The West region was susceptible to upsets before the tournament even started.
There weren’t many sold on Xavier as a No. 1 seed and North Carolina has been too inconsistent this year to be trusted as a No. 2 seed. Even with the upsets already in the West region, we were just seconds away from another upset with Houston over Michigan, too.
In normal years, this region would be the wackiest. But that’s impossible when the South region is setting all-time records.
Here’s the best bets for the Sweet 16 and beyond in the West region.
Who’s going to the Final Four?
Gonzaga Bulldogs
In my only attempt to look like I know what I’m doing with brackets, I actually picked the Bulldogs to advance to the Final Four. And nothing in the first weekend is showing me that I’ll be wrong this weekend.
Gonzaga is long, athletic and experienced. Offensively, there aren’t many teams that can boast the kind of resume that Gonzaga can bring to any game. The defense can use some work, but when it counts, the Bulldogs have shown the ability to make stops when it matters in the first two rounds.
No team remaining in the West can come close to matching up with Gonzaga’s offensive prowess. The Bulldogs were being overlooked heading into this tournament, and they’ll once again show why they’re one of the better basketball programs in the country.
Sweet 16 odds
Texas A&M vs. Michigan (-3)
Sometimes a little momentum can go a long way. That’s why I’m believing in the Wolverines, at least until they make it to the Elite Eight.
Even with the miracle shot in the second round, Michigan should still be considered the favorite in this Sweet 16 matchup. The Wolverines are just more consistent on both ends. The Aggies may be more talented, but how can you trust a team that went through that kind of lull during the season?
Don’t drink the Kool-Aid from Texas A&M’s performance in round 2 against North Carolina. The Aggies have the 122nd ranked offensive efficiency in the country for a reason. Michigan will stymie the Aggies, so expect a close game, but not close enough where you back the Aggies. — Go Chalk with Michigan
Florida State vs. Gonzaga (-6)
The Seminoles were on a mission in the second round against Xavier to avenge last year’s setback.
That mission won’t appear in this Sweet 16 matchup. Gonzaga owns the talent edge and is more advanced on the offensive end. This game won’t be close.
Gonzaga is good enough to make stops when necessary, so don’t worry about the occasional issue that occurred lats weekend. The Bulldogs will pull away in the second half against a less talented Seminole team to advance to the Elite Eight. — Go Chalk with Gonzaga
