We’re only a month away from Selection Sunday, which means that teams throughout the SEC are trying to keep their momentum going in order to secure an NCAA Tournament bid.
There are four games on Tuesday’s schedule, with a few teams facing must-win situations if they want to stay in the tournament discussion.
Let’s get to the picks.
Season Predictions Record (straight up): 192-62
Vanderbilt at No. 5 Tennessee – 7 p.m. EST, ESPN
Tennessee’s performance at Kentucky was certainly disappointing, as Rick Barnes’ team didn’t play with the same confidence and toughness that we’ve seen them play with for most of the season.
But the expectation is that the Vols will come out angry in this one, and that’s not good for the Commodores, who just haven’t been very consistent on the road during this 12-game losing streak.
Prediction: Tennessee 79, Vanderbilt 58
Ole Miss at South Carolina – 7 p.m. EST, SEC Network
This is the most intriguing matchup of the bunch, and a win would put South Carolina in great shape to take another step toward the bubble conversation.
The Gamecocks have played well at home for the most part, but I have more confidence in the Rebels right now due to their recent performances on the road.
Prediction: Ole Miss 77, South Carolina 74
Alabama at Texas A&M – 9 p.m. EST, SEC Network
Alabama’s objective here is rather clear, as Avery Johnson’s squad simply can’t afford to lose this game if they want to feel good about their tournament chances.
It won’t be an easy feat with the Aggies playing a lot better, but surely the Crimson Tide will play with a sense of urgency given what’s at stake here.
Prediction: Alabama 69, Texas A&M 65
No. 4 Kentucky at Missouri – 9 p.m. EST, ESPN
The Wildcats are coming off their biggest win of the season, and their response after losing the game against LSU may have been the most impressive part of the performance.
Even with possible concerns about a potential letdown in a rowdy environment following a huge victory, PJ Washington and company should be able to take care of business.
Prediction: Kentucky 75, Missouri 64
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