The Elite Eight games in March Madness are some of the best and most exciting matchups in the tournament. In this article, I’ll go over four big games and explain why I think certain teams will win. I’ll talk about what each does well and which players could make a huge difference in these games.
1. Texas Tech vs. Florida – Pick: Florida
Why Florida wins:
- Florida is playing amazing basketball at the right time. Their offense has been on point lately, and they’re putting up high-scoring games and shooting well from distance.
- They have a better depth than Texas Tech. If the game gets fast-paced or close at the end, Florida has more players that can make clutch plays to win the game.
- Texas Tech plays tough defense, but they often struggle to score sometimes. If Florida can get an early lead, it’ll be hard for Texas Tech to catch up.
Key Player: Walter Clayton Jr – He’s been playing phenomenally averaging 19 points per game in the tournament so far, if anyone is going to step up for Florida it will be him.
2. Alabama vs. Duke – Pick: Duke
Why Duke wins:
- Duke has a more complete team, where everybody feeds off another. They have a solid offense and strong defense. I think they will be able to adjust to whatever Alabama throws their way.
- Alabama relies on the three-point shot. Evidently shown in their matchup against BYU. If they’re not hitting from deep, they won’t be able to keep up.
- Duke’s size and athleticism will make it especially hard for Alabama to get clean looks from the three-point line.
Key Player: Cooper Flagg – He’s a mismatch for the Crimson Tide and can take over a game, scoring 30 points in his last outing against Arizona.
3. Tennessee vs. Houston – Pick: Tennessee
Why Tennessee wins:
- Tennessee is strong, physical, and tough on defense. This year, they’ve gotten better at scoring, they move the ball around well and have players that can knock down shots when it matters the most.
- Houston is a great defensive team, but sometimes they can’t score. They scored 62 points against Purdue. If Tennessee can stay composed and hit a few big shots, they can take control of the game and win.
- Also, Tennessee has played through the gauntlet of the SEC, and still dominated. They’re definitely ready for a battle and won’t back down.
Key Player: Zakai Zeigler – He’s a quick and fearless point guard who carries Tennessee on both ends of the floor despite his size. If he plays well, Tennessee has a pretty good chance to win.
4. Michigan State vs. Auburn – Pick: Auburn
Why Auburn wins:
- Auburn is one of the best all-around teams left, they play fast, shoot well, and defend hard.
- Michigan State has a fight to them and won’t give up, but they’ve been inconsistent. If they keep it close Sparty could come out with a win.
- Auburn will likely win the fight in the paint and has more strength on offense.
Key Player: Johni Broome – If he controls the paint and gets offensive rebounds, Auburn will be in good shape.
These Elite Eight games will be fun to watch and could go either way, but I do believe that Florida, Duke, Tennessee, and Auburn will come out on top. All of these teams have talent, coaching, and key players that will get the job done. It will be interesting to see if my picks are right and who will move on to the Final Four