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Mar 8, 2026; Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; Michigan Wolverines forward Yaxel Lendeborg (23) celebrates in the second half against the Michigan State Spartans at Crisler Center. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images | Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Michigan’s quest for a national championship officially tips off in Buffalo on Thursday evening, and the Wolverines are massive favorites over Howard heading into the matchup.
The 1-seed Michigan Wolverines opened as 29.5-point favorites over the 16-seed Howard Bison in the first round of the NCAA Tournament, according to FanDuel.
The Wolverines come into March Madness with a 31-3 record after winning the Big Ten regular season title, while Howard has a 24-10 record after winning the MEAC Tournament and defeating fellow 16-seed UMBC 86-83 in the First Four.
Michigan has certainly become accustomed to blowing out lesser opponents this season, breaking a Big Ten record with seven wins of 40+ points, along with 10 wins of 30+ points and 13 wins of 20+ points. The Wolverines also lead the Big Ten with an average point differential of +17.6 points per game, which is good enough for third-best in the country.
Howard is the 204th highest-rated team in the nation per KenPom, ranking 129th in defensive efficiency and 268rd in offensive efficiency. Meanwhile, Michigan is the third-highest rated team in the nation, possessing the top-rated defense and eight-best offense. KenPom projects the Wolverines will roll past Howard, 89-60.
Dusty May’s team will have a significant advantage in athleticism, skill, size and speed over the Bison, so Michigan shouldn’t have much trouble building a big lead early on and eventually cruising to a win.
Do you think the Wolverines will cover the 29.5-point spread en route to advancing to the second round? Make sure to comment your score predictions below.
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