NCAA Tournament 2017: how to watch live, tip times, announcers + open game thread

The NCAA Tournament endures after a somewhat placid start. While many fans envy the big upsets they have become accustom to over the years, this current tournament has been very chalky. Since so many favored teams survived the Round of 64, at first glance the matchups this weekend are very intriguing. As you watch all the action of March, stop by in this forum to express your opinion. Comment here with thoughts, notes, fun facts, or anything you just want to get off your chest.

Big East Teams in Action

Villanova Wildcats vs Wisconsin Badgers, 2:40 on CBS, from Buffalo

This contest looks to be quite a doozy. Current KenPom projections have the Wildcats taking this contest, 65-60. Their prediction gives Villanova a 66% chance of victory.

Wisconsin’s season took a turn for the worst in February. The Badgers went 4-6 in their last ten contests leading up to the NCAA Tournament. However, this team should not be taken lightly. Their man defense has been stingy all year long. Wisconsin does a great job forcing bad shots, then capping off defensive possessions with a rebound.

It is hard for me to imagine the Badgers beating Villanova. Still, this contest should provide a great show for viewers at home.

Xavier Musketeers vs Florida State Seminoles, 6:10 on TNT, from Orlando

On Thursday night, the Xavier Musketeers took it to a talented Maryland bunch. Xavier finished off the Terrapins behind 21 points from Trevon Bluiett.

Next up is the 3rd seeded Florida State Seminoles.

Leonard Hamilton’s team has restored basketball excitement in Tallahassee. They finished this past season tied for second place in a loaded ACC; knocking off teams like Duke, Louisville, and Notre Dame in the process.

Although a strong regular season, the Seminoles struggled to power by Florida Gulf Coast. Could Xavier pull off this big upset?

KenPom gives Florida State a 66% chance of victory, winning 78-73.

Butler Bulldogs vs Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, 7:10 on TBS, from Milwaukee

Throughout the season, Butler has arguably been the second best team in the Big East. All that stands in their way of a Sweet 16 trip is a bout with Middle Tennessee.

These Blue Raiders are not your average 12 seed. Kermit Davis’ team won 31 games this past season, only losing once in conference.

In a contest that was all too expected, Middle Tennessee dominated Minnesota.

Offensively, the Raiders are very smart with the ball. Rarely do they commit a silly turnover, or take a bad shot.

Although Middle Tennessee is hot, KenPom predicts a Butler victory. Their projection gives Butler a 64% chance of victory, pulling it off by a 68-65 score.