2008 NCAA Men's Basketball Picks and Predictions

Who in the world has the time to sit here and go through every single game in the NCAA tournament, giving predictions, trends, styles, heartfelt stories, and bring you the 2007-2008 NCAA Champion? Uh, that would be me. Will I get every single game right where that $5,000,000 perfect bracket will be out there for everyone to submit so we can all split the winnings? No. Will we have some fun being able to debate who is going to win and who is going lose? Hell Yeah! Let The Debates Begin!

The Play In Game- (March 18th, 7:30 Dayton, Ohio)

Mount St. Mary's Mountaineers (18-14) vs. Coppin State Eagles (16-20)- You know the winner of this game gets to play the overall #1 seed in the tournament, North Carolina. There was a discussion to whether or not this would even be included because most brackets online don't even offer this as counting towards your total wins in the pools. So, taking out the handy quarter heads will be Mary's and tails will be State, ready? ................. It landed tails so a team that started off 4-19 and went 12-1 over their last thirteen will be the guys we'll pick to go and lose horribly to UNC. This is why no one counts it anymore, and the fact it starts on Tuesday.

Coppin State 71 Mount St. Mary's 68

Well, looks like that coin flip didn't work out so well. Mount St. Mary's 69 Coppin State 60 was the end result.

EAST REGION EAST REGION EAST REGION EAST REGION

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA

#1 North Carolina Tarheels (32-2) vs. #16 Mount St. Mary's (18-14) (3/21, approx. 7:10p.m.)-Alright, the only people that are ever considered picking either one of these potential #16 seeds probably goes to school or works there, kids attend or someone was trying to fill the brackets out after a long day of beer pong. We'll keep this short and sweet, because the game will be long and boring.

UNC 98 Mount St. Mary's 68

#8 Indiana Hoosiers (25-7) vs. #9 Arkansas Razorbacks (22-11) (3/21, approx. 9:40)- Personally, this game really stinks! I am a lifelong Hoosier fan and my brother is an Arkansas fan. When this posted as the second game we called each other not believing this was happening. Oh well, anyways, it struck me odd that these two teams probably have the best talent to go up against UNC compared to all the other 8 vs. 9 games, and UNC is the overall #1. Even though IU coach Dan Dakich has had issues the last three games, I think getting the Razorbacks into foul trouble will be the sign. IU lives at the line this year, and they will in this game.

Indiana 78 Arkansas 71

#1 North Carolina (33-2) vs. #8 Indiana (26-7) (3/23, TBA)- Of course if this game matches up like I want it too, I'll be rooting for the Hoosiers, but expecting the Tarheels to take their game to Charlotte in the Sweet 16. There is nothing like the advantage of playing at home in any sport, and usually holds true during March Madness. Michigan State really showed the weaknesses that IU has and expect UNC coach Roy Williams to pick up on that and take care of business in the second half.

Sweet 16 Team: UNC 86 Indiana 74

DENVER, COLORADO

#5 Notre Dame Fighting Irish (24-7) vs. #12 George Mason Patriots (23-10) (3/20, approx. 9:50p.m.)- Anyone who loves college basketball and Cinderella stories know all about George Mason and their 2006 final four run. Campbell and Thomas are still on this team as they look to do it again. Before however they were an under the radar team, but with the publicity, the Irish won't take them lightly. It will be interesting to see if the 3s drop for Dre Smith, because if they are, this might be another #12 over #5 upset of the tourney. However, we don't think so, it was very down year compared to the last couple in the Colonial Athletic Association, but on the other hand they did beat Kansas State, South Carolina, and Dayton all at the beginning of the year though, catching teams off guard but the Irish know all about being upset in the tourney.

Notre Dame 72 George Mason 63

#4 Washington State Cougars (24-8) vs. #13 Winthrop Eagles (22-11) (3/20, approx. 7:20p.m.)- This team reminds me of the 06' George Mason more than this year's George Mason team. Four Seniors on this team's squad revolving around the scoring of Michael Jenkins and providing their NCAA opponents with only 58 points per game, they will be a good test for a streaky Cougars team. The only problem is that the Eagles play a half court style game and with such a small team, their own game may play against them. However, it was Winthrop who went to Miami and beat an undefeated Hurricanes team that was 12-0 at the time. This is our first surprise of the tournament.

Winthrop 70 Washington State 64

#5 Notre Dame (25-7) vs. #13 Winthrop (23-11) (3/22, TBA)- Wow right? Well, there is a reason behind the madness, but if we get this matchup Winthrop is our team again. Teams in bigger conferences seem to have problems with pesky teams like the Eagles. It only takes one missed free throw or turnover that could turn this game in their favor. Big East Player of the Year Luke Harangody will have something to say about it though that will change our minds once again.

