Friday's Sweet Sixteen Predictions

Well, despite overestimating Wazzou's chances against mighty UNC, the Chief Maniac went 4-0 on Thursday (3-1 A.T.S.) Ok, here are my quick picks. I have to go work on the B.J. Raymond statue I am building in my front yard...




#3 Wisconsin v. #10 Davidson

Sadly, my March love-affair with Stephen Curry comes to a close tonight. Davidson is a legitimately good ball club; not just a Cinderella novelty-act. But Wisconsin is a unique good team, and a really tough matchup for any team that relies on controlling tempo to win. Davidson will find shots tough to come by, even for Curry, with a sufficating Wisconsin defense that defends the perimeter as well as any team in the country.

OUTCOME: Wisconsin 67 Davidson 56

#2 Texas v. #3 Stanford

Probably the best game of the tourney so far (especially after Lousiville left Tennessee in the dust last night). Texas boasts one of the best backcourts in the country with DJ Augustine and AJ Abrahams, while Stanford has the premier frontcourt with the Lopez Twins towering at 7' inside. It will be a true match up determined by Stanford's guards ability to contain penetration and knock down open shots when Texas doubles down low.

For Texas, Conner Autchley will be pivotal. If he can stay out of foul trouble and contain Brooke Lopez (who outside of Curry has been the MOP of the tourney thus far), Texas has a real shot.

In the end, I like Stanford's underrated backcourt and the Lopez boys inside in a tough, well played game. And, for the record, doesn't "Robin and Brooke Lopez" sound like two siliconed-out chicks hugging up on each other in a future Playboy issue?? Or is that just me?

OUTCOME: Stanford 74 Texas 73

#1 Kansas v. #12 Villanova

Villanova's pleasant run comes to a close here. Kansas is way to talented, way too big and way too deep for Scottie Reynolds and the "Cats. It is a bad day for Wildcats in general... Kansas continues to be one of three teams yet to be tested (along with UNC and the "Ville)

OUTCOME: Kansas 82 Villanova 65


#1 Memphis v. #5 Michigan St.

There is just something about Tom Izzo coached teams in March. They are always a tough out, and always bounce a few more talented teams along the way. This year has been no exception, tossing heavily touted Pitt (who went "Pitt") in the second round.

This games really hinges on one thing: Can Drew Neitzel and Michigan St handle the pressure and athleticism of the Tigers? It is well documented that Memphis struggles from the line, but in order for that to be a real factor, a team needs to stay within striking range of them (7-10 points). I am not sure Michigan State has the horses to do it.

OUTCOME: Memphis 77 Michigan St. 69

Enjoy the games - check back tomorrow for Elite 8 Breakdowns!!