No. 4 Louisville vs. No. 8 North Carolina State

Why Louisville will win: Louisville reached the Sweet 16 by finally moving the ball more on offense and improving its spacing, which opens the floor for U of L’s athletic slashers to go to the bucket. Guards Terry Rozier and Wayne Blackshear can score on anyone and go hard to the hole, and Quentin Snider is at his best when he’s aggressive. Then there’s Montrezl Harrell, the All-American forward who plays angry and is an intimidating presence on both ends. Louisville’s defense gives teams fits, and when the Cardinals have their transition game clicking, they’re tough to beat.

Why North Carolina State will win: The Wolfpack are starting to think of themselves as a team of destiny. How else can you explain a buzzer-beating win in the second round and a nail-biting victory over the top seed in the region in the round of 32? But it isn’t magic or good living that is pushing N.C. State along. It’s the versatility of guard Trevor Lacey, who isn’t afraid to challenge everyone and can hit the boards to boot. It’s the power of Abdul-Malik Abu and Lennard Freeman inside, two guys who hit the glass and can protect the rim. It’s the willingness of guard Anthony Barber to play whatever role is asked of him. The Wolfpack aren’t lucky. They’re good.

What will happen: N.C. State hasn’t shown any fear and find ways to win, but the Wolfpack just doesn’t have the firepower to beat the Cardinals. If Louisville is aggressive and brings the momentum from the round of 32 into the Sweet 16, the Cards will build a comfortable lead by halftime and roll. Terry Rozier will have a big game, and look for Montrezl Harrell to thrive in the spotlight.
Prediction:Louisville 68, North Carolina State 59