Wednesday, February 28, 2018

NCAA Basketball Bubble Watch- 2/28/18

March is here and with only 10 until Selection Sunday, there are several teams that can still play their way in with what could be one of the deepest bubbles ever. This week features many battles of bubble teams. Conference tourneys also begin for at-large hopefuls in Big Ten, WCC, and MVC. This should be a fun final two weeks in a season that has gave us several surprising results keeping us on the edge of our seats. 

Here is the current breakdown:

- Arkansas is now safe after win over Auburn.

- Florida won at Alabama giving them a 9th Tier 1 win, and Miami (FL) scored their biggest win of the season at North Carolina. Both move to Neutral Zone.

-Georgia, Temple, and LSU picked up damaging losses and will now need a lot of work in their conference tourneys.


Safety Zone
AAC: Cincinnati, Wichita State, Houston
ACC: Virginia, Clemson, Duke, North Carolina
A-10: 
Big East: Xavier, Villanova
Big 12: Texas Tech, Kansas, West Virginia
Big Ten: Purdue, Michigan State, Ohio State, Michigan
MWC:
PAC-12: Arizona
SEC: Auburn, Tennessee, Kentucky, Arkansas
WCC: Gonzaga

Neutral Zone- Almost Locks
Rhode Island, Seton Hall, Texas A&M, TCU, Creighton, Butler, Florida, Miami (FL), Oklahoma

Danger Zone- Current At-Large Contenders
Missouri, Arizona State, NC State, Virginia Tech, Nevada, Providence, Florida State, USC, St. Bonaventure, Alabama, Middle Tennessee State, St. Mary's, Texas, UCLA, Washington, Louisville, Baylor, Kansas State, Syracuse, Utah, Loyola-Chicago, Marquette, Mississippi State, Oregon, New Mexico State, Boise State, Notre Dame, Georgia, LSU, Temple, Louisiana, Nebraska, Penn State, Western Kentucky, UCF, Buffalo

Missouri (19-11 RPI: 40 vs Tier 1 6-7, vs Tier 2 5-2)
- Mizzou has many Tier 1 wins and has good computer numbers. Their high number of losses like their fellow SEC members is what is putting them in a potentially dangerous spot. The Tigers took care of business at Vanderbilt and now host Arkansas before SEC tourney begins. A win over Arkansas would solidify their ticket.

Arizona State (19-9  RPI: 42 vs Tier 1 3-4, vs Tier 4-4)
- Arizona State's wins at Kansas and over Xavier (N) have carried them to the finish line so far. At 7-9 in the Pac-12, beating Cal and Stanford this week should lock them in. A loss at home to either is something to avoid.

NC State (19-9)- RPI: 49 vs Tier 1 5-7, vs Tier 2 2-0
- The Wolfpack have some real quality wins including at UNC and Arizona in the Bahamas. If they avoid the bad loss at Georgia Tech this week, it is hard not seeing this team in the field.

Virginia Tech (21-9)- RPI: 46vs Tier 1 5-6, vs Tier 2 4-2
-The Hokies have quality wins at Virginia and at home over Duke, so quality wins are not the issue. The only thing that is holding them back in their Non-conference SOS and their RPI, so a couple more wins are recommended.

Nevada (25-5)- RPI: 15, vs Tier 1 2-2, vs Tier 2 4-1
- The Wolfpack have a great RPI and wins over Rhode Island and at Boise State. Avoiding losses to anyone besides Boise State will be enough.

Providence (18-12 RPI: 43 vs Tier 1 3-7, vs Tier 2 5-1)
- The Friars have been drifting lately pushing them back into the Danger Zone. They lost at Xavier and now get St. John's at home this week. Losing this and their first game in Big East tourney could knock them out.

Florida State (19-10 RPI: 47 vs Tier 1 6-6, vs Tier 2 1-3)
- FSU has a good amount of Tier 1 wins, which should carry them in. However, losing their next 2 games could put them in an interesting spot as. This has not been great road team but does have home wins over UNC and Clemson.

USC (21-9) RPI: 31 Tier 1 4-5, Tier 2 4-3
- The Trojans picked up a huge win at Utah to go with their wins over Middle Tennessee and New Mexico State in Hawaii. Their resume looks great, but the lack of signature win is what stands out. They will likely have an opportunity for more Tier 1 games in the PAc-12 tourney. Avoiding a bad loss there is strongly recommended.

St. Bonaventure (23-6)- RPI: 21 vs Tier 1 3-2, vs Tier 2 5-2
- The Bonnies beat URI and currently have a great overall profile with the exception of their 2 Tier 3/4 losses. It is important that they avoid losses to anyone besides URI, which means winning out until the A-10 championship.

Alabama (17-13 RPI: 57 vs Tier 1 5-6, vs Tier 2 6-6)
- The Crimson Tide have plenty of quality wins for an at-large bid. Their high number of losses is what is holding them back. Losing out would give them 2 more losses and a 17-15 record. If they fail to win at Texas A&M and the SEC tourney, they will have 15 losses.

Middle Tennessee State (22-5)- RPI: 25 vs Tier 1 3-3, vs Tier 2 1-1
- The Blue Raiders are the favorite in the C-USA tourney. Winning the auto bid is recommended. Their at-large profile is pretty good. Anything short of winning out and losing to Western Kentucky or Old Dominion in the C-USA finals could be damaging though.

St. Mary's (27-4)- RPI: 38 vs Tier 1 1-1, vs Tier 2 2-1 
- Their overall record and win at Gonzaga carried them for a while. With 2 recent defeats especially the one at San Francisco, the margin for error is small. More losses like the San Fran one could be costly. They will likely open the WCC tourney against Santa Clara, which is a must win.

