After battling with Xavier throughout the first half, and carrying just a five-point lead into halftime, Illinois broke the game open in the second half, scoring 46 points and ultimately pulling away from the Musketeers to climb into the Round of 32, where third-seeded Kentucky awaits.

NCAA Tournament First Round matchup between the Illinois Fighting Illini and Xavier Musketeers with predictions, odds, picks, spread, betting lines and more.