Not only do I think Vanderbilt is better than Northwestern, but the Commodores have several key intangibles in their favor.

First, though, I'm not the only one who believes Vanderbilt is superior. The Commodores were rated higher than Northwestern in the Pomeroy ratings and the RPI rankings have Vanderbilt at 38 compared to 50 for the Wildcats.

Never before in their 78-year history have the Wildcats made the NCAA Tournament - until now. Of course there was a huge celebration. Vanderbilt is Big Dance experienced competing in this tournament last year. I'm not sure of Northwestern's mindset especially if it were to fall behind early.

Northwestern has a losing record during its past 12 games. Vanderbilt, by contrast, is 11-5 in its last 16 games and 5-1 in its last six. The Commodores have covered eight of their last nine. They also are 17-4 ATS the past 21 times facing foes with a winning mark.

Vanderbilt has a strong perimeter defense and is consistent in making 3-pointers. All of the Commodores are adept at canning shots from beyond the arc. That's going to be a problem for Northwestern.