Bracketology 2019: NC State plummeting, LSU rising in projected field

TAMPA, FL - APRIL 07: Confetti is seen on the court after the Connecticut Huskies defeated the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 63-53 during the NCAA Women's Final Four National Championship at Amalie Arena on April 7, 2015 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Mike Carlson/Getty Images) /

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LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY – JANUARY 24: Coach Mack talks. (Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images) /

Midwest Region

(1) Tennessee vs. (16) Rider

(8) Nebraska vs. (9) Syracuse

(4) Louisville vs. (13) Hofstra

(5) Villanova vs. (12) Baylor/Florida

(6) Oklahoma vs. (11) Minnesota

(3) Houston vs. (14) Drake

(7) Wisconsin vs. (10) Washington

(2) North Carolina vs. (15) Northern Kentucky.

Team to watch: Washington Huskies

Many were concerned a few weeks ago if the Pac-12 would even have one team worthy of an at-large bid at the end of the year. Now, though, the Huskies have won eight consecutive games, including six straight to begin conference play, and they definitely look like a squad trending in the direction of an at-large bid. This team is starting to realize its potential and that makes them a dangerous team in the Big Dance. Many might discount their hot streak as of late due to weak competition but they are a team that no one will want to face in March. Washington plays at a high level defensively and their offense is developing quickly.

Mid-major of note: Hofstra Pride

Hard to argue with this one. As winners of 15 straight, Hofstra is starting to gain the national traction that is deserves. With Justin Wright-Foreman leading the way, this is clearly the best team in the CAA and there are few threats to them in the league. It might be difficult to snag an at-large bid due to the weak overall SOS in conference play but it would be hard to ignore a four-loss team should they run the table before losing in their conference tournament.

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