Sweet 16 Team: Notre Dame 74 Winthrop 68

BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA

#6 Oklahoma Sooners (22-11) vs. #11 St. Joseph's Hawks (21-12) (3/21, approx. 7:10p.m.)- Thanks to their wins over Xavier two times in 8 days, the Hawks found their way into the field of 65 even after losing in the finals of the A10 tourney. Its just the up and down type of team that Oklahoma doesn't want to play after getting blown out in the semis of the Big 12 tourney and only beating Colorado by 5 the game prior. The Hawks are a 73% free throw shooting team overall, and with Calathes and Ferguson shooting both over 40% and Darrin Govens knocking them down well over a third of the time, its always a way for upsets to happen and it most likely will here. Plus the Sooners are one of the most overrated teams in the tournament receiving a #6 seed with 11 losses and no big wins the last two thirds of the season.

St. Joseph's 76 Oklahoma 70

#3 Louisville Cardinals (24-8) vs. #14 Boise State (25-8) (3/21, approx. 9:40p.m.)- Eventually I will probably get in trouble for just skipping over some teams I don't think have a chance, but is there anybody out there picking Boise State to win over a Big East powerhouse? I'm sure someone out there likes the Broncos and is thinking with their heart and not their head, but playing BYU in the middle of the year and Washington State the second game of the season is not the same as going up against G'town, Notre Dame, UConn, Pitt, W.Virginia, Nova', Marquette, and the rest of the Big East all year long.

Louisville 88 Boise State 70

#3 Louisville (25-8) vs. #11 St. Joseph's (22-12) (3/23, TBA)- The Hawks may be able to hit the 3s in the first game against Oklahoma, but Louisville and Rick Pitino won't let that happen again. Look for this to be another run through for the Cardinals to get out of Alabama and on to Charlotte.

Sweet 16 Team: Louisville 78 St. Joseph's 64

#7 Butler Bulldogs (29-3) vs. #10 South Alabama Jaguars (26-6) (3/21, approx. 2:45)- This year's #7 vs. #10 matchups are very intriguing and this game is no different. Its the first time in 14 years that 2 teams from the Sun Belt have gone to the tourney, and analysts have been talking up South Alabama like crazy. Butler is more of a well known participant in the Big Dance, having controlled the Horizon League for awhile now. I really want to flip a coin on this game too, but when Butler plays a stretch of @ Virginia Tech, @ Texas Tech, Ohio State, and two weeks later Florida State winning them all they are going to be a tough team to play.

Butler 69 South Alabama 64

#2 Tennessee Volunteers (29-4) vs. #15 American University Eagles (21-11) (3/21, approx. 12:15)- Keeping this game short, any team that has the least amount of overall losses in the Patriot League at eleven and their the best is a little off. Not to mention they did play G'Town the only other team besides Mt. Saint Mary's they played that are in the tourney and lost to the Hoyas by 27. Oh wait, I forgot about UMBC who they lost to by 15. This game will be a blowout.

Tennessee 99 American 72

#2 Tennessee (30-4) vs. #7 Butler (30-3) (3/23, TBA)- The Bulldogs are going to have to bring their game if they want to get past the only team to beat the Memphis Tigers this year @ Memphis. Seniors Chris Lofton and JaJuan Smith leads a high flyin' offense that the only way a team has any chance of beating them better be able to score, which was evident in the SEC tourney when Arkansas had to drop 92 on the Vols just to win by a point. Butler won't be able to keep up with this team even though they'll try to slow the game down. Good Luck!

Sweet 16 Team: Tennessee 82 Butler 71

EAST REGION SWEET 16 EAST REGION SWEET 16 EAST REGION SWEET 16

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA

#1 North Carolina (34-2) vs. #5 Notre Dame (26-7)- Here is where anyone is bound to win any game and the Fighting Irish will have just as good a shot as any when they face the Tarheels. Luke Harangody will be the equivalent of Tyler Hansborough, but this game will come down to the play of Ty Lawson and if he is still healthy when UNC takes the court. The Tarheels are a different team with him, and the road to the final four definitely runs through North Carolina. Look for this game to be close until about 4 or 5 minutes left in the game as UNC pulls away for good.

