2025 NCAA Bracket Predictions
March Madness 2025 Bracket Preview
The 2025 NCAA bracket predictions are officially in as the tournament gets underway. SportsLine’s precise prediction model has simulated the bracket 10,000 times. This proven system has outperformed the majority of CBS Sports brackets in four of the last six tournaments, accurately forecasting deep championship runs and major upset victories.
North Carolina, fresh off a dominant win over San Diego State in the First Four, looks to extend its momentum against No. 6 seed Ole Miss. Historically, First Four teams have won at least one game in every tournament except one, making the Tar Heels a team to watch.
Ole Miss is part of a record-breaking 14 SEC teams in this year’s tournament, including top seeds Auburn and Florida. Along with Duke and Houston, these teams are among the strongest contenders for the 2025 NCAA championship.
SportsLine’s Model Predicts Key Matchups
SportsLine’s model, which correctly predicted UConn’s championship run last year and 13 Sweet 16 teams, has a strong history of identifying bracket-busting upsets. Since 2016, it has accurately predicted 24 first-round victories by double-digit seeds, making it an essential tool for crafting your winning 2025 bracket.
Now that the official bracket is set, the model has finalized its simulations. You can see the full breakdown exclusively at SportsLine.
Three Must-Watch 2025 March Madness Games
No. 5 Michigan vs. No. 12 UC San Diego (South Region)
UC San Diego is a popular upset pick due to its elite defense and hot shooting, ranking in KenPom’s top 40—an uncommon feat for a Big West team. However, Michigan counters with two towering 7-footers, while UC San Diego’s tallest rotation player stands at just 6’8″. This clash of playing styles could make for an intriguing first-round matchup.
No. 8 Louisville vs. No. 9 Creighton (South Region)
Louisville benefits from a home-court edge, playing just 70 miles from campus in Lexington. Though seeded No. 8, the Cardinals were ranked No. 10 in the AP poll and reached the ACC Tournament Championship before falling to Duke. Creighton, on the other hand, lost in the Big East title game to St. John’s. This closely matched battle is set to tip off the Round of 64 on Thursday at 12:15 p.m. ET.
No. 4 Texas A&M vs. No. 13 Yale (South Region)
Texas A&M struggles with shooting efficiency, ranking among the bottom five in field goal and three-point percentage among all tournament teams. However, it leads the nation in offensive rebounding and boasts a top-10 defense. Yale, meanwhile, thrives on shooting efficiency and has experience pulling off upsets, having defeated a No. 4 seed in last year’s tournament. The Aggies’ ability to dominate the boards will be key in this matchup.
Make Your 2025 NCAA Bracket Picks Now
Which teams will pull off shocking upsets? Who will make deep tournament runs? With SportsLine’s model consistently identifying bracket-busting matchups, check out their latest predictions before finalizing your 2025 NCAA Tournament bracket.