March Madness 2025: Expert Bracket Predictions and Top Picks

Millions of fans are eagerly filling out their 2025 March Madness bracket picks, aiming to outshine the competition. To achieve this, identifying the teams with the best chance of pulling off an upset in the NCAA Tournament 2025 is crucial.

One of the most challenging first-round games to predict is the 8 vs. 9 matchup. Historically, No. 9 seeds have a slight edge over No. 8 seeds, with an 81-75 record since the tournament field expanded in 1985. From 2016 to 2024, No. 9 seeds have been particularly successful, boasting a 20-12 record in the first round.

Will this trend continue in the 2025 NCAA Tournament bracket? Will teams like UConn, Gonzaga, Louisville, and Mississippi State, all as No. 8 seeds, advance to the second round?

Before finalizing your NCAA Tournament bracket for 2025, consider the insights from SportsLine’s proven computer model, which has simulated every game in the tournament 10,000 times.

Dominating Your 2025 March Madness Bracket Picks

SportsLine’s projection model has a remarkable track record, having beaten over 91% of all CBS Sports brackets in four of the past six tournaments. This model accurately predicted UConn’s championship run last year and successfully identified 13 teams in the Sweet 16. It also foresaw Alabama’s Cinderella run to the Final Four as a 4-seed.

The model’s ability to spot upsets is noteworthy, having predicted 24 first-round upsets by double-digit seeds since 2016.

With the 2025 NCAA bracket now revealed, the model has simulated the matchups, and its results are in.

Key Matchups and Predictions

One of the standout picks from the model is No. 2 seed Tennessee in the Midwest Region. Despite losing to Kentucky twice this season, the model predicts Tennessee will beat the Wildcats in the Sweet 16.

The Volunteers made a run to the Elite Eight last season and are now aiming for their first Final Four appearance in school history.

Tennessee’s strengths lie in their defense, as they rank first in the nation in 3-point percentage defense, holding opponents to 27.8% shooting from beyond the arc. Additionally, they have an elite floor general in point guard Zakai Zeigler.

Spotlight on Tennessee and Kentucky

While Tennessee excels defensively, Kentucky boasts a high-powered offense, ranking fourth in the nation with 85.3 points per game. However, the Wildcats will be without Jaxson Robinson, who’s averaging 13.0 points per game this season.

Kentucky’s defense is less effective, ranking 177th in college basketball in field goal percentage defense (43.72%). Moreover, Kentucky head coach Mark Pope has yet to win an NCAA Tournament game, which presents a prime opportunity for Tennessee to avenge their regular-season losses.

Clemson’s Potential Upset Over Purdue

Another surprise pick from the model is No. 5 Clemson taking down No. 4 Purdue in the second round of the Midwest.

Both teams are projected to avoid first-round upsets, setting the stage for one of the best games of the opening weekend.

Clemson has been on a hot streak, going 15-2 over its last 17 games since January 11. This span includes victories over Duke, a No. 1 seed, and North Carolina, who just had a dominant First Four victory.

Clemson’s defense is a key factor, as they rank 23rd in the nation in scoring defense, allowing just 65.7 points per game.

Defensive Strengths and Strategic Adjustments

Clemson’s ability to make incredible halftime defensive adjustments sets them apart. They allow the sixth-fewest second-half points in the nation, demonstrating their ability to adapt quickly—a crucial skill in the fast-paced environment of the NCAA Tournament.

Neither Clemson nor Purdue will have extended time to prepare deeply for each other, making Clemson’s quick adaptability a potential game-changer.

Utilizing Proven Technology for Bracket Success

With such a reliable projection model at your disposal, there’s no need to rely on luck for your 2025 March Madness picks.

The model’s track record of calling bracket-busting upsets makes it an invaluable tool for anyone looking to dominate their NCAA Tournament bracket.

To see the full 2025 NCAA bracket picks and understand which teams will make surprising runs, visit SportsLine’s comprehensive analysis.

By leveraging the insights from SportsLine’s proven model, you can confidently make informed decisions for your 2025 NCAA Tournament bracket.

Whether it’s identifying potential upsets or understanding key matchups, the model provides a data-driven approach to help you stand out from the masses.

Don’t miss the opportunity to gain a competitive edge in this year’s March Madness.

For more detailed predictions and to see which region features three must-have upsets, including a play-in team that absolutely stuns its first-round opponent, check out the full analysis at SportsLine.