The Florida Gators downed the BYU Cougars in Thursday night’s Sweet 16 action, earning an Elite Eight shot at the Butler Bulldogs at 4:30 pm ET Saturday with a trip to the Final Four on the line. So much alliteration! Here’s some more: Alligator Army describes Butler as “the modern Hoosiers” and “national darlings,” and it’s safe to say we should not be surprised to see the SEC’s Southeast region rep cast as the bad guys in this one.
SB Nation Indiana views Butler’s versatility as an advantage, contrasting the Bulldogs’ multiple shooters with BYU’s one-man show, which Florida handled masterfully. Don’t expect Butler shooters to hurl 15 missed three-pointers a la Jimmer Fredette.
The Gators are favored by 4.5 — but don’t let Brad Stevens make you the next contestant on that “One Shining Moment” montage, Billy Donovan. Also, in case we haven’t formally thanked Butler for ridding the bracket of the detestable, irresponsible, unacceptable playing style of the Wisconsin Badgers … thank you, Butler.
For more on this game, Florida fans should visit Alligator Army and SB Nation Tampa Bay, and Butler fans should head to SB Nation Indiana.
More 2011 March Madness resources: Visit our NCAA Tournament hub for up-to-date news and information … updated printable NCAA Tournament bracket.
Check the full NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 schedule, and see predictions and previews for each game.