Texas (17-13)- RPI: 60 vs Tier 1 5-10, vs Tier 2 3-3)
- The Longhorns have plenty of good wins and no bad losses. At this point, improving their overall record is needed, so any win is helpful now. The bad thing for the Longhorns is that all that remains a  home date with West Virginia and the Big 12 tourney. A loss to the Mountaineers and a loss in Big 12 tourney would give them 15 losses.

UCLA (19-10- RPI: 54 vs Tier 1 2-6, vs Tier 2 4-2)
- The Bruins have 2 signature victories away from home but not much to add to them. UCLA is in danger and really needs to win at USC. If not, work in the Pac-12 tourney is definitely recommended.

Washington (19-10)- RPI: 51 vs Tier 1 3-6, vs Tier 2 2-2
- The Huskies have 2 great wins with the wins at Kansas and over Arizona. Washington just needs to win games at this point especially Tier 1 or 2. They end the season with Oregon and Oregon State coming to town. Both are a must.

Louisville (19-10) RPI: 39 Tier 1 3-8, Tier 2 2-2
- Louisville has struggled against good competition all season as shown with their 3-8 Tier 1 record with their best win coming at Florida State. A signature win or two is a must at this point as their lack of bad losses and RPI is   the only thing helping them now. Virginia comes to town next.

Baylor (18-12) RPI: 58 Tier 1 4-10, Tier 2 3-2
- Baylor has played well lately to move into the bubble picture. They still have a long way to go to feel good about their chances. Beating K-State would be great for them, but work in Big 12 is likely needed to feel somewhat decent about their chances.

Kansas State  (20-10)- RPI: 63 vs Tier 1 3-9 vs Tier 2 6-0
- Kansas State sits in 4th in the Big 12, but their current profile is not good. A bad N-SOS and lack of good wins stands out. The Wildcats badly need to finish strong and get some more quality wins. The Big 12 tourney will be very important for KSU.

Syracuse (18-12) RPI: 44 Tier 1 2-7, Tier 2 4-3
- The Orange are almost out of chances for a signature win. Their strong computer numbers are helping them out as the rest of their profile is lacking. Good wins are needed, and work in ACC tourney needs to be done.

Utah (18-10) RPI: 54 Tier 1 3-5, Tier 2 3-4
- The Utes had a home split with UCLA and USC. Beating Colorado is required and a run in PAC-12 tourney has to happen to feel decent about their chances.

Loyola-Chicago (24-5) RPI: 32 Tier 1 1-1, Tier 2 2-2
- The Ramblers have a win at Florida and relatively strong computer numbers. The resurgence from the Gators is likely needed to give them a realistic shot at an at-large. Winning the MVC is their best option. However, Clayton Custer did not play for the stretch where they went 2-3, which might be a factor.

Marquette (18-12) RPI: 62 Tier 1 4-7, Tier 2 3-4

- In recent years, this profile would look much better. Overall, winning games is needed as their RPI is not too good and their number of losses are stacking up. Big East tourney is very important for them.

Mississippi State (20-9)- RPI: 68 vs Tier 1 3-7, vs Tier 2 4-2)
- The Bulldogs played a very bad N-SOS, which really shows now as their RPI is still in the late 60s. There are some good wins, but nothing on this resume is screaming pick me. There is plenty of work to be done.

Oregon (19-10)- RPI: 74 vs Tier 1 2-4, vs Tier 2 4-4)
- The Ducks have really turned it on, which has allowed them to fly into the bubble picture. Winning at Washington and Wazzu this week would really draw some attention.

New Mexico State (23-5) RPI: 50 Tier 1 1-2, Tier 2 2-1
- The Aggies had a legit at large profile before their back to back losses to Utah Valley and Seattle. It is unclear if an at-large is possible, which makes the WAC tourney the obvious choice. Winning out until the finals is an absolute must to have any at-large hopes.

Boise State (21-7)- RPI: 48 vs Tier 1 1-2, vs Tier 2 4-3)
- The Broncos saw their resume get better with Loyola-Chicago and Oregon's RPI's soaring up. It is hard to see this team getting an at-large, but if enough teams ahead of them damage their profile, you never know. Losing at San Diego State is pretty damaging. No more losses to teams other than Nevada is required at this point.

Fringe Candidates:
Notre Dame, Georgia, LSU, Temple, Louisiana, Nebraska, Penn State, Western Kentucky, UCF, Buffalo

Monday, February 26, 2018

NCAA Basketball Bubble Watch- 2/27/18

With only 12 until Selection Sunday, there are several teams that can still play their way in with what could be one of the deepest bubbles ever. This week features many battles of bubble teams. Conference tourneys also begin for at-large hopefuls in Big Ten, WCC, and MVC. This should be a fun final two weeks in a season that has gave us several surprising results keeping us on the edge of our seats. 

