NCAA Tournament 2012: Sweet 16 Predictions: East Regional

We’re back at it tonight. After a few days to digest the madness of last weekend, the Sweet 16 tips off tonight with some big-time match-ups. Let’s take a look:

(1) Syracuse (33-2) vs. (4) Wisconsin (26-9) – 715PM ET, Boston, MA, CBS

Syracuse was seemingly dealt a huge blow prior to their first round game when they learned they would no longer have the services of Fab Melo. The Cuse struggled to outlast 16-seed UNC Asheville, but then looked impressive as they pulled away from Kansas State in the second half of round two. Those who counted the Orange out as National Championship contenders (me included) are now forced to take a serious second look.

Wisconsin has been under the radar in this tournament. They were a popular upset pick in the first round versus Montana and many a bracket had Vanderbilt playing Syracuse in this spot.

There is a reason the Badgers were slept on pre-tournament. They were not the same team during the regular season compared to the two years prior. They were more vulnerable than usual at home, more reliant on point guard Jordan Taylor, and seemed to really miss the departed Jon Leuer.

But, like everyone else left in the dance, the Badgers have a two-game winning streak, so it is possible they are on a roll.

That said, my money’s back on Syracuse. They are 33-2 for a reason and the depth on their squad has allowed them to adjust to life without Melo. Look for a low-scoring game played closer to Wisconsin’s preferred tempo, but Syracuse has shown they can be successful playing different styles.

Prediction: Syracuse 66, Wisconsin 59.

What are your thoughts on this game?