Elite Eight Team: North Carolina 93 Notre Dame 82

#2 Tennessee (31-4) vs. #3 Louisville (26-8)- Can't wait for this game to happen. Probably one of the most exciting matchups of the Sweet 16, Louisville has the ability to run n' gun with the Vols and slow the game down to get Tennessee out of their rhythm. Only problem is when the Cardinals get into foul trouble a team can pounce on them quickly. Oh, the defense may be the difference in this game and the ability of the fan base for both teams. Tennessee did well on the road this year, but all games were close that they one except the 10 point win against the Zags. This might be where Chris Lofton and JaJuan Smith end their collegiate careers.

Elite Eight Team: Louisville 71 Tennessee 69

EAST REGION ELITE 8 EAST REGION ELITE 8 EAST REGION ELITE 8

#1 North Carolina (35-2) vs. #3 Louisville (27-8)- To be quite honest it would have been nice to see the Tennessee/North Carolina matchup as opposed to this one. Hansborough will be unstoppable, meaning if he doesn't make his shots he'll most likely be fouled. I think the foul trouble will be the worst thing that can happen for the Cardinals, unfortunately it will.

East Region Final Four Team: North Carolina 79 Louisville 69

MIDWEST REGION MIDWEST REGION MIDWEST REGION

OMAHA, NEBRASKA

#1 Kansas Jayhawks (31-3) vs. #16 Portland State Vikings (23-9) (3/20, approx. 12:25p.m.)- ZZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz. I feel sorry for those who will have to watch this game on TV first. However, the blowout in the first half will allow you to watch some of the other games if you don't have cable. You might want to get your CBS Sportsline VIP March Madness Pass for the computer.

Kansas 104 Portland State 73

#8 UNLV Runnin' Rebels (26-7) vs. #9 Kent State Golden Flashes (28-6) (3/20, approx. 2:55p.m.)- UNLV head coach Lon Kruger has his boyz back in the tournament again even after losing five seniors from last year's team. This matchup will be interesting considering that Kent State went 13-3 out of their conference this year and two of the losses were at the hands of Duke and North Carolina. If there are two names to remember in this game it will be UNLV's junior guard Wink Adams and Kent State's Haminn Quaintance. Quaintance is the only player ever to have over 1300 point, 850 rebounds, 250 blocks, 250 assists, and 200 steals during the course of his career. We like the Rebs, but this inexperienced team is going to cost them, but just barely.

Kent State 74 UNLV 70

#1 Kansas (32-3) vs. #9 Kent State (29-6) (3/22, TBA)- Kansas is primed for a National Championship run and while the Golden Flashes had a minor upset against UNLV, they aren't near the caliber of the Jayhawks. This will be a little more fun to watch with all kinds of points being scored, but it will be Kansas who punches their ticket to the Sweet 16.

Sweet 16 Team: Kansas 89 Kent State 75

TAMPA, FLORIDA

#5 Clemson Tigers (24-9) vs. #12 Villanova Wildcats (20-12) (3/21, approx. 9:50p.m.)- This is my favorite #5 vs. #12 matchup that always turns up an upset somewhere in the tournament. While Clemson beat Duke in the ACC tourney and had a great year, but their losses are the big question mark here. While they can play UNC and Duke tough, its the games against Charlotte in January that they lost, the lost to FSU and Georgia Tech the last month of the season that lets us know they are good at playing to the level of their competition. Villanova had two questionable calls that possibly cost them both games, and went through a five game losing streak thanks to internal issues with injuries, etc. Look for the Cats to sneak by with more hot shooting.

Villanova 74 Clemson 69

#4 Vanderbilt Commodores (26-7) vs. #13 Siena Saints (22-10) (3/21, approx. 7:20p.m.)- Another team we feel is little less deserving of a #4 seed then many other teams in this tournament, Vanderbilt has to try to play over and above their opponents. Between the 26 games they won, 14 were by 9 points or less, six of those by 3 points or less. Siena is a team that can plays with the big boys with a win over the highly ranked Stanford Cardinals early in the year. The Commodores have had defensive issues all year and with the Saints ranking 4th in the nation in offensive turnover percentage, its safe to say Vanderbilt isn't in this game.

Siena 75 Vanderbilt 74

#12 Villanova (21-12) vs. #13Siena (23-10) (3/23, TBA)- Now, thinking statistically here, the main reason I like this little foursome tournament to work in Sienna's favor is because the other three teams are up and down when they play mediocre underrated teams. Just as hot as Villanova can be shooting, Jack Frost can come in and send chills through the Wildcats shooting strokes. The turnovers are also an issue which the Mighty Saints will capitalize on.

