CBB: Analyzing the Final Four Matchups
No. 3 Michigan vs. No. 11 Loyola (CH): The Wolverines come in as favorites, but with the way the Ramblers are playing, no one would be surprised to see them win another game. In order for Michigan to beat Loyola (CH) and return to the national title game for the first time since 2013, they have to continue to share the ball and play good defense, especially around the three-point area. Loyola (CH) has been lighting other teams up from deep, and it's been their key to taking down big time opponents. The Ramblers have a good chance to win this game, especially since many people did not see them coming this far, they are still unknown to some. All they have to do is surprise people once more and they're in the championship game. Michigan does have the advantage, obviously, with their size and having a good paint presence in Moritz Wagner and Jon Teske off of the bench, but they aren't that good of an outside shooting team like most of John Beilein's teams have been. And that's Loyola's main advantage. If the Ramblers get hot from outside, watch out! With that said, Beilein is one of the best coaches in the nation, as he was named CBS Sports Coach of the Year, and he should be able to get his boys ready for this one. According to our experts, Michigan will win 72-65. All three of us have the Wolverines moving on to the national championship game.
No. 1 Villanova vs. No. 1 Kansas: The Wildcats have been one of the best teams in the nation all year long, and have been the best program over the last five years. So it's not surprising to have them in the Final Four again. The other team? The Jayhawks, who aren't far behind either. They've won 14 consecutive Big 12 titles and have taken the next step, after losing in the Elite Eight the last two years. With two experienced teams going at one another, that could become a significant factor. With four juniors and one freshman in the starting lineup, the Wildcats provide more experience than Kansas, despite Devonte' Graham's presence. Going back to the Jayhawks' previous shortcomings, it was Villanova who eliminated them in 2016. I think the Elite Eight game from two years ago will play similar to this one, with skilled guard play and a lot of outside shots. But the big men will have a huge impact in this one as well. Whichever frontcourt member can rebound or score inside efficiently will greatly help their team. Udoka Azubuike and Omari Spellman will be names to look out for. The wings, Malik Newman and Mikal Bridges, will play important roles too. And obviously, potential Player of the Year, Jalen Brunson, will have a major imprint. Our experts are cautiously taking Kansas to move on. Charles Post is picking Villanova, but Chinedum Wejinya and Max Heningburg agree that the Jayhawks will win.
Photo Credit: Clutch Points.
