Game 1

Michigan State vs. Butler (-1)

Well one thing is going to come to an end finally on Saturday. We’re either going to stop doubting Michigan State or we’re going to stop underestimating Butler. Michigan State has played with the heart of a lion and Tom Izzo deserves every bit of credit he deserves, but the run ends Saturday. I look at the competition the Michigan State has squeaked by to get here, and then I look at the defensive statement Butler has made this year. Butler has the talent, but more importantly the will power to win this game. Butler is hot, they have shut down ‘Cuse and Kansas State two of the most offensively talented teams in the nation and now they get Michigan State minus Kalin Lucas. I like Butler in this spot, they have twice the heart of Tennessee and Maryland and equal talent. Butler -1 is the pick.

Game 2

West Virginia vs. Duke (-2.5)

This game is VERY interesting. Two noticeably different teams. Duke has played great and have been consistent about it. They also haven’t played a team with the length of West Virginia on the perimeter. The MOST noticeable thing I’ve seen this tournament has been West Virginia’s ability to shut down their opponents. Kentucky and Washington were two teams that can fill it that simply could not score against West Virginia. Scheyer, Smith and Singler are going to have a tough time getting shots off on the perimeter because of the Mountaineers length. Expect a coming out party for Da’Sean Butler, this game is a great matchup for him. Mountaineers +2.5 is the pick.

Good Luck