Alright, we’re done with the East. Let’s see how things should shape up in the Midwest.
FIRST ROUND
Kansas v. Portland St.
-Congrats to Portland St on their first trip to the big dance. Don’t pack for more than one night. Jayhawks win easily.
UNLV v. Kent St.
-Kent is a trendy pick but UNLV made a great run last year. I expect the Runnin Rebels to win at least once this year.
Clemson v. Villanova
-I really love this Clemson team. They are extremely capable both inside and beyond the arc. I don’t even think Nova should be in the tournament, but it’s ok, they won’t stick around long. Take the Tigers.
Vanderbilt v. Siena
-Siena is led by former UNCG coach Fran McCaffrey…one of the best coaches you’ve never heard of. His club could really scare Vandy, but the Commodores will advance.
USC v. Kansas State
-While my gut tells me USC will win, I always think the best player in the tournament can lead his team to at least one win. Michael Beasley is the best player here, and K-State will win one game.
Wisconsin v. Cal State Fullerton
-CSF is in the tourney for the first time since the Carter administration. There’s the potential they could beat the Badgers, but I’m not confident enough to call the upset here.
Gonzaga v. Davidson
-Anyone who has seen Davidson play knows they’re for real. Stephen Curry is outstanding, and the Wildcats get to play in nearby Raleigh. Gonzaga has to travel from Spokane…yikes! Sorry Zags. Davidson’s the pick here.
Georgetown v. UMBC
-I’m gonna go out on a limb here and guess that UMBC has nobody who can size up with 7′3 Roy Hibbert in the middle. Hoyas roll.
SECOND ROUND
Kansas v. UNLV
-Might be a better game than some people expect. In the end though, too much Rock Chalk Jayhawk. KU wins.
Vanderbilt v. Clemson
-Excellent 2nd round game here, as either of these teams is a potential sleeper in this region. The Tigers are playing with a great deal of confidence, and I think they’ll keep the run going here.
Wisconsin v. Kansas St.
-It’s quite possible that Beasley will put up 30 against Wisconsin. However, it’s also quite possible that the rest of the team might only put up 7 against the tenacious Badger defense. On Wisconsin! To the Sweet 16.
Georgetown v. Davidson
-This one could go down to the wire…that’s how good Davidson is. But in the end, G’Town will be too much for the Wildcats.
SWEET 16
Kansas v. Clemson
-The Jayhawks are a trendy pick to go all the way, 20 years after their last title. But recent trends have shown Kansas to botch up the tournament. They can’t afford to mess around against Clemson. Call me crazy, but I think Bill Self’s struggles will continue, and the Tigers advance.
Georgetown v. Wisconsin
-The question here is whether either team will put up more than 50 points. If you like offense, this game will be as pleasant to you as a root canal. Georgetown is the pick in an ugly battle.
MIDWEST FINAL
Georgetown v. Clemson
-An intriguing matchup because of the contrasting styles. Georgetown plays strong and solid, Clemson plays with speed and style. One thing the Hoyas have, however, is the experience of being this far before. The Hoyas hold the Tigers down, neutralize their speed, and advance to the Final Four for a 2nd straight season.
Next time, we march through the South. Keep an eye out.
