Big Ten Tourney Predictions

Game 1: #9 Northwestern vs. #8 Penn State

The old adage that it's tought to beat a team three times in one season holds true - NU shoots well, exploits the zone, and wins a relatively close one, 55-49. (Yes, I'm an unbelievable homer - just wait until my round 2 predictions)

Game 2: #7 Michigan vs #10 Minnesota

Michigan, out to prove that yes, just maybe, they belong in the NCAA tournament, step it up despite Tommy Amaker's adamant no-tie stance and knock off the Gophers, 70-62.

Game 3: #6 Michigan State vs #11 Purdue

Purdue has come on nicely at the end of the season, becoming a bit more competitive than the team who looked like they might not win a single Big Ten game all year at the beginning of the conference season. However, they won't have enough to hang with a Tom Izzo-led Michigan State team who, while certainly in the tournament, is probably out to prove even more than their in-state rivals. The pre-season Final Four projected Spartans win in a blow-out night cap, 83-61.

Round 2 Predictions to follow...