Blog entryElite Eight

Eight teams remain, and come Sunday night, we will have our 2012 Final Four.  If you're like me, you like underdogs, and your bracket is busted.  With three number 1 seeds, 2 number 2's, and the highest seed left at 7, the Madness was definitely missing.  But here is a quick rundown of the remaining teams heading into the weekend.  Talk about big name schools.....

Kentucky (1): This number 1 overall seed has the best player in the country (Davis) and a coach (Calipari) who will clearly do anything to win, except practice free-throws.  

Syracuse (1): Have dodged a few bullets, including losing their defensive minded center Fab Melo due to suspensions.  But this team has depth, great senior leadership, and of course, hall of fame coach Jim Boeheim.

North Carolina (1): The loss of their court leader (Marshall) was a big blow, but if Harrison Barnes gets hot, they can beat anyone left in this year's elite eight.

Ohio State (2): Big man Jarred Sullinger had the opportunity to turn pro last year, and make a lot of money.  He stayed to win a Championship.  Sullinger is surrounded by talent, and has a real opportunity in the next week to do so.  

Kansas (2):  The Jayhawks refuse to go away.  Their last two tournament victories are by a combined 6 points.  But it doesn't matter how much you win by, as long as you have more than your opponent in the end.  

Baylor (3): Aside from the repulsive uniforms, Baylor is having an all around great year.  Heisman Trophy winner, top women's basketball team, and an elite eight appearance on the Men's side led by forward Perry Jones III. Maybe I should enroll at Baylor and add a "III" to my name….

Louisville (4): Arguably the hottest team coming off the Big East tournament victory, Rick Pitino is putting the last few early-tournament exits behind him.  The Cardinal's strong defensive efforts can put this team over the top. 

Florida (7): Highest seed remaining, the Gators are using their head coach's (Donovan) experience in the tourney to steamroll their weaker opponents.  By the way, this may be the best group of coaches in an elite eight group…ever. 

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