ACC, A10, Big Ten, SEC Finals Predictions

Greg Mengelt — Sun, 11 Mar 2012 04:35:21 -0400

This is it, the final day of the regular season, Selection Sunday. Our g ame prediction guru Greg Mengelt has been on fire this year and will continue picking each game of the NCAA Tournament.

ACC CHAMPIONSHIP: AT ATLANTA

(1) North Carolina (29-4, 14-2) at (3) Florida State (23-9, 12-4)

Tipoff: 1 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 14 – Florida State 90-57. RPI: North Carolina 3, Florida State 17. Analysis: The absence of John Henson puts the Heels at a disadvantage. Even if he plays, the Seminoles will cover. Line: North Carolina -6. Pick: Florida State 69, North Carolina 65.

SEC CHAMPIONSHIP: AT NEW ORLEANS

(1) Kentucky (32-1, 16-0) at (3) Vanderbilt (23-10, 10-6)

Tipoff: 1 p.m. TV: ABC. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 11 – Kentucky 69-63*; Feb. 25 – Kentucky 83-74. RPI: Kentucky 1, Vanderbilt 22. Analysis: Taking Vandy to win. Expect the Commodores to at least cover. Line: Kentucky -7½. Pick: Vanderbilt 71, Kentucky 70.

ATLANTIC 10 CHAMPIONSHIP: AT ATLANTIC CITY

(3) Xavier (21-11, 10-6) at (4) St. Bonaventure (19-11, 10-6)

Tipoff: 1 p.m. TV: CBS. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 14 – Xavier 77-65. RPI: Xavier 38, St. Bonaventure 76. Analysis: I am all-aboard the Andrew Nicholson bandwagon. Line: Xavier -3½. Pick: St. Bonaventure 69, Xavier 67.

BIG TEN CHAMPIONSHIP: AT INDIANAPOLIS

(1) Michigan State (26-7, 13-5) at (2) Ohio State (27-6, 13-5)

Tipoff: 3:30 p.m. TV: CBS. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 11 – Michigan State 58-48*; March 4 – Ohio State 72-70. RPI: Michigan State 4, Ohio State 7. Analysis: The whole college basketball world – not just the Spartans – should be concerned about the way OSU is playing. Line: Ohio State -1½. Pick: Ohio State 66, Michigan State 60.

*Road win

Greg Against the Spread This Season: 195-147-6

Conference Finals Predictions: Big 12, Big East, Pac-12 & More

Greg Mengelt — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 02:52:10 -0500

Our g ame prediction guru Greg Mengelt has been on fire this year. Here are is predictions for Saturday's conference championship game. Read more about Championship Week at CollegeHoops.net.

AMERICA EAST FINAL: AT STONY BROOK

(2) Vermont (22-11, 13-3) at (1) Stony Brook (22-8, 14-2)

Tipoff: 11:02 a.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 2 – Stony Brook 65-59; Feb. 12 – Vermont 68-49. RPI: Stony Brook 141, Vermont 156. Analysis: Vermont has been great for the last month-and-a-half and will break the hearts of the Seawolves home faithful. Line: Stony Brook -3½. Pick: Vermont 63, Stony Brook 58.

BIG 12 FINAL: AT KANSAS CITY

(2) Missouri (28-4, 14-4) vs. (4) Baylor (27-6, 12-6)

Tipoff: 6 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 21 – Missouri 89-88*; Feb. 11 – Missouri 72-57. RPI: Baylor 8, Missouri 17. Analysis: I picked Baylor the first two times. Sticking with the Bears. Pick: Baylor 79, Missouri 74.

BIG EAST FINAL: AT NEW YORK CITY

(4) Cincinnati (24-9, 12-6) vs. (7) Louisville (25-9, 10-8)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 23 – Cincinnati 60-56. RPI: Louisville 18, Cincinnati 40. Analysis: Louisville’s stifling defense has carried the Cardinals this far. A Big East title is next. Pick: Louisville 59, Cincinnati 53.

BIG WEST FINAL: AT ANAHEIM

(1) Long Beach State (24-8, 15-1) vs. (2) UC-Santa Barbara (20-9, 12-4)

Tipoff: 10 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 21 – Long Beach 71-48*; Feb. 22 – Long Beach 70-58. RPI: Long Beach 38, UCSB 126. Analysis: Do you think the 49ers have been looking forward to this game for a full year? They want blood – and they’ll get blood. Pick: Long Beach State 75, UC-Santa Barbara 54.

CONFERENCE USA FINAL: AT MEMPHIS

(1) Memphis (25-8, 13-3) vs. (6) Marshall (21-12, 9-7)

Tipoff: 11:35 a.m. TV: CBS. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 28 – Memphis 83-76; Feb. 25 – Memphis 87-67*. RPI: Memphis 16, Marshall 39. Analysis: The Memphis we’ve seen since the beginning of February is the Memphis we expected to see all season. Line: Memphis -9½. Pick: Memphis 90, Marshall 69.

MAC FINAL: AT CLEVELAND

(1) Akron (22-10, 13-3) vs. (3) Ohio (25-7, 11-5)

Tipoff: 8 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 14 – Akron 68-63; Feb. 26 – Ohio 85-61. RPI: Akron 50, Ohio 68. Analysis: Ohio had a disappointing regular season. It will be a memory because the Bobcats are going dancing. Pick: Ohio 75, Akron 68.

MEAC FINAL: AT WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.

(2) Norfolk State (24-9, 13-3) vs. (4) Bethune-Cookman (18-16, 11-5)

Tipoff: 1 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 25 – Norfolk State 75-72*. RPI: Norfolk State 134, B-C 243. Analysis: Norfolk is the class of the MEAC. Pick: Norfolk State 78, Bethune-Cookman 66.

MOUNTAIN WEST FINAL: AT LAS VEGAS

(1) San Diego State (26-6, 10-4) vs. (2) New Mexico (25-6, 10-4)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: NBC Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 18 – San Diego State 75-70*; Feb. 15 – New Mexico 77-67*. RPI: San Diego State 22, New Mexico 34. Analysis: How good did the Pack look in a virtual road game on Friday? Whoa! Pick: New Mexico 79, San Diego State 73.

PAC-12 FINAL: AT LOS ANGELES

(4) Arizona (23-10, 12-6) vs. (6) Colorado (22-11, 11-7)

Tipoff: 6:10 p.m. TV: CBS. Regular-season meetings: Jan 21 – Colorado 64-63; Feb. 9 – Arizona 71-57. RPI: Colorado 77, Arizona 84. Analysis: How does the Pac-12 deserve more than one team? Anyway, this one is a toss-up. Pick: Arizona 63, Colorado 58.

SOUTHLAND FINAL: AT KATY, TEXAS

(3) Lamar (22-11, 11-5) vs. (4) McNeese State (17-14, 10-6)

Tipoff: 3 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 11 – McNeese 57-54; March 3 – Lamar 78-68. RPI: Lamar 118, McNeese 177. Analysis: Did you see what the Cowboys did to the UTA, which dominated the league all season? Take the points. Line: Lamar -5½. Pick: McNeese State 71, Lamar 69.

SWAC FINAL: AT GARLAND, TEXAS

(1) Mississippi Valley State (20-12, 17-1) vs. (2) Texas Southern (17-14, 13-5)

Tipoff: 8 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 23 – MVSU 77-69 (OT)*; Feb. 20 – MVSU 56-53. RPI: MVSU 153, Texas Southern 231. Analysis: Valley wins, but the Tigers cover. Pick: Mississippi Valley State 60, Texas Southern 59.

WAC FINAL: AT LAS VEGAS

(2) New Mexico State (25-9, 10-4) vs. (5) Louisiana Tech (18-15, 6-8)

Tipoff: Midnight. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 7 – NMSU 83-73*; Feb. 4 – NMSU 83-72. RPI: New Mexico State 69, Louisiana Tech 170. Analysis: Been saying all year that the Aggies would win this tournament. Nevada’s elimination only solidifies that. Pick: New Mexico State 84, Louisiana Tech 72.

