Vols vs. Ohio State... A Fearless Prediction

For the third time in the past five years, the Vols are in the Sweet 16.

Will the third time be the charm as far as advancing to the Elite 8?

Three years ago Tennessee lost at the buzzer to Ohio State.  Two years ago they were blown out by Louisville.

This run to the Sweet 16 has been unexpected, especially after the dismissal of team captain Tyler Smith back in January.

But they have been resilient.  A team with only six scholarship players upset top-ranked Kansas.  They beat second-ranked Kentucky at the end of the regular season.

And they shook off the effects of a 29 point loss to those Wildcats in the SEC semifinals, with wins over San Diego State amd Ohio in the first two rounds of the NCAA tournament.

Ohio State presents a serious challenge.  The Buckeyes have arguably the best player in the nation on their side, Evan Turner.  Shooting guard Jon Diebler, if left open, will make the game a nightmare for Tennessee.

The advantage for the Vols?  Bench play.  Don't be surprised to see someone like Melvin Goins or Kenny Hall make a significant impact for UT on Friday night.

This is a Tennessee team that has been through the rigors of a long, long season.  They've worked past all those on and off the court obstacles.

I've learned not to doubt them.  And I'm not going to here.

Fearless Prediction Time...

Tennessee 68, Ohio State 64

Mark's 2010 Fearless Prediction Record: 2-1