One expert’s prediction: Dayton Flyers vs. Xavier in March Madness

Latest bracket from Jerry Palm matches the old rivals in the first round

The latest NCAA tournament bracket prediction from Jerry Palm, of CBS Sports, features an intriguing matchup: No. 10 seed Dayton vs. No. 7 seed Xavier in the West Region, all the way out in Sacramento, Calif.

Take the prediction for what it’s worth. At this point, all the bracketologists are throwing darts blindly. For one thing, neither Dayton (21-5) or Xavier (18-9) has wrapped up a berth in the big dance.

MARCH FORECAST V: Where the Flyers stand in NCAA tournament picture

Also, most experts see Dayton at a No. 8 or No. 9 seed at this point. The Flyers have a chance to improve their seeding with a strong finish. They also have enough challenging games ahead to know they’re not assured of a fourth straight tournament berth.

However, it’s fun to ponder what the old rivalry would look like in March Madness. The Flyers and Musketeers last met in Orlando, Fla., in the 2015 Advocare Invitational. Xavier won 90-61.

Selection Sunday is less than three weeks away. It will air on CBS on March 12.

Dayton takes a six-game winning streak into a game against George Mason (18-9)  at 7 p.m. Tuesday at UD Arena.

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