Sunday’s NCAA Elite Eight previews
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No. 4 Michigan State vs. No. 7 Connecticut, 1:20 p.m. (CBS)The Huskies’ DeAndre Daniels was the difference against Iowa State with 19 of his 27 points in the second half. But the key is guard Shabazz Napier, who got Connecticut off to a fast start against the Cyclones. Michigan State coach Tom Izzo has never had a team with fourth-year seniors who have never been to the Final Four. Virginia gave the Spartans a 40-minute push on Friday. Branden Dawson is at the top of his game. He had 26 against Harvard and put up 24 points and 10 rebounds against the Cavaliers.
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Pick:Michigan State 80-75
Midwest RegionAt Indianapolis•
No. 8 Kentucky vs. No. 2 Michigan, 4:05 p.m. (CBS)Wildcats’ 7-footer Willie Cauley-Stein of Olathe Northwest is listed as doubtful after the ankle injury suffered against Louisville. The Kentucky triumph over the rival Cards was its second straight after trailing by more than one possession at the final media timeout. But, as they did against Wichita State in the round of 32, the Wildcats came up with the big shots and stops. The Harrison twins were especially effective against Louisville. Michigan had to hang on for dear life to beat Tennessee. The Wolverines are gunning for their second straight Final Four appearance.
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Pick:This story was originally published March 29, 2014 at 4:32 PM with the headline "Sunday’s NCAA Elite Eight previews."