2.5* UConn -4 After watching UConn play in the NCAA Tournament, and in the Big East Tourney, I'm impressed. They could go get to the final game, and even win it. Great inside game, shooters, and a defense that has stepped it up in recent weeks. Arkansas has the NBA prospects, but as we've seen in past games over the years, that often doesn't make a championship-type tournament TEAM. Arkansas a little too much showboating, and knocking off Kansas...well, that feels like the mountaintop already.
2.1* Kansas State +1.5 Both they and MSU play the game the right way, like junkyard dogs. Yet so many kudos have gone to the Izzo-led Spartans that some might have forgotten how mediocre they can shoot at times, and how sloppy they can get. MSU has a great team in 2018-2019, but in the the last few years, they've been just average in big games. Going against the more hyped team here ;going with the Big 12-hardened team that can harass this MSU offense relentlessly.
1.8* FAU +5.5 FAU is not really sneaking into a sweet 16 game without proving themselves. They move off the ball well, can score under defensive pressure, and have that team concept you gotta love. Just beating Memphis says something. They did have a fairly soft non-conference schedule, but games vs. UAB, UNT...among others, showed their toughness. Zeigler will be missed for the Vols, and Rick Barnes' teams in the past have blown games just like this too many times.
1.5* Gonzaga +1.5 Can't believe I'm playing the Zags, a team that has consistently been disappointing in the past tournaments. However, UCLA's injuries are a problem. They really go only about 7 deep, and could be down 3 of those players vs. Gonzaga. Clark, the defensive stud is out for sure. Bona re-aggravated his shoulder last game. Singleton will play on an ankle sprain, but not at 100%. He and Bona might play, but not finish. Gonzaga will never be a solid D team, but if their offense plays like it has so far since crushing St. Mary's in the conference final- then they can win.