The set-up: UNC was upset by Auburn in the Sweet 16 last year. The Tar Heels lost their top five scorers, but they have a top 10 recruiting class, led by point guard Cole Anthony. Mike Brey has been the head coach in Notre Dame for 19 years, but the Irish won just 14 games last year, the lowest win total of his tenure. Last year the Irish took a 36-33 halftime lead against UNC and eventually lost 75-69. With five seniors returning, I expect Notre Dame to put up a similarily hard-fought effort here.

The pick: The Tar Heels lost their top five scorers, but also four of their five starters from a year ago. UNC is still picked to finish second in the ACC, but I think chemistry is going to be an issue early. Look for the Irish to take this one down to the wire and grab up the generous amount of points.

10* COACH'S CORNER on Notre Dame.