Friday's Previews

The games are underway but here are the previews for five of the games that we're looking forward to today.

#7. UNLV vs. #10. Georgia Tech [12:25pm] Midwest Region
- A lot of people are lovin these young Yellow Jackets. Not me. They expended a ton of energy just making the tournament in the past month. Meanwhile, UNLV is the nation’s best kept secret and coach Lon Kruger will turn out to be a strong asset in confusing and outgunning these talented, yet very youthful Yellow Jackets.
Deciding Factor: Unless Thadeus Young is planning a breakout party, people need to quit thinking about the Yellow Jackets as Elite Eight participants.

#4. Virginia vs. #13. Albany [12:15pm] South Region
- I’ve heard everything as of late pertaining to Virginia ranging from they’re the worst 4-seed in years to they have a virtual cakewalk until the Sweet Sixteen. While Albany might not be worthy of the upset, it’s extremely important to note how JR Reynolds’ back is and how well the backcourt duo (Reynolds/Singletary) shoot in the opening game. Virginia needs a blowout victory more than any other team in the first round, in my opinion.

#6. Notre Dame vs. #11. Winthrop [2:30pm] Midwest Region
- There’s no chance that this matchup can live up to its billing. Two three-guard lineups that are fun to watch and execute well. Expect plenty of three-pointers and hard work down low.
Deciding Factor: Execution in the final 5 minutes of the game

#7. Nevada vs. #10. Creighton [2:50pm] South Region
- The NCAA loves to pit mid-majors against one another. Anyone who doesn’t see this disturbing trend is either blind or stupid. Or both. Creighton is better than a 10 and Nevada is better than a 7. Nevada will want this game played in the 70s or 80s while Creighton will want it in the 60s.
Deciding Factor: Two matchups – Ramon Sessions vs. Nate Funk and Nick Fazekas vs. Anthony Tolliver.

#8. Arizona vs. #9. Purdue [7:20pm] Midwest Region
- This is a battle of talent and potential versus a hard-working team. I look forward to seeing Landry and Radenovic battling it out inside. Chase Buddinger needs to not be Chase Suckinger – he was a top 5 recruit and has disappointed. The guard matchups are going to be fun to be watch. I just think that if Marcus Williams asserts himself, Arizona will be playing Florida on Sunday.
Deciding Factor: Arizona deciding to play defense and hustle. It’s that simple.