My picks concerning the State teams...
Oklahoma: Momentum is always a key when going to the big dance. Oklahoma certainly had that momentum when they started Big 12 play with 11 straight wins. That is until Blake Griffin got knocked around and out at Texas. They have only won two of their last six since then, including a revenge loss to oSu, a beat down at Mizzou, and a blow out collapse at home against Kansas. looking back on their season, OU's only impressive victory may be the early season win at Purdue. This team is a #2 seed, yet has no wins against either Big 12 #3 seeds.
The Sooners should get by Morgan St easily, then face a tough test against either Michigan or Clemson. Michigan has wins against Duke and UCLA, but struggled in Big Ten play, barely making the tournament. Clemson has been plying terrible defense as of late, so the second round game should go the Sooners way.
Third round match up could likely come against Syracuse, a team that has been tenacious the past week, making it to the finals of the Big East tournament. Unless Oklahoma starts hitting shots from the perimeter, I don't see Oklahoma progressing past the Orangemen. So far Oklahoma really hasn't shown alot of heart when it comes to big games, and that may be their downfall, unless fatigue comes into play. I see North Carolina beating Syracuse for a berth in the Final Four out of the South.
Oklahoma State has a tough first draw and even tougher second draw. Tennessee was the choise to win the SEC but guard play has been inconsistant for the Vols. This is good news for the Pokes because Eaton, Page, and Muonelo can flat light it up when they get hot. I see oSu winning this one down the stretch.
However next up would be Pitt, one of the three #1 seeds from the Big East. Unless State has an answer for DeJuan Blair, or he gets into foul trouble, this will mean the exit for Travis Ford's Cowboys. I see Pitt making it all the way to the Final Four and ultimately winning it all against UConn.
By the way, you may now place huge money bets against all of the teams, I just picked, as every year I prove to be the worst at predictions.
Bookmarks