It’s been a chalk filled tournament so far which only means the matchups in the later rounds will be better than ever. Not a single 1, 2, 3, or 4 seed lost in the first round, for the first time since 2018. In addition to that, all four 1 seeds, three 2 seeds, two 3 seeds, and three 4 seeds all made the Sweet 16. The same people calling this tournament boring or saying March Madness fell off are the same people that have been complaining about blowouts in the later rounds the last few years. With all higher seeds making the second weekend, this weekend is primed to set us up for a thrilling final four and championship game.
But not before a great slate of Sweet 16 games which potentially could set up some classic Elite 8 matchups. In the West a potential Michigan-Michigan State Elite 8 would be unbelievable and a bloodbath. Michigan State-Auburn would be a great watch as well, Jonni Broom vs Tom Izzo, cinema.
In the East, if Duke can get passed Caleb Love and Arizona, and assuming Alabama can survive the red hot BYU, we could be set up for the super fast and high flying Alabama team against one of the best Duke teams in a long time.
In the Midwest, if Houston gets by the scruffy Purdue team, they’ll face the winner of Kentucky-Tennessee, in Mark Popes first year he would be on the verge of a final four, Tennessee has gotten hot at the right time and either matchup would be awesome.
The Sweet 16 tips off this Thursday as the second weekend of March Madness gets underway.
6 BYU Cougars vs. 2 Alabama Crimson Tide (7:09 p.m. ET)
This game promises an offensive showcase. Alabama’s fast-paced offense will challenge BYU’s high-scoring team, setting the stage for a high-scoring affair.
4 Maryland Terrapins vs. 1 Florida Gators (7:39 p.m. ET)
Florida, the No. 1 seed, faces a talented Maryland team led by standout freshman Derik Queen. The Gators will need to address turnover issues and secure offensive rebounds to advance. The “Crab Five” of Maryland have a young and talented team where everyone on the team can score at will. Walter Clayton and company for Florida have a lot to deal with.
4 Arizona Wildcats vs. 1 Duke Blue Devils (9:39 p.m. ET)
In a rematch from earlier this season, Duke’s formidable defense, anchored by 7-2 center Khaman Maluach and 6-9 forward Cooper Flagg, will contend with Arizona’s perimeter shooting and transition offense. Arizona’s Caleb Love, formerly of UNC, has a history of strong performances against Duke. When asked how he felt about playing Duke Love had a big smile on his face.
10 Arkansas Razorbacks vs. 3 Texas Tech Red Raiders (10:09 p.m. ET)
Arkansas, led by coach John Calipari, brings a rejuvenated squad to face Texas Tech’s efficient offense. The Razorbacks are considered underdogs but possess the talent and momentum to challenge the higher-seeded Red Raiders.
6 Ole Miss Rebels vs. 2 Michigan State Spartans (7:09 p.m. ET)
This matchup features a coaching rematch from the 2019 Final Four. Ole Miss seeks its first Elite Eight appearance, while Michigan State aims to leverage its experience and depth to advance.
3 Kentucky Wildcats vs. 2 Tennessee Volunteers (7:39 p.m. ET)
A classic SEC rivalry takes center stage in the NCAA Tournament for the first time. Kentucky, having swept Tennessee in regular-season play, looks to continue its dominance, while the Volunteers aim for redemption.
5 Michigan Wolverines vs. 1 Auburn Tigers (9:39 p.m. ET)
Top overall seed Auburn faces a strong Michigan team boasting dominant big men. The Wolverines’ recent success under first-year head coach Dusty May adds intrigue to this high-stakes matchup. Guard Trey Donaldson transferred to Michigan from Auburn last year and Center Danny Wolf beat the Tigers when he played for Yale last year, so a lot to look out for in this one.
4 Purdue Boilermakers vs. 1 Houston Cougars (10:09 p.m. ET)
This game will be a defensive battle, with Houston’s dominant defense and deliberate pace potentially leading to a low-scoring affair. Purdue will need to find ways with Braden Smith to break through the Cougars’ defensive schemes.
