Why Aren’t They Called The “National Quarterfinals”?

Instead of the ubiquitous and catchy “Elite Eight” or the stodgy “Regional Final”, wouldn’t calling them the “National Quarterfinals” add even more gravitas to the occasion?  Just a thought.

With four great matchups ahead, I’ll cut to the chase and tell you who should advance to Jerry World next weekend.  In the South, I like Florida to beat Dayton and send the last Cinderella (and my man Scoochie) home, I just think Florida is too athletic, too big, too quick, too strong defensively, altogether too much for the Flyers.  Out West, I believe Arizona’s defense (No. 1 in AdjD) and rebounding will outlast Wisconsin’s offensive efficiency (No. 4 in AdjO) in a grinder, first-to-65-wins affair.  Tomorrow at The World’s Most Famous Arena, Connecticut’s Garden Party will end at the hands of the Fighting Izzos of Michigan State, who look like they are still warming up.  Finally, in the Circle City, Naptown, and home to the NCAA Headquarters, Indianapolis, I think Kentucky will win the Midwest Regional over a Michigan squad that is by far the worst defense remaining and has had trouble closing out their last two games.  Along with Florida, these Wildcats of a Bluegrass variety appear to be playing the best basketball of the eight remaining teams, with the two most impressive wins of any contender still standing. 

Never mind that Nate Silver agrees with all of that.  Defense should prevail in all four matchups.  Dallas awaits.