NCAA Tournament: Houston vs Miami Lines, Prediction, & Start Time

The Houston Cougars take on the Miami Hurricanes in the Sweet Sixteen as Houston tries to make their third straight Elite Eight and Miami their second. 

Houston has been one of the premier teams of college basketball in recent years, but still need a ring in order to solidify themselves as a true powerhouse. They come into the Sweet Sixteen at +420 to win the national championship. The Cougars have consistently been one of the best teams throughout the year, having been ranked number one in the AP poll for 7 weeks.

Their one question mark is senior guard Marcus Sasser, who is playing but is not at full strength due to a groin injury. If Sasser, who averages almost 17 points per game, can stay healthy and play his best, Houston will be hard to beat and should contend for the title. 

Miami has turned their college basketball program around in recent years. They made the Elite Eight last year, knocking off two seed Auburn, and this year are running it back with a similar roster. After a convincing 85-69 win over Indiana in the round of 32, the Hurricanes look to become the third team this year to upset a one seed.

Miami’s leading scorer Isaiah Wong struggled in their first round game vs. Drake, but exploded for 27 points against Indiana. If he gets hot he can create issues for the Houston defense. 

Miami is good but Houston is better. The Cougars defense will slow down the Hurricanes high powered offense, but Miami will be able to keep it close and cover the +6.5 point spread.

Score Prediction: 74-68, Houston