Predicting 2022 March Madness Cinderella: Which #12 Seed Will Topple a #5 Seed?

#12 Seeds vs #5 Seeds: Upsets and Cinderella Stories in March Madness

March Madness is not only about top-ranked teams dominating the tournament. One of the most exciting aspects of NCAA men’s college basketball is predicting which #12 seed will upset a #5 seed in your bracket. In 2022, Richmond, UAB, New Mexico State, and the winner of the Wyoming and Indiana play-in game are the #12 seeds to watch out for. Let’s dive into the historical data and matchups to understand the potential for upsets and Cinderella stories.

The Historic Success of #12 Seeds

Since the expansion of the bracket in 1985, #12 seeds have achieved remarkable success, winning approximately 35% of their matchups against #5 seeds. With a record of 51-93, these underdogs have consistently proven their ability to disrupt expectations. It is not uncommon for at least one #12 seed to pull off an upset in each edition of March Madness. So, if you’re looking to make bold predictions, keep an eye on the #12 seeds.

The March Madness 2022 #12 vs #5 Matchups

MIDWEST: #12 Richmond vs #5 Iowa

The Richmond Spiders (23-12) surprised many by winning the Atlantic 10 championship and securing their spot in March Madness. Although Richmond struggled to cover the spread this season, they possess talent in junior forward Tyler Burton, who leads the team with 16.3 points and 7.7 rebounds per game. Facing them is the offensively potent Iowa Hawkeyes (26-9), ranked #5 overall in scoring with an average of 83.8 points per game. Sophomore forward Keegan Murray, averaging 23.6 points, could be a game-changer for Iowa.

SOUTH: #12 UAB vs #5 Houston

The UAB Blazers (27-7) from Conference USA enter the tournament as one of the strongest #12 seeds. Led by dynamic guard Jordan “Jelly” Walker, known for his entertaining style of play, UAB boasts the seventh-highest scoring team in the country, averaging 80.7 points per game. However, they face a tough challenge in the Houston Cougars (29-5), winners of the American Athletic Conference. Houston’s defense, allowing less than 59 points per game, will make it difficult for UAB to pull off an upset.

WEST: #12 New Mexico State vs #5 UConn

The New Mexico State Aggies (26-6) dominated the WAC this season and will clash with the storied UConn Huskies (23-9) in the first round. Teddy Allen, the Aggies’ leading scorer with 19.3 points per game, has the potential to make a significant impact. UConn, ranked #21 overall, struggled to cover the spread this season, which might make this matchup interesting for bettors. Neither team should be underestimated in this showdown.

EAST: #12 Wyoming/Indiana vs #5 Saint Mary’s

Saint Mary’s (25-7), often overshadowed by Gonzaga, finally receives recognition with a #5 seed. Known for their strong defense, the Gaels boast a well-balanced scoring attack, anchored by senior forward Matthias Tass. The winner of the Wyoming and Indiana play-in game will face Saint Mary’s, with the opportunity to follow in UCLA’s footsteps from last year, when the play-in team advanced to the Final Four. Any team that earns the chance to challenge Saint Mary’s will provide an intriguing matchup.

Considering the #5 Seeds

While analyzing potential upsets, it’s crucial to acknowledge the strength of the #5 seeds this year. Teams like Iowa, Houston, UConn, and Saint Mary’s are formidable competitors with proven track records. Therefore, for those seeking Cinderella stories, it may be worth exploring #13 seeds, which could offer unexpected surprises in this unpredictable tournament.

Conclusion

March Madness is the epitome of excitement and unpredictability, with #12 vs #5 matchups often stealing the show. As fans and bettors, we eagerly anticipate the upsets and Cinderella stories that make this tournament so special. Richmond, UAB, New Mexico State, and the winner of the Wyoming and Indiana play-in game present formidable challenges to their #5 seed opponents. As the tournament unfolds, keep a close eye on these matchups, as they could become historic moments that define this year’s March Madness.

FAQs

1. How often do #12 seeds upset #5 seeds in March Madness?

#12 seeds win approximately 35% of the time against #5 seeds since 1985, when the bracket expanded.

2. Do #12 seeds have a chance to reach the Sweet 16?

Yes, #12 seeds have won their second-round matchups 21 times, securing a spot in the Sweet 16.

3. Which #12 seed has the strongest chance of upsetting their #5 seed opponent?

Each #12 seed presents unique challenges to their #5 seed opponents. However, UAB, with their high-scoring offense led by Jordan “Jelly” Walker, is considered one of the strongest #12 seeds.

4. Are there any notable players to watch in the #12 vs #5 matchups?

Keep an eye on Iowa’s Keegan Murray, UAB’s Jordan “Jelly” Walker, New Mexico State’s Teddy Allen, and Saint Mary’s Matthias Tass. These players can make a significant impact on their respective matchups.

5. Will any #13 seed potentially upset a #4 seed this year?

While predicting specific upsets is challenging, #13 seeds often provide surprising moments in March Madness. Therefore, it’s worth paying attention to the #13 vs #4 seed matchups for potential upsets and Cinderella stories.

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Doug I. Jones

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