Since the last Selection Sunday:
- The US has a new President.
- We have pictures of Mars.
- We have battled a worldwide pandemic.
Despite the many tragedies and many struggles, this is a win for sports fans. Just over a year ago, it felt like the Earth stopped spinning. It started with a few games getting cancelled and rapidly spread to businesses and services. Everything seemed in limbo. However, people all over the world have overcame the toughest times these current generations have faced and now have a vaccine, hope, and a March Madness bracket.
Breaking Down the Bracket
West Region
In the West, the first overall seed and undefeated tournament favorite Gonzaga Bulldogs loom large. The question isn’t who will challenge them, it’s “Who will he play in the next round?”. The 2 seed is Iowa. Gonzaga beat Iowa in mid-December by 11.
East Region
While the West region feels concrete, the East is not only a coastal opposite, but complete opposite in terms of the bracket. The 1 seed, Michigan, just lost in the Big 10 semifinals and will be without all-conference guard, Isaiah Livers.
The rest of this region could be dominated by Alabama’s new-age offense, Texas’ experience, and Florida State’s depth. Between Nate Oats, Shaka Smart, and Leonard Hamilton, my money would be on the Seminoles. One of the best possible value bets of the tournament could be Florida State +350 to reach the final four.
South Region
One seed Baylor was the unequivocal 2nd best team in the country until a COVID pause came their way. Since that time, they seem to have struggled. It feels like the door could be wide open for 2 seed Ohio State or 3 seed Arkansas.
This region seems to have the most level playing field. Teams like Purdue and Texas Tech pose threats. Even Wisconsin’s experience could provide March Madness.
If you want a bet to throw a couple dollars on, responsibly, because you found a 10 spot in your coat pocket, Winthrop to the final four is sitting somewhere around +3700.
Midwest Region
The Midwest region is the most talented region. Between player of the year vote getter, Ayo Dosunmu, Kofi Cockburn, and potential number one overall pick Cade Cunningham that’s just the start.
Illinois could see a very tough road considering their potential 2nd round matchup could be one of the best defenses in the country or a team with as much momentum as any in the country.
Between Houston, West Virginia, Oklahoma State, and even San Diego State this will be the most grueling region. However, if the one seed, Illinois, can get to the Final Four taking them +700 to win it all wouldn’t be a bad idea.
You can those odds and MANY others on BUSR!
