NCAA Bracket 2012: Kentucky and More Elite 8 Locks

Even though it might be more fun to choose underdogs to advance far in your bracket, it's important not to go completely overboard. There are several top-notch teams that should cruise into the later rounds before meeting any type of resistance.

Here are the high seeds that you should advance straight to the Elite Eight of your bracket to have any chance of winning your NCAA tournament office pool. For a printable bracket to use, click here.

Kentucky

Kentucky's loss to Vanderbilt is nothing to worry about. The Wildcats have proved they are the most talented team in America and are the rightful favorites to win it all. If they play up to their maximum ability, nobody will be able to defeat them.

The team's road to the Elite Eight is pretty clear. Connecticut isn't a threat no matter how much people are trying to make them into one. Wichita State and Indiana, one of which Kentucky will likely play in the Sweet 16, don't have enough size to contain Anthony Davis.

At that point the Wildcats will face off with Duke or Baylor, both of which could give them a run, but picking them to lose before then will result in lost points.

Kansas

It's interesting to see Kansas flying under the radar. Usually the Jayhawks enter the Big Dance with a lot of hype, especially when they have a No. 2 seed, but not this season. For whatever reason, expectations have been kept with reason and that will take some pressure off.

They are still a strong Final Four contender. With the dynamic duo of Thomas Robinson and Tyshawn Taylor leading the way, and solid depth contributors behind them, it won't be easy to knock them out. Their region is also favorable.

The Midwest region is shaping up to have some upsets with underdogs like Belmont like to give Georgetown a serious run for their money. That will allow Kansas to waltz into the Elite Eight.

Missouri

Missouri has five players averaging at least 10 points, which illustrates exactly how difficult it will be for opposing defenses to slow the Tigers down. When a team isn't overly reliant on one player to score, they are a much safer pick.

There simply isn't a team of their side of the West region that will be able to match their athleticism and efficiency. It's going to take an extraordinary defensive effort to challenge Missouri and teams like Florida or Marquette won't be up to the task.

The Tigers might not be able to run the team because of some issues on defense, but they won't have much trouble reaching the final eight.