Midwest: 1-seed Kentucky

The 34-0 Wildcats are the clear favorites to win the championship and become the first team to run the table since Indiana in 1976. Their stifling defense, anchored by big men Willie Cauley-Stein and Karl-Anthony Towns, gives up only 54 points-per-game. Many of their players have the athleticism to guard multiple positions, allowing them to switch on pick and roll attempts from their opponents. Although the Wildcats are prone to struggle offensively in the half-court, twin guards Andrew and Aaron Harrison can both shoot from outside and finish at the rim, and Towns is very skilled in the post. A balanced team that can compete on the boards, limit turnovers, play good defense inside and get hot from three-point range could potentially give the Wildcats some trouble, but an upset defeat would be one of the biggest surprises in sports history. Expect Coach John Calipari’s ‘Cats to cut down the nets.

West: 2 Arizona

Also known as the Wildcats, Arizona is equipped with all the tools to make a run to Indianapolis. They have a strong defense, led by 7-footer Kaleb “Zeus” Tarczewski inside and Rondae Hollis-Jefferson on the perimeter. Wings Stanley Johnson and Brandon Ashley both have the versatility to make plays on either end of the floor. And their glue guy, point guard T.J. McConnell, has the toughness to make plays when it matters most. Like Kentucky, they have some offensive shortcomings, but do not have the same depth and athleticism to overcome this. Reserve three-point specialist Gabe York, on and off for most of the year, must make shots to force defenses to stretch out, allowing more driving lanes for Arizona’s wings. Arizona has proven their ability to beat good teams– wins over Gonzaga, San Diego State and Utah (twice)– but has also dropped three fluke games to lower competition. So while they have the talent and personnel to make a Final Four run, don’t be shocked by a first weekend elimination. They don’t call it March Madness for nothing!

East: 1 Villanova

Again known as the Wildcats (I swear I’m not doing this on purpose), Villanova is not a very popular pick because 1) most people have not watched them play much and 2) they do not have a signature win. But they do have one of the most balanced offenses in the country, which is crucial in a one-and-done tournament where one bad game from a key player can end a team’s season. ‘Nova has six players averaging over nine points a game, so an off night from a couple of guys won’t kill them. They move the ball with precision and have multiple ball-handlers and three-point shooters. What sets them apart from other teams who can score is that they also have a great defensive system, characteristic of any Jay Wright team. Villanova only has one player above 6’7”, so they struggle to rebound missed shots. However, if they can hold their own on the glass, they have the poise, focus and toughness to get through the region. One important note: Darrun Hilliard II has hit multiple clutch shots throughout the season, including a game-winning three on the road against Butler. March Madness is characterized by heroes making big shots in big moments, so keep an eye on him if a game goes down to the wire.

South: 2 Gonzaga

The Bulldogs have a history of tournament failures that Coach Mark Few is desperately trying to erase. But this team might just be the best he has ever had in his 16-year run in Spokane. The ‘Zags’ offense is just as balanced as Villanova’s, but even more explosive. They shoot a ridiculous 52.4% from the field, first in all of college basketball. They have players all over the floor who can knock down the three, including 6’10” stretch-four Kyle Wiltjer, who has a shooting touch unmatched by anyone his size. Not many teams are deep enough to have a center as offensively deft as Domantas Sabonis come off of their bench, but Gonzaga is with 7’1” monster Przemek Karnowski in the starting lineup instead. While their defense isn’t great, it just may be good enough to get them through the South Region to their first Final Four in school history.