Conference Semifinals Predictions: ACC, A10, Big Ten, SEC

Greg Mengelt — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 02:48:13 -0500

Our g ame prediction guru Greg Mengelt has been on fire this year. Here are is predictions for Saturday's conference semifinals game. Read more about Championship Week at CollegeHoops.net.

ACC SEMIFINALS: AT ATLANTA

(1) North Carolina (28-4, 14-2) vs. (5) North Carolina State (22-11, 9-7)

Tipoff: 1 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 26 – UNC 74-55; Feb. 21 – UNC 86-74*. RPI: UNC 3, NC State 44. Analysis: Don’t know what to make of the Henson wrist injury. Stay away from this game. If you must, take the Heels. Line: North Carolina -11. Pick: North Carolina 87, North Carolina State 74.

(2) Duke (27-5, 13-3) vs. (3) Florida State (22-9, 12-4)

Tipoff: 3 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 21 – Florida State 76-73*; Feb. 23 – Duke 74-66*. RPI: Duke 4, Florida State 22. Analysis: FSU covers and could beat the Devils again. Pick: Florida State 63, Duke 59.

ATLANTIC 10 SEMIFINALS: AT ATLANTIC CITY

(4) St. Bonaventure (18-11, 10-6) vs. (8) Massachusetts (22-10, 9-7)

Tipoff: 1 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 8 – UMass 76-67. RPI: UMass 71, St. Bonaventure 86. Analysis: No clue what to make of this line, but St. Bona’s Andrew Nicholson and Minutemen PG Chaz Williams are both really good. Williams is clutch. Line: St. Bonaventure -3. Pick: Massachusetts 73, St. Bonaventure 72.

(2) Saint Louis (25-6, 12-4) vs. (3) Xavier (20-11, 10-6)

Tipoff: 3:30 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 25 – Saint Louis 73-68*; Feb. 28 – Saint Louis 70-59. RPI: Saint Louis 29, Xavier 59. Analysis: The Billikens will be facing a desperate Xavier squad. They’ll pass the test. Pick: Saint Louis 68, Xavier 61.

BIG TEN SEMIFINALS: AT INDIANAPOLIS

(1) Michigan State (25-7, 13-5) vs. (4) Wisconsin (24-8, 12-6)

Tipoff: 1:40 p.m. TV: CBS. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 3 – Michigan State 63-60*; Feb. 16 – Michigan State 69-55. RPI: Michigan State 5, Wisconsin 20. Analysis: Baffled by this line. Rob Wilson isn’t going to score 30 points again. Line: Michigan State -4. Pick: Michigan State 58, Wisconsin 48.

(2) Ohio State (26-6, 13-5) vs. (3) Michigan (24-8, 13-5)

Tipoff: 4:05 p.m. TV: CBS. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 29 – Ohio State 64-49; Feb. 18 – Michigan 56-51. RPI: Ohio State 7, Michigan 10. Analysis: When the Buckeyes play well, they’re really good – and they’re playing well now. Pick: Ohio State 74, Michigan 61.

SEC SEMIFINALS: AT NEW ORLEANS

(1) Kentucky (31-1, 16-0) vs. (4) Florida (23-9, 10-6)

Tipoff: 1 p.m. TV: ABC. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 7 – Kentucky 78-58; March 4 – Kentucky 74-59*. RPI: Kentucky 1, Florida 21. Analysis: After the regular-season finale, it is obvious this is a bad matchup for the Gators. Line: Kentucky -9½. Pick: Kentucky 79, Florida 66.

(3) Vanderbilt (21-10, 10-6) vs. (7) Mississippi (20-12, 8-8)

Tipoff: 3:30 p.m. TV: ABC. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 16 – Vanderbilt 102-76*. RPI: Vanderbilt 28, Ole Miss 48. Analysis: No contest. Pick: Vanderbilt 81, Mississippi 66.

*Road win

Greg Against the Spread This Season: 182-141-5

Friday Conference Tournament Predictions

Greg Mengelt — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 14:14:53 -0500

Our g ame prediction guru Greg Mengelt has been on fire this year. He'll be picking every remaining conference tournament including today's loaded schedule. Games listed in order with later rounds on top and earlier rounds at the bottom. Read more about Championship Week at CollegeHoops.net.

BIG 12 SEMIFINALS: AT KANSAS CITY

(1) Kansas (27-5, 16-2) vs. (4) Baylor (26-6, 12-6)

Tipoff: 7:30 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 16 – Baylor 92-74; Feb. 8 – 68-54*. RPI: Kansas 6, Baylor 9. Analysis: Beating a team three times in a season isn’t that difficult. Beating a team three times with as much talent as the Bears have – that is. Line: Kansas -5½. Pick: Baylor 72, Kansas 67.

(2) Missouri (28-4, 14-4) vs. (6) Texas (20-12, 9-9)

Tipoff: 10 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 14 – Missouri 84-73; Jan. 30 – Missouri 67-66*. RPI: Missouri 16, Texas 58. Analysis: Missouri has come to play in the Big 12 tourney. Pick: Missouri 80, Texas 65.

BIG EAST SEMIFINALS: AT NEW YORK CITY

(1) Syracuse (31-1, 17-1) vs. (4) Cincinnati (23-9, 12-6)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 23 – Syracuse 60-53*. RPI: Syracuse 1, Cincinnati 69. Analysis: Was all set to take Cincinnati. Then double-overtime happened. Expect a more impressive performance from the Orange today. Line: Syracuse -7 ½. Pick: Syracuse 63, Cincinnati 52.

(3) Notre Dame (22-10, 13-5) vs. (7) Louisville (24-9, 10-8)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 7 – Notre Dame 67-65 (2OT). RPI: Louisville 21, Notre Dame 38. Analysis: Louisville’s offense was better Thursday and its defense will give the Irish fits. Pick: Louisville 59, Notre Dame 51.

BIG WEST SEMIFINALS: AT ANAHEIM

(3) Cal-Santa Barbara (19-9, 12-4) vs. (7) Cal-Irvine (12-19, 6-10)

Tipoff: 9:30 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 14 – UCSB 74-56; Feb. 15 – UCSB 85-62. RPI: UCSB 127, UCI 270. Analysis: It looks like Santa Barbara and Long Beach are on a crash course again. Pick: Cal-Santa Barbara 74, Cal-Irvine 51.

(1) Long Beach State (23-8, 15-1) vs. (4) Cal Poly (18-14, 8-8)

Tipoff: Midnight. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 5 – LBSU 55-50; Jan. 19 – LBSU 78-69. RPI: LBSU 35, Cal Poly 226. Analysis: Long Beach will win this tournament, but the Mustangs are undervalued and will cover Friday. Pick: Long Beach State 67, Cal Poly 59.

CONFERENCE USA SEMINFINALS: AT MEMPHIS

(2) Southern Mississippi (25-7, 11-5) vs. (6) Marshall (20-12, 9-7)

Tipoff: 4 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 21 – Southern Miss 67-63; March 3 – Marshall 79-75. RPI: Southern Miss 17, Marshall 56. Analysis: Southern Miss got a huge break after the Herd played double-overtime Thursday and will now have to play for a third straight day. Pick: Southern Mississippi 65, Marshall 54.

(1) Memphis (20-12, 9-7) vs. (4) Central Florida (22-9, 10-6)

Tipoff: 6:30 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 18 – Central Florida 68-67; Feb. 28 – Memphis 84-55. RPI: Memphis 18, UCF 61. Analysis: The Knights do a lot well. Upsetting the Tigers in Memphis will be tough, but they should cover. Pick: Memphis 75, Central Florida 72.

MAC SEMIFINALS: AT CLEVELAND

(1) Akron (21-10, 13-3) vs. (4) Kent State (20-10, 10-6)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: STO. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 21 – Akron 84-75; March 2 – Akron 61-55*. RPI: Akron 62, Kent State 105. Analysis: Akron goes 3-for-3 against its rival. Pick: Akron 70, Kent State 63.

