After several close contests and another win by tournament darling St. Peter's, here are my expectations heading into Sunday's games.
Villanova vs. Ohio State - This is not a great matchup for Villanova. Ohio St. plays a similarly tough brand of basketball and Liddell is a matchup nightmare, as is Malaki Branham. At the end of the day, though, Collin Gillespie is a man on a mission. Brandon Slater's versatility and contributions on defense will be the most critical part of this game. Can Jermaine Samuels limit Liddell enough to advance Nova to the Sweet Sixteen? I think Villanova's offense will have enough juice to outscore the Buckeyes.
Outcome: Villanova
Houston vs. Illinois - While one would normally think that Houston has an advantage due to their tenacity on the glass, Kofi Cockburn is a force inside. White's ability to stretch the floor could cause some issues for the Illini, but Houston is going to have to hit shots to win this game. Look for Illinois to have a much better contribution from Trent Frazier, who was almost nonexistent against Chattanooga.
Outcome: Illinois
Duke vs. Michigan State
Tom Izzo will have his team ready to play against the Blue Devils. Given the toughness the Spartans exude, the game will ultimately come down to who can rebound and make the most shots down the stretch. There is no answer for Paolo Banchero on the offensive end, and Mark Williams should put a lid on the rim.
Outcome: Duke
Iowa State vs. Wisconsin
This matchup could be deceptively close if Izaiah Brockington is tasked with guarding Johnny Davis. While Davis is still going to score, Brockington could force Wisconsin's supporting cast into a bigger role. That means Brad Davison is going to have to step up in this one. Ultimately, I like Wisconsin because they are tough and have a lot of weapons who can catch fire from the perimeter.
Outcome: Wisconsin
Texas Tech vs. Notre Dame - Notre Dame is one of the hottest shooting teams left in the tournament. But, Texas Tech has one of the stoutest defenses in the country. This could finally be the end of the road for red hot Cormac Ryan and the Fighting Irish. Kevin McCullar will play a pivotal role in this one. Will Notre Dame have an answer for Bryson Williams inside? I don't think so.
Outcome: Texas Tech
Miami (Fl) vs. Auburn - This should be a high paced shootout. The first to 75 wins. Can Auburn's guards clamp down on the guard trio McGusty, Wong, and Moore? It will be quite difficult. However, Miami will have no answer for Jabari Smith and Walker Kessler. While USC also had a ton of size, Auburn has more shot makers than Miami's previous opponent. That will be the difference in this one.
Outcome: Auburn
Texas vs. Purdue - In a similar vein to the Auburn contest, can Texas match up with Zach Edey or Trevion Williams inside? Jaden Ivey has the defensive chops to shut down Texas' top perimeter shooter, whether that is Andrew Jones or Marcus Carr. Purdue will need at least one of Stefanovic, Hunter, or Newman to step up and hit shots. Ultimately, the Boilermakers' interior might will prove to be too much for the Longhorns.
Outcome: Purdue
TCU vs. Arizona - TCU is playing great basketball and absolutely annihilated Seton Hall. If Mike Miles can hit some shots, the Horn Frogs should be able to keep this game close. Ultimately, the interior duo of Azuolas Tubelis and Christian Koloko will be too much for the Horn Frogs. Ben Mathurin should also have a big game.
Outcome: Arizona
Image Courtesy of the Chicago Tribune
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