NCAA Quarterfinals: The Upsets Continue, My Favorite Pick Out

A little late but...

UMass 2, Illinois-Chicago 1

The cinderella run continues as UMass grabs their first-ever NCAA Final Four appearance, but now #5 Ohio State stands in their way. Then again, you have a squad that's already overcome #1 seed Boston College. I think you'll see their run end though as UMass was familiar with BC's style of play. We can't say the same about a strong Ohio State squad.

#5 Ohio State 4, Bradley 0

It took the Buckeyes a 12-minute quadruple salvo in the second half to get rid of the pesky Bradley Braves. Ohio State carries the momentum into the semis against UMass as they have not lost in their last 14 games (11-0-3). Not to mention the fact that the Buckeyes have Xavier Balc, a firm candidate for player of the year (2 goals in this match)

#11 Virginia Tech 1, #3 UConn 0

My favorites - gone. That's what an early goal will do. Forward Patrick Nyarko scored in the 22nd minute and Tech's defense withstood a UConn offensive barrage to hang on to a 1-0 result and a spot in the Final Four.

#2 Wake Forest 1, #10 Notre Dame 0 (OT)

Austin da Luz ensured the Demon Deacon's second consecutive appearance in the Final Four. A lot, though, has to be credited to Wake Forest's defense and their goalkeeper Brian Edwards. Their biggest asset came in the form of home field advantage - 5,000 strong - which has propelled the Deacons to an 18-0-1 home record. Not too shabby.

Semifinal Match-Ups
To be played: December 14th, 2007

#5 Ohio State vs. UMass
#2 Wake Forest vs. #11 Virginia Tech

Because I Think...'s Final Pick
Got to go with the favorites on this one...#5 Ohio State vs. #2 Wake Forest.