"Gophers Worth Watching," exclaims the Washington Post. No kidding, baby.

As a fully neutral and objective observer (he-he), I'd have to say that the Gophers have been the most fun team to watch so far this tournament. But do they really have a chance against Duke, with its far superior athleticism, its superior size and depth in the post, and its brilliant all-court superstar?

(Vegas, incidentally, has Duke favored by 8.)

As coach G recognizes, McCarville's play might be the key. Whalen is likely to be guarded by Beard for much of the game, and she may do less damage as a result. But even if Lindsay has an off game on the perimiter, Janel can still tear things up inside..

Foul calls on Janel will be crucial. The Gophers don't have much depth in the post, while the Devils have several big bodies to throw in there. Mistie Bass, who banged with McCarville in high school, says "The only thing that can stop her is the refs calling fouls." There is much truth in that, so the refs may play a big role in the game.

The Gophers, at least, are not afraid, and they are embracing the role of underdog. The level of expectations -- and maybe the level of pressure -- is different for these two teams.

"There's a difference between feeling like you have to go somewhere and wanting to," says Whalen. It's true, but even with our great attitude, a lot would have to go right for us to beat the most talented team in the nation.

Whatever happens today, the Gophers' story won't be diminished. The last couple years has seen an explosion in Minnesota -- attendance, TV ratings, local media coverage, merchandise -- that has left everyone from sports reporters to sociologists amazed.

"I think it's one of the biggest turnarounds in women's basketball and one of the greatest stories in women's collegiate basketball in the last 20 years," said Nell Fortner.