With the Final Four set to tip-off in just about two hours, it’s time for one last run through the odds and predictions, beginning with VCU and Butler. The matchup is a rare one in the Final Four as two mid-majors not only made it to the final weekend of the NCAA Tournament, but are also set to face each other on one side of the bracket with a spot in the NCAA Championship on the line. Which team holds the edge? We’ve got a few ideas, along with a look at the predictions floating around the Internet.
To get started, check out our Butler team capsule and VCU team capsule. In them, you’ll find a breakdown of each team’s offense, defense and a look at the players that may make an impact on Saturday.
As for predictions, it’s tough to call this game anything but a toss-up right now. Ken Pomeroy’s predictive system has the Bulldogs winning 55 percent of the time, with a predicted score of 69-68. In the final set of odds, Butler is a three-point favorite after the action opened favoring the Bulldogs by two. Add it all up and you’ve got a recipe for a close game and, hopefully, an exciting finish.
I openly criticized the selection committee for putting VCU in the NCAA Tournament, only to be proven wrong as the Rams rolled through the bracket, knocking off teams that looked like heavy favorites. Shaka Smart has his team playing as well as could possibly be imagined, and it’s tough to bet against VCU in the Final Four. After learning my lesson early with regards to the Rams, I know better than to bet against them once again.
Call it a VCU win as the Rams’ dream run continues with a berth in the NCAA Championship. I’ll take the Rams to win, 72-70, on a last possession shot, fueled by the doubters yet again. From First Four to Final Four, it’s been a dream run for the Rams, and it’s tough to root against what Smart and his team have going on.
VCU and Butler take the court in Houston for the Final Four at 3:09 p.m. on CBS.
Check back with our Final Four StoryStream for more previews and updates on the day’s games. Grab a printable bracket from SB Nation and be sure to stop by the NCAA Tournament hub for full March Madness coverage.