2026 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 seven tournaments!
In the always-important 8 vs. 9 matchup, No. 9 Saint Louis from the A-10 squeaks past No. 8 Georgia from the SEC. Saint Louis opened the season as one of the hottest teams in the country, but limps into March after going 4-4 in its last eight games. Elsewhere, No. 5 Texas Tech overcomes the injury to JT Toppin and gets past strong perimeter teams in Akron and Alabama to meet Michigan in the Sweet 16. And in a major shocker, the play-in winner of SMU vs. Miami (Ohio) upsets Tennessee and advances to the Round of 32 in the 2026 NCAA Tournament bracket.
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 two-double digit seeds delivering first-round shockers and has a red-hot 1-seed not advancing to the Final Four, all from the model that has beaten 91% of bracket players four of the last seven tournaments!
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