Sweet 16 Team: Siena 69 Villanova 66

OMAHA, NEBRASKA

#6 USC Trojans (21-11) vs. #11 Kansas State Wildcats (20-11) (3/20, approx. 7:20p.m.)- How exciting is this game going to be? O.J. Mayo vs. Michael Beasley, Mayo against Walker, Floyd up against the Big 12 again, I can see all the headlines now. As for the game the game will be won from the bench here and the Trojans are strong in that area. Even though Beasley is probably one and done, it was a joy to watch him play, but the NBA is echoing his name in the background.

USC 86 Kansas State 79

#3 Wisconsin (29-4) vs. #14 Cal State Fullerton Titans (24-8) (3/20, approx. 9:40p.m.)- Don't expect too much out of this game. Wisconsin plays a boring styled game that makes everyone play to their tune. CSF will have no idea whats going on and the Badgers will breeze by with ease. Keep an eye on Michael Flowers in this tournament, he'll be showing off his skills.

Wisconsin 72 Cal State Fullerton 57

#3 Wisconsin (30-4) vs. USC (22-11) (3/22, TBA)- Definitely an intriguing matchup it won't be so much the style of play in this game, but the experience that proves to be the deciding factor. Its possible the Trojans can start out hot, but Wisconsin is very poised and will do everything to change the pace of the game. Expect it to be a little closer then the Badgers like, but the last 5 minutes of the game will prove to be the difference.

Sweet 16 Team: Wisconsin 68 USC 62

RALEIGH, NORTH CAROLINA

#7 Gonzaga Bulldogs (25-7) vs. #10 Davidson Wildcats (26-6) (3/21, approx. 12:25p.m.)- If this isn't the new Cinderella vs. the old we don't know what is exactly. Gonzaga had another good year, a little off the radar thanks to other teams like Drake and Butler proving to be just as good if not better throughout the year. They went 6-4 against teams that made the tournament taking on teams like Oklahoma, Tennessee and Memphis, winning @ UConn, leaving the other three as losses but all good games. Mix in a team that has won 23 in a row played UNC, Duke, and UCLA tough, you are in for one of the best games of the tournament. Flip a coin in this one, but whoever wins I think will get past the turnover plagued Hoyas.

Davidson 79 Gonzaga 77

#2 Georgetown Hoyas (27-5) vs. #15 UMBC Retrievers (24-8) (3/21, approx. 2:55p.m.)- The Retrievers will probably get picked by their faithful fans, but outside of that no one has probably even heard of UMBC. It stands for University of Maryland Baltimore County for those that want to learn something new. They didn't play anyone of the Hoyas caliber, but took on another Big East foe in Bob Huggins West Virginia squad losing by 24. Look for much of the same in this game, but they may stick around for the first 20 minutes if they can cause turnovers. UMBC ranks second in offensive turnover percentage in the country.

Georgetown 87 UMBC 68

#2 Georgetown (28-5) vs. # 10 Davidson (27-6) (3/23, TBA)- Here it is, the game we've all been waiting for, well, the game I've been waiting to see. Here's what I don't like about Georgetown; they turn the ball over way too much, and they like to foul a lot down low. During the year teams get away with this night in and night out, but during tourney time it doesn't work, ask Pitt they'll to you all about the Hoyas woes. Don't get me wrong, they're a strong team, but Davidson have three guys that will repeatedly take it to the basket, those fouls will be a coming. That means their overall 72% free throw shooting as a team will be the difference in this game.

Sweet 16 Team: Davidson 74 Georgetown 68

MIDWEST REGION SWEET 16 MIDWEST REGION SWEET 16 MIDWEST REGION SWEET 16

DETROIT, MICHIGAN

#1 Kansas (33-3) vs. #13 Siena (24-10)- Okay, so it was fun getting to this point which I'm sure maybe 1% of the population if that even has this matchup, but don't worry. Another boring game for the boys in blue who will breeze past the Saints to the Elite Eight.

Elite Eight Team: Kansas 88 Siena 72

#3 Wisconsin (31-4) vs. #10 Davidson (27-6)- Its so funny to listen about how all the big boys have a great shot of winning it all, but no one talks about Wisconsin. They lost to Duke, Marquette, and Purdue twice this year who are all seeded #6 or better in the field of 65. Their stingy defense and poised play with few turnovers and two of the best in seniors Michael Flowers and Brian Butch to make this team a serious contender. Definitely would like to see a smaller school win it all one year, so if this matchup holds true to form I'll be rooting for Davidson, but taking the Badgers here.

