friday CBB Best Bets Feb. 27 article.
CBB Best Bet: Dayton +3.5 over George Washington
CBB Best Bet: Michigan -1.5 over Illinois
I’m taking the Wolverines in this one. Michigan is poised to cover the 1.5-point spread as road favorites against Illinois by leaning on their ability to perform in high-stakes environments.
Michigan has been particularly sharp against elite competition this season, boasting a 5-2 ATS record against ranked opponents in 2025-26. Their recent momentum is evident, as they have covered the spread in 5 of their last 8 games overall.
With a solid 13-12 ATS mark coming off a victory, the Wolverines’ disciplined defense and offensive execution should allow them to navigate a tough road atmosphere and secure the narrow cover in Champaign. Final score projection: MICHIGAN WOLVERINES 76, ILLINOIS FIGHTING ILLINI 73.
Friday CBB Best Bets Feb. 27
- Dayton Flyers +3.5
- Michigan Wolverines -1.5