2025 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 six tournaments!

April 16, 2026 • 5:36 AM

MIDWEST - Houston is a strong pick to come out of this region, even though the Cougars have never won an NCAA Tournament title and haven't been to the Final Four since 2021. No. 5-seed Clemson beats No. 4-seed Purdue in the Round of 32, making their second straight Sweet 16. Also in the Midwest Region, No. 10 Utah State defeats No. 7 UCLA, even though Utah State was considered a highly questionable bubble team with a losing Quad 1 record (2-4). In addition, Tennessee makes the Elite 8 over Kentucky despite losing to the Wildcats twice this season.

Get every pick, every play, every upset and fill out the rest of your bracket with our help! ... !