(2) Buffalo (19-9, 12-4) vs. (3) Ohio (24-7, 11-5)

Tipoff: 9:30 p.m. TV: STO. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 11 – Ohio 60-52; Feb. 22 – Ohio 88-77*. RPI: Ohio 70, Buffalo 76. Analysis: The Bobcats are the class of the MAC and they’ll prove it Friday. Pick: Ohio 73, Kent State 63.

MEAC SEMIFINALS: AT WINSTON-SALEM, N.C.

(8) Hampton (12-20, 6-10) vs. (4) Bethune-Cookman (17-16, 11-5)

Tipoff: 6 p.m. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 27 – Bethune-Cookman 74-64. RPI: Hampton 305, Bethune-Cookman 254. Analysis: Haven’t seen either team. Grain of salt here. Pick: Bethune-Cookman 71, Hampton 67.

(2) Norfolk State (23-9, 13-3) vs. (11) Florida A&M (10-22, 6-10)

Tipoff: 8 p.m. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 27 – Norfolk State 79-70*. RPI: Norfolk State 133, Florida A&M 324. Analysis: Norfolk State led the MEAC all season before being passed by Savannah State late for the regular-season league title. The Spartans are not going to let another opportunity slip away. Pick: Norfolk State 80, Florida A&M 62.

MOUNTAIN WEST SEMIFINALS: AT LAS VEGAS

(1) San Diego State (25-6, 10-4) vs. (4) Colorado State (19-10, 8-6)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 28 – Colorado State 77-60; Feb. 25 – San Diego State 74-66. RPI: San Diego State 26, Colorado State 19. Analysis: The Rams may be the better team overall. Pick: Colorado State 75, San Diego State 71.

(2) New Mexico (25-6, 10-4) vs. (3) UNLV (25-7, 9-5)

Tipoff: 11:30 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 21 – UNLV 80-63; Feb. 18 – New Mexico 65-45. RPI: UNLV 14, New Mexico 35. Analysis: Both teams looked really good on Thursday. The homecourt advantage should be the difference. Pick: UNLV 71, New Mexico 67.

PAC-12 SEMIFINALS: AT LOS ANGELES

(4) Arizona (22-10, 12-6) vs. (9) Oregon State (19-13, 7-11)

Tipoff: 9:10 p.m. TV: Fox Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 12 – Arizona 81-73 (OT). RPI: Arizona 85, Oregon State 140. Analysis: The Beavers are due for a sub-par performance. Pick: Arizona 68, Oregon State 59.

(2) California (24-8, 13-5) vs. (6) Colorado (21-11, 11-7)

Tipoff: 11:40 p.m. TV: Fox Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 12 – Cal 57-50; Feb. 26 – Colorado 70-57. RPI: Cal 34, Colorado 86. Analysis: Calling another Pac-12 tournament upset. Pick: Colorado 67, Cal 62.

SWAC SEMIFINALS: AT GARLAND, TEXAS

(2) Texas Southern (14-17, 12-6) vs. (6) Alcorn State (10-21, 6-12)

Tipoff: 1:30 p.m. TV: SWAC TV. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 3 – Texas Southern 87-52; March 1 – Texas Southern 56-54*. RPI: Texas Southern 239, Alcorn State 339. Analysis: Alcorn looks like a different team in the second half of the season. Pick: Texas Southern 70, Alcorn State 65.

(1) Mississippi Valley State (19-12, 17-1) vs. (5) Arkansas-Pine Bluff (11-21, 9-9)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: SWAC TV. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 3 – MVSU 82-67; March 1 – MVSU 78-67. RPI: MVSU 154, UAPB 309. Analysis: The Delta Devils better be careful. This one has upset possibilities. Pick: Mississippi Valley State 66, Arkansas-Pine Bluff 64.

WAC SEMINFINALS: AT LAS VEGAS

(2) New Mexico State (24-9, 10-4) vs. (6) Hawaii (16-15, 6-8)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: WSN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 22 – Hawaii 91-87; Feb. 23 – New Mexico State 115-73. RPI: New Mexico State 67, Hawaii 217. Analysis: These two teams have scored nearly 400 combined points in two games this season. Should be fun. Should be close. Pick: New Mexico State 81, Hawaii 78.

(1) Nevada (26-5, 13-1) vs. (5) Louisiana Tech (17-15, 6-8)

Tipoff: 11:30 p.m. TV: WSN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 28 – Nevada 65-63*; March 3 – Nevada 79-69. RPI: Nevada 45, Louisiana Tech 177. Analysis: Tech played the Pack well both times season. Why should Friday be different? Pick: Nevada 64, Louisiana Tech 63.

ACC QUARTERFINALS: AT ATLANTA

(1) North Carolina (27-4, 14-2) vs. (8) Maryland (17-14, 6-10)

Tipoff: Noon. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 4 – North Carolina 83-74*; Feb. 29 – North Carolina 88-70. RPI: UNC 3, Maryland 110. Analysis: No contest. Line: North Carolina -15½. Pick: North Carolina 78, Maryland 53.

(4) Virginia (22-8, 9-7) vs. (5) North Carolina State (21-11, 9-7)

Tipoff: 2 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 28 – Virginia 61-60*. RPI: Virginia 43, NC State 53. Analysis: The Pack wins it outright. Line: Virginia -2½. Pick: North Carolina State 66, Virginia 60.

(2) Duke (26-5, 13-3) vs. (10) Virginia Tech (16-16, 4-12)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 2 – Duke 75-60*; Feb. 25 – Duke 70-65 (OT). RPI: Duke 4, Virginia Tech 119. Analysis: Duke needed overtime to beat the Hokies last time. They’ll challenge the Blue Devils again. Pick: Duke 68, Virginia Tech 63.

(3) Florida State (21-9, 12-4) vs. (6) Miami (19-11, 9-7)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 11 – Florida State 64-59; Feb. 26 – Miami 78-62. RPI: FSU 20, Miami 49. Analysis: The Hurricanes probably have the better talent – at least offensively – and they’ll solve the Seminole D enough to get the win. Pick: Miami 61, Florida State 58.

ATLANTIC 10 QUARTERFINALS: AT ATLANTIC CITY

(1) Temple (24-6, 13-3) vs. (8) Massachusetts (21-10, 9-7)

Tipoff: Noon. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 29 – Temple 90-88 (OT). RPI: Temple 12, UMass 80. Analysis: Expected the Owls to win by eight or more points is a lot to ask in what should be a low-scoring game. Line: Temple -7½ . Pick: Temple 60, Massachusetts 55.

(4) St. Bonaventure (17-11, 10-6) vs. (5) Saint Joseph’s (20-12, 9-7)

Tipoff: 2:30 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 29 – St. Bonaventure 98-93 (2OT). RPI: St. Bonaventure 91, Saint Joseph’s 52. Analysis: Andrew Nicholson will be the best player on the floor, but the Hawks are the better team. Line: Saint Joseph’s -1. Pick: Saint Joseph’s 68, St. Bonaventure 62.

(2) Saint Louis (24-6, 12-4) vs. (7) LaSalle (21-11, 9-7)

Tipoff: 6:30 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 11 – Saint Louis 59-51*. RPI: SLU 30, LaSalle 78. Analysis: The Billikens have been up-and-down, but you have to believe they’ll enter Atlantic City ready to roll. Line: Saint Louis -6. Pick: Saint Louis 63, LaSalle 52.

(3) Xavier (19-11, 10-6) vs. (6) Dayton (20-11, 9-7)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 21 – Dayton 87-72; Feb. 18 – Xavier 86-83 (OT). RPI: Xavier 56, Dayton 73. Analysis: Kevin Dillard will not let the Flyers lose. Line: Xavier -2. Pick: Dayton 73, Xavier 70.

BIG TEN QUARTRFINALS: AT INDIANAPOLIS

(1) Michigan State (24-7, 13-5) vs. (8) Iowa (17-15, 8-10)

Tipoff: Noon. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 10 – Michigan State 95-61. RPI: Michigan State 5, Iowa 133. Analysis: Avoid betting this line. If you insist on taking the bait, go with Sparty. Line: Michigan State -11. Pick: Michigan State 73, Iowa 61.

