T.M. Selection: Houston

Too many points here. The Cougars have been so strong this season. The Blue Devils have the high-scoring offense that gets all the attention but this Houston defense could be a big difference maker here! Also, the only losses Houston has this season have been by a small margin of 5 or less points. Can Duke do something that no other team has done to Houston in nearly 40 games this season? I am banking on a NO to answer that question! The fact is the Cougars have an elite defense that can frustrate Duke. I have not hesitation in challenging Duke to win this by 6 or more points as no team has done that against the Cougars this season. The Blue Devils have allowed 75 ppg last 3 games. The Cougars have allowed 56.5 ppg in the tournament! Give me the stronger defense with Houston as I like their chances of an upset here and will take the points on offer.

T.M. Prediction: 71-66 Houston