Winning Strategies for March Madness Bracket

🔑Historic data shows that there are an average of 6.2 upsets in the first round of the tournament each year.

💡Selecting a 15 or 16 seed to defeat a 1 or 2 seed is unlikely to happen and can negatively affect your bracket.

⭐️In the 10 vs. 7 seed matchup, upsets occur in approximately 40% of the games, making them potential opportunities for picking the underdog.

🎯The 12 vs. 5 seed matchup is known for upsets, with a 35.4% historical upset rate. Look for mid-major teams that can surprise higher-seeded opponents.

⚠️Double digit seeds have made the Sweet 16 in 28 of the last 30 years, so consider choosing at least one double digit seed to advance to the second weekend.

How many upsets are there in the first round of March Madness on average?

—On average, there are 6.2 upsets in the first round of March Madness.

Are 15 or 16 seeds capable of defeating 1 or 2 seeds?

—While it has happened, it is unlikely. It's best to avoid picking 15 or 16 seeds to upset 1 or 2 seeds in your bracket.

Which seed matchups are known for upsets?

—The 10 vs. 7 seed matchup and the 12 vs. 5 seed matchup historically have higher upset rates.

How often do double digit seeds make it to the Sweet 16?

—In 28 of the last 30 years, at least one double digit seed has made it to the Sweet 16.

What is the success rate of number one seeds winning the national championship?

—60% of national champions since the inception of the NCAA tournament have been number one seeds.

00:00In this video, we discuss winning strategies for creating a successful March Madness bracket.

10:41It is important to consider historic data when making bracket predictions.

20:15Avoid selecting 15 or 16 seeds to upset 1 or 2 seeds in the tournament, as the likelihood of this happening is low.

30:59The 10 vs. 7 seed matchup and the 12 vs. 5 seed matchup have historically been opportunities for upsets.

42:03It is common for double digit seeds to make it to the Sweet 16, so consider choosing at least one for your bracket.

52:19Number one seeds have a higher chance of winning the national championship, with 60% of champions being number one seeds.