Here is the current breakdown:


Safety Zone
AAC: Cincinnati, Wichita State, Houston
ACC: Virginia, Clemson, Duke, North Carolina
A-10: 
Big East: Xavier, Villanova
Big 12: Texas Tech, Kansas, West Virginia
Big Ten: Purdue, Michigan State, Ohio State, Michigan
MWC:
PAC-12: Arizona
SEC: Auburn, Tennessee, Kentucky
WCC: Gonzaga

Neutral Zone- Almost Locks
Rhode Island, Seton Hall, Texas A&M, TCU, Creighton, Arkansas, Butler, Oklahoma

Danger Zone- Current At-Large Contenders
Florida, Alabama, Arizona State, NC State, Nevada, Providence, Florida State, Virginia Tech, Missouri, USC, Miami (FL), St. Bonaventure, Middle Tennessee State, St. Mary's, Texas, UCLA, Washington, Louisville, Kansas State, Syracuse, Utah, Baylor, Boise State, Loyola-Chicago, Marquette, Mississippi State, Oregon, New Mexico State, Georgia, LSU, Temple, Louisiana,, Notre Dame, Nebraska, Penn State, Western Kentucky, UCF, Buffalo


Florida (18-11)- RPI: 56 vs Tier 1- 8-4, vs Tier 2 3-7 
- This is one of the strangest resumes ever which has more Tier 1 wins than almost every D1 team. Somehow, they struggle against Tier 2 teams and have been beaten at home 5 times. The Gators are almost a sure thing but their RPI is a bit shaky and would really test the committee if they lose out.

Alabama (17-12 RPI: 41 vs Tier 1 5-6, vs Tier 2 6-5)
- The Crimson Tide have plenty of quality wins for an at-large bid. Their high number of losses is what is holding them back. Losing out would give them 3 more losses and a 17-15 record. It is important to win at least one of the remaining regular season games.


Arizona State (19-9  RPI: 42 vs Tier 1 4-4, vs Tier 2 3-4)
- Arizona State's wins at Kansas and over Xavier (N) have carried them to the finish line so far. At 7-9 in the Pac-12, beating Cal and Stanford this week should lock them in. A loss at home to either is something to avoid.

NC State (19-9)- RPI: 47 vs Tier 1 5-6, vs Tier 2 2-1
- The Wolfpack have some real quality wins including at UNC and Arizona in the Bahamas. If they avoid the bad loss at Georgia Tech this week, it is hard not seeing this team in the field.

Nevada (25-5)- RPI: 15, vs Tier 1 2-2, vs Tier 2 4-1
- The Wolfpack have a great RPI and wins over Rhode Island and at Boise State. Avoiding losses to anyone besides Boise State will be enough.


Providence (18-11 RPI: 43 vs Tier 1 3-7, vs Tier 2 5-1)
- The Friars have been drifting lately pushing them back into the Danger Zone. They go to Xavier and get St. John's at home this week. Losing both and their first game in Big East tourney could knock them out.

Virginia Tech (21-9)- RPI: 59 vs Tier 1 5-5, vs Tier 2 4-3
-The Hokies have quality wins at Virginia and at home over Duke VA Tech, so quality wins are not the issue. The only thing that is holding them back in their Non-conference SOS and their RPI, so a couple more wins are recommended.

Missouri (17-11 RPI: 44 vs Tier 1 6-7, vs Tier 2 4-2)
- Mizzou has many Tier 1 wins and has good computer numbers. Their high number of losses like their fellow SEC members is what is putting them in a potentially dangerous spot. Losing out would put them at 17-14, which does not sound like an at-large worthy team. They go to Vanderbilt and host Arkansas before SEC tourney begins.

USC (21-9) RPI: 27 Tier 1 4-5, Tier 2 4-3
- The Trojans picked up a huge win at Utah to go with their wins over Middle Tennessee and New Mexico State in Hawaii. Their resume looks great, but the lack of signature win is what stands out. They will likely have an opportunity for more Tier 1 games in the PAc-12 tourney. Avoiding a bad loss there is strongly recommended.

Miami (FL) (20-8)- RPI: 31 vs Tier 1 4-5, vs Tier 2 2-2
- The Hurricanes have been a hidden bubble team as most people have not realized that this team's best win is (N) Middle Tennessee. Without a real signature win, it is hard to feel certain about their chances. Their overall profile is pretty good, but the overall lack of marquee wins especially a signature one could make this a sticky situation for the Canes. Like USC, avoiding a bad loss is a must.

St. Bonaventure (22-6)- RPI: 26 vs Tier 1 4-2, vs Tier 2 4-2
- The Bonnies beat URI and currently have a great overall profile with the exception of their 2 Tier 3/4 losses. It is important that they avoid losses to anyone besides URI, which means winning out until the A-10 championship.

Middle Tennessee State (22-5)- RPI: 23 vs Tier 1 3-3, vs Tier 2 1-1
- The Blue Raiders are the favorite in the C-USA tourney. Winning the auto bid is recommended. Their at-large profile is pretty good. Anything short of winning out and losing to Western Kentucky or Old Dominion in the C-USA finals could be damaging though.

St. Mary's (27-4)- RPI: 38 vs Tier 1 1-1, vs Tier 2 2-1 
- Their overall record and win at Gonzaga carried them for a while. With 2 recent defeats especially the one at San Francisco, the margin for error is small. More losses like the San Fran one could be costly. They will likely open the WCC tourney against Santa Clara, which is a must win.

Texas (17-13)- RPI: 57 vs Tier 1 5-10, vs Tier 2 3-3)
- The Longhorns have plenty of good wins and no bad losses. At this point, improving their overall record is needed, so any win is helpful now. The bad thing for the Longhorns is that all that remains a  home date with West Virginia and the Big 12 tourney. A loss to the Mountaineers and a loss in Big 12 tourney would give them 15 losses.

UCLA (19-10- RPI: 54 vs Tier 1 3-6, vs Tier 2 3-2)
- The Bruins have 2 signature victories away from home but not much to add to them. UCLA is in danger and really needs to win at USC. If not, work in the Pac-12 tourney is definitely recommended.

