The 2026 NCAA tournament Sweet 16 tips off Thursday with four crucial matchups in Houston and San Jose. ESPN analysts Jeff Borzello and Myron Medcalf break down Texas-Purdue, Iowa-Nebraska, Arkansas-Arizona and Illinois-Houston, predicting which teams will advance to the Elite Eight.

In the marquee matchup, Purdue faces Texas in a battle of contrasting styles. Borzello and Medcalf both favor the Boilermakers, citing their No. 1 offensive efficiency ranking. Texas must contain Matas Vokietaitis, who's averaging 17.6 points and 8.1 rebounds over his last 12 games, while continuing their defensive resurgence. Purdue counters with the late-season emergence of Trey Kaufman-Renn and Fletcher Loyer, who give the Boilermakers multiple scoring threats.

Nebraska and Iowa meet in a rematch of two Big Ten rivals who split their regular-season series. Borzello picks Nebraska while Medcalf favors Iowa, reflecting the matchup's uncertainty. The Cornhuskers rely on elite 3-point shooting and defense, ranking top 15 nationally in both categories. Iowa must avoid fouling and get consistent production from Bennett Stirtz, who scored 25 points in their previous win over Nebraska.

Arizona faces Arkansas in a showdown between the Wildcats' relentless pressure and Acuff's scoring prowess. Both analysts favor Arizona, noting the Wildcats' depth and ability to wear down opponents. Arkansas counters with Acuff, who scored 36 points against High Point, and the inside presence of Malique Ewin and Billy Richmond III. Finally, Illinois takes on Houston in what could be the tournament's most intriguing matchup. Medcalf picks Illinois while Borzello sides with Houston, setting up a potential upset.