NCAA Bracket 2012: Overrated Teams That Won't Make Sweet 16

Being an overrated team in the NCAA tournament doesn't make you bad, but it does leave you open to harsh criticism when you lose. 

There are a number of teams that were given too much love by the selection committee, or just aren't playing well entering the tournament, that will be falling on hard times when the games get underway this week. 

While nothing insane—like a No. 16 beating a No. 1—will happen, there will be a lot of upsets going away before we get to the Sweet 16. 

Here are the overrated teams that will fall on their face in the NCAA tournament. 

Syracuse Orange (No. 1 in East Region)

The Orange have been toeing the line between great and average for a long time, but they were exposed in the Big East tournament by Cincinnati. Losing Fab Melo is going to make things even worse. 

A lack of malaise seems to take over this team at the most inopportune times. They looked disinterested in the conference tournament, so who is to say that won't happen again?

Being a No. 1 seed all but ensures the Orange will make it to the third round, but with Southern Mississippi or Kansas State waiting, it will be a difficult task for them to overcome. The Wildcats, in particular, have the size and athleticism to frustrate them. 

The brilliant regular season for the Orange will be undone by an early tournament exit. 

Georgetown Hoyas (No. 3 in Midwest Region)

Not to turn this into a Big East bash-fest, but the Hoyas could end up falling victim to a second-round upset against Belmont. 

The Bruins are the perfect foil for what the Hoyas like to do. They can score points from anywhere on the court. Kerron Johnson is a dynamic shooter who can penetrate the lane to get high-percentage shots or pull up from 18 feet. 

The Hoyas play a boring style that is not difficult to exploit. They can't score, so they rely entirely on defense to win games. 

When they run into an athletic team that can match their size, which Belmont and San Diego State, who could be their third-round opponent, are able to do. 

Ohio State Buckeyes (No. 2 in East Region)

Before the Big Ten tournament started, there was talk about what was going on with the Buckeyes. They were just 3-3 in their last six regular season games, but the losses were to Michigan, Michigan State and Wisconsin. 

They did get back on track in the conference tournament, defeating Purdue and Michigan before falling to Michigan State in the finals. 

The biggest problem this team has faced this year is going up against stronger defensive teams. Getting by Loyola Maryland in the second round shouldn't be a problem, but Gonzaga or West Virginia can match their athleticism on the outside. 

West Virginia would be a tougher opponent, but don't underestimate the Bulldogs if they get past the Mountaineers. 

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