ORLANDO, Fla. — Doug McDermott’s final dance will be one to remember, but his team’s first win will probably be one you forget.
Creighton (-14) over Louisiana-Lafayette: Two touchdowns aren’t enough to dissuade us from backing one of the most efficient offenses in NCAA history. The Ragin’ Cajuns can score — more than 81 points per game — but play little defense, allowing 75 points per game. A shootout will play to the strengths of the Bluejays, who rank fourth in the nation in shooting (49.9 percent from the field) and second in assists.
Providence (+4) over North Carolina: Our Mike Vaccaro-endorsed pick backs Bryce Cotton and the Friars, still flying high after their Big East Tournament title. With Providence’s six-man rotation redefining hustle with each game, this likely will come down to the final minute. Stay away from the Tar Heels, who shoot 62.5 percent on free throws this season.
Oklahoma State (-3) over Gonzaga: The Cowboys are a completely different team since Marcus Smart’s suspension, mostly because Smart is a completely different player, displaying better defense and play-making than ever. The sophomore guard is capable of carrying the ninth-seeded Cowboys deep into the tournament. An Elite Eight or Final Four run could be coming.
Stephen F. Austin (+6½) over VCU: The Rams’ “Havoc” defense creates the most steals in the country, but everyone’s former favorite darling is going against a Lumberjacks team that averages only 11 turnovers per game and moves the ball well, ranking eighth in the nation in assists. Patience will beat pressure. Plus, VCU’s third-leading scorer and top 3-point shooter, Melvin Johnson, likely is out with a knee injury.
New Mexico (-3½) over Stanford: The Lobos, one of the most underrated teams in the tournament, should dominate the skinny little Tree with their physical frontline. New Mexico can only get upset in the opening rounds so many times.
2014 record: 19-8-1
2011-13 record: 72-47-2
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