Pick Your Path - Tips on Surviving the Madness

March Madness is unpredictable, and a Survivor contest makes it even more intense. Unlike traditional brackets, where one bad pick can ruin everything, Survivor contests challenge you to pick a new team to win each day. The catch? You can’t use the same team twice. That means strategy is everything. If you want to last deep into the tournament, you need to plan ahead, time your picks right, and know when to take risks.

Start With a Plan

Survivor success starts before the first game even begins. Knowing which teams are built to win in March is key. High seeds might look like the safest picks, but history proves that upsets happen every year. Look at metrics like KenPom rankings, offensive and defensive efficiency, and how teams have performed in past tournaments. Teams that rank in the top 20 in both offense and defense have been the most reliable picks over the years. Underrated teams with experience and strong guard play can also make deep runs, so don’t just rely on rankings—dig deeper.

Save the Powerhouses

One of the biggest mistakes Survivor players make is picking top teams too early. You might need those heavy hitters later when matchups get tougher. A smart strategy is to pick strong but not elite teams in the early rounds, keeping the best teams in your pocket for when the tournament field shrinks. Be careful with teams that have a history of early exits or rely too much on one player—those squads can get bounced earlier than expected.

Know When to Pick an Upset

March Madness is all about upsets, but picking them at the wrong time can send you home early. No. 12 seeds have beaten No. 5 seeds nearly 35% of the time since the tournament expanded, making them a popular upset pick. But not all underdogs are created equal. Look for teams that are hot heading into the tournament, have experienced upperclassmen, or play lockdown defense. Those are the teams that tend to pull off big wins. Just don’t get carried away—survivor is about lasting, not just calling upsets.

Stay Flexible and Adjust Your Strategy

Things change fast in March Madness. Every day, teams get eliminated, and the Survivor contest field shrinks. If you want to go far, you have to adjust as the tournament unfolds. Keep track of which teams you’ve already used and plan for future rounds. If a popular team goes down early, that opens up new opportunities to gain an edge. Thinking a few steps ahead can separate you from the competition.

Play Smart and Survive the Madness

Winning a Survivor contest isn’t just about luck—it’s about smart picks, patience, and knowing when to take risks. March Madness is unpredictable, but if you do your research, manage your picks wisely, and stay engaged, you’ll give yourself the best shot to outlast the competition. The key is to pick your path, embrace the madness, and enjoy every moment of the tournament. Ready to embrace the sweat? Compete for $1M in guaranteed cash in the Survivor Madness World Championship.