NCAA Tournament 2012: Florida vs. Virginia, Florida State vs. St. Bonaventure, and Georgetown vs. Belmont
By Jason Lisk
#7 Florida vs. #10 Virginia, 2:10 in Omaha (TNT): Florida’s 3-guard lineup likes to shoot threes, and shoots them well. Virginia is pretty good at defending the three point line for the first 39 minutes of a game. Mike Scott of Virginia is the most dominant player on the floor, but if Florida can contain him with Patric Young and Erik Murphy, they can win.
The Line: Florida by 3. The Pick: I think this could go either way, I’ll take the points. Virginia +3.
#3 Florida State vs. #14 St. Bonaventure, 2:45 in Nashville (CBS). Florida State just rolled through the ACC tournament. Now, they must survive the Bonnies, who surprised in the A-10. Florida State can play with anyone, or down to anyone. They have two major weaknesses. They turn the ball over on offense too much, and while they play great half court defense, can be vulnerable to put backs. St. Bonaventure is not going to pressure or turnover teams (though FSU could commit unforced ones). They do have a front line with Andrew Nicholson to get on the glass on missed shots.
The Line: Florida State by 6.5. The Pick: I think the Bonnies have a chance here, so I will take St. Bonaventure +6.5.
#3 Georgetown vs. #14 Belmont, 3:10 in Columbus (TruTV). Contrast in styles here, as Belmont will want to establish up tempo while Georgetown will try to slow it down. Belmont’s offense is pretty good, and they have good shooters, but Georgetown’s strength is frustrating good shooters. The difference likely comes on the other end.
The Line: Georgetown by 3.5. The Pick: The line has moved down to 3.5 since opening at 6.5. I’m not sure I like it as a value anymore, and Georgetown against Belmont in half court defense is the key. Georgetown -3.5.
[US Presswire]