Expert prediction
NCAAB: #9 Michigan State vs #1 North Carolina Odds, and Picks (Mar 23)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- Michigan State dominated Mississippi State in the first round, defeating them 69-51.
- North Carolina surged past Wagner, 90-62, advancing to this second round matchup.
- These two teams last met on November 26, 2017, in a game that Michigan State won 63-45.
The NCAA Tournament is in full swing! Let’s take a look at this matchup between the Michigan State Spartans and the North Carolina Tar Heels. The Spartans are a trendy upset pick after entering this season with high hopes, but face a tough task here.
How to Watch
- CBS
Preview
Michigan State showcased their talent in the first round against Mississippi State, dominating them en route to victory. The Spartans struggled to reach their expectations this season after ranking in the preseason top-5, but are more than capable of making a deep tournament run. Two-way G Tyson Walker led the way on Thursday, tallying 19 points, 3 rebounds, 3 steals, and 2 assists. Walker will be tasked with a tough defensive matchup in RJ Davis in this upcoming matchup.
North Carolina stormed past Wagner in the first round, avoiding becoming the third 1-seed in tournament history to lose to a 16-seed. The Tar Heels had an easy game in round one, but could be on upset alert in this game against Michigan State. They’ll be relying on F Armando Bacot to establish himself in the paint again, after racking up 20 points and 15 rebounds against the Seahawks. North Carolina will lean on the experience of Bacot and top-scorer RJ Davis in this matchup.
Prediction
A lot of people like Michigan State to upset North Carolina in this game, and I could certainly see it happening. That being said, the Spartans may have had high expectations, but their actual results this season aren’t all that impressive. Against a juggernaut like the Tar Heels, Michigan State may find themselves playing catch-up for the first time this tournament. It’ll depend on how the Spartans respond to being down, but I like North Carolina to emerge with a narrow victory in this game.
NCAAB Picks:
- North Carolina 81, Michigan State 78 (MSU +4.0)
NCAAB
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