A new role here for NC State, winner of six straight but now laying points for the first time since opening-round action at the ACC Tourney. Indeed, across the past two weeks, the Wolfpack has become one of the most-discussed teams (and definitely one of the hottest) in the country. We like that the offense doesn't rely upon triples (only 17 pg last week in D.C; just 13 in the first-round romp past Texas Tech), mostly because of the presence of bruising 6-9, 275-lb PF D.J. Burns, who reduces the need to shoot 3s. And, not to sound too snarky, but let's see Oakland's D-II transfer Jack Gohlke hit 10 triples as he did vs. Kentucky. Play NC State (NCAA at Pittsburgh)

Oakland are darlings right now and they should be, and it's an awesome story. But they aren't catching anyone sleeping here and they are facing a far more veteran and tourney-tested opponent here (not all freshmen) who keep thriving under pressure. NC State has 5 straight covers on neutral courts by 18, 18, 10.5, 16 and 19.5 points and their facing quad one opposition. You have to love a hot team this time of year, I don't see Oakland draining as many threes here and the Wolf Pack can win this by double digits.