Tennessee vs Purdue: 3 biggest storylines for Sweet 16 matchup

3) Will Carsen Edwards continue his outstanding run?

Carsen Edwards’ first weekend success was overshadowed by the dominance of Zion Williamson and Brandon Clarke, but his play was nothing short of outstanding. He averaged 34 points, 6.5 rebounds and 2.5 assists against Old Dominion and Villanova, leading Purdue to consecutive double-digit victories. Consistent shooting efficiency and ball security have remained an issue, but these will always be concerns for high usage players.

While Tennessee’s defense is a step above the first two teams, it isn’t perfect and has a few holes that can be exploited. Edwards could have a field day against a defense that gives up a lot of three pointers, fouls a ton, and doesn’t force many turnovers. As long as he doesn’t make his own mental mistakes, this could be another 30+ point game.

Even if Tennessee keys in on Edwards, this will only open up the floor for Grady Eifert and Ryan Cline who are both shooting over 40% from the floor this season. It is difficult for a team like Tennessee to stop a player like Edwards, who can finish inside almost as well as he shoots it from deep. His 85% free throw success also makes playing him physically a dangerous strategy. If he continues how run against Tennessee, the Volunteers may not survive.