Washington (19-10)- RPI: 51 vs Tier 1 3-5, vs Tier 2 2-3
- The Huskies have 2 great wins with the wins at Kansas and over Arizona. Washington just needs to win games at this point especially Tier 1 or 2. They end the season with Oregon and Oregon State coming to town. Both are a must.

Louisville (19-10) RPI: 39 Tier 1 3-8, Tier 2 2-2
- Louisville has struggled against good competition all season as shown with their 3-8 Tier 1 record with their best win coming at Florida State. A signature win or two is a must at this point as their lack of bad losses and RPI is   the only thing helping them now. Virginia comes to town next.

Kansas State  (20-9)- RPI: 61 vs Tier 1 3-8 vs Tier 2 6-0
- Kansas State sits in 4th in the Big 12, but their current profile is not good. A bad N-SOS and lack of good wins stands out. The Wildcats badly need to finish strong and get some more quality wins. Winning at TCU would help, but the Big 12 tourney will be very important for KSU.

Syracuse (18-11) RPI: 46 Tier 1 2-7, Tier 2 4-2
- The Orange are almost out of chances for a signature win. Their strong computer numbers are helping them out as the rest of their profile is lacking. Good wins are needed, and work in ACC tourney needs to be done.

Utah (18-10) RPI: 57 Tier 1 3-6, Tier 2 3-3
- The Utes had a home split with UCLA and USC. Beating Colorado is required and a run in PAC-12 tourney has to happen to feel decent about their chances.

Baylor (17-12) RPI: 63 Tier 1 4-10, Tier 2 2-2
- Baylor has played well lately to move into the bubble picture. They still have a long way to go to feel good about their chances. Winning games in the Big 12 is needed as win will improve their resume.

Boise State (21-6)- RPI: 45 vs Tier 1 1-2, vs Tier 2 4-2)
- The Broncos saw their resume get better with Loyola-Chicago and Oregon's RPI's soaring up. It is hard to see this team getting an at-large, but if enough teams ahead of them damage their profile, you never know.




Loyola-Chicago (24-5) RPI: 33 Tier 1 1-1, Tier 2 2-2
- The Ramblers have a win at Florida and relatively strong computer numbers. The resurgence from the Gators is likely needed to give them a realistic shot at an at-large. Winning the MVC is their best option. However, Clayton Custer did not play for the stretch where they went 2-3, which might be a factor.

Marquette (17-12) RPI: 66 Tier 1 4-7, Tier 2 3-4

- In recent years, this profile would look much better. Overall, winning games is needed as their RPI is not too good and their number of losses are stacking up.

Mississippi State (20-8)- RPI: 62 vs Tier 1 3-6, vs Tier 2 4-2)
- The Bulldogs played a very bad N-SOS, which really shows now as their RPI is still in the 60s. There are some good wins, but nothing on this resume is screaming pick me. There is plenty of work to be done.

Oregon (19-10)- RPI: 72 vs Tier 1 2-5, vs Tier 2 4-3)
- The Ducks have really turned it on, which has allowed them to fly into the bubble picture. Winning at Washington and Wazzu this week would really draw some attention.

New Mexico State (23-5) RPI: 50 Tier 1 1-2, Tier 2 2-1
- The Aggies had a legit at large profile before their back to back losses to Utah Valley and Seattle. It is unclear if an at-large is possible, which makes the WAC tourney the obvious choice. Winning out until the finals is an absolute must to have any at-large hopes.

Georgia (16-12) RPI: 70 Tier 1 4-8, Tier 2 4-2
- The Bulldogs have a good amount of good wins but are only 4 games above .500 in a year with a strong bubble. A lot of work is needed, and the margin for error is small.

LSU (16-12) RPI: 82 Tier 1 6-6, Tier 2 2-5
- In other years, this type of profile has received a lot more attention, which is likely because it is normally an ACC school. The Tigers have plenty of good wins but have rough computer numbers. A couple more Tier 1 wins would really make this interesting.


Temple (16-12) RPI: 40 Tier 1 3-8, Tier 2 5-0
- Wins over Clemson and Auburn at neutral sites are great. 4 losses against Tiers 3-4 are not. If the Owls win out until the AAC tourney and win a couple games there, it is interesting to see where they will stand. Avoiding any more losses is a must.

Fringe Candidates:
Louisiana, Notre Dame, Nebraska, Penn State, Western Kentucky, UCF, Buffalo

















Sunday, February 25, 2018

2018 NCAA Basketball Bracket Projection- 2/2618

SOUTH(1)- Atlanta, GA
Charlotte, NC
1 Virginia
16 FGCU/Arkansas-Pine Bluff
8 Alabama
9 Providence
Boise, ID
5 Rhode Island
12 Washington/Louisville
4 West Virginia
13 Vermont
Detroit, MI
6 Houston
11 St. Mary's/UCLA
3 Purdue
14 Bucknell
Nashville, TN
7 Creighton
10 Miami (FL)
2 Auburn
15 Montana

WEST(4)-Los Angeles, CA
Wichita, KS
1 Kansas
16 Penn
8 Florida
9 NC State
San Diego, CA
5 Gonzaga
12 New Mexico State
4 Arizona
13 Murray State
Wichita, KS
6 Seton Hall
11 Texas
3 Cincinnati
14 Rider
Detroit, MI
7 Arkansas
10 St. Bonaventure
2 Michigan State
15 UC-Santa Barbara


