Many college basketball experts made last-minute picks and predictions ahead of Monday night’s National Championship Game, yet a consensus was never formed. If the predictions are any indication, we’re in for a close game to cap the 2011 NCAA Tournament as Butler and UConn take the floor in Houston. Though UConn is favored slightly in the Vegas odds, many are falling in love with Butler all over again, and the college basketball writers are no exception.
CBS Sports had its eight writers pick Monday night’s game and the results were split right down the middle. Gary Parrish likes the Bulldogs in a 68-65 win and Dennis Dodd picked a similar score, choosing the Bulldogs, 68-63. The two Matts — Matt Norlander and Matt Jones — also chose Butler to win with a score in the 60s.
On the other side, Gregg Doyle had UConn by five, 63-58, with Eric Angevine picking UConn, as well, 63-61. Jeff Borzello also likes UConn with the score in the same range, 66-63. Mike Freeman is the only writer expecting the score to nudge into the 70-point range, and picked the Huskies to cut down the nets with a 74-69 win.
In just about half an hour, the picks won’t matter anymore as Butler and UConn take the floor in Houston in the climactic event of the college basketball season. If the odds and predictions are any indication, we’re in for a good, close game.
To get geared up for the game, check out our Butler team capsule and UConn team capsule. We have the latest NCAA Championship Game odds, as well. For the latest on the game, check out the rest of our NCAA Championship Game StoryStream. For more, head over to SB Nation’s 2011 NCAA Tournament hub.