Michigan vs. VCU: Live Score, Updates and Analysis for Round of 32 Matchup

The fourth-seeded Michigan Wolverines found out what makes them a national title contender in their 78-53 rout of the fifth-seeded VCU Rams this afternoon. When Mitch McGary is making plays, finishing at the basket and grabbing rebounds the Wolverines are arguably the best team in the South Region.

McGary scored a career-high 21 points, which led all scorers, and pulled down 14 rebounds, four of which were of the offensive variety. The freshman big man made 10-of-11 field goal attempts and provided Michigan with energy throughout with countless hustle plays.

Wooden Award candidate Trey Burke returned to form with a 18-point and seven-assist performance against the Rams. Tim Hardaway Jr. and Glenn Robinson III also continued their respective hot streaks by combining for 28 points on 12-of-21 shooting.

Michigan took over the game with a 20-6 run to close out the final 10 minutes of the first half. The Wolverines led 38-23 at the break, but VCU made a run early in the half and started to force turnovers.

The Maize and Blue responded by maintaining their composure and continued to attack the lane, which opened up easy baskets for McGary.

Head coach John Beilein's much maligned defense held the Rams to 39.7 percent from the field, which helped the Wolverines extend the blowout.

Burke and Co. will await the winner of the North Carolina Tar Heels vs. Kansas Jayhawks game tomorrow. Michigan will be making its first Sweet 16 appearance since 1994 next week in North Texas.