Arizona vs Arkansas prediction, analysis, Sweet 16 expert picks for men’s March Madness

The men’s 2026 NCAA Tournament continues with Sweet 16 action Thursday as No. 1 Arizona and No. 4 Arkansas battle for a spot in the Elite Eight.

USA TODAY Sports’ college basketball experts have analyzed all the angles and determined a path to victory for each side. Here’s everything you need to know — including how to watch, betting odds and analysis — before the Sweet 16 matchup tips off.

Stay up to date with USA TODAY’s team of journalists covering the men’s NCAA Tournament throughout the 68-team dance.

Arizona will win Sweet 16 game vs Arkansas if…

• John Leuzzi: Arizona limits Darius Acuff. It’s much easier said than done but Acuff has taken over down the stretch the last two games for the Razorbacks.
• Jordan Mendoza: Arizona doesn’t let off the gas pedal.
• Ehsan Kassim: The defense can find a way to limit Acuff.
• Austin Curtright: Arizona limits Darius Acuff Jr.

Arkansas will win Sweet 16 game vs Arizona  if…

• John Leuzzi: Darius Acuff is able to play his game and dominate. The Razorbacks will need to show off their depth.
• Jordan Mendoza: Darius Acuff takes over in a close game.
• Ehsan Kassim: Acuff continues to be the best player on the court.
• Austin Curtright: Darius Acuff Jr. takes over.

Arizona vs Arkansas: 1 Stat to watch

• John Leuzzi: Foul trouble for both teams.
• Jordan Mendoza: Impact from the guards.
• Ehsan Kassim: Darius Acuff’s shooting percentage and points.
• Austin Curtright: Darius Acuff Jr. is playing like the best player in college basketball in recent weeks and has scored 30 or more points in three of Arkansas’ last five games, including a 36-point performance in the Razorbacks’ win over High Point in the second round.

Arizona vs Arkansas Sweet 16 prediction

• John Leuzzi: Arizona
• Jordan Mendoza: Arizona
• Ehsan Kassim: Arkansas
• Austin Curtright: Arizona

1 Arizona vs 4 Arkansas

• Opening Moneyline: Arizona (-400), Arkansas (+311)
• Opening Spread: Arizona (-9.5)
• Opening Total: 165.5

Sweet 16 picks, predictions and odds

How to Watch Arizona vs Arkansas in the Sweet 16

No. 1 Arizona takes on No. 4 Arkansas at SAP Center on March 26 at 9:45 PM The game is airing on CBS.

Stream March Madness on Fubo

2026 Men’s March Madness full schedule

See the schedule, live scores and results for all of the NCAA Tournament action here.

• March 17-18: First Four
• March 19-20: First Round
• March 21-22: Second Round
• March 26-27: Sweet 16
• March 28-29: Elite 8
• April 4: Final Four
• April 6: National Championship