After each winning their first-round game of March Madness, the Loyola Chicago Ramblers will take on the Illinois Fighting Illini on Sunday, March 21st. It's time to continue the NCAA odds series and make a Loyola-Illinois prediction and pick.

Loyola finished the season with a 25-4 record that earned them the eighth seed in the Midwest bracket. On the other hand, Illinois entered the tournament as a one seed after going 24-6 in a much tougher division. This should be a fun game to watch, as both squads have been solid all season long. The Fighting Illini are one of the best teams in the country, but Loyola Chicago has Sister Jean in their corner. Let's see what the NCAA odds are on this game.

Here is how the sportsbooks lay out the odds for this thrilling matchup.

NCAA Odds: Loyola-Illinois Odds

Loyola Chicago Ramblers +7 (-110)

Illinois Fighting Illini -7 (-110)

Over 133 (-110)

Under 133 (-110)

Why Loyola Could Cover the Spread

Entering this game as the underdog, Loyola will have their work cut out for them. However they do have a couple of strengths that could lead them to achieving the upset, or at least covering the spread. First and foremost, Loyola thrives on defense. They average just 55.7 points to oppositions all year long. Their incredible defensive play is what they'll lean on during this game against Illinois.

While on offense, the Ramblers have to move the ball around. They're one of the best in the nation in generating assists. They distribute well and play as a complete unit on offense. Loyola will be leaning heavily on Cameron Krutwig in this one, as he's the team's leader in points (14.9) and rebounds (6.7). Hard-nosed defense and a slow-paced half-court game will be how the Ramblers keep this game competitive.

Why Illinois Could Cover the Spread

The Illini are a number one seed and they didn't get there by accident. Ayo Dosunmu has led the way all year long, averaging 20.6 points, 5.4 assists, and 6.5 rebounds. The ball runs through him, as he's been the major contributing factor Illinois during their last five games. He's the best player on the court in this matchup, and Illinois will need him to continue playing the way he has if they expect to win and cover the spread.

Additionally, the Fighting Illini have a plethora of standout players on their roster. It's not like Dosunmu is left on an island on the court, as his teammates have the ability to score at will as well. Kofi Cockburn has put up 17.6 points and 9.5 rebounds per game. He's been a solid second option for Illinois, and matches up well in the paint against Cameron Krutwig. Expect Dosunmu and Cockburn to lean on each other in this one to secure a win.

Final Loyola-Illinois Prediction & Pick

Loyola Chicago will have to play as a team throughout the game to win this matchup. Slowing the game down and playing half-court basketball is their best chance to proceed in the tournament. On the other hand, Illinois has the star power and the depth to go the distance this year. Having Ayo Dosumnu and Kofi Cockburn gives the Illinois an advanatage in nearly every matchup they'll come across in the tournament. For that reason, I see the Fighting Illini taking advantage and proceeding to the next round of March Madness.

FINAL PICK: Illinois Fighting Illini wins 83-77