EAST(2)-Boston, MA
Pittsburgh, PA
1 Villanova
16 Nicholls/Bethune-Cookman
8 Arizona State
9 Nevada
San Diego, CA
5 Ohio State
12 Louisiana
4 Clemson
13 Buffalo
Dallas, TX
6 Michigan
11 Virginia Tech
3 Tennessee
14 College of Charleston
Pittsburgh, PA
7 TCU
10 USC
2 North Carolina
15 Wagner

MIDWEST(3)-Omaha, NE
Nashville, TN
1 Xavier
16 UNC-Asheville
8 Oklahoma
9 Florida State
Boise, ID
5 Kentucky
12 Loyola-Chicago
4 Wichita State
13 South Dakota State
Dallas, TX
6 Texas A&M
11 Middle Tennessee State
3 Texas Tech
14 NC-Greensboro
Charlotte, NC
7 Butler
10 Missouri
2 Duke
15 Northern Kentucky

Danger Zone
Last 10 in:  Missouri, USC, Miami (FL), St. Bonaventure, Virginia Tech, Texas, St. Mary's, UCLA, Washington, Louisville
First 13 Out:   Kansas State, Syracuse, Utah, Baylor, Boise State, Marquette, Mississippi State, Oregon, Georgia, LSU,  Temple, Notre Dame, Nebraska, 
Multiple Bid Conferences
ACC-9
SEC-8
Big 12- 6
Big East-6
Pac-12- 5
Big Ten- 4
AAC-3
WCC-2
A-10- 2

Thursday, February 22, 2018

2018 NCAA Basketball Bracket Projection- 2/23/18

SOUTH(1)- Atlanta, GA
Charlotte, NC
1 Virginia
16 FGCU/Southern
8 TCU
9 Providence
Boise, ID
5 Gonzaga
12 New Mexico State
4 Tennessee
13 Vermont
Wichita, KS
6 Alabama
11 UCLA
3 Cincinnati
14 College of Charleston
Detroit, MI
7 Butler
10 Miami (FL)
2 Michigan State
15 Montana

WEST(4)-Los Angeles, CA
Wichita, KS
1 Kansas
16 Wagner
8 Creighton
9 Nevada
Dallas, TX
5 Kentucky
12 Washington/Kansas State
4 Wichita State
13 Murray State
San Diego, CA
6 Houston
11 Middle Tennessee State
3 Arizona
14 UC-Davis
Charlotte, NC
7 Michigan
10 Florida
2 Duke
15 Stephen F. Austin


EAST(2)-Boston, MA
Pittsburgh, PA
1 Villanova
16 UNC- Asheville/NC A&T
8 Arkansas
9 Virginia Tech
Boise, ID
5 Ohio State
12 Louisiana
4 West Virginia
13 South Dakota State
Detroit, MI
6 Seton Hall
11 USC/Texas
3 Purdue
14 Rider
Nashville, TN
7 Florida State
10 St. Mary's
2 Auburn
15 Wright State

MIDWEST(3)-Omaha, NE
Nashville, TN
1 Xavier
16 Penn
8 Oklahoma
9 Missouri
San Diego, CA
5 Rhode Island
12 Loyola-Chicago
4 Clemson
13 Buffalo
Dallas, TX
6 Arizona State
11 NC State
3 Texas Tech
14 East Tennessee State
Pittsburgh, PA
7 Texas A&M
10 St. Bonaventure
2 North Carolina
15 Bucknell

Danger Zone
Last 10 in:  Florida, Miami (FL), St. Mary's, NC State, St. Bonaventure, UCLA, USC, Kansas State, Washington, Texas

First 14 Out:   Syracuse, Utah, Baylor, Louisville, Marquette, Georgia, LSU, Mississippi State, Temple, Boise State, UCF, Notre Dame, Nebraska, Penn State
Multiple Bid Conferences
ACC-8
SEC-8
Big 12- 7
Big East-6
Pac-12- 5
Big Ten- 4
AAC-3
WCC-2
A-10- 2

Wednesday, February 21, 2018

Bubble Watch- 2/22/18

With only 18 days until Selection Sunday, we are faced with one of the strongest bubbles we have had in a while as there are several teams fighting on the bubble with 3-5 Tier 1 wins. Recently, there have been teams 1-2 Top 50 wins that have qualified for an at-large. This largely due to the fact that this year does not have a dominant tier of teams like most years and that teams seeded between 5-11 have fairly similar resumes, which means there are several teams that are not officially safe yet.


Safety Zone
AAC: Cincinnati, Wichita State
ACC: Virginia, Clemson, Duke, North Carolina
A-10: 
Big East: Xavier, Villanova
Big 12: Texas Tech, Kansas, West Virginia
Big Ten: Purdue, Michigan State
MWC:
PAC-12: Arizona
SEC: Auburn, Tennessee
WCC: 

Neutral Zone- Teams Needing 1-3 more wins
Houston, Ohio State, Rhode Island, Arizona State, Kentucky, Alabama, Texas A&M, Gonzaga, Oklahoma, Missouri, Providence, Creighton, Michigan, Arkansas, Florida State, Florida

Danger Zone- Current At-Large Contenders
TCU, Seton Hall, Nevada, Virginia Tech, Butler, UCLA, Texas, St. Mary's, Middle Tennessee, Miami (FL), Washington, Kansas State, St. Bonaventure, NC State, Baylor, USC, Syracuse, Utah, Louisville, Loyola-Chicago, Marquette, New Mexico State, Georgia, LSU, Temple, Louisiana, Boise State, UCF, Notre Dame, Nebraska, Penn State

TCU (18-9)- RPI: 21 vs Tier 1- 4-7, vs Tier 2 2-2
- The Horned Frogs need at least 2 more wins to secure a bid. Anything short of that would put them on thin ice.