(4) Wisconsin (23-8, 12-6) vs. (5) Indiana (25-7, 11-7)

Tipoff: 2:25 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 26 – Wisconsin 57-50. RPI: Indiana 12, Wisconsin 22. Analysis: The loss of Verdell Jones – Indiana’s heart and soul – will hurt, but it won’t keep the Hoosiers from rolling to the semis. Line: Indiana -1½. Pick: Indiana 65, Wisconsin 58.

(2) Michigan (23-8, 13-5) vs. (10) Minnesota (19-13, 6-12)

Tipoff: 6:30 p.m. TV: Big Ten Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 1 – Michigan 61-56. RPI: Michigan 13, Minnesota 89. Analysis: The Gophers may not pull off another upset, but it’s doubtful that the Wolverines will cover. Pick: Michigan 58, Minnesota 55.

(3) Ohio State (25-6, 13-5) vs. (6) Purdue (21-11, 10-8)

Tipoff: 8:55 p.m. TV: Big Ten Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 7 – Ohio State 87-84. RPI: Ohio State 8, Purdue 40. Analysis: Purdue’s near-win at Columbus in early February set off a really good stretch for the Boilermakers. Pick: Ohio State 79, Purdue 76.

SEC QUARTERFINALS: AT NEW ORLEANS

(1) Kentucky (30-1, 16-0) vs. (8) LSU (18-13, 7-9)

Tipoff: 1 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 28 – Kentucky 74-50*. RPI: Kentucky 2, LSU 89. Analysis: Probably would avoid betting this one with the Tigers getting so many points, but there aren’t enough points to actually bet LSU. Line: Kentucky -16½. Pick: Kentucky 71, LSU 54.

(4) Florida (22-9, 10-6) vs. (5) Alabama (21-10, 9-7)

Tipoff: 3:30 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 14 – Florida 61-52*. RPI: Florida 28, Alabama 32. Analysis: It’s hard to take the Tide the way they’re playing. Pick: Florida 78, Alabama 61.

(2) Tennessee (18-13, 10-6) vs. (7) Mississippi (19-12, 8-8)

Tipoff: 7:30 p.m. TV: SEC Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 22 – Tennessee 73-60. RPI: Tennessee 74, Mississippi 51. Analysis: Tennessee is playing as well as anyone in the SEC (No. 1 Kentucky excepted) and could get to the title game. Pick: Tennessee 72, Mississippi 63.

(3) Vanderbilt (21-10, 10-6) vs. (11) Georgia (15-16, 5-11)

Tipoff: 10 p.m. TV: SEC Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan 14 – Vandy 77-66; Feb. 19 – Vandy 61-52. RPI: Vanderbilt 27, Georgia 108. Analysis: Another line that’s too close to play. Avoid it. Maybe take the over. Pick: Vanderbilt 82, Georgia 70.

*Road win

Greg Against the Spread This Season: 162-127-3

Quarterfinals Predictions: Big 12, Big East, CUSA, MAC, MWC, Pac-12

Greg Mengelt — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 11:06:02 -0500

Our g ame prediction guru Greg Mengelt has been on fire this year. He'll be picking (just about) every conference tournament game over the next week, including tonight's three key championship games. Games listed in order with later rounds on top and earlier rounds at the bottom. Read more about Championship Week at CollegeHoops.net.

BIG EAST QUARTERFINALS: AT NEW YORK CITY

(1) Syracuse (30-1, 17-1) vs. (9) Connecticut (20-12, 8-10)

Tipoff: Noon. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 11 – Syracuse 85-67; Feb. 25 – Syracuse 71-69. RPI: Syracuse 1, UConn 33. Analysis: Can’t see any way this one doesn’t get out of hand early. Line: Syracuse -7. Pick: Syracuse 84, Connecticut 67.

(4) Cincinnati (22-9, 12-6) vs. (5) Georgetown (23-7, 23-7)

Tipoff: 2 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 9 – Cincinnati 68-64*. RPI: Cincinnati 67, Georgetown 9. Analysis: The advantage always goes to a team with one game under its belt in a conference tournament. Line: Georgetown -3. Pick: Georgetown 67, Cincinnati 60.

(2) Marquette (25-6, 14-4) vs. (7) Louisville (22-9, 10-8)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 16 – Marquette 74-63. RPI: Marquette 7, Louisville 21. Analysis: Marquette's defense will be the difference. Pick: Marquette 63, Louisville 53.

(3) Notre Dame (21-10, 13-5) vs. (6) South Florida (19-12, 12-6)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 10 – Notre Dame 60-49. RPI: Notre Dame 38, South Florida 39. Analysis: South Florida needs a win and it will get one. This Irish will find points tough to come by. Pick: South Florida 57, Notre Dame 52.

BIG 12 QUARTERFINALS: AT KANSAS CITY

(4) Baylor (25-6, 12-6) vs. (5) Kansas State (21-9, 10-8)

Tipoff: 12:30 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 10 – Baylor 75-73*; Feb. 18 – Kansas State 57-56. RPI: Baylor 10, Kansas State 40. Analysis: The Bears are just too skilled to lose to Kansas State twice. Line: Baylor -2. Pick: Baylor 69, Kansas State 64.

(1) Kansas (26-5, 16-2) vs. (9) Texas A&M (13-17, 4-14)

Tipoff: 3 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 23 – Kansas 64-54; Feb. 22 – Kansas 66-58. RPI: Kansas 6, Texas A&M 168. Analysis: Despite a lackluster effort this season, the Aggies have a lot of talent and they’ll fight. Pick: Kansas 67, Texas A&M 62.

(2) Missouri (27-4, 14-4) vs. (7) Oklahoma State (14-17, 7-11)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: Big 12 Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 25 – Oklahoma State 79-72; Feb. 15 – Missouri 83-65. RPI: Missouri 16, Oklahoma State 120. Analysis: The Tigers will use the their home crowd advantage – and hot shooting – to drub OK State. Pick: Missouri 82, Oklahoma State 66.

(3) Iowa State (22-9, 12-6) vs. (6) Texas (19-12, 9-9)

Tipoff: 9:30 p.m. TV: Big 12 Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 4 – Iowa State 77-71; Jan. 24 – Texas 62-55. RPI: Iowa State 29, Texas 57. Analysis: Iowa State. No, Texas. No, Iowa State. No, Texas. Line: Texas -1. Pick: Texas 72, Iowa State 70.

CONFERENCE USA QUARTERFINALS: AT MEMPHIS

(2) Southern Mississippi (24-7, 11-5) vs. (10) East Carolina (15-15, 5-11)

Tipoff: 1 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 4 – Southern Miss 78-76; Jan. 25 – Southern Miss 72-60. RPI: Southern Miss 17, ECU 162. Analysis: Southern Miss is one of the most fascinating NCAA cases in a long time. The Eagles will put any doubt to rest with a big win. Pick: Southern Mississippi 81, East Carolina 60.

(3) Tulsa (17-13, 10-6) vs. (6) Marshall (19-12, 9-7)

Tipoff: 3:30 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 4 – Tulsa 79-70. RPI: Tulsa 113, Marshall 57. Analysis: Marshall will win with defense and rebounding. Pick: Marshall 66, Tulsa 57.

(1) Memphis (23-8, 13-3) vs. (8) Texas-El Paso (14-16, 7-9)

Tipoff: 7:30 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 18 – UTEP 60-58*. RPI: Memphis 18, UTEP 145. Analysis: The Tigers’ loss to UTEP was their only bad loss in February. It wasn’t a fluke. The minors will keep it low-scoring and close. Pick: Memphis 63, Texas-El Paso 59.

(4) Central Florida (21-9, 10-6) vs. (5) Alabama-Birmingham (14-15, 9-7)

Tipoff: 10 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 21 – Central Florida 48-41*; March 3 – Central Florida 71-63. RPI: UCF 61, UAB 111. Analysis: The Knights have too much firepower. Pick: Central Florida 69, Alabama-Birmingham 54.

