Sweet 16 Picks

Here's my "expert" opinion on what will happen in tonight's and tomorrow night's games:

UConn v. Purdue

First, we have UConn taking on Purdue. I have to ride UConn. I picked them to win it all, and I did so before the season so I can't go against that now. Connecticut has the height advantage is this one, as they do in most games. Having said that, I think Purdue is a heck of a team. I think they have some great players like Hummel and JaJuan Johnson. Hasheem Thabeet and the boys should get in done out in Glendale.

Pitt v. Xavier

Next is Pitt against Xavier at 6:27 pm Central Time, to be exact. I actually had Pitt taking on FSU in this one but, unfortunately, Wisconsin shattered that dream early. As long as DeJuan Blair stays healthy and out of foul trouble, I can see them rolling into the Elite Eight.

Missouri v. Memphis

Approxiamately 30 minutes after the end of the UConn and Purdue game, there's more madness in Glendale. Missou will take their crack at "Calipari's Convicts." There's a lot to like about Missouri, they're deep. They had 10 guys that played 1o minutes a game over the course of the season. That bodes well for them against Memphis. DeMarre Carroll and Leo Lyons are very good players. In the end, I think Memphis' overall experience will be the key in them advancing. Tyreke Evans is a developing into a good point guard.

Villanova v. Duke

Oops, I had VCU v. Texas in this one on my bracket. Please forgive me for the VCU pick, I will never forgive myself for it. Texas should have beaten Duke and that's a fact. Anyway, I have to pick 'Nova in this one. I told myself when during the selection show that Duke won't make it past the Sweet 16. Sorry Sethy, Duke exits now. 'Nova in the Elite Eight. Donte Cunningham and Scottie Reynolds are studs. Duke relies too much on the three pointer.