Elite Eight Team: Wisconsin 67 Davidson 66

MIDWEST REGION ELITE 8 MIDWEST REGION ELITE 8 MIDWEST REGION ELITE 8

#1 Kansas (34-3) vs. #3 Wisconsin (32-4)- How exciting is this matchup with Kansas being the #1 ranked team in offensive efficiency going up against the Wisconsin trees and their #1 nationally ranked defensive efficiency. I think the fact that so many people frowned upon the Big 10 this year including the selection committee who very well could have given the Badgers a #2 seed over any of the other #2s out there they have something to prove. Kansas struggles against defenses and if I can get this game in hand, my brackets will be lookin' pretty good in this region. Then again it could all blow up in my face!

Midwest Region Final Four Team: Wisconsin 67 Kansas 63

SOUTH REGION SOUTH REGION SOUTH REGION

LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS

#1 Memphis Tigers (33-1) vs. #16 Texas Arlington Mavericks (21-11) (3/21, approx. 9:55p.m.)- Anyone that overlooks Memphis in this tournament because they played in Conference USA better wake up or your brackets will be dead quick. They're for real and this game will be quite a blowout.

Memphis 104 Texas Arlington 77

#8 Mississippi State Bulldogs (22-10) vs. #9 Oregon Ducks (18-13) (3/21, approx. 7:25p.m.)- Honestly, I think Mississippi State have showed that they can play like their on a roller coaster just as much as Oregon has this year. Injuries, fatigue, inexperience, whatever the reason may be it just hasn't worked out that either one of them can do any better then playing each other. Neither one of them will win their next game, so I might as well flip a coin in this one. However, the last seven games the Ducks had to play were fierce. This game might feel a little easier for them then the Pac-10.

Oregon 77 Mississippi State 67

#1 Memphis (34-1) vs. #9 Oregon (19-13) (3/23, TBA)- Okay for those that pick teams based on who is closer to the regional site this is one to skip over. Actually I'm kind of curious if they are about even mileage. I'll have to look into that later. Anyways, Memphis doesn't really have the strongest road schedule in the land like we talked about earlier, but they aren't going to go down anytime soon so don't look for an upset here.

Sweet 16 Team: Memphis 84Oregon 70

DENVER, COLORADO

#5 Michigan State Spartans (25-8) vs. #12 Temple Owls (21-12) (3/20, approx. 12:30p.m.)- Normally I would talk about how time and time again Tom Izzo has his Spartans primed for the NCAA tournament, but this time around its different. Here we'll be talking about how stopping Dionte Christmas will be Izzo's main goal because once that happens the rest of the team will fall apart. The Owls are playing hard and winning seven in a row, eight out of their last nine they may be out of gas now that they're here. Thats our take, it happens a lot.

Michigan State 71 Temple 62

#4 Pittsburgh Panthers (26-9) vs. #13 Oral Roberts Golden Eagles (24-8) (3/20, approx. 3:00p.m.)- If you don't know anything about Pittsburgh, just remember the name Levance Fields, their point guard. Ever since his return they have become a force in the Big East. Check this out, there conference tourney they beat Louisville, Marquette, and Georgetown three days in a row to win after the opening round win against the UC Bearcats. I'm not even going to talk about Oral Roberts except that their defense is stingy, just not stingy enough.

Pittsburgh 77 Oral Roberts 68

#4 Pittsburgh (27-9) vs. #5 Michigan State (26-8) (3/22, TBA)- Its hard to go against the Spartans in any tournament, but the Panthers are playing so well and Michigan State ranking 166th in offensive turnover efficiency will be this empire's downfall. State will probably keep things close, but we will all enjoy the last game of Drew Neitzel's collegiate career nonetheless. Good luck in the NBA draft.

Sweet 16 Team: Pittsburgh 69 Michigan State 64

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA

#6 Marquette Golden Eagles (24-9) vs. #11 Kentucky Wildcats (18-12) (3/20, approx. 2:30p.m.)- Some people are calling this the most exciting game of the tournament, however I don't think so mostly because I don't like Kentucky. Keeping it real though, the Wildcats will have to prove they can play without turning the ball over because Marquette is an excellent team at causing them and producing points in the process. Gillespie needs Patterson for this game, maybe next year.

Marquette 78 Kentucky 69

#3 Stanford Cardinals (26-7) vs. #14 Cornell Big Red (22-5) (3/20, approx. 5:00p.m.)- This is an interesting 3/14 matchup since the roller coaster Cardinals are playing. The new Twin Towers in the 7 foot Lopez brothers have the 7th ranked defense in the land. It will be fun to watch Cornell big man Jeff Foote who is also 7 foot go up against these two Cardinals. That being said Cornell better be lights out behind the perimeter because anyone driving the lane will just get it swatted away. They shoot close to 40% between their three 3-point shooters. Might be asking too much in this game, but they had a great year.

