Bracketology 2020 Projected Field: Creighton, Penn State keep rising

East Region (New York, NY)

(1) San Diego State vs. (16) Montana

(8) Texas Tech vs. (9) Rutgers

(4) Penn State vs. (13) Vermont

(5) Kentucky vs. (12) Yale

(6) Arizona vs. (11) Florida

(3) Seton Hall vs. (14) Akron

(7) Michigan vs. (10) Saint Mary’s

(2) Duke vs. (15) Murray State

Penn State, as already mentioned, has one of the toughest resumes to seed in the country. The Nittany Lions have been absolutely excellent throughout this season and that has been especially true during the Big Ten schedule. They are 12-5 in Q1+2 games and can boast four elite wins (Q1A). It’s hard to argue with the idea that belong among the Top 16 right now. But the Selection Committee mentioned being wary of PSU’s non-conference strength of schedule and that could be a hindrance to its seeding next month.

While Penn State has risen in recent weeks, though, Rutgers has been slowly fading towards the bubble. The Scarlet Knights have really struggled away from home so far this season and that could hurt them. Rutgers is currently in the midst of losing three of four. This team should dance safely in a month but the final stretch isn’t easy:

Last Four Byes: USC, Florida, Arizona State, Indiana

Last Four In: Virginia, Arkansas, Stanford, Cincinnati

First Four Out: NC State, Utah State, Georgetown, Minnesota

Next Four Out: Richmond, VCU, Mississippi State, Alabama