Utah Utes – March Madness Team Predictions, Odds and Preview 2016

Utah Utes (Overall: 24-7, Conf: 13-5)

Team Strengths

The Utah Utes are one of the most well-rounded teams in the nation. They’re ranked 56th in points per game (78.1), 91st in rebounds per game (37.8), 35th in assists per game (15.9) and 88th in points allowed per game (68.2). Their frontcourt is fantastic with sophomore Jakob Poeltl leading the way as a scorer and rim protector. He’s averaging team-highs of 17.5 points, 9.1 rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game.

Team Weaknesses

The Utes are lacking in depth. There’s a steep decline after the starters. The starting five are averaging over nine points per game this season. After them, no one else is averaging six or more points per game. The Utes may be in trouble if some deep teams start chipping away at early-built leads. Lacking in depth also means that the starters may be fatigued should they reach the deeper stages of the tournament.

Team Stats

Category | Stat | NCAA Rank
Points Per Game | 78.1 | 56
Rebounds Per Game | 37.8 | 91
Blocks Per Game | 4.45 | 57
3-Point Percentage | 35.9% | 118
Free Throw Percentage | 70.9% | 132

Starting Lineup

Position | Name | PPG
F | Jakob Poeltl | 17.5
F | Jordan Loveridge | 11.8
F | Kyle Kuzma | 10.7
G | Lorenzo Bonam | 9.8
G | Brandon Taylor | 9.6

Writer’s Prediction

The Utes exit in the Sweet 16.