MAC QUARTERFINALS: AT CLEVELAND

(4) Kent State (20-10, 10-6) vs. (8) Western Michigan (13-19, 6-10)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: STO. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 4 – Kent State 78-73 (OT). RPI: Kent State 104, Western Michigan 201. Analysis: It appears that the Broncos are finally starting to play like the team that was expected to win their division this season. They may even win this game against inconsistent Kent. Pick: Kent State 68, Western Michigan 65.

(3) Ohio (24-7, 11-5) vs. (7) Toledo (17-15, 7-9)

Tipoff: 9:30 p.m. TV: STO. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 8 – Toledo 77-73. RPI: Ohio 70, Toledo 247. Analysis: Ohio is poised for a deep run – and possibly a championship – in the MAC Tournament. Pick: Ohio 71, Toledo 60.

MOUNTAIN WEST QUARTERFINALS: AT LAS VEGAS

(1) San Diego State (24-6, 10-4) vs. (8) Boise State (13-16, 3-11)

Tipoff: 3 p.m. TV: The Mtn. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 1 – San Diego State 58-56; Feb. 29 – San Diego State 66-53*. RPI: San Diego State 26, Boise State 165. Analysis: San Diego State went through a bit of a lull, but the Aztecs appear to be back. Line: San Diego State -6. Pick: San Diego State 69, Boise State 58.

(4) Colorado State (19-10, 8-6) vs. (5) Texas Christian (17-13, 7-7)

Tipoff: 5:30 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan 14 – Colorado State 95-89 (2OT); Feb. 11 – TCU 75-71. RPI: Colorado State 19, TCU 101. Analysis: This one really could go either way, but the Rams are on the bubble and desperate for a big win. Line: Colorado State -3½. Pick: Colorado State 72, Texas Christian 68.

(2) New Mexico (24-6, 10-4) vs. (7) Air Force (13-15, 3-11)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: The Mtn. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 31 – New Mexico 81-42*; Feb. 29 – New Mexico 86-56. RPI: New Mexico 34, Air Force 169. Analysis: Interesting. New Mexico has dominated the season series, but 14½ in the first round? That’s a tough task with all of the different variables. Line: New Mexico -14½. Pick: New Mexico 79, Air Force 67.

(3) UNLV (25-7, 9-5) vs. (6) Wyoming (20-10, 6-8)

Tipoff: 11:30 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 4 – Wyoming 68-66; March 3 – UNLV 74-63. RPI: UNLV 14, Wyoming 82. Analysis: The Rebels will not win by double-digits. Line: UNLV -10½. Pick: UNLV 67, Wyoming 60.

PAC-12 QUARTERFINALS: AT LOS ANGELES

(1) Washington (21-9, 14-4) vs. (9) Oregon State (19-13, 7-11)

Tipoff: 3:10 p.m. TV: FSN. Regular-season meetings: Dec. 29 – Washington 95-80; Feb. 12 – Washington 75-72*. RPI: Washington 59, Oregon State 146. Analysis: This game will be played with an up-and-down pace, and the Huskies have too many horses. Pick: Washington 88, Oregon State 68.

(4) Arizona (21-10, 12-6) vs. (5) UCLA (19-13, 11-7)

Tipoff: 5:40 p.m. TV: FSN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 5 – UCLA 65-58; Feb. 25 – Arizona 65-63. RPI: Arizona 85, UCLA 109. Analysis: UCLA is playing its best basketball. The Bruins would likely have won this game even before Josiah Turner’s suspension. Pick: UCLA 65, Arizona 59.

(2) California (23-8, 13-5) vs. (7) Stanford (21-10, 10-8)

Tipoff: 9:10 p.m. TV: FSN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 29 – Cal 69-59; March 4 – Stanford 75-70. RPI: Cal 37, Stanford 94. Analysis: Stanford will keep this close and could pull the upset. Pick: Cal 71, Stanford 69.

(3) Oregon (22-8, 13-5) vs. (6) Colorado (20-11, 11-7)

Tipoff: 11:40 p.m. TV: FSN. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 4 – Colorado 72-71; March 1 – Oregon 90-81. RPI: Oregon 54, Colorado 83. Analysis: Both regular-season matchups were close. This one won’t be. Pick: Oregon 68, Colorado 56.

WAC QUARTERFINALS: AT LAS VEGAS

(3) Idaho (18-12, 9-5) vs. (6) Hawaii (15-15, 6-8)

Tipoff: 3 p.m. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 28 – Idaho 76-70; March 2 – Idaho 82-63. RPI: Idaho 139, Hawaii 207. Analysis: Love the Rainbows in this one – at least to keep it close. Line: Idaho -5. Pick: Idaho 68, Hawaii 66.

(2) New Mexico State (23-9, 10-4) vs. (7) Fresno State (13-19, 3-11)

Tipoff: 5:30 p.m. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 28 – New Mexico State 60-56; March 3 – New Mexico State 83-78 (OT). RPI: New Mexico State 34, Fresno State 224. Analysis: The Aggies have the talent to win this thing. Line: New Mexico State -7. Pick: New Mexico State 75, Fresno State 65.

(1) Nevada (25-5, 13-1) vs. (8) San Jose State (9-21, 1-13)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 12 – Nevada 81-57; Feb. 11 – Nevada 76-70*. RPI: Nevada 45, San Jose State 279. Analysis: Nevada may be an at-large team if it doesn’t win the tournament, but the Wolf Pack has to at least win this one. Line: Nevada -10½. Pick: Nevada 75, San Jose State 62.

(4) Utah State (17-14, 8-6) vs. (5) Louisiana Tech (16-15, 6-8)

Tipoff: 11:30 p.m. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 14 – Utah State 69-65; Feb. 9 – Utah State 77-63. RPI: Utah State 135, Louisiana Tech 177. Analysis: The Bulldogs are playing well and could pull off a small upset. Line: Utah State -4½. Pick: Louisiana Tech 63, Utah State 61.

*Road win

Greg Against the Spread This Season: 143-108-3

Thursday First Round Predictions: ACC, Big Ten, SEC

Greg Mengelt — Thu, 08 Mar 2012 11:02:27 -0500

ACC FIRST ROUND: AT ATLANTA

(8) Maryland (16-14, 6-10) vs. (9) Wake Forest (13-17, 4-12)

Tipoff: Noon. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 11 – Maryland 70-64. RPI: Maryland 111, Wake Forest 169. Analysis: The ACC Tourney starts with an upset. Line: Maryland -3½. Pick: Wake Forest 60, Maryland 55.

(5) North Carolina State (20-11, 9-7) vs. (12) Boston College (9-21, 4-12)

Tipoff: 2 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 19 – N.C. State 76-62; Feb. 1 – N.C. State 56-51. RPI: N.C. State 52, BC 236. Analysis: The Wolfpack will pull away early for an easy win. Line: N.C. State -12. Pick: North Carolina State 73, Boston College 52.

(7) Clemson (16-14, 8-8) vs. (10) Virginia Tech (15-16, 4-12)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 4 – Virginia Tech 67-65; March 1 – Clemson 58-56. RPI: Clemson 138, Virginia Tech 119. Analysis: Remember when being .500 in the ACC meant a lock for the NCAA Tourney? Line: Clemson -2½. Pick: Clemson 64, Virginia Tech 62.

(6) Miami (18-11, 9-7) vs. (11) Georgia Tech (11-19, 4-12)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 24 – Miami 64-49*. RPI: Miami 50, Georgia Tech 183. Analysis: Strange line. Makes me think Vegas knows something the rest of us don’t. Oh, well. The Hurricanes are significantly better. Line: Miami -4. Pick: Miami 67, Georgia Tech 57.

BIG TEN FIRST ROUND: AT INDIANAPOLIS

(8) Iowa (16-15, 8-10) vs. (9) Illinois (17-14, 6-12)

Tipoff: 11:30 a.m. TV: Big Ten Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 26 – Illinois 65-54. RPI: Iowa 131, Illinois 77. Analysis: Not sure the Illinois players are interested in playing another game. Line: Illinois -2½. Pick: Iowa 60, Illinois 55.

