Is Jackson's injury a serious one? That would be a big blow to their chances if he misses substantial time.

 

Doesn't sound like it...

Of those on your list who is most likely to be upset early? Nova?

 

Kentucky...

This is a popular sentiment this year, and I see a lot of teams that can win two games in the Tournament, but I'd bet a heap of cash that my list of 12 in post #2 is at least 3 of the Final 4....if not all. Teams that can win two games and get into S16 are plentiful, I agree with you, but teams that can win 4 (or 5) and make F4 are very limited, in my opinion.

 

That's a really bold bet. Not saying you might not do it, just that the odds of it happening aren't very good in most years.

 

Think about the years a Butler, George Mason, VCU, Louisville (2012, when they weren't exactly a heavy favorite), Marquette in 2003.

Of those on your list who is most likely to be upset early? Nova?

 

Concur with Wisconsin. I don't think they can score enough to beat really good teams in tournament basketball. They're usually pretty hyped and beat teams they should before bowing out to ones they are underdogs against.

 

Also, like gametime said, I could see Kentucky getting upset early.

Looking at a lot of these responses, it looks like I'm in the minority on Syracuse. It's not that I don't think they are a good team, it's just that I can see them getting knocked off early because they are so one dimensional in lots of respects.

 

I don't think it's a coincidence that Boeheim hasn't really had lots of success in the tournament considering the talent he's had. They are definitely a talented bunch, probably one of the more talented teams he's had, still, I just don't know.

Looking at a lot of these responses, it looks like I'm in the minority on Syracuse. It's not that I don't think they are a good team, it's just that I can see them getting knocked off early because they are so one dimensional in lots of respects.

 

I don't think it's a coincidence that Boeheim hasn't really had lots of success in the tournament considering the talent he's had. They are definitely a talented bunch, probably one of the more talented teams he's had, still, I just don't know.

 

Ennius gives them an element they haven't had in a while...

Of those on your list who is most likely to be upset early? Nova?

 

Who would everyone consider the safest team to get to the Final Four?

 

I'll go with Arizona. I think they're in contention for the #1 overall seed and will get a nice bracket where everyone comes to them in the West. Their first round will likely be in Spokane if that plays out, which isn't great, but they only have to beat a #16 and then the #8/#9 winner. The next round would be in San Diego or San Antonio, either of which is probably going to be a very pro-'Zona crowd.

 

That sets up nicely for them to get to the Final Four, especially if they play some teams who have to make the long trip out to them.

^Michigan State

Ennius gives them an element they haven't had in a while...

 

It isn't really their offense that I worry about though.

 

I just don't like teams who only play zone.

 

I understand teams only playing man, but I just think the whole 2-3 thing is overhyped with them. Kids have been attacking that defense since grade school and there are only so many variations.

^Michigan State

 

Good pick, IF they are at full strength. That's a big IF though.

Kentucky...

 

I thought this, but didn't want to get strung up for saying it.

 

UK is improving but they still have moments of lull.

1. Arizona

2. Michigan State

3. Kansas

4. Villanova

5. Wichita State

6. Villanova

7. Iowa

8. Kentucky

9. Creighton

10. Syracuse

 

Also throw in Michigan, Florida, and Iowa State

If you are being objective, neither Louisville or UK should be in the Top 10 of this list...

If you are being objective, neither Louisville or UK should be in the Top 10 of this list...

 

Things can change in a month's time, but I agree with you.

Things can change in a month's time, but I agree with you.

 

Definitely. But as of now, neither team has showed anything to make me believe they are a realistic threat to make it to the Final Four. JMO.