Seton Hall (18-9)- RPI: 24, vs Tier 1- 3-6, vs Tier 2 3-2 
- Seton Hall has some great wins and a good RPI, which puts them in great position for a bid. They were leading at Providence in the 2nd half before game was suspended. Either way 2-3 more wins should make it official.

Nevada (23-5)- RPI: 10, vs Tier 1 2-2, vs Tier 2 3-1
- The Wolfpack have a great RPI and wins over Rhode Island and at Boise State. It is probably best to avoid losses to anyone besides Boise State at this point.


Butler (19-10- RPI: 38 vs Tier 1 3-8, vs Tier 2 6-1)
- Butler has a great win over Villanova but nothing too special outside of that. The Bulldogs end the season with two straight on the road. With only 3 Tier 1 wins, there is definitely work to do to feel safe.


UCLA (19-8- RPI: 47 vs Tier 1 2-4, vs Tier 2 3-3)
- The Bruins have 2 signature victories away from home but not much to add to them. UCLA sits pretty well today. However, they end the season with 3 on the road. All of the these are Tier 1 games, but the Bruins can't afford to lose all 3.


Texas (16-11)- RPI: 52 vs Tier 1 5-8, vs Tier 2 3-3)
- The Longhorns have plenty of good wins and no bad losses. At this point, improving their overall record is needed, so any win is helpful now.

Virginia Tech (20-8)- RPI: 54 vs Tier 1 4-6, vs Tier 2 4-1
-The Hokies have played down the stretch including their highlight of the season with the win at Virginia. VA Tech is in great shape. The only thing that is holding them back in their Non-conference SOS, so a couple more wins are recommended.

St. Mary's (25-4)- RPI: 28 vs Tier 1 1-0, vs Tier 2 2-2 
- Their overall record and win at Gonzaga carried them for a while. With 2 recent defeats especially the one at San Francisco, the margin for error is small. More losses like the San Fran one could be costly.

Middle Tennessee State (22-5)- RPI: 21 vs Tier 1 2-3, vs Tier 2 2-1
- The Blue Raiders are the favorite in the C-USA tourney. Winning the auto bid is recommended. Their at-large profile is pretty good. Anything short of winning out and losing to Western Kentucky in the C-USA finals could be damaging though.

Miami (FL) (19-8)- RPI: 30 vs Tier 1 4-5, vs Tier 2 2-2
- The Hurricanes have been a hidden bubble team as most people have not realized that this team's best win is (N) Middle Tennessee. Without a real signature win, it is hard to feel certain about their chances. Their overall profile is pretty good, but the overall lack of marquee wins especially a signature one could make this a sticky situation for the Canes.

Washington (18-9)- RPI: 47 vs Tier 1 4-5, vs Tier 2 5-3
- The Huskies have a good number of top two tier wins with the wins at Kansas and over Arizona standing out. Washington just needs to win games at this point. They end the season with 4 very winnable games where winning all 4 should do the trick.

Kansas State  (19-8)- RPI: 59 vs Tier 1 2-7 vs Tier 2 3-1
- Kansas State sits in 4th in the Big 12, but their current profile is not good. A bad N-SOS and lack of good wins stands out. The Wildcats badly need to finish strong and get some more quality wins.

St. Bonaventure (21-6)- RPI: 26 vs Tier 1 3-2, vs Tier 2 4-2
- The Bonnies have a great overall profile with the exception of their 2 Tier 3 losses. It is important that they avoid losses to anyone besides URI, which means winning out until the A-10 championship against URI would be ideal.

NC State (19-9)- RPI: 55 vs Tier 1 5-5, vs Tier 2 3-3
- The Wolfpack have some real quality wins including at UNC and Arizona in the Bahamas. Winning games and improving their RPI is needed. Completing the season sweep on UNC would be fantastic. They should aim for 3-4 more wins.

Baylor (17-11) RPI: 56 Tier 1 3-8, Tier 2 2-2
- Baylor has played well lately to move into the bubble picture. They still have a long way to go to feel good about their chances. Winning games in the Big 12 is needed as win will improve their resume.


USC (19-9) RPI: 42 Tier 1 3-6, Tier 2 5-2
- The Trojans have stayed in the picture with their best current wins over Middle Tennessee and New Mexico State in Hawaii. More quality wins are needed. The remaining schedule is tough with a Tier 1 game at Utah.


Syracuse (18-10) RPI: 39 Tier 1 2-5, Tier 2 4-3
- The Orange are almost out of chances for a signature win. Their strong computer numbers are helping them out as the rest of their profile is lacking. Good wins are needed, and work in ACC tourney needs to be done.


Utah (17-9) RPI: 49 Tier 1 4-6, Tier 2 2-2
- The Utes clearly sit out currently but end the season with 3 home games. 2 are against USC and UCLA giving Utah a chance to play their way in.


Louisville (18-9) RPI: 51 Tier 1 1-9, Tier 2 4-0
- Louisville has struggled against good competition all season as shown with their 1-9 Tier 1 record. If this holds, losing out their regular season is likely as they finish with 3 more Tier 1 games.


Loyola-Chicago (24-5) RPI: 41 Tier 1 1-1, Tier 2 3-2
- The Ramblers have a win at Florida and relatively strong computer numbers. The resurgence from the Gators is likely needed to give them a realistic shot at an at-large. Winning the MVC is their best option.

Marquette (16-11) RPI: 60 Tier 1 4-9, Tier 2 2-2

- In recent years, this profile would look much better. Overall, winning games is needed as their RPI is not too good and their number of losses are stacking up.

