Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Feeling Sweet

Well guys, March is officially here with all of its madness. Now that virtually everyone's brackets are destroyed, we can finally focus on the games. We are down the Sweet 16, and I couldn't be more excited Regionals weekend is easily the most intense, competitive weekend in college basketball. Cinderella teams will either be formed or shot down. Favorites will either prove their worth, or fall to their knees is failure. Only the best of the best move on past this weekend to claim their spot in the coveted Final Four.

Thursday and Friday have some very interesting match ups. Here, I'm going to do a quick analysis of each game, so you can get an idea of what we're looking at this weekend.

EAST REGION:

Ohio State vs. Kentucky: Few teams have looked as intimidating and consistent as Ohio State this season. With freshman sensation Jared Sullinger leading the team in the post, this entire team is stacked. That said, Kentucky offers and interesting match up for the Buckeyes. The Wildcats are longer and more athletic than Ohio State, and I think if they can control the tempo early, it could be upset city in Newark.

Marquette vs. North Carolina: Marquette is a very scrappy team who can drive and shoot, but I think the Tar Heel's defense and post game will be too much for the Golden Eagles. Also, UNC is just too good in clutch situations. If it's a close game, the Tar Heels take it.

WEST REGION:

Duke vs. Arizona: Two teams that probably should have lost their last games. If the Blue Devils can establish a post presence early, and implement the new addition of Kyrie Irving well, they come away with an easy win. Arizona will have a tough time defending the Plumlees down low and the onslaught of players that can shoot the three ball.

UCONN vs. San Diego State: This is an intriguing match-up. The key for the Aztecs is clearly to slow down Kemba Walker and force him to get his teammates involved. This is not a small task by any means, but if there's a team that can do it, it's San Diego State. They have several very versatile defenders, and they will all have to bring their "A game" to defeat the Huskies.

SOUTHWEST REGION:

Kansas vs. Richmond: Richmond is a good team, but they'll need a miracle to defeat the Jayhawks. I don't see a Cinderella story for the Spiders in this one.

Virginia Commonwealth vs. Florida State: Most interesting match up of the Sweet 16. With Chris Singleton back on the floor it seems Florida State's defense is nearly impenetrable, but VCU runs a very unique offense that tends to take teams out of their rhythm. Tough call, but I'm going to have to go with Florida State in this one.

SOUTHEAST REGION:

Butler vs. Wisconsin: Last year's National Runner-ups just won't go away. Brad Stevens has definitely proven that he is one of the best coaches in college basketball. That said, I think Wisconsin's rebounding ability and size will be too much for them.

BYU vs. Florida: Jimmer Fredette has been able to carry BYU early in this tournament with his fantastic play, but I think this is where the loss of Brandon Davies finally gets the best of the Cougars.

And there you have it. My take on the sweet 16. Feel free to leave comments on what you agree and disagree with.


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