The late-surging Rams made an impressive run to win the Mountain West tournament. But given the dreadful showing of their MWC counterparts in both this and recent seasons, it's surprising to see the AAC champion Tigers, who have won 16 of 17, lined as an underdog on a neutral court.

The Tigers could be without both Tyrese Hunter and Dante Harris. Even if they play, they won't be as explosive as they were all season. I anticipate the Rams slowing things down and winning the half court game here. Look for a lower scoring game than expected.

The Rams are well-coached and one of the hottest teams in the country right now. Nique Clifford has developed into a first-round NBA Draft pick, and several players on this team were a part of last year's NCAA Tournament team. Memphis is beat up, and if CSU continues to shoots well, the Rams will be the latest 12-seed to advance to the second round.

The NCAAs already has toasted a 12th seed winner (McNeese State), so why not another? Memphis' giddy-up offense will be crippled if its two ailing PGs, Tyrese Hunter and Dante Harris, are stuck on the bench. Hunter, for one, says he will sit out. Without factoring in the injuries, KenPom.com ranks Colorado State five slots ahead of the Tigers, owing to its No. 50 rating for offensive efficiency and No. 52 for defense. The Rams have swept their last 10 games outright, largely on the strength of lights-out three-point shooting. It is rare for a 12 seed to be giving (points) rather than receiving. In this case, it is justified.

The Mountain West has continued their annual tradition of disappointing in March Madness with San Diego State and Utah State being blown out. Colorado State will have a chance to give a bit of relief for the conference today against Memphis. They’ve won ten straight games and can beat Memphis at their own game, led by fifth year senior Nique Clifford. Lay the short number with Colorado State.

I am the minority here as the 12th-seeded Rams are the favorite over the Tigers. I believe that is because you haven’t watched Penny Hardaway‘s team play. PJ Haggerty is a star, and Memphis has a super tough backcourt. Give me the Tigers on the money line.

The Rams have won 10 straight, all by at least eight points. Nique Clifford (projected Top-20 NBA pick) appears to be on a mission, as he's scored 24-plus in four straight. Memphis could be without Tyrese Hunter and another guard, so the Rams should have a nice edge in depth. Look for CSU to slow down the Tigers and make it 11 covers in a row.