Oregon State will aim to extend its improbable tournament run against the defense-minded Houston Cougars. The Beavers have the upperclassmen to match Houston’s experience, and interior presence to out-rebound the Cougars. Look for the Beavers to continue to play like a major-conference powerhouse as they push Houston to the wire. Take the points Monday.

The Beavers have gone from Cinderella Pac-12 champion to the Elite 8 and just finished off my favorite team, Loyola-Chicago in the round of 16. Houston has the No. 1-ranked defense (37 percent on field goals), but that was Loyola’s strength as well. I’m jumping on board Oregon State’s freight train, finally. Take the points.

No. 12 Oregon State vs. No. 2 Houston in Midwest Region. The first game of the Elite Eight and if you aren't backing the Beavers at this point, you just aren't paying attention. OSU is 13-1 ATS in its past 14 games and has won its past six straight up dating to the Pac-12 Tournament all as an underdog of at least 5.5 points. I don't expect the Beavs to win here -- then again, I didn't in any other round, either, but at least won on them ATS vs. Loyola (Chicago) -- but do think it will be a close game. Houston has had a fairly easy road thus far and should have lost in Round 2 to Rutgers.