Rashad Phillips' 2021 March Madness First Four Picks and Predictions

The NCAA Tournament has finally arrived, and things get off and running with today’s First Four matchups. As well as my predictions on what will happen, make sure you check out Pickswise’s picks on the side and total for every single matchup throughout the tournament.

UCLA Bruins vs. Michigan State Spartans

The only reason that I’m picking Michigan State in this game to beat the UCLA Bruins is that history tells us that Tom Izzo wins in March. Both teams are evenly matched but I believe the Spartans will out-rebound UCLA and that will be the difference-maker. Michigan State wins with the scoring ending up something like 67-61.

PICK: Michigan State -2

Be sure to check out the full game preview for UCLA Bruins vs. Michigan State Spartans.

Wichita State Shockers vs. Drake Bulldogs

This is going to be a really good game between two teams that have gone under the radar all season long. I’m going to pick Drake here because this team shoots the ball really well, they don’t force anything, and they’re sturdy on defense. If Wichita State’s combo guard Tyson Etienne can get going early then this game could be very interesting. I think Drake prevails in a nail-biter.

PICK: Drake +1.5

Be sure to check out the full game preview for Wichita State Shockers vs. Drake Bulldogs.

Click here to check out college basketball analyst and insider Jon Rothstein’s best picks!

Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers vs. Texas Southern Tigers

Something tells me that this game is going to be ugly and gritty. Both teams do not shoot free-throws well but I think it’s going to come down to pressure free-throw shooting between these two. I think Mount St. Mary will survive a close one.

PICK: Mount St. Mary’s -1

Be sure to check out the full game preview for Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers vs. Texas Southern Tigers.

Norfolk State Spartans vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers

I believe Devante Carter will be the best player on the floor and in turn lead Norfolk State to a huge win! Can Appalachian State contain the play of Carter? If they can, they’ll have a chance.

PICK: Norfolk State +3

Be sure to check out the full game preview for Norfolk State Spartans vs. Appalachian State Mountaineers.

Want more of Rashad Phillips’ March Madness thoughts? Check out our huge NCAA Tournament preview show, which also features Jon Rothstein and Aaron Torres!

Pickswise is the home of March Madness Predictions. Check out all of our March Madness Picks, including daily March Madness Parlays throughout the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament.

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