From ESPN
Borzello's prediction: Texas Tech, 76-70
Medcalf's prediction: Texas Tech, 79-72
Lunardi's prediction: Texas Tech, 75-65
Why Texas Tech will win: This is a strong defensive group -- ranked in the top 40 in adjusted defensive efficiency -- that also boasts the kind of offensive firepower that Arkansas' last opponent, St. John's, lacked. Texas Tech forward JT Toppin is averaging 22.6 PPG over the past 13 games; he has registered 30 or more points in three games during that stretch. The Red Raiders also have made 37% of their 3-point attempts in that period. John Calipari's Arkansas squad has hit its stride late, leading to an improbably Sweet 16 run in his first season with the program. But Texas Tech won't allow the Razorbacks to dominate around the rim the way Kansas and St. John's did. -- Medcalf
Player to watch: Boogie Fland. Nearly two months after he reportedly suffered a season-ending hand injury, the Arkansas standout returned to action in the NCAA tournament. However, while he logged 20-plus minutes in both first-weekend games, he was just 4-for-15 from the field and didn't look like the five-star recruit and NBA prospect he was touted as before his injury. Don't expect a major impact from him in the Sweet 16, either. -- Medcalf
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Borzello's prediction: Texas Tech, 76-70
Medcalf's prediction: Texas Tech, 79-72
Lunardi's prediction: Texas Tech, 75-65
Why Texas Tech will win: This is a strong defensive group -- ranked in the top 40 in adjusted defensive efficiency -- that also boasts the kind of offensive firepower that Arkansas' last opponent, St. John's, lacked. Texas Tech forward JT Toppin is averaging 22.6 PPG over the past 13 games; he has registered 30 or more points in three games during that stretch. The Red Raiders also have made 37% of their 3-point attempts in that period. John Calipari's Arkansas squad has hit its stride late, leading to an improbably Sweet 16 run in his first season with the program. But Texas Tech won't allow the Razorbacks to dominate around the rim the way Kansas and St. John's did. -- Medcalf
Player to watch: Boogie Fland. Nearly two months after he reportedly suffered a season-ending hand injury, the Arkansas standout returned to action in the NCAA tournament. However, while he logged 20-plus minutes in both first-weekend games, he was just 4-for-15 from the field and didn't look like the five-star recruit and NBA prospect he was touted as before his injury. Don't expect a major impact from him in the Sweet 16, either. -- Medcalf