Stanford 75 Cornell 61

#3 Stanford (27-7) vs. #6 Marquette (25-9) (3/22, TBA)- This will be a great matchup because Marquette has nothing to combat their trees inside the paint. However, they do make up for it along the perimeter and if they're raining threes all day long running up and down the court it could be the difference in the game. Stanford must be able to defend the Golden Eagles perimeter play without getting into foul trouble or bringing the big men out farther to give Marquette more offensive rebounds. Guess this will be one of the signs of which conference was stronger throughout the year between the Big East and Pac-10.

Sweet 16 Team: Marquette 72 Stanford 71

LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS

#7 Miami Hurricanes (22-10) vs. #10 St. Mary's Gaels (25-6) (3/21, approx. 12:30p.m.)- Oh the Gaels, how about wins over Drake, Florida State, Oregon, and Gonzaga this year to prove they can play with these tournament teams. Miami isn't too shabby themselves, but the loss to Winthrop at home while 12-0 is something to say where an upset can happen. Not to mention they lost most of their games to lackluster teams in the conference like Florida State twice, Wake Forest, and Boston College. Hook us up with the Gaels in this one. Miami is one of those teams no matter if we pick them to win or lose they prove us wrong either way.

St. Mary's 69 Miami 67

#2 Texas Longhorns (28-6) vs. #15 Austin Peay Governors (24-10) (3/21, approx. 3:00p.m.)- Hellooooooooooo Govna! Goodbye Governors............

Texas 92 Austin Peay 69

#2 Texas (29-6) vs. #10 St. Mary's (26-6) (3/23)- Texas couldn't of come out better in this tournament being placed in the South Region. Once they make the Sweet 16 they can stay at home the rest of the tourney. This game won't be close in the second half.

Sweet 16 Team: Texas 82 St. Mary's 70

SOUTH REGION SWEET 16 SOUTH REGION SWEET 16 SOUTH REGION SWEET 16

HOUSTON, TEXAS

#1 Memphis (35-1) vs. # 4 Pittsburgh (28-9)- This is where it starts getting a little sketchy in terms of whether or not Memphis can make it to the final four from the South Region. Seriously, if you look at both their teams stats they are pretty even in all areas especially fouls, turnovers, free throw percentage, and 3 point %. The first true test of the tourney for the Tigers, and it might be the last. Well, this will probably be the first #1 team out this year.

Elite Eight Team: Pittsburgh 84 Memphis 81

#2 Texas (29-6) vs. #6 Marquette (26-9)- Another up and down the floor type of game with tons of turnovers and scoring staring both teams straight in the eye. Big advantage for the Longhorns now, playing in Houston, Texas then San Antonio, Texas in the Final Four. D.J. Augustin and company will definitely be up to the occasion and send the Golden Eagles packin'.

Elite Eight Team: Texas 79 Marquette 68

SOUTH REGION ELITE 8 SOUTH REGION ELITE 8 SOUTH REGION ELITE 8

#2 Texas (30-6) vs. #4 Pittsburgh (29-9)- Yes! This will be a great game, I can play it out in my mind already, Both teams are in foul trouble, tie ball game, about 10 seconds left on the clock the Longhorns with the ball when Augustin drives the lane with about 6 seconds left, kicks it out to a wide open Abrahams in the left corner who drains it with 1.2 seconds left! Yea Baby, Longhorns to the final four.

South Region Final Four Team: Texas 87 Pittsburgh 84

WEST REGION WEST REGION WEST REGION WEST REGION

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA

#1 UCLA Bruins (31-3) vs. #16 Mississippi Valley State Delta Devils (17-15) (3/20, approx. 9:55p.m.)- Alright, who's going to pick the Delta Devils because of their nickname? Sure they've won nine in a row 3 games by one point, but this next stat has to be the best one of the tournament. Between all 65 teams, MVST is the only one I've found to give up more points on average then they score. Football, thats normal. Basketball? Not so much, in the tournament anyways. Okay, enough of this, they'll get smoked.

UCLA 84 MVST 61

#8 BYU Cougars (27-7) vs. #9 Texas A & M Aggies (24-10) (3/20, approx. 7:25p.m.)- Besides the faltering on Jan. 15 with a 29 point loss to UNLV, the Cougars have reeled off a plethora of wins going 15-2 over the rest of the season including the conference tournament where they lost again to the Runnin' Rebels. The Aggies on the other hand are playing horrible losing 6 of their last 10 and now they have to go up against the tenth ranked defense in the country? Where's Acie Law when you need him!

