First thoughts -
SU's spot in the West Region isn't all that bad. # 2 seed Kansas State is tough but could struggle against the long SU zone. # 3 seed Pittsburgh beat SU once but has been a little soft over the past two months. # 4 seed Vanderbilt is likely the weakest of the #4 seeds (whoops - that honor goes to Purdue.) Gonzaga, Florida State and Butler are all very tough. How Gonzaga slipped to an #8 seed boggles my mind.
Upset Specials -
Louisville (#9) over California (#8) It's not much of an upset but the Cardinals should run all over a mediocre Cal team. Call can get hot from the outside but I don't think they'll be able to handle Louisville's athleticism.
Murray State (#13) over Vanderbilt (#4) I can't tell you how weak I think Vanderbilt is. I wouldn't bet on them for a long run.
Cornell (#12) over Temple (#5) Am I biased? Maybe but I don't think that Temple proved much. Cornell is a veteran team that shoots the ball well, doesn't turn it over much and keeps their composure. Temple thought they were better than a # 5 seed, I think Cornell is better than a #12.
Missouri (#10) over Clemson (#7) Not a great year for either team but Mizzou has shown some signs of life.
If you really want to get crazy - pick Sienna (#13) over Purdue (#4). Purdue has been terrible since losing Robbie Hummel and only scored 11 points in the first half of their last game. Sienna isn't really that special but they might be the ones who send Purdue home.
Get on the Bandwagon!
New Mexico - I think they could sneak into the Final Four. West Virginia is a trendy pick but New Mexico is the best team nobody ever talks about.
Georgetown - They have all the NCAA ingredients. I think they'll be playing Kansas for a spot in the Final Four.
Texas A&M - Not amazing but have an easy road to the Sweet Sixteen.
Final Thoughts - The Wake Forest/ Texas game is a classic 8/9 battle of underachievers. Both teams staggered into the tournament and looked flat out terrible at times. Kentucky fans should make their Syracuse hotel reservations now.
