CBS NCAA Bracket 2012: Players Who Must Step Up to Lead Teams to Sweet 16

Several high seeds were able to advance despite a lackluster performance from one of their key contributors. Even though they survived the opening round without that production, the teams will need those players to step up in the next round to reach the Sweet 16.

Here are three key players who will be expected to take their game to another level in the round of 32. If they don't, their teams will be in serious danger. For a look at the up-to-date tournament outlook, click here for CBS' bracket.

C.J. Fair (Syracuse)

Syracuse barely survived an upset bid from UNC Asheville, which would have been the first occurrence of a No. 16 seed beating a top seed. One reason for the team's struggles was Fair's inability to fill the void left by Fab Melo.

Fair scored just three points in 15 minutes and was basically a non-factor. The Orange can't afford for him to have any more outings like that because their depth down low has been depleted. If Fair struggles, they don't have many other reliable options.

Kansas State has three big men averaging at least seven points per game, so Fair will have his work cut out for him on both ends. Syracuse's fate likely lies in his ability to bounce back.

Perry Jones III (Baylor)

Jones picked a terrible time to have his worst game of the season, as it took an extraordinary effort from his teammates down the stretch to hold off San Diego State. Baylor fans are hoping he got that out of his system and is back to normal against Colorado.

He hit just 1-of-6 shots, never showing his trademark aggressiveness. The Buffaloes will be more prepared to match Baylor's athleticism, which will put the onus on Jones to get his team's offense moving right away. They can't have another slow start.

Jones has always been a streaky player, so he just needs to treat the game like a blip on the radar and start attacking the rim like usual on Saturday. It's Baylor's only chance of moving on.

Tony Snell (New Mexico)

New Mexico received strong games from Drew Gordon and Kendall Williams, the team's two biggest stars, to sneak past Long Beach State. The Lobos will need a consistent third scoring threat to start making some noise starting against Louisville, though.

Throughout most of the season that role was played by Snell. He averages 11 points, but didn't get on the score sheet in the second round. New Mexico needs him to to reach that average, and maybe even exceed it, to beat the red-hot Cardinals.

The Lobos are a strong sleeper team because of their balance, but to reach that potential Snell has to step up moving forward. He has the ability, there's no doubt about that.

For a complete look at the remaining teams, click here for CBS' bracket.