#2 Michigan State vs #1 Auburn NCAAB Pick: SEC vs Big-10 in Elite 8 (Mar 30)

• Michigan State held off a scrappy Ole Miss team, winning by a score of 73-70.
• Auburn pulled away from Michigan in the 2nd half, winning 78-65 to advance.
• These teams last met on November 23, 1989, in a game Michigan State won 92-79.

Auburn and Michigan State meet in the Elite 8 in another SEC vs Big-10 clash. The winner will advance to the Final Four and face the Florida Gators. The Tigers enter as the favorites by a decent margin, but face a tough challenge against the Big-10’s final team in Michigan State.

Michigan State Seeking Upset

Michigan State played a very close game against Ole Miss, but ultimately earned the victory. They will face a much tougher challenge against Auburn in this Elite 8 matchup. The Spartans have one the nation’s best defenses, but have been inconsistent on offense. Leading-scorer Jaden Akins will be tasked with leading the way after a subpar last game against Ole Miss.

Auburn Looks to Keep Rolling

Auburn looked much like the top-overall seed they are against a red-hot Michigan team. Their 13-point victory earned the Tigers a spot in the Elite 8. They may already be thinking about a rematch with Florida in the Final Four, but cannot overlook Michigan State. Johni Broome had another dominant performance against Michigan, racking up 22 points and 16 rebounds.

Michigan State Spartans vs Auburn Tigers Pick

This should be a very balanced game that comes down to the wire. Part of me wants to think that Michigan State will win, just so that the Final Four matchup with Florida isn’t a conference game, but that’s not a real reason to pick them. Ultimately, Auburn has been the better team all season as well as during the tournament. Take the Tigers to win this game and advance.