2025 NCAA Tournament Optimal Bracket Simulation: Model on epic run reveals picks, predictions
In this bracket, the team that wins in more than 50% of computer simulations is picked to advance each round. Our optimal bracket beat more than 91% of CBS Sports Bracket Challenge players four of the last six tournaments!
MIDWEST - Houston is a strong pick to come out of this region, even though the Cougars have never won an NCAA Tournament title and haven't been to the Final Four since 2021. No. 5-seed Clemson beats No. 4-seed Purdue in the Round of 32, making their second straight Sweet 16. Also in the Midwest Region, No. 10 Utah State defeats No. 7 UCLA, even though Utah State was considered a highly questionable bubble team with a losing Quad 1 record (2-4). In addition, Tennessee makes the Elite 8 over Kentucky despite losing to the Wildcats twice this season.
Get every pick, every play, every upset and fill out the rest of your bracket with our help! ... Join SportsLine now to see which region features three must-have upsets, including a play-in team absolutely stunning its first-round opponent, all from the model that has beaten 91% of bracket players in four of the last six tournaments!