South Region Preview

As we approach the NCAA Tournament on Thursday, Mr. T will preview one region each day.

The Favorite: North Carolina - Who knew that a toe could determine whether or not a team wins the national championship? Ty Lawson's toe injury is the biggest injury-related story of this year's tournament because he's the straw that stirs the drink for North Carolina. Without Lawson in the ACC Tournament, North Carolina was unable to play at their usual high pace in transition. They also lacked Lawson's leadership and penetration ability with the game on the line. If Lawson is anything other than 100%, UNC's chances for a national title take a major hit. For what it's worth, Greg Anthony thinks it'll be tougher for Lawson to cut on an ill-feeling toe. As far as their opponents go, UNC got a relatively easy bracket.

The Main Challenger: Oklahoma – The Blake Griffin led Sooners have to be a little disappointed with their seeding. Before Griffin's concussion, the Sooners looked like they were sitting pretty with a #1 seed in their sights. They've suffered two losses in their last three games and suddenly look a little less formidable. The difference in seeding becomes apparent with the possible second round matchup against Clemson. Clemson has the athletes and pressing style that could cause Oklahoma trouble. If they can get through that, the Elite Eight will still be tough to come by. They'll have to ramp things up on the defensive end to even get to a projected matchup against North Carolina.

The Sleeper: Arizona State - I'm still getting over the ASU letdown in the second half of Saturday's Pac 10 final against USC. USC turned up the defensive pressure by running a full court press and the Sun Devils fell apart. James Harden looked more like a bashful freshman than the cool sophomore we've grown to love. Will ASU recover? Their zone defense should help them control the pace of games and they've got enough offensive weapons to make a run if they don't get rattled.

First Round Upset: Western Kentucky – Most people should remember Western Kentucky's miracle shot to beat Drake in the 1st round. Those memories will lead to this predicted upset in a lot of brackets, but the reality is there to fulfill the dream. Illinois showed against Purdue how dysfunctional they become when Chester Frazier isn't on the floor. While WKU doesn't have Courtney Lee anymore, they have many players returning from last year's team and a resume win over Louisville to prove their legitimacy.