NCAA South Regional Semifinal Predictions

(AP Photo)
This is the third in a series of four regional semifinal predictions. The West region will be previewed Wednesday.

East Region Semifinal Preview
Midwest Region Semifinal Preview

#1 North Carolina vs. #4 Gonzaga

Well, we know Ty Lawson is going to play. And we know that Hansborough will bring his all.

Gonzaga's Matt Bouldin and Jeremy Pargo will have to keep their high level of play as they enter the Sweet 16 because they will be challenged in the paint, and will have to shoot well in order to keep the game close or to maintain a lead if they get out quick.

Wayne Ellington will play a huge role for the Tarheels if Lawson isn't himself, bad toe or bad game. He scored 23 in the 2nd round against LSU so they know they can count on him.

If Austin Daye stays out of foul trouble and can win some battles against Hansborough, Gonzaga will have an even better chance to win. They have nothing to lose and maybe it will show this weekend. Although many of the pundits think UConn has the biggest shot of losing among the No. 1 seeds, I beg to differ and it will happen in this game.

Pick: GONZAGA

#2 Oklahoma vs. #3 Syracuse

One of the most underrated games this weekend exists right here.  Earlier in the season, both of these teams may have had legitimate claims to No. 1 seeds.

The strategy for Syracuse is simple: dish it out to everyone, stay fresh, and wear Oklahoma down. Teams with similar strategies have had success against Oklahoma (Missouri).

Early in the game, Blake Griffin may have to get physical to draw fouls and force Syracuse's zone coverage out of the box so that it opens up play for teammates Willie Warren and Tony Crocker to make shots.

The key player of the game may be Eric Devendorf on the wing, as Flynn will have to find him open for shots in crucial situations. The Orangemen will be successful in wearing Oklahoma down (much like Michigan State against UNC in 2007), and another upset will come out of this region.

Pick: SYRACUSE