The Final Four -- here's who will reach the title game and why

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Check out Ryan Finn's occasional blog for CMSportsNet, where he will post his thoughts and experiences from playing high school sports in Carroll County.

It seems like every year, March gets more crazy. And there was a lot to recap in the Sweet 16 and Elite 8.

We saw the high seeds get bounced in Alabama, Houston, and Texas. We saw impressive games from specific players such as Kansas State guard Marquis Nowell, Gonzaga's Drew Timme, and Miami's Jordan Miller.

We saw insane games such as UCLA-Gonzaga, with Gonzaga erasing a 14-point deficit to come back and win, capped off by a 35-foot shot from Julian Strawther. And to put the icing on the cake, No. 9 seed Florida Atlantic has made a Cinderella run to the Final Four. 

Today, I will explain my picks for each game of the Final Four in Houston, based on how I think the rest of the tournament will play out. 

 

Florida Atlantic vs. San Diego State

When: March 31, 6:09 p.m.

This is the first time in tournament history that no top-3 seed has made the semifinals, but these teams are well deserved with a Final Four berth. In our first matchup, we look at FAU vs. No. 5 San Diego State.

This game is a difficult decision. FAU plays a very fast-paced offense, shooting a high volume of 3-pointers. With their great offense, they have a great defense to back up their offense. The Aztecs however play a slow-paced offensive, with a very physical defense.

This will be a very close game, but I am riding with the Aztecs. Their style of play will be something new that the Owls will face. We have seen how the Aztecs have controlled games against good teams such as Alabama and Creighton. As much as I want to pick the Cinderella story, the Aztecs will be in the national championship for the first time. 

 

UConn vs. Miami 

When: March 31, 8:49 p.m. (approx.)

This is a tough one. You could go either way, and I wouldn't complain about why. UConn has been red hot; the Huskies have beaten every opponent they have played by over 15 points. And they've done it in many ways. Whether it's from the 3 point line from shooters such as Jordan Hawkins and Alex Karaban, or from inside from guys like Adama Sanogo, the Huskies just win.

On the other side, Miami is also blazing hot; catching big wins against Houston and Texas. Their guard play from guys like Isaiah Wong and Jordan Miller have really killed teams. Although they don't have a lot of size, 6-foot-7 big man Norchad Omier plays as if he is a 7-footer.

Although both teams stack up pretty well, UConn will end up taking this game. UConn's star power and pure dominance will overtake the stellar guard play from Miami. Like I have said before, the Huskies can win in different ways, and that will be testament for them in the Final Four. 

 

march madness

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