If this hasn’t been the craziest NCAA Tournament ever, I couldn’t stand one with any more upsets than this one! Duke is the only #1 seed left, but some people even think that they could get beat in their first Final Four game. Duke needs to be careful and not go into the home stretch of the season thinking that they have a championship locked up; while they are the best team left overall, they still have to win two games against quality opponents. Here is my take on both games:
#5 Butler – #5 Michigan State (6:07pm, CBS)
Who would’ve guessed that these teams would advance further than Kansas or Syracuse? But that is the beauty of the NCAA Tournament, anything can happen. Looking at both teams’ rosters, Michigan State has the size advantage, speed advantage, and experience advantage. Since Butler also has the pressures of playing in front of many friends and family, I’ll pick Michigan State. MSU’s coach, Tom Izzo, is severely underrated, there is no one I would rather have to set up a last minute play than him. Lastly, an interesting matchup will be Butler’s Gordon Hayward, a 3 position player, and MSU’s forward Raymar Morgan. Both are playing great and should be fun to watch this Saturday.
#1 Duke – #2 West Virginia (8:47pm, CBS)
If you would’ve asked me for my pick for the better team of these two prior to West Virginia’s Elite Eight win against Kentucky, I would’ve easily said Duke – with no hesitance; but the Mountaineers just keep winning – it might not look good – but they’re winning. Duke still should win, but who knows. This game will turn into a defensive battle, maybe not low scoring, but every point will be earned by both teams. West Virginia doesn’t have the most efficient offense, but can really get after the ball and make games close. If Duke can keep getting offensive rebounds, they will be tough to beat. The deciding factor on my pick is Duke’s guards – they are experienced, great shooters, and don’t turn the ball over much. Duke will have to play hard physically, something that they have struggled with at times, but I think they will easily win this one.
Unless you’re a Duke, Michigan State, or West Virginia fan, you’ll probably end up pulling for Butler. Butler would be the “Cinderella” of the decade if they could get a Final Four win, but that’s a big if.
Posted by Tom
Clay and Clay Sports Blog 