NCAAB: #9 Northwestern vs #8 Florida Atlantic Odds, and Picks (Mar 22)

• Northwestern came up short against Wisconsin, losing 70-61, in the Big-10 quarterfinals.
• Florida Atlantic bowed out in the American’s semifinal round, losing 74-73 to Temple.
• These two teams last faced off on November 21, 2005, in a game that Northwestern won 69-59.

The NCAA Tournament is officially underway! Let’s take a look at this matchup between the Northwestern Wildcats and the Florida Atlantic Owls. FAU is aiming to repeat their historic Final Four run from last year, but needs to avoid a potential upset.

How to Watch

• CBS

Preview

Northwestern earned their 3rd tourney appearance in team history, reaching back-to-back tournaments for the first time ever. They’ll be aiming to improve on last year’s 2nd-round exit and make their first Sweet 16. The Wildcats will be relying on 5th-year Senior G Boo Buie, who helped transform their program. He averages 19.2 ppg and 5.1 apg, and will be crucial in Northwestern’s ability to keep up with Florida Atlantic’s fast-paced offense. Defending champion UConn awaits the winner in the 2nd round.

Florida Atlantic is back in the NCAA Tournament after their incredible Final Four run last season. They had to sweat a bit on Selection Sunday after failing to win the AAC’s automatic bid, but landed safely in the field as an 8-seed. The Owls returned all five starters from last season, but didn’t see the same production in a tougher conference. Their offense remained ranked in the top-20, but their defense fell out of the top-100. They’ll need to address that to have a chance at repeating their run.

Prediction

The Owls will certainly be tested defensively in the NCAA Tournament, but Northwestern’s offense may not be enough to send them packing. If they can scheme for Boo Buie, Florida Atlantic should be able to limit the Wildcats on offense. Combined with their own more than capable offense, the Owls should have a notable advantage in this game. I see them riding their experienced starting five to another first-round victory.

NCAAB Picks:

• Florida Atlantic 80, Northwestern 74 (FAU -3.0)