New Mexico State (22-5) RPI: 46 Tier 1 1-2, Tier 2 2-1
- The Aggies had a legit at large profile before their back to back losses to Utah Valley and Seattle. It is unclear if an at-large is possible, which makes the WAC tourney the obvious choice. Winning out until the finals is an absolute must to have any at-large hopes.

Georgia (15-12) RPI: 66 Tier 1 4-5, Tier 2 4-4
- The Bulldogs have a good amount of good wins but are only 3 games above .500 in a year with a strong bubble. A lot of work is needed, and the margin for error is small.

LSU (16-11) RPI: 75 Tier 1 5-5, Tier 2 3-5
- In other years, this type of profile has received a lot more attention, which is likely because it is normally an ACC school. The Tigers have plenty of good wins but have rough computer numbers. A couple more Tier 1 wins would really make this interesting.


Temple (15-12) RPI: 44 Tier 1 3-8, Tier 2 4-0
- Wins over Clemson and Auburn at neutral sites are great. 4 losses against Tiers 3-4 are not. If the Owls win out until the AAC tourney and win a couple games there, it is interesting to see where they will stand. Avoiding any losses is a must.

Fringe Candidates:
Louisiana, Boise State, UCF, Notre Dame, Nebraska, Penn State


















Saturday, February 17, 2018

2018 NCAA Basketball Bracket Projection- 2/19/18

SOUTH(1)- Atlanta, GA
Charlotte, NC
1 Virginia
16 FGCU/Arkansas-Pine Bluff
8 Creighton
9 TCU
Boise, ID
5 Rhode Island
12 Buffalo
4 Wichita State
13 Louisiana
Dallas, TX
6 Alabama
11 Washington
3 Clemson
14 Murray State
Detroit, MI
7 Arkansas
10 St. Mary's
2 Michigan State
15 Wright State

WEST(4)-Los Angeles, CA
Wichita, KS
1 Kansas
16 Wagner
8 Florida 
9 Seton Hall
Wichita, KS
5 Ohio State
12 St. Bonaventure/Baylor
4 Cincinnati
13 East Tennessee State
San Diego, CA
6 Gonzaga
11 Miami (FL)
3 Arizona
14 UC-Santa Barbara
Charlotte, NC
7 Kentucky
10 Butler
2 Duke
15 Stephen F. Austin


EAST(2)-Boston, MA
Pittsburgh, PA
1 Villanova
16 UNC- Asheville/Savannah State
8 Michigan
9 Nevada
San Diego, CA
5 Arizona State
12 New Mexico State
4 West Virginia
13 Vermont
Detroit, MI
6 Texas A&M
11 Kansas State/NC State
3 Purdue
14 Rider
Dallas, TX
7 Providence
10 Texas
2 Auburn
15 Bucknell

MIDWEST(3)-Omaha, NE
Nashville, TN
1 Xavier
16 Penn
8 Florida State
9 UCLA
Boise, ID
5 Houston
12 Loyola-Chicago
4 Tenn
13 South Dakota State
Charlotte, NC
6 Oklahoma
11 Middle Tennessee
3 North Carolina
14 College of Charleston
Dallas, TX
7 Missouri
10 Virginia Tech
2 Texas Tech
15 Montana

Danger Zone
Last 10 in:  UCLA, Texas, Virginia Tech, St. Mary's, Miami (FL), Washington, Kansas State, St. Bonaventure, NC State, Baylor

First 12 Out:   USC, Syracuse, Utah, Louisville, Marquette, Georgia, LSU, Temple, Boise State, UCF, Notre Dame, Nebraska
Multiple Bid Conferences
ACC-8
SEC-8
Big 12- 8
Big East-6
Pac-12- 4
Big Ten- 4
AAC-3
WCC-2
A-10- 2


Monday, February 12, 2018

2018 NCAA Basketball Bracket Projection- 2/13/18

SOUTH(1)- Atlanta, GA
Charlotte, NC
1 Virginia
16 FGCU/Grambling
8 Butler
9 Arkansas
Boise, ID
5 West Virginia
12 Buffalo
4 Tennessee
13 Vermont
Detroit, MI
6 Miami (FL)
11 Texas
3 Michigan State
14 Rider
Detroit, MI
7 Seton Hall
10 UCLA
2 Cincinnati
15 Montana

WEST(4)-Los Angeles, CA
Detroit, MI
1 Purdue
16 Wagner
8 Wichita State
9 Providence
San Diego, CA
5 Texas A&M
12 Syracuse/Boise State
4 Arizona
13 East Tennessee State
Wichita, KS
6 Gonzaga
11 Middle Tennessee
3 North Carolina
14 Belmont
Wichita, KS
7 Florida
10 Virginia Tech
2 Kansas
15 Stephen F. Austin


EAST(2)-Boston, MA
Pittsburgh, PA
1 Villanova
16 UNC-Asheville/Savannah State
8 Missouri
9 Washington
San Diego, CA
5 Rhode Island
12 Loyola-Chicago
4 Ohio State
13 Louisiana
Dallas, TX
6 Creighton
11 Louisville/USC
3 Texas Tech
14 UC-Santa Barbara
Charlotte, NC
7 Kentucky
10 Nevada
2 Duke
15 Northern Kentucky

MIDWEST(3)-Omaha, NE
Nashville, TN
1 Xavier
16 Penn
8 Florida State
9 Michigan
Boise, ID
5 Alabama
12 New Mexico State
4 Oklahoma
13 South Dakota State
Dallas, TX
6 Arizona State
11 Houston
3 Clemson
14 College of Charleston
Nashville, TN
7 St. Mary's
10 TCU
2 Auburn
15 Bucknell

