NCAA East Regional Semifinal Predictions

We've ended the first weekend of NCAA Tournament action and there are some great matchups for the Sweet 16, and hopefully the Elite 8.

Chalk mostly got through the first two rounds, seeds No. 1-3 made it in each region, but weekend No. 1 does bring some slight surprises.

This is the first in a series of four regional semifinal predictions. Today we will look at the East Region.

No. 2 Duke vs. No. 3 Villanova

I watched most of the Duke Texas game Saturday night, and the most impressive thing about the Blue Devils is that they were able to matchup with Texas physically. They've found a way to win games lately and contributions from Gerald Henderson and Kyle Singler have gotten them to this point.

In my opinion Villanova was the most impressive of the Sweet 16 teams, and showed this in blowing out UCLA by 20 points Saturday in a game that was never even close. Dante Cunningham has averaged 21.5 points in the tourney, and Nova has managed to win both games despite poor shooting from Dwayne Anderson.

I see this one being close, with Villanova's backcourt wreaking havoc on Duke's guards, forcing Duke to play catchup. With a few days to prepare for the battle, the Wildcats move on.

Pick: VILLANOVA

No. 1 Pittsburgh vs. No. 4 Xavier

Pitt survived two opponents that were able to hit shots. Oklahoma State almost pulled off the upset by making Pitt play tight, although, they were forced to count on one or two players to jump-start the offense with each possession. 

Sam Young and DeJuan Blair have carried the Panthers, but it will take more to defeat Xavier. Their inside presence will have to improve Thursday to force Xavier to distribute the ball and make shots.

Xavier quietly produced two 18 and 13 point wins over weak competition. In this game Xavier will have to show that they can now step up to the plate and play with the big boys—they will have to have stellar performances from Jason Love and B.J. Raymond.

Xavier must prove it's mettle from playing in a conference that doesn't get any attention. They should call Memphis and get a primer.

Pick: PITTSBURGH