(5) Indiana (24-7, 11-7) vs. (12) Penn State (12-19, 4-14)

Tipoff: 2 p.m. TV: Big Ten Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 8 – Indiana 88-82*; Jan. 22 – Indiana 73-54. RPI: Indiana 11, Penn State 156. Analysis: The Hoosiers are playing as well as anyone in the Big Ten – if not the nation. Line: Indiana -11½. Pick: Indiana 81, Penn State 67.

(7) Northwestern (18-12, 8-10) vs. (10) Minnesota (18-13, 6-12)

Tipoff: 5:30 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 22 – Minnesota 75-52; Feb. 18 – Northwestern 64-53. RPI: Northwestern 41, Minnesota 89. Analysis: John Shurna and Drew Crawford will not let the Wildcats lose this game. Line: Northwestern -2½. Pick: Northwestern 68, Minnesota 62.

(6) Purdue (20-11, 10-8) vs. (11) Nebraska (12-17, 4-14)

Tipoff: 8 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 22 – Purdue 83-65. RPI: Purdue 41, Nebraska 140. Analysis: Purdue has won 3-of-4 and even in the loss at Indiana, the Boilermakers played pretty well for most of the game. Line: Purdue -8. Pick: Purdue 79, Nebraska 64.

SEC FIRST ROUND: AT NEW ORLEANS

(8) LSU (17-13, 7-9) vs. (9) Arkansas (18-13, 6-10)

Tipoff: 1 p.m. TV: SEC Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 14 – Arkansas 69-60; Feb. 4 – LSU 71-65. RPI: LSU 84, Arkansas 92. Analysis: A strange season comes to an Arkansas. Things should start to improve next season under Mike Anderson. Line: LSU -1. Pick: LSU 73, Arkansas 68.

(5) Alabama (20-10, 9-7) vs. (12) South Carolina (10-20, 2-14)

Tipoff: 3:30 p.m. TV: SEC Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 25 – South Carolina 56-54. RPI: Alabama 32, USC 185. Analysis: This game could just go a lot of different ways, depending on how interested the Tide are, but eight points is too big of a line for what should be a low-scoring game. Line: Alabama -8. Pick: Alabama 58, South Carolina 52.

(7) Mississippi (18-12, 8-8) vs. (10) Auburn (15-15, 5-11)

Tipoff: 7:30 p.m. TV: SEC Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 14 – Auburn 69-68 (2OT); Feb. 11 – Ole Miss 61-54. RPI: Ole Miss 51, Auburn 136. Analysis: The Rebels are back on the bubble after three straight wins, but Auburn will end the dream. Line: Ole Miss -2½. Pick: Auburn 66, Mississippi 63.

(6) Mississippi State (21-10, 8-8) vs. (11) Georgia (14-16, 5-11)

Tipoff: 10 p.m. TV: SEC Network. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 11 – Georgia 70-68 (OT)*. RPI: MSU 64, Georgia 107. Analysis: Both teams are so unpredictable that it’s hard to tell how this one’s going to go. The Bulldogs are physically superior, though. Line: MSU -5. Pick: Mississippi State 71, Georgia 65.

*Road win

Greg Against the Spread This Season: 143-108-3

Wednesday Predictions: Big Sky, NEC, Patriot Finals & More

Greg Mengelt — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 11:16:27 -0500

BIG SKY CHAMPIONSHIP: AT MONTANA

(2) Weber State (24-5, 14-2) at (1) Montana (24-6, 15-1)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 14 – Weber State 80-64; Feb. 28 – Montana 66-51. RPI: Montana 82, Weber State 69. Analysis: The Grizzlies are simply the better team. With the homecourt advantage, it should be a comfortable win for Montana. Pick: Montana 71, Weber State 61.

NORTHEAST CHAMPIONSHIP: AT LIU

(3) Robert Morris (24-9, 13-5) at (1) Long Island (24-8, 16-2)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 26 – Robert Morris 75-66. RPI: Long Island 91, Robert Morris 109. Analysis: Velton Jones is one of the hottest players in the country and should help the Colonials punch their ticket. Line: Long Island -1. Pick: Robert Morris 69, Long Island 65.

PATRIOT LEAGUE CHAMPIONSHIP: AT BUCKNELL

(2) Lehigh (25-7) at (1) Bucknell (11-3)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: CBS Sports Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 18 – Bucknell 68-61*; Feb. 16 – Lehigh 56-53*. RPI: Bucknell 89, Lehigh 113. Analysis: Lehigh’s C.J. McCollum is a superstar, but beating the Bison on the road twice may be too much to ask. Line: Bucknell -5. Pick: Bucknell 66, Lehigh 59.

BIG EAST SECOND ROUND: AT NEW YORK CITY

(8) West Virginia (19-12, 9-9) vs. (9) Connecticut (19-12, 8-10)

Tipoff: Noon. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 9 – Connecticut 64-57. RPI: Connecticut 33, West Virginia 42. Analysis: Two good performances in a row may be too much to ask of this UConn team. Line: UConn -2. Pick: West Virginia 68, Connecticut 62.

(5) Georgetown (22-7, 12-6) vs. (13) Pittsburgh (17-15, 5-13)

Tipoff: 2 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 28 – Pitt 72-60. RPI: Georgetown 9, Pittsburgh 90. Analysis: Pitt may not win the game, but the Panthers should cover in a low-scoring game. Line: Georgetown -6. Pick: Georgetown 57, Pittsburgh 53.

(7) Louisville (22-9, 10-8) vs. (10) Seton Hall (20-11, 8-10)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 28 – Louisville 60-51*. RPI: Louisville 28, Seton Hall 60. Analysis: Great matchup for Louisville. The Cardinals defense will lead them to a big win. Pick: Louisville 59, Seton Hall 47.

(6) South Florida (19-12, 12-6) vs. (14) Villanova (13-18, 5-13)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 5 – South Florida 74-57*; Feb. 15 – South Florida 65-51. RPI: South Florida 43, Villanova 105. Analysis: Love the Wildcats for the upset. Pick: Villanova 55, South Florida 52.

PAC-12 FIRST ROUND: AT LOS ANGELES

(8) Washington State (15-15, 7-11) vs. (9) Oregon State (17-13, 7-11)

Tipoff: 3:10 p.m. TV: FSN. Regular-season meetings: Dec. 31 – Washington State 81-76; Feb. 9 – Washington State 83-73. RPI: Washington State 170, Oregon State 151. Analysis: Close game. The Beavers will at least cover. Line: Oregon State -3½. Pick: Oregon State 78, Washington State 76.

(5) UCLA (18-13, 11-7) vs. (12) USC (6-25, 1-17)

Tipoff: 5:40 p.m. TV: FSN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 15 – UCLA 66-47*; Feb. 15 – UCLA 64-54. RPI: UCLA 103, USC 259. Analysis: UCLA is playing its best basketball, rallying around Coach Ben Howland. The Bruins may make a run in this tourney. Line: UCLA -12½. Pick: UCLA 73, USC 51.

(7) Stanford (20-10, 10-8) vs. (10) Arizona State (10-20, 6-12)

Tipoff: 9:10 p.m. TV: FSN. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 2 – Stanford 68-44. RPI: Stanford 96, Arizona State 248. Analysis: The Cardinal will blow out Arizona State for the second time this season. Line: Stanford -10. Pick: Stanford 71, Arizona State 54.

(6) Colorado (19-11, 11-7) vs. (11) Utah (6-24, 3-15)

Tipoff: 11:40 p.m. TV: FSN. Regular-season meetings: Dec. 31 – Colorado 73-33; Feb. 18 – Colorado 55-48. RPI: Colorado 81, Utah 265. Analysis: The Buffaloes are really pretty good, and Utah … isn’t. Line: Colorado -11½. Pick: Colorado 66, Utah 51.