Danger Zone
Last 10 in:  Arkansas, Virginia Tech, TCU, UCLA, Texas, Houston, Louisville, USC, Syracuse, Boise State

First 12 Out:  Baylor, Kansas State, Mississippi State, Temple, Utah, NC State, St. Bonaventure, Marquette, Western Kentucky, UCF, Nebraska, LSU
Multiple Bid Conferences
ACC-9
SEC-8
Big East-6
Big 12- 6
Pac-12- 5
Big Ten- 4
AAC-3
WCC-2
MWC-2

Saturday, February 10, 2018

2018 NCAA Basketball Bracket Projection- 2/10/18

SOUTH(1)- Atlanta, GA
Charlotte, NC
1 Virginia
16 FGCU/Arkansas-Pine Bluff
8 Texas
9 Providence
Boise, ID
5 Seton Hall
12 New Mexico State
4 Ohio State
13 Louisiana
Pittsburgh, PA
6 Creighton
11 USC/NC State
3 West Virginia
14 Rider
Nashville, TN
7 Butler
10 TCU
2 Auburn
15 Stephen F. Austin

WEST(4)-Los Angeles, CA
Detroit, MI
1 Purdue
16 Wagner
8 Washington
9 Missouri
San Diego, CA
5 St. Mary's
12 Syracuse/Boise State
4 Cincinnati
13 East Tennessee State
Wichita, KS
6 Texas A&M
11 Houston
3 Duke
14 Belmont
Wichita, KS
7 Florida
10 UCLA
2 Kansas
15 Bucknell


EAST(2)-Boston, MA
Pittsburgh, PA
1 Villanova
16 UNC-Asheville/NC A&T
8 Florida State
9 Gonzaga
San Diego, CA
5 Rhode Island
12 Loyola-Chicago
4 Oklahoma
13 Vermont
Dallas, TX
6 Arizona
11 Louisville
3 Tennessee
14 UC-Santa Barbara
Charlotte, NC
7 Alabama
10 Nevada
2 Clemson
15 Wright State

MIDWEST(3)-Omaha, NE
Nashville, TN
1 Xavier
16 Penn
8 Wichita State
9 Michigan
Boise, ID
5 Miami (FL)
12 Buffalo
4 Michigan State
13 South Dakota State
Detroit, MI
6 Kentucky
11 Middle Tennessee State
3 North Carolina
14 College of Charleston
Dallas, TX
7 Arizona State
10 Arkansas
2 Texas Tech
15 Montana

Danger Zone
Last 10 in: Michigan, UCLA, TCU, Arkansas, Louisville, Houston, USC, NC State, Syracuse, Boise State

First 12 Out:  Kansas State, Mississippi State, Temple, Virginia Tech, Utah, St. Bonaventure, Marquette, Georgia, Western Kentucky, SMU, Nebraska, LSU
Multiple Bid Conferences
ACC-9
SEC-8
Big East-6
Big 12- 6
Pac-12- 5
Big Ten- 4
AAC-3
WCC-2
MWC-2

Tuesday, February 6, 2018

2018 NCAA Basketball Bracket Projection- 2/7/18

EAST(1)-Boston, MA
Pittsburgh, PA
1 Villanova
16 FGCU/Arkansas-Pine Bluff
8 Florida State
9 Nevada
San Diego, CA
5 Rhode Island
12 Buffalo
4 Cincinnati
13 Louisiana
Pittsburgh, PA
6 Ohio State
11 NC State/UCLA
3 West Virginia
14 College of Charleston
Charlotte, NC
7 Washington
10 Texas A&M
2 Clemson
15 Wright State

WEST(4)-Los Angeles, CA
Nashville, TN
1 Xavier
16 Wagner
8 Wichita State
9 Michigan
San Diego, CA
5 St. Mary's
12 Loyola-Chicago
4 Arizona
13 South Dakota State
Detroit, MI
6 Miami (FL)
11 Houston
3 Tennessee
14 Belmont
Wichita, KS
7 Florida
10 USC
2 Kansas
15 Stephen F Austin


SOUTH(2)-Atlanta, GA
Charlotte, NC
1 Virginia
16 UNC-Asheville/Savannah State
8 Providence
9 Gonzaga
Boise, ID
5 Kentucky
12 New Mexico State
4 Michigan State
13 East Tennessee State
Wichita, KS
6 Alabama
11 Louisville
3 Oklahoma
14 UC-Santa Barbara
Nashville, TN
7 Butler
10 TCU
2 Auburn
15 Bucknell

MIDWEST(3)-Omaha, NE
Detroit, MI
1 Purdue
16 Penn
8 Arizona State
9 Missouri
Boise, ID
5 North Carolina
12 Georgia/Boise State
4 Seton Hall
13 Vermont
Dallas, TX
6 Texas
11 Middle Tennessee State
3 Duke
14 Rider
Dallas, TX
7 Creighton
10 Arkansas
2 Texas Tech
15 Montana

Danger Zone
Last 10 in: TCU, Texas A&M, Arkansas, USC, Louisville, Houston, NC State, UCLA, Georgia, Boise State

First 13 Out:  Syracuse, Mississippi State, Temple, St. Bonaventure, Virginia Tech, Western Kentucky, Kansas State, SMU, Nebraska, Marquette, Utah, Maryland, LSU
Multiple Bid Conferences
SEC-9
ACC-8
Big East-6
Big 12- 6
Pac-12- 5
Big Ten- 4
AAC-3
WCC-2
MWC-2