BYU 71 Texas A & M 58

#1 UCLA (32-3) vs. #8 BYU (28-7) (3/22, TBA)- You know if this game was not being played so close to UCLA I would seriously contemplate this game, but a home game for the Bruins is pretty much like saying this game has already been decided. Collins and Westbrook speeding things up a bit will be the difference in this game, but look for the Cougs to keep it close for 3/4ths of the game.

Sweet 16 Team: UCLA 67 BYU 59

TAMPA, FLORIDA

#5 Drake Bulldogs (28-4) vs. #12 Western Kentucky Hilltoppers (27-6) (3/21, approx. 12:30p.m.)- Alright, so you've heard that Drake's a good team, all the analysts are talking them up, but did you know their guard Adam Emmenecker was the Player of the Year in the Missouri Valley Conference only scoring 8.5 points per game? Yea well don't be fooled and think their conference must be horrible, its his 6 assists a game, 5 rebounds per game, 83% free throw shooting, almost 50% field goal percentage, and two steals a game that helps fuel this team to where they are today. Don't overlook the Hilltoppers, with NBA prospect Courtney Lee. Flip a coin here, Drake beat Butler this year and WKU lost twice to South Alabama who play each other in the East Region. IDK

Western Kentucky 76 Drake 75

#4 Connecticut Huskies (24-8) vs. #13 San Diego Toreros (21-13) (3/21, approx. 3:00p.m.)- We don't really care who wins the last game because UCONN should handle either one, which is why we just picked one. We'll take a 1 piece loss that goes no where else. The Toreros, what a team, got past St. Mary's and Gonzaga to get here, otherwise they wouldn't be. UCONN may screw around for a little while in the first half, but don't expect it to last long.

UCONN 87 San Diego 68

#4 Connecticut (25-8) vs. #12 Western Kentucky (28-6) (3/23, TBA)- The Huskies looked tired towards the end of the season and it showed on the defensive end of the ball even though Thabeet helped keep it from getting out of control. The early exit in the Big East tournament might have been a blessing in disguise giving them the rest they need for the Big Dance. Look for them to be very upbeat as they move to the Sweet 16 once again.

Sweet 16 Team: UCONN 77 Western Kentucky 69

WASHINGTON, DC

#6 Purdue Boilermakers (24-8) vs. #11 Baylor Bears (21-10) (3/20, approx. 2:50)- Another disappointment when the committee let the Baylor Bears into the tournament after going 5-8 in their last 13 which included an early exit in the Big 12 tournament thanks to the 12-20 Colorado Buffalos, but whatever, they're here now. Their woes have been due to the shooting slump of Curtis Jerrells who is hitting them only about 32% of the time (19m/60a). However, I like the Bears in this game, because they run 5 guards consistently and will cause the young Boilers to have problems.

Baylor 78 Purdue 74

#3 Xavier Musketeers (27-6) vs. #14 Georgia Bulldogs (17-16) (3/20, approx. 12:20p.m.)- The Musketeers bit the dust in the A10 tournament thanks to St. Joseph's beating them, and for the second time in only 8 days. This game however will bring out a Bulldogs team we're all used to seeing after having to go 4 games in 4 days with a mess thanks to tornadoes and storm damage in Georgia during the SEC tournament. Probably close for half the game, but the first five minutes into the second half will spell doom for the powerhouse conference Cinderella. Heavy legs are always a disaster.

Xavier 82 Georgia 67

#3 Xavier (28-6) vs. Baylor (22-10) (3/22, TBA)- Xavier's ability to have six players average 10 points per game or more will be the difference in this game with their overall make up. I think the Bears will be a little too excited after beating Purdue and everyone not expecting them to be in the tournament. We'll just have to wait and see if they make it to this point in the first place.

Sweet 16 Team: Xavier 73 Baylor 63

WASHINGTON, DC

#7 West Virginia Mountaineers (24-10) vs. #10 Arizona Wildcats (19-14) (3/20, approx. 9:40p.m.)- Some say they should be in, others say not. That goes for both teams, but a lot of controversy over the Arizona squad who have lost 8 of their last 12 games. This included loses to Washington, got swept by Arizona State, swept by Oregon, and took a position which should have been filled by Arizona State. The Sun Devils went 5-5 in their last 10 which included wins over Arizona, Stanford, and USC. So, we'll just be rooting for Bob Huggins and his West Virginia Mountaineers, because there is nothing worse in sports then politics.

