Illinois vs VCU: Battle for Sweet Sixteen

0:00On March 21st, Illinois moved on in the NCAA tournament after beating 14th-seated pen in the first round. The third-seated Elini, now 25 and 8, face 11th-seated VCU on Saturday at 6.50pm. Central time on CBS and Greenbill South, Carolina. The Rams are 28 and 7, fresh off an overtime upset over North Carolina. VCU rides a hot streak with 17 wins in their last 18 games, including holding seven straight opponents under 70 points. They both strong guard play and athletic defenders under coach Phil Martelli Jr. Illinois counters with the nation's top ranked offense plus size and sigh from players like David Merkovich and Thomas Lovivisik. Our staff sees Illinois pulling through despite VCU's momentum. Predictions range from a close 71 to 67 win to more comfortable margins like 91 to 85. Everyone agrees the Elini have the edge and talent and firepower. Illinois must avoid their occasional slow starts and shooting slumps to dominate the paint and rebounding.

1:05VCU thrives on chaos and activity, so staying sharp will be key against their pesky style. Expect a battle, but the Illinois lip poised to advance toward the sweet 16 and beyond if they play to their strengths.