At first glance, the South looks like a region that will mostly follow form, according to seeding, with a couple of exceptions: No. 4 Purdue will get run by Siena and St. Mary's will toss Richmond, right at the start.
Louisville, even as a nine seed, is a threat to knock off overrated Duke, and the Cardinals just might mess this whole thing up like that. But it's not quite the way to bet. Almost, but no cigar.
So, top-seeded schools will meet up in the region final: Duke at No. 1, Villanova at 2.
But I'm still thinking about Louisville against Duke. The Cardinals are exactly the type of team that can beat the Devils. If they don't, it will be smooth sailing for the Dookies -- until they meet 'Nova.
Three tough players to stop are Jon Scheyer, Nolan Smith, and Kyle Singler. But Duke has supporting players built around those scorers who complete the deal.
"Everybody knows their role, and that's one thing I've definitely noticed about this team," Smith told the Sporting News . "Going forward, guys are getting better."
No. 12 Utah State also has a decent chance at beating fifth-seeded Texas A&M. One of those five-and-12 deals. USU is far better than it's been given credit for. But A&M's athleticism, at the end, will reel in that win.
On the other side of the bracket, there's that cute aforementioned upset of note: No. 10 St. Mary's over No. 7 Richmond.
Baylor is the only real challenge for Villanova through to the region final, and the 'Cats are strong enough to handle the Bears.
That leaves Duke and Villanova, named as a two seed in the tournament for the first time ever. The 'Cats feature balanced scoring -- from Scottie Reynolds (19 points), Corey Fisher (14 points), and Antonio Pena (11 points).
Had Villanova been placed in any other region, it wouldn't be a choice for the Final Four, but coming out of the weaker South, the Wildcats get the nod.
Lock City
Siena over Purdue. Without the injured Robbie Hummel, the Boilermakers just aren't the same team. It's like a duck trying to fly with one wing.
Why Duke is No. 1
The Blue Devils claimed the ACC title. Enough said.
Out on a limb
Utah State could beat Texas A&M, but we won't take that to the bank. Louisville could beat Duke, but ... no.
No faith in
Purdue, because ducks with one wing can't fly.
