As I mentioned in the introduction to this series, the first weekend of the tournament is my favorite weekend in sports. I always spend a lot more time making those picks than the others.

But I think I can use the research I've done on the teams, along with the games I've seen, to make picks all the way through. I'll only add commentary for a game if I find it necessary.

 

East Region 

Sweet 16: UNC, Notre Dame, Louisville, Butler 

Elite 8: UNC, Louisville

Final Four: UNC

 

Midwest Region

Sweet 16: Kansas, Clemson, Wisconsin, Gonzaga

I think the Zags are the real deal, but it's more of a gut pick than anything else.

Elite 8: Kansas, Wisconsin

Final Four: Kansas

 

South Region

Sweet 16: Memphis, Michigan State, Stanford, Texas

It physically pains me to pick against my Golden Eagles, but I think they'll be emotionally drained after their first round win.

Elite 8: Michigan State, Texas

Recent years have shown that not all four No. 1 seeds are likely to make it this far, and Michigan State is a team that can go toe-to-toe with the Tigers. If Memphis proves me wrong this year, then I might finally have faith in them next March.

Final Four: Texas

 

West Region

Sweet 16: UCLA, Drake, Baylor, Duke

If you didn't read my other picks (which by the way are much more detailed) you'll find that I don't like the A-10 or Xavier at all.

Elite 8: UCLA, Duke

Final Four: UCLA

 

Final Four

I've got a Kansas/UCLA title game, with Kansas finally getting over the hump and winning the big one.

 

Now go, fill out your brackets! Have fun and pick some upsets!

 

(I've posted a set of five articles dissecting the whole tournament. If you like this one, make sure to check the others out!)