Will Cooper Flagg and Duke still be playing next week? Probably.

But I didn’t envision Zion Williamson, Kyrie Irving or J.J. Redick’s journeys ending before the Final Four, either.

Alabama (+6.5) over Duke

Alabama made history in the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 game against BYU by sinking a record-breaking 25 three-point shots. Moreover, their total score of 113 points in that game was the highest in the past 17 years. While it is unlikely that they will replicate these extraordinary achievements in the Elite Eight, Alabama has already proven their ability to defeat top-tier teams such as 1-seeds Auburn and Houston. Additionally, Alabama boasts an impressive record of 12-6 against ranked opponents and 6-2 as underdogs.

Although Duke is considered one of the most talented teams in college basketball, their defense has not faced many challenges, with only one encounter against a top 20 offensive team since December 4 resulting in a high score of 93 points by Arizona in the Sweet 16. On the other hand, Alabama is recognized as one of the most experienced teams, led by Mark Sears and a core group that reached the Final Four just a year ago. With a strong inside game, shooting the third-highest percentage on two-point shots (60.1%) in the nation, and a combination of physicality and athleticism, Alabama poses a significant threat to their opponents.

Florida (-6.5) over Texas Tech

Texas Tech ranks among the top five teams in the nation in offensive efficiency. Other notable teams in terms of offensive prowess include Duke, Auburn (despite a loss to Florida), and Alabama (who lost twice to Florida despite playing on home and neutral courts). Florida, with only one loss since February 1 and a winning streak of 10 games with an average margin of 14.7 points, also stands out as a strong contender with the fourth-best record against the spread at 27-10.

Todd Golden’s group is at its best against elite competition, going 9-2 against the spread against ranked teams and 5-1 outright against opponents who earned a 2-seed or higher. The Red Raiders, though, have gone 2-5 against teams with a 4-seed or higher, covering just one of five games against ranked teams. Texas Tech is lucky to be here after overcoming a 16-point second-half deficit to Arkansas. But the shooting and rebounding that brought them back won’t work against a top-10 rebounding unit and the nation’s fifth-ranked perimeter defense.

Betting on College Basketball?

Without sharpshooter Chance McMillian, the Raiders’ seven-man rotation — five players logged at least 37 minutes in the Sweet 16 — will wear down against the size, depth and balance of the Gators, who will return to the Final Four for the first time in 11 years.

This season: 23-26

2011-24 record: 378-340-12