*Road win

Greg Against the Spread This Season: 137-103-3

Tuesday Conferene Tournament Predictions:

Greg Mengelt — Tue, 06 Mar 2012 11:11:17 -0500

Our g ame prediction guru Greg Mengelt has been on fire this year. He'll be picking every conference tournament game over the next week, including tonight's four key championship games. Games listed in order with later rounds on top and earlier rounds at the bottom. Read more about Championship Week at CollegeHoops.net.

HORIZON LEAGUE FINALS: AT VALPARAISO

(1) Valparaiso (22-10, 14-4) vs. (3) Detroit (21-13, 11-7)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 6 – Valparaiso 73-71*; Feb. 2 – Valparaiso 78-73. RPI: Valparaiso 89, Detroit 135. Analysis: Detroit is playing like it was expected to all season, but the Crusaders may be playing even better. Line: Valparaiso -2. Pick: Valparaiso 69, Detroit 64.

SUMMIT LEAGUE FINALS: AT SIOUX FALLS, S.D.

(2) South Dakota State (26-7, 15-3) vs. (4) Western Illinois (18-13, 9-9)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Dec. 3 – South Dakota State 67-66*; Feb. 23 – South Dakota State 74-57. RPI: South Dakota State 59, Western Illinois 159. Analysis: Nate Wolters will lead the Jackrabbits to their first NCAA Tournament. Pick: South Dakota State 83, Western Illinois 74.

SUN BELT FINALS: AT HOT SPRINGS, ARK.

(5) North Texas (18-13, 9-7) vs. (7) Western Kentucky (14-18, 7-9)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 12 – North Texas 84-67. RPI: North Texas 193, Western Kentucky 214. Analysis: North Texas should win. Of course, in the Sun Belt Tournament, that means Western Kentucky probably will. Pick: North Texas 77, Western Kentucky 69.

BIG SKY SEMINFINALS: AT CAMPUS SITES

(3) Portland State (17-13, 10-6) at (2) Weber State (23-5, 14-2)

Tipoff: 7:30 p.m. TV: Altitude. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 7 – Weber State 88-81*; Feb. 2 – Weber State 92-79. RPI: Weber State 73, Portland State 170. Analysis: Despite being the 2 and 3 seeds, there’s a wide gap between the Wildcats and the Vikings. Line: Weber State -5½. Pick: Weber State 87, Portland State 73.

(4) Eastern Washington (15-16, 8-8) at (1) Montana (23-6, 15-1)

Tipoff: 10 p.m. TV: Altitude. Regular-season meetings: Dec. 30 – Montana 79-71; Jan. 26 – Montana 74-60*. RPI: Montana 88, Eastern Washington 210. Analysis: Montana is the class of the Big Sky. Line: Montana -10½. Pick: Montana 80, Eastern Washington 67.

ATLANTIC 10 FIRST ROUND: AT ATLANTIC CITY, N.J.

(12) Charlotte (13-16, 5-11) at (5) Saint Joseph’s (19-12, 9-7)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 7 – Charlotte 57-52*. RPI: Saint Joseph’s 50, Charlotte 164. Analysis: The Hawks avenge their worst loss of the season in a big way. Line: Saint Joseph’s -9. Pick: Saint Joseph’s 79, Charlotte 51.

(11) George Washington (10-20, 5-11) at (6) Dayton (19-11, 9-7)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. Regular-season meetings: March 3 – Dayton 75-59. RPI: Dayton 71, George Washington 172. Analysis: The Flyers beat GW by 16 points at home on Saturday. So why’s the line only 9? Line: Dayton -9. Pick: Dayton 73, George Washington 61.

(10) Richmond (16-15, 7-9) at (7) LaSalle (20-11, 9-7)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 8 – Richmond 78-76. RPI: LaSalle 77, Richmond 119. Analysis: Richmond played really well down the stretch and could be a factor in the A-10 tourney. Line: LaSalle -6½. Pick: Richmond 75, LaSalle 70.

(9) Duquesne (16-14, 7-9) at (8) Massachusetts (20-10, 9-7)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 18 – Duquesne 80-69. RPI: UMass 82, Duquesne 98. Analysis: B.J. Monteiro’s work in the paint will keep the Dukes in the game. Line: UMass -6½. Pick: Massachusetts 73, Duquesne 70.

BIG EAST FIRST ROUND: AT NEW YORK CITY

(9) Connecticut (18-12, 8-10) vs. (16) DePaul (12-18, 3-15)

Tipoff: Noon. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 15 – UConn 80-54. RPI: UConn 32, DePaul 196. Analysis: A double-digit spread is way too much for a team that comes to play as little as UConn does. Line: Connecticut -10½. Pick: Connecticut 67, DePaul 59.

(12) St. John’s (13-18, 6-12) vs. (13) Pittsburgh (16-15, 5-13)

Tipoff: 2 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Feb. 29 – Pitt 89, St. John’s 69. RPI: St. John’s 134, Pitt 95. Analysis: Pitt has enough talent to be the surprise of this tournament. Line: Pitt -4. Pick: Pittsburgh 76, St. John’s 67.

(10) Seton Hall (19-11, 8-10) vs. (15) Providence (15-16, 4-14)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 7 – Seton Hall 67-56*. RPI: Seton Hall 60, Providence 146. Analysis: There are a lot of different ways this one could go. Leaning Seton Hall in a high-scoring game. Line: Seton Hall -4. Pick: Seton Hall 86, Providence 78.

(11) Rutgers (14-17, 6-12) vs. (14) Villanova (12-18, 5-13)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPNU. Regular-season meetings: March 1 – Villanova 77-71*. RPI: Rutgers 150, Villanova 115. Analysis: Malik Wayns can carry the Wildcats to at least one Big East win. Line: Villanova -1. Pick: Villanova 69, Rutgers 65.

Greg Against the Spread This Season: 128-94-3

Predictions: CAA, MAAC, Southern, WCC Finals

Greg Mengelt — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:22:17 -0500

Our g ame prediction guru Greg Mengelt has been on fire this year. He'll be picking every conference tournament game over the next week, including tonight's four key championship games. Read more about Championship Week at CollegeHoops.net.

CAA CHAMPIONSHIP: AT RICHMOND, VA.

(1) Drexel (27-5, 16-2) vs. (2) Virginia Commonwealth (27-6, 15-3)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 8 – Drexel 64-58. RPI: Drexel 65, VCU 66. Analysis: With 35 wins in their last 36 games combined, the Dragons and Rams should both be in the NCAA Tournament. However, neither will want to leave that up to the Selection Committee. Line: VCU -2. Pick: Virginia Commonwealth 57, Drexel 53.

MAAC CHAMPIONSHIP: AT SPRINGFIELD, MASS.

(2) Loyola (Md.) (23-8, 13-5) vs. (4) Fairfield (19-13, 12-6)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 13 – Loyola 66-63*; Feb. 12 – Fairfield 68-51. RPI: Loyola 84, Fairfield 111. Analysis: The Stags are finally playing like they were expected to all season, but Loyola has been the more consistent team through the season. Line: Fairfield -2. Pick: Loyola 68, Fairfield 64.

SOUTHERN CHAMPIONSHIP: AT ASHEVILLE, N.C.

(1S) Davidson (24-7, 16-2) vs. (3N) Western Carolina (17-17, 8-10)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPN2. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 12 – Davidson 88-67. RPI: Davidson 68, Western Carolina 216. Analysis: Aside from Davidson, the SoCon was really bad this year. This won’t be close. Line: Davidson -12½. Pick: Davidson 85, Western Carolina 64.

WCC CHAMPIONSHIP: AT LAS VEGAS

(1) Saint Mary’s (26-5, 14-2) vs. (2) Gonzaga (25-5, 13-3)

Tipoff: 9 p.m. TV: ESPN. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 12 – Saint Mary’s 83-62; Feb. 9 – Gonzaga 73-59. RPI: Saint Mary’s 33, Gonzaga 23. Analysis: Saint Mary’s just isn’t the same team with Stephen Holt – and the Bulldogs are playing really well. Line: Gonzaga -1½. Pick: Gonzaga 80, Saint Mary’s 72.