West Virginia 76 Arizona 69

#2 Duke Blue Devils (27-5) vs. #15 Belmont Bruins (25-8) (3/20, approx. 7:10p.m.)- Now here is a game that will surprise a lot of people, but this ought to be a pretty good game. If the Bruins are drainin' threes look out Blue Devils because a 15 seed could win again in 2008 if you're not careful. They rank 1st in the country with 3 pointers made (349) and are on a nice 13 game winning streak averaging 80 points per game. Coach K will come out with some 3-2 zone defense to keep the barrage under control, but keep in mind there are 5 players on this team that made at least 40 three pointers. The Dukies have lost 5 of their last nine leaving this game looking like an upset in the making. We'll have to wait and see.

Belmont 78 Duke 76

#7 West Virginia (25-10) vs. #15 Belmont (26-8) (3/22, TBA)- I think if this matchup comes up there will be all kinds of people rooting for the Bruins. With so many players able to bomb the threes it will be interesting to see how Hugs tries to take care of business. Okay, we all know Bob Huggins coached squads can't get out of the second round, or haven't in forever. Remember the last time UC was down in the bottom right hand corner of the bracket and had a second round matchup against, huh uhm, West Virginia before getting knocked out. Throw some more Bruins my way!

Sweet 16 Team: Belmont 72 West Virginia 66

WEST REGION SWEET 16 WEST REGION SWEET 16 WEST REGION SWEET 16

PHOENIX, ARIZONA

#1 UCLA (33-3) vs. #4 UCONN (26-8)- If the Huskies team that can play with anyone shows up in this game, look out Bruins! UCLA is a hard team to size up because most of the year they have relied on Kevin Love and with back spasms who knows how nagging that will be during the tourney. Thabeet can cause all kinds of frontcourt problems and may just be too much for the trio of men looking to get him into foul trouble. This could be the way the game changes and UCLA head coach Ben Howland will definitely be trying to get Thabeet into foul trouble. Which is why we still like the Bruins.

Elite Eight Team: UCLA 64 UCONN 62

#3 Xavier (29-6) vs. #15 Belmont (27-8)- Alright, we're here and I seriously think if something like this could happen Belmont could cause the Musketeers all sorts of problems like St. Joe's did twice in 8 days in the A10. However, Xavier losing twice to the Hawks may have woke them up enough to change their game plan against three point shooting teams. Will it work? We think so, just because of the stage that will be set and the pressure of reaching the Elite Eight.

Elite Eight Team: Xavier 76 Belmont 69

WEST REGION ELITE 8 WEST REGION ELITE 8 WEST REGION ELITE 8

#1 UCLA (34-3) vs. #3 Xavier (29-6)- Wow, I know the Cincy fans will be goin' nuts around here if Xavier gets a chance to go to the Final Four. They have the same kind of team that UCLA does just on not as strong a level comparing the A10 to the Pac 10. This is where it will cost them as the Bruins inside game will take over and that will be it. Maybe a late foul or some controversial call will help them out, but UCLA will get the win and punch their ticket to San Antonio.

West Region Final Four Team: UCLA 74 Xavier 68

FINAL FOUR FINAL FOUR FINAL FOUR FINAL FOUR FINAL FOUR

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

#1 North Carolina (36-2) vs. #3 Wisconsin (33-4)- Another matchup that will be fun to watch if we get this two teams on the left side of the Final Four bracket. By this point the pressure will be on the Badgers, and it will end up costing them the game. The only way I see the Tarheels playing Badger-Ball is by already leading the game up by 14-20 points with about 8 minutes left in the show. It will be a good game, but the Tarheels hitting all cylinders and will be primed for the National Title.

NCAA National Championship Team: North Carolina 76 Wisconsin 68

#1 UCLA (35-3) vs. #2 Texas (31-6)- This is going to be a fantastic matchup with Collins vs. Augustin running the show for each team. If the Longhorns can keep up the pace and not start slowing down like they usually do in losses, they will be there. No UCLA calls in San Antonio, the home court advantage will be the difference here.

NCAA National Championship Team: Texas 88 UCLA 80

National Championship Game National Championship Game National Championship Game

#1 North Carolina Tarheels (37-2) vs. #2 Texas Longhorns (32-6)- How fun is this going to be! Obviously UNC has really been the best team in the land from wire to wire, only faltering against Maryland and Duke. Their 24th ranked defense has some cause for concern with D.J. Augustin, A.J. Abrams, and Damion James waiting on the other side of the ball ready to ram it down their throats. Good thing the Tarheels have Tyler Hansborough, Ty Lawson, and Wayne Ellington to hopefully make for one of the most memorable games in the history of the sport.

NCAA National Champions: Texas Longhorns 88 North Carolina 87

Will this end up being how it happens? I highly doubt it, but if it is I'll be five million dollars richer!