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Providence and USC will play the final game of the First Four on Wednesday night, with both vying for the chance to play No. 6 seed SMU in the Round of 64.
Since 1985, an 11-seed has upset a 6-seed 46 times. So whichever team emerges will likely be considered a chic upset pick.
Viewing information
When: 9:10 p.m., Wednesday, March 15
Where: Dayton, Ohio
TV: truTV
Live stream: March Madness Live
Gary Parrish’s expert picks for each First Four game
About Providence: Providence is the hottest team you haven’t heard about lately. The Friars charged to the finish line winning their last six games before a first-round exit in the Big East tournament. But this team has competed (and won) against high-level competition including Creighton, Butler, Marquette and Xavier.
About USC: Unlike the Friars, USC stumbled to the finish line -- part of the reason why it landed here. The Trojans lost four of their last six games of the regular season. But they have a star forward in Bennie Boatwright who can catch fire and lead them to a win on any given night.
Odds (via Vegas Insiders): Pick ‘em
Pick: USC
Providence is deserving of consideration given its recent run, but I think USC and its experience in a tough league like the Pac-12 gives the Trojans the edge.