SUMMIT LEAGUE SEMIFINALS: AT SIOUX FALLS, S.D.

(1) Oral Roberts (27-5, 17-1) vs. (5) Western Illinois (17-13, 9-9)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: Midco Sports Network/Fox College Sports. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 12 – Oral Roberts 71-70 (2OT)*; Feb. 11 – Oral Roberts 61-51. RPI: Oral Roberts 41, Western Illinois 188. Analysis: Oral Roberts should be a lock for the NCAA Tournament, but the Eagles will play like their lives are on the line. Line: Oral Roberts -8. Pick: Oral Roberts 67, Western Illinois 56.

(2) South Dakota State (25-7, 15-3) vs. (6) Southern Utah (14-16, 8-10)

Tipoff: 9:30 p.m. TV: Midco Sports Network/Fox College Sports. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 5 – South Dakota State 75-68*; Feb. 4 – South Dakota State 66-56. RPI: South Dakota State 58, Southern Utah 244. Analysis: Nice comeback win for the Thunderbirds against Oakland on Sunday, but that’s as far as it goes. Line: South Dakota State -12. Pick: South Dakota State 70, Southern Utah 54.

SUN BELT SEMIFINALS: AT HOT SPRINGS, ARK.

(9) Arkansas State (13-19, 6-10) vs. (5) North Texas (16-13, 9-7)

Tipoff: 7 p.m. TV: Sun Belt Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 7 – Arkansas State 75-72; Jan. 28 – North Texas 76-64. RPI: North Texas 200, Arkansas State 243. Analysis: Arkansas State used the second-day advantage to knock off the top seed, but playing a third straight day is exponentially tougher. Line: North Texas -1. Pick: North Texas 71, Arkansas State 63.

(3) Denver (21-8, 11-5) vs. (7) Western Kentucky (12-18, 7-9)

Tipoff: 9:30 p.m. TV: Sun Belt Network. Regular-season meetings: Jan. 15 – Denver 78-65. RPI: Denver 84, Western Kentucky 214. Analysis: Denver’s last six wins have been by double-figures. This game will be no different. Line: Denver -8½. Pick: Denver 69, Western Kentucky 57.

Greg Against the Spread This Season: 128-94-3

Weekly Awards: Devoe Joseph, Rakim Sanders, Ohio St & More

Greg Mengelt — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 14:06:03 -0500

A review of the week that was in college basketball focusing on the best (and worst) performances. Check in every Monday morning for CollegeHoops.net's weekly awards by Greg Mengelt.

PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Devoe Joseph, Oregon Senior Guard: Joseph led Oregon to wins over Colorado and Utah with 45 points, 11 rebounds, 10 assists and four steals.

On Thursday, Joseph went 11-for-16 from the field, including 2-for-4 from the 3-point line, and scored 24 points in the Ducks’ 90-81 win over Colorado. He also had five boards, five assists and two steals in the win.

The senior guard came back for 21 points – on 8-of-9 from the floor – six boards, five assists and a pair of steals in a 94-48 win over Utah on Saturday.

Behind Joseph – Oregon’s leading scorer at 16.8 points per game – the Ducks have won three straight and five of their last six, and at 22-8, they may be a viable option for an NCAA Tournament bid.

MID-MAJOR PLAYER OF THE WEEK

Rakim Sanders, Fairfield Senior Forward: Sanders had team-bests with 15 points and eight rebounds in Saturday’s MAAC Tournament quarterfinal win over Rider.

In Sunday’s 85-75 upset of Iona, Sanders was even better. He went 11-for-17 from the field and 2-for-3 from the 3-point line and scored 26 points as Fairfield advanced to Monday’s title game against Loyola (Md.). He also had 12 rebounds, two assists, two steals and a blocked shot against the Gaels.

For the season, Sanders is averaging 16.7 points, 8.2 rebounds, 2.3 assists, 1.4 steals and is shooting 50 percent from the floor.

TEAM OF THE WEEK

Ohio State: The 11^th-ranked Buckeyes earned a pair of road victories to come two games from behind and clinch a share of their third consecutive Big Ten regular-season title.

Jared Sullinger banked in the game winner with 3.1 seconds left Wednesday to give OSU a 75-73 win over Northwestern.

On Sunday, the Buckeyes overcame an early 23-9 deficit to beat league-leader Michigan State, 72-70. William Buford hit a 20-foot jumper over the outstretched fingertips of Keith Appling with a second to play.

“I was fortunate to knock down the big shot of the night to give us another Big Ten title,” said Buford, who finished with a game-high 25 points.

Ohio State, which finished the regular season 25-6 overall, is the No. 3 seed in the Big Ten Tournament and will face either Purdue or Penn State in Friday’s conference quarterfinal.

SINGLE-GAME PERFORMANCE OF THE WEEK

Jamaal Franklin, San Diego State Sophomore Guard: Franklin concluded his second regular season at SDSU with his best performance as an Aztec.

In Saturday’s 98-92 overtime road win over Texas Christian, which gave the Aztecs a share of the Mountain West Conference championship, Franklin went off for 35 points, 13 rebounds, five assists, two steals and a blocked shot. He made nine of his 18 shots from the floor, 14-of-17 from the charity stripe and went 3-for-8 from the 3-point line.

For the season, Franklin is averaging 17.1 points, eight boards, 1.4 assists and 1.1 steals.

WIN OF THE WEEK

North Carolina 88, Duke 70: The Tar Heels jumped out to a 24-8 lead midway through the first half and were never really threatened en route to the ACC regular-season crown.

The 18-point win was the third-largest victory ever at Cameron Indoor Stadium. UNC led 48-24 at the half, shot 54.5 percent from the field, out-rebounded the Blue Devils 45-28 in its seventh straight victory.

“We were kind of overwhelmed by them and the situation,” Duke coach Mike Krzyzewski admitted.

The No. 6 Tar Heels, who were led by sophomore Kendall Marshall’s 20 points and 10 assists, will face either Maryland or Wake Forest in Friday’s ACC quarterfinal as the tourney’s top seed.

UPSET OF THE WEEK

Arkansas State 64, Middle Tennessee 61: Arkansas State entered the Sun Belt Tournament with just 11 wins. The Red Wolves had lost two straight, five of their last seven and 10 of their last 14.

But after Saturday’s first-round win over Florida Atlantic, the tournament’s No. 9 seed earned its biggest win of the season by knocking off the top-seeded Blue Raiders.

Middle Tennessee is 25-6 overall, is ranked 47^th in the latest RPI and has wins over UCLA, Akron, Belmont and Mississippi on its resume. The Raiders will have to wait a week to find out whether that’s enough to get them into the NCAA Tournament.

LOSS OF THE WEEK

Fairfield 85, Iona 75: The nation’s leading scoring team was held to 75 points as its 6-game winning streak came to an end.

On the other end, Fairfield shot 59.6 percent from the field, out-rebounded the Gaels 32-20 and went on a 16-1 run midway through the second half to turn a 60-54 deficit into a 70-61 lead.

Iona’s fate will now be decided by the NCAA Tournament committee. The Gaels have 25 wins, a strong RPI at 48 and have victories over Nevada, Maryland, St. Joseph’s, Long Island, Denver, Marshall and Richmond.

PLAY OF THE WEEK

Jewaun Long’s layup sinks Tennessee State’s hopes: Murray State trailed 50-43 with five minutes left, and after a 9-2 run got the Racers even with the Tigers, Long hit a layup with 4.4 seconds left to send Murray to the NCAA Tournament.

The senior scored just six points on 2-of-7 shooting.

“I’ve got a lot of confidence in him,” Murray State coach Steve Prohm said. “He hadn’t made a lot of shots all night, but that’s his shot.”

Long’s shot put the No. 9 Racers within a game of their school-record 31^st win and gave them their seventh consecutive triumph.

It was heartbreak for Tennessee State, which handed Murray its only loss on Feb. 9. But it was relief for several teams on the bubble. With the Racers already presumably in the field, if the Tigers had held on, they would have bumped one of the current bubble teams out of the field.