Midwest Region

The Midwest region is the toughest of the four regions. Each of the top four seeds is a legitimate final four and national champion contender. Add Loyola, Georgia Tech, Clemson, San Diego St, Syracuse & Tennessee and this region is simply loaded.

Favorite: Illinois: The Fighting Illini have played so well down the stretch. Ayo Dosunmo is the best closer in the tournament. They have good guard play and outstanding post play.

Contenders: Houston, West Virginia, Oklahoma St, Tennessee: Oklahoma St is the other team playing at a very high level. Cade Cunningham is the best one and done player when it comes to being a team guy. Bob Huggins is a hall of fame coach in our eyes, and his team is a tough out.

Concerns: Can Illinois withstand the series of tough games it is about to play?

Best 1st round game: 6) San Diego St vs 11) Syracuse

Runner up game: 4) Oklahoma St vs 13) Liberty

Surprise teams: Syracuse, Clemson, Tennessee, Loyola, Georgia Tech

Upset pick: Syracuse over San Diego St

Sweet 16: Illinois, Oklahoma St, West Virginia, Houston

Final Four: Illinois