3 bold predictions for Michigan State basketball vs. North Carolina

1. MSU pulls off the upset

If you didn't see this one coming, you must not know what bold predictions are. While it would be easy for me to say "the Spartans will cover the spread", I just don't think that's bold enough. Sure, the spread is just 3.5 points, but Michigan State is going to follow a recent trend and win outright.

Five of the last seven 9-seeds to be less than 4-point underdogs have won outright. I think Michigan State follows that trend and picks up a huge win over the Tar Heels.

Don't get me wrong, I think this North Carolina team is very good and could cause some problems for Michigan State with its length and athleticism but the Spartans have plenty of that, too. The Tar Heels struggled a bit in non-conference play this season and maybe getting out of ACC play was bad for this team. They also haven't seen a defense like Michigan State's in months.

Michigan State is going to come out hot and play with more toughness for a second straight games and Tyson Walker's 21 points will be enough to lead the Spartans to a second straight Sweet 16.

This region is winnable, folks.