Belmont posted its first NCAA Tournament win in program history in impressive fashion. The Bruins beat a solid Temple team by shooting 53 percent, limiting turnovers and executing well in their half-court offense. They also won handily despite their best player being limited to five points. Belmont should carry quite a bit of confidence against a talented but erratic Maryland club. The Terrapins have a major size advantage, but their big men are inconsistent finishing inside. Look for Belmont to give another efficient performance.

Belmont averages 87 points per game, and it's a good mid-major team. I don't think Maryland can keep up with them for 40 minutes. I like Belmont getting points.

Maybe I'm just a contrarian, or maybe I'm just smart, but when it comes to the first round of the NCAA Tournament, I'm usually inclined to go against popular underdogs. Belmont beat Temple in the play-in game on Thursday night, and as I write this, it's receiving over 65% of the tickets ATS. But while both teams have been strong offensively this season, Maryland's defense has been superior, and it's been that way playing a MUCH more difficult schedule.