The last time N.C. State reached this level, the Wolfpack found themselves on the wrong end of a heartbreaker. This time, the Wolfpack face the anaconda that is the Texas defense.
South Carolina is still here, and the Gamecocks are still around to try to get back to the Final Four. And they’ll get to try to do it against Oregon State, which survived its own battle against a school from Indiana. The Beavers managed to survive 26 turnovers against Notre Dame, escaping with a win.
Same time, next year, as Iowa and Colorado meet in the Sweet 16. This time, however, the nation’s eyes are focused on this game because of Caitlin Clark, and the Buffaloes are wearing the black hats.
Both teams are in the Elite Eight for just the second time in school history, as Clemson last got here in 1980 and Alabama made it in 2004. Both fell at this hurdle, which means the winner will make their first Final Four trip ever.
There’s no reason Fried shouldn’t have an incredible year once again. He posted a 2.55 ERA last year and ranks in the 80th to 90th percentile in almost every category that matters. Last year, Fried faced the Phillies twice. He went 1-1 with a 1,80 ERA, allowing one run and striking out six. The Phillies lineup hasn’t changed much since last year.
Same time, next year, as Iowa and Colorado meet in the Sweet 16. This time, however, the nation’s eyes are focused on this game because of Caitlin Clark, and the Buffaloes are wearing the black hats.
UCLA is a deeper team, and if the Bruins can get someone in foul trouble, they’ll have the edge.
However, the biggest question is whether UCLA is aggressive enough to take advantage of LSU’s aggression. The Bruins don’t get to the line very often, even though they do rebound well. If they can’t grind with the Tigers, they’re in trouble.
As dominant as Connecticut has looked in March, it also hasn’t really played that great of a slate. If anything takes down Connecticut, it might be that they’re not prepared for a team that’s been sharpened by Big Ten steel.
Before we get to next year’s 2,811-mile road trip, one of these teams will have to get past the other to reach the Elite Eight. And if the Stanford guards don’t step up their play, it’s not going to be the Cardinal moving on.