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Sunday’s Sweet 16 Previews

The Sweet 16 is finally here!

Check below for a breakdown of today’s games:

Gonzaga/Creighton
Two of the great offensive programs in the sport do battle in what should be a fascinating Sweet 16 showdown. Creighton has improved defensively this season, but can it neutralize the Bulldogs’ in transition? The ceiling for Mark Few’s team seems significantly higher than anyone else who’s still playing. Be sure to closely monitor the point guard matchup between Gonzaga’s Jalen Suggs and Creighton’s Marcus Zegarowski.

Oregon/USC
The Trojans dominated Oregon last month at the Galen Center and also handed Kansas its worst NCAA Tournament loss in program history earlier this week. Several coaches who have played the Trojans believe neutralizing USC’s offense is the key to slowing them down. If guys like Ethan Anderson and Tahj Eaddy start making shots from distance, Andy Enfield could have USC back in the Elite Eight for the first time since 2001.

Michigan/Florida State
This may be the best matchup in the Sweet 16. Michigan isn’t whole without Isaiah Livers, but is still capable. Florida State meanwhile, finds itself in a familiar place — back in the second weekend for the third straight NCAA Tournament. The Seminoles have the bodies up front to make life difficult for Hunter Dickinson and the overall balance to keep the Wolverines’ defense guessing. Keep an eye on Florida State freshman Scottie Barnes, who hasn’t had the type of season that many expected, but is undoubtedly the best long-term prospect in this game. 

Alabama/UCLA
Alabama is the second-most explosive team in the country behind Gonzaga and the only way to neutralize the Crimson Tide is to slow them down. UCLA’s Tyger Campbell will play a major role in this game with his ball security. The Bruins also have to guard the three-point line to have a chance. Mick Cronin’s squad is 12-0 this season in games where it has single digit turnovers.

Leftovers: