The set-up: The 21-4 Florida State Seminoles are ranked 14th in the latest AP poll, while the 18-7 Notre Dame Fighting Irish just fell out of the top-25 (had been No. 20). The schools meet for the second time this season Saturday at South Bend, with FSU winning the first time around 83-80 in Tallahassee.

Florida State: The Seminoles have typically been known for their defense under Leonard Hamilton. However, this year's team allows 70.6 PPG (ranks 135th), much higher than normal. Then again, at the other end of the court, FSU is averaging 84.8 PPG on 49.0 percent shooting, ranking 14th in the nation in both categories! A trio of guards in Bacon (17.6), PG Rathan-Mayes (10.2 & 4.7 APG) and Mann (8.8) are complemented by an outstanding freshman, the 6-10 Isaac (13.1 & 7.8), up front. The team also features some excellent depth, as Isaac gets help up front from the 7-1 Ojo (5.3 & 3.6).

Notre Dame: Mike Brey's team won 24 games last season and surprised almost all by reaching the Elite 8. The Fighting Irish then opened this season 16-2, including 5-0 in ACC play. However, that 83-80 loss at FSU on Jan. 18th began a 2-5 slide by the Irish, all in league games. SF Colson (16.1 & 10.8) leads in scoring and rebounding plus three others score 14-plus PPG. That group includes the 6-8 Beachem (15.2 PPG but a poor rebounder), PG Farrell (14.1 & 5.4 APG) and SG Vasturia (14.0). However, no other player scores more than 5.3 PPG.

The pick: Here's the bottom line. Notre Dames is just 1-6 this season against ranked opponents, while FSU is 6-1 Enough said. Make FSU a 10* play.