One and done. That is the reality that 32 teams are having to deal with after being ousted from the tournament the last two days. The first day brought one of the biggest "almost" upsets, but at the end there really wasn't much to talk about in the way of Cinderella teams. Day 2 brought a different story as many of the underdogs came to the forefront to become the one Cinderella at the ball. The biggest upsets all came from one site though (Tampa). For the first time in NCAA Tournament history all the underdogs from one site won and advanced. And we're not talking about 8 vs. 9 seeds, we are talking about two #13 seeds upsetting #4 seeds, and then two #12 seeds upsetting #5 seeds. So, if your bracket happens to have two sets of #12 vs. #13 matchups in the 2nd round, then you are a better bracket picker than me. With 8 games today's let's get on to the matchups that peak my interest.
West Virginia vs Duke (-4.5)
Duke somehow survived the first round against Belmont, although I am not sure they deserved it. Belmont had the lead late, but seemed to clam up and not continue to press the action, which resulted in three straight miserable offensive possessions, including a muffed inbound pass that sealed the deal. Coach K didn't get his reputation for being a stand on the sidelines coach that doesn't do anything. Many people have Duke getting ousted early, especially against a strong WVU team, but I don't see it happening. Coach K will remedy the situation and Duke will cover today.
Kansas State vs. Wisconsin (-5.5)
Michael Beasley of Kansas State is a beast, and he pretty much showed the nation last time out that he is the man by outdueling and outperforming OJ Mayo and the USC Trojans. However, I believe Wisconsin is bigger than USC and will be able to handle him better. By throwing multiple big guys at him, they should be able to keep his production to a reasonable amount. They won't stop him, but he shouldn't be able to take over. Give the nod to Wisconsin in this one.
Purdue (+3.5) vs Xavier
The X men survived a scare in the first round from the upstart Georgia Bulldogs, but I think their luck is going to run out today versus Purdue. Purdue built up a 19 point lead in the first half of their first round game and then coasted to victory. Purdue finished second in the Big 10 this year, behind Wisconsin, and went 25-8 overall. I think the stronger schedule will prove its worth tonight as Purdue covers.
Pittsburgh (-3) versus Michigan State
The best matchup of the day is definitely this game. Two strong teams with a rich history are both playing well, both played in strong conferences, and both will be hyped up for tonight. Unfortunately, only one will advance, and that should be Pitt. Although I've picked two Big 10 teams to advance tonight, MSU won't be joining them in the Sweet 16. Pitt has had an oustanding season this year, especially given the injuries they've had to endure. They are playing at a level that warranted Bob Knight predicting them to win it all, and I think he may be right, or at least getting to the Swet 16.
