Just two weeks ago the snow was falling and March Madness had everyone excited that their bracket had no blemishes. Then the first game tipped off and all hell broke loose. All 1s and 2s in the Final Four this year but still full of many surprises. This year’s tournament seemed to lack something in my estimation. Not sure if it was the lack of huge upset, or perhaps it was that buzzer-beaters were at a minimum. One thing that always seems to hold true highly ranked team’s near-elimination experiences being some sort of sign of them not looking back. Both Ohio St and Georgetown fit that criteria, and both won those games thanks to controversial no-calls. Both of tonight’s matchups also feature rematches games played in last year’s tournament. G-town handled the Buckeyes in the second round while Florida hammered UCLA in the championship game. Here is The Dean’s take on tonight’s games:

Georgetown -1

We have big-man versus big-man, Oden versus Hibbert, and great guards squaring off. The officiating is going to have some bearing on this outcome in terms of how much banging they allow inside. I am not sure Hibbert can match Oden’s strength, but should the game turn into a slugfest anything the Hoyas lose on the inside they gain with their big, strong, athletic guards. Overall I believe the Hoyas have put together more impressive wins against better teams all season long and the fact that they are favored today tells me that the smart money is on Georgetown. I will gladly give the point and take G-town to advance to the Championship game.

Florida -3

I am surprised that the line is as low as it is in the UCLA-Florida game. I read an article on ESPN.com comparing this game to the 1992 Duke-UNLV rematch from 1991’s championship game where UNLV crushed Duke. The difference tonight is that Florida returns all their starters and even more importantly, Florida isn’t UNLV. Only having to give 3 points to a team from the Pac-10 is almost enough to make me wager huge. Everyone is wondering about distractions for the Gators with Kentucky’s classless move on announcing they are going to try and steal Coach Donovan from UF. That won’t be a distraction, except to those bettors that think it gives the Bruins some advantage. Florida is too good in all facets of the game, and won’t lose tonight. Even a tight game will be won by more than 3. I am taking the Gators and giving the points.