2024 NCAA championship game predictions: UConn vs. Purdue expert picks, odds, March Madness bracket

A closer look at the national championship as the 2024 NCAA Tournament reaches its conclusion

By Kyle Boone Apr 8, 2024 at 9:16 pm ET• 5 min read

After many twists and turns, we have finally arrived at the crowning moment of the 2024 NCAA Tournament on Mondat at State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Ariz.. The 68-team bracket initially introduced on Selection Sunday has nearly played out. Two teams still stand entering Monday's national championship. It'll be No. 1 seed UConn, looking to become the first team since Florida (2006-07) to win back-to-back national titles, against No. 1 seed Purdue, which is seeking to become the first program to lose to a No. 16 seed in one NCAA Tournament only to turnaround and win a championship the next year (Virginia, 2019).

UConn has been on an absolute tear through the NCAA Tournament over the last two postseasons, winning 11 straight such games in dominant fashion. It has not won a game by fewer than 14 points since March 15, giving it an opportunity to put itself among the all-time great teams if it wins Monday in similar fashion. Purdue has largely run through this tournament as well with double-digit victories in all but one game; that was still a 72-66 win over No. 2 seed Tennessee.

The Huskies are 5-0 all-time in championship game appearances, while the Boilermakers (0-1) are playing in the game for just the second time, previously falling short in 1969. UConn enters as the betting favorite to win the title Monday and keep its incredible run in tact. However, Purdue has plenty of mettle, and it could certainly cover the spread even if it ends up falling short of winning.

The CBS Sports staff has made its picks for the game below both straight up and against the spread. Unlike last year, when UConn beating San Diego State was a unanimous prediction, opinions this year are varied.