College Basketball

Post’s college hoop expert is pick-ing up steam

No foreplay today, straight to the action.

Providence (-1) over Seton Hall: The Pirates are talented and confident enough to continue this magical run, but consistency has plagued them all season. This is the first time since Big East play began that Seton Hall has won back-to-back games.

North Carolina (+2) over Pittsburgh: With a huge home-court advantage and one loss since Jan. 20, the Tar Heels have the edge.

Michigan (-6½) over Illinois: This is from Big Ten Player of the Year Nik Stauskas, who led the Wolverines to the regular-season title: “I don’t think we’re the favorite to win this tournament. I don’t think anyone really thinks we’re going to win, so we still have a chip on our shoulder.” Whatever works.

Nebraska (+6½) over Ohio State: The Buckeyes are giving nearly a touchdown against the Cornhuskers? Good luck stopping the option for 40 minutes.

Kansas (-4) over Iowa State: Joel Embiid’s injury has unleashed the Andrew Wiggins everyone expected from the start of the season, averaging 24.3 points and 58.4 percent shooting from the field in the four games the center has missed.

2014 record: 8-1

2011-13 record: 72-47-2

Follow @HowieKussoy on Twitter for bonus picks throughout March Madness.