Vermont vs. North Carolina: Twitter Reaction, Grades and Analysis

The North Carolina Tar Heels got the job done without one of their star players in a comfortable win over the Vermont Catamounts. 

This game was never really in danger as North Carolina's John Henson took a breather for the opening round game. 

Here is how things went down in a 77-58 victory for the title contenders. 

Tweets of the Night: 

Virginia Tech beat writer Andy Bitter pretty much sums up how much Vermont was featured in this game. We will only really remember their moniker.

"

Regardless of how this UNC game turns out, Catamounts is the best team nickname in the tournament. (That and Jackrabbits.)

"

"— Andy Bitter (@AndyBitterVT) March 16, 2012"

Will Brinson comments on Tyler Zeller who had a very good game.

"

John Henson cracking up on the sideline after Zeller does his best Henson impersonation by emasculating Vermont down low.

— Will Brinson (@willbrinson) March 16, 2012"

This fan asks quite the valid question considering the blowout.

"

I think John Henson was available to dunk at the buzzer wasn't he?

— Shawn Krest (@KrestDukeCBS) March 16, 2012"

Grades for North Carolina and Vermont: 

North Carolina: B+

The Tar Heels did what they needed to do, especially considering they were without Henson. They exploited their size advantage when needed and were measured on offense. 

They didn't try to do too much, but I would still like to see less turnovers. 

Vermont: C

What do you want? The Catamounts were huge underdogs coming in, even with one less Tar Heel. They still made it a game early and just ran out of gas in the second half. There is no shame in going down to North Carolina. It's still barely passing though. 

Key Players (starters, key bench guys)

Tyler Zeller: Zeller was pivotal for the North Carolina win and went 4-for-9 from the field for 17 points, ripped down 15 rebounds and had 4 blocks. 

Harrison Barnes: North Carolina had a few players in double digits, but Barnes has to heat up if they are going deep in this tourney. 

He got off to a good start by going 5-for-12 for 14 points and 6 rebounds. 

Deciding Factor: This was a simple case of North Carolina being a much better and deeper team. They simply wore down the Catamounts until garbage time, when the starters got some much deserved rest. 

Game MVP: The Tar Heels had four players in double digits, but I have to give this to Tyler Zeller who just dominated down low. 

What's Next?: Vermont packs their bags and North Carolina continues dancing. 

Up next for the Tar Heels is No. 8 Creighton who looked spotty but still got the win over